Hello everyone, welcome to our trek blog, Trip Trek Tales. Today, we will tell you about the Chandratal Lake and Trek. Chandratal Lake Trek is situated in the Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh. This beautiful trek is surrounded by snowy mountains, desert terrain, and the trek ends at Chandratal Lake. Chandratal is also known as “Lake of the Moon” due to its mesmerising beauty. The Chandratal trek is one of the most adventurous treks of Himachal Pradesh. Trekkers get the experience of breathtaking landscapes, high mountain passes, and open sky with an amazing night view.
This trek is not just about reaching a destination; it’s about experiencing nature in its purest, untouched form. Whether you are an experienced trekker or a beginner yearning for your first Himalayan adventure, Chandratal Trek promises a perfect blend of serenity and thrill.
Quick Facts About Chandratal Lake Trek
Here we have provided some quick information about the Chandratal trek. Please review the information in the table below.
| Particulars | Details |
| Location | Lahaul and Spiti, Himachal Pradesh |
| Altitude | 4,300 m (14,100 ft) |
| Trek Distance | ~14 km (one way from Batal) |
| Difficulty Level | Easy to Moderate |
| Best Time to Visit | Mid-June to Late September |
| Base Camp | Batal |
| Nearest Town | Manali / Kaza |
| Duration | 2-3 Days |
About Chandratal Lake
Chandratal Lake is a lake of crescent shape (resembling the moon) at an altitude of approximately 4,300 metres (14,100 feet) in Himachal Pradesh in the Lahaul and Spiti district. The lake has a different colour during the day; it is dark blue in the morning and emerald green and golden during the sunset.
There is a legend attached to Chandratal. The legend goes back to the Mahabharat time period. Chandratal is the lake where Indra came on his chariot to pick Yudhishthra (the eldest Pandava) and took him to heaven. This is a holy place to locals.
The lake is enclosed by the grand Chandra Bhaga (CB) mountain range, whose snow-covered mountains are so distinctly reflected in the lake that it seems as though one is entering a mirror world.
Where Is Chandratal Lake Located?
Chandratal is located in the Spiti region of Himachal Pradesh, approximately 14 km and 125 km away from Batal and Manali, respectively. The expedition normally starts either at Batal or at Kaza, depending on the route and itinerary.
It is one of those few high altitude walks in which you can enjoy the desert and the alpine scenery in the same walk.
Highlights of Trek
- Witness the breathtaking beauty of the Moon Lake changing colours with sunlight.
- Cross two iconic high-altitude passes—Rohtang and Kunzum.
- Experience camping under a blanket of stars at over 4,000 metres.
- Spot rare Himalayan flora and fauna along the trail.
- Enjoy the peaceful isolation of Spiti Valley, away from all urban chaos.
How to Reach the Base of Chandratal Lake Trek
1. From Manali:
The starting point is most often Manali. Here you will pass through the picturesque Rohtang Pass and Kunzum Pass to Batal (about 7-8 hour drive).
From Batal, the Chandratal Trek begins–an easy-to-moderate trail leading you through rugged mountain paths, streams, and meadows.
2. From Kaza:
In case you are planning to visit Spiti Valley, then you can begin your trek at Kaza; it is approximately 65 km away at Chandratal. The drive until Kunzum Pass is spectacular, and then 8 km on foot takes one to the lake.
Best Time to Visit Chandratal Lake
Chandratal Lake is mostly frozen throughout the year, and hence the best season to hike to Chandratal Lake is mid-June to the end of September.
The snow melts, the wildflowers sprout in the meadows, and the weather is very comfortable during this season.
- Summer (June–July): Pleasant days and cool nights. Expect clear skies and open trails.
- Monsoon (August–September): The valley comes alive with lush greenery, and the lake looks even more magical.
The months of October to May should be avoided because there is a lot of snow that blocks access roads, and the lake is not accessible.
Read More: Indrahar Pass Trek: Complete Guide, Route, Best Time & Difficulty
Chandratal Lake Trek Route and Itinerary
We have created a complete itinerary for the Chandratal trek. This Chandratal Trek itinerary will help first-time hikers and experienced ones both. Please find the complete information below.
Day 1: Manali to Batal (via Rohtang and Kunzum Pass)
It all starts at Manali and traverses the Rohtang Pass (3,978 m) and Kunzum Pass (4,551 m), and Batal, a small village at the base of the Spiti Valley. The motivation is exciting with breathtaking scenery everywhere. Overnight stay at a campsite in Batal.
Day 2: Batal to Chandratal Lake (Trek – 14 km)
The actual Chandratal Trek starts here. The path slowly climbs up through the rocky landscapes and through the mountain streams.
When you come closer to the lake, the picture there is just amazing, the blue lake gleaming and before it barren mountains and the sky above reflected.
Take some time here and just absorb the beauty, and then pitch your camp close to the assigned camping area (you are not allowed to camp too near the lake).
Day 3: Chandratal to Batal and Drive Back to Manali
Breakfast and then walk back to Batal and drive back to Manali or continue your exploration of the Spiti Valley towards Kaza.
Trek Difficulty and Preparation
The Chandratal Lake Trek is considered easy to moderate in difficulty. It is not difficult to do, even in the case of first-time trekkers, with the proper preparation and acclimatisation.
Key Tips for Preparation:
- Spend a day in Manali or Kaza to acclimatize before starting.
- Carry sufficient warm clothes; temperatures can drop below zero at night.
- Keep yourself hydrated and maintain a steady pace while trekking.
- Carry essential gear: trekking poles, sturdy shoes, sunscreen, and sunglasses.
Camping at Chandratal Lake
Camping around Chandratal is a lifetime experience. The camp sites are situated 2km off the lake because direct camping close to the water is not allowed to save the ecosystem.
When the sky is full of stars, and the Milky Way is over the lake, you will realise why trekkers claim it to be a heavenly experience.
In the majority of camps, there are simple tents, food, sleeping bags, and warm blankets. Always carry an extra layer of clothes since the temperatures may fall extremely after the sun goes down.
Permits and Entry Information
- Indian trekkers do not need any special permits.
- Foreigners may be required to be registered at the cheque posts particularly when entering via Manali.
- The camping is restricted to specific location hence reserve your tents early enough during the high season.
Essential Things to Carry
- Warm jackets and thermals
- Trekking shoes with a good grip
- Gloves, a woollen cap, and socks
- Water bottles and energy snacks
- Sunscreen, lip balm, sunglasses
- First-aid kit and basic medicines
- Power bank and flashlight
Always carry your ID proof and extra cash, as there are no ATMs near Batal or Chandratal.
Responsible Trekking Tips
The beauty of Chandratal lies in its untouched environment. As trekkers, it’s our duty to keep it that way:
- Don’t litter or leave plastic behind.
- Avoid using soap or detergent near the lake.
- Stick to the marked trails to prevent soil erosion.
- Respect local customs and wildlife.
By following these simple steps, we can ensure that Chandratal Lake Trek remains pristine for generations to come.
Why You Should Do the Chandratal Lake Trek
If you crave solitude, stunning views, and the raw beauty of the Himalayas, the Chandratal Lake Trek is perfect. It is short, picturesque, and offers a sample of both adventure and relaxation.
The roaring rivers of Spiti to the sparkling lake, which is a reflection of the sky, make each moment here seem surreal. Chandratal will always create an impression on your heart, whether you go there to have the adventure of trekking or just to have a glimpse of the moon on the still waters.
Final Thoughts
The Chandratal Lake Trek is one of those journeys that stay with you long after you’ve returned home. It is not about climbing a mountain or running after a peak but rather having the unity with the silence of nature, inhaling the clean air of the Himalayas and being overwhelmed with the enormity of the surrounding world.
Chandratal Lake is one of the treks that you should not pass on in case Spiti Valley is on your bucket list. Believe us, this sparkling Moon Lake will steal a part of your heart.
