Chandertal Lake, also known as “The Moon Lake,” is a stunning high-altitude lake located in the Spiti region of Himachal Pradesh, India. At an altitude of 4,300 meters (14,100 feet), this crescent-shaped lake is a favourite among trekkers, adventure enthusiasts, and nature lovers. Chandertal Lake is 2.5 km wide in circumference and would take about 4 hours if one were to circumnavigate it on foot. One very mysterious thing about this lake is that there is no visible source of water. It is possible that the water to this lake comes from underneath, but how. The serene beauty and the pristine environment make it a perfect spot for camping.
How to reach Chandertal Lake
Chandratal Lake can only be reached by road, and there are two main routes: the Delhi-Manali route and the Shimla-Kinnaur-Spiti Valley route.
Delhi to Manali Route
There is frequent bus service from Delhi to Manali, making it easy to reach Manali from Delhi or Chandigarh. Numerous buses are operated by HRTC, Punjab Roadways, Haryana Roadways, and private operators, with online booking options available. After resting for a day or two in Manali, you can take an HRTC bus or hire a taxi to Chandratal Lake. You can either get down at Batal or Kunzum Pass. From Kunzum, one can enjoy a challenging 8 km trek to this lake. From Batal, the lake can be reached be reached by road.
Shimla-Kinnaur-Spiti Valley Route
Alternatively, you can take a bus from Delhi or Chandigarh to Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh. From Shimla or Narkanda, buses are available to Reckong Peo, the headquarters of the Kinnaur district. From Reckong Peo, you can take a bus to Kaza and get down at Kunzum Pass. From Kunzum Pass, it’s a 9 km trek to Chandratal Lake.
Air Connectivity
The nearest airport to Manali is located at Bhuntar, approximately 55 km from Manali. Cabs and taxis are readily available from the airport to Manali.
Train Service
Chandigarh and Ambala are the nearest cities with train connectivity for Kullu-Manali and for that matter Lahaul & Spiti. From there, you can take a bus or taxi to reach Manali.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Chandertal Lake is from April to October. The lake remains frozen in the winter months, making it inaccessible.
Camping Experience
Camping Sites
Official Camping Sites. There are designated camping sites near the lake managed by local operators. These sites provide basic amenities like tents, sleeping bags, and meals.
Self-Camping. You can also bring your own camping gear. However, it’s essential to camp in designated areas to preserve the fragile ecosystem.
What to Pack
Tent and Sleeping Bag. Ensure your tent is sturdy enough to withstand strong winds, and the sleeping bag is suitable for sub-zero temperatures as during night the temperature might dip to the minimum.
Warm Clothing. Warm clothing is a must in the hilly areas even during summer months. At Chandertal Lake, temperatures can drop significantly at night. Pack thermal wear, jackets, gloves, and caps.
Food and Water. Carry enough food supplies as there are limited options available at the campsite. Also, bring water purification tablets or a portable filter.
Camping Gear. Include essentials like a camping stove, cooking utensils, a first-aid kit, a flashlight, and extra batteries.
Miscellaneous. First aid kit with essential medicines, Sunscreen, sunglasses, lip balm, trekking poles, and a power bank.
Activities at Chandertal Lake
Trekking
Stretch your legs and explore the land around Chandra Tal! There are short, easy hikes that lead up nearby hills. From the top, you’ll get amazing panoramic views of the whole area – the lake sparkling below, mountains stretching out in all directions, and maybe even some fluffy white clouds drifting by.
For the more adventurous souls, there’s an epic trek that takes you all the way from Chandra Tal to Suraj Tal Lake. This is a route for experienced trekkers only, but the reward is seeing another stunning high-altitude lake nestled in the beautiful Spiti Valley.
Photography
Chandra Tal Lake is a photographer’s paradise, a canvas begging to be captured in all its glory. Imagine the thrill of framing a shot that encompasses the lake’s perfect crescent moon shape, its still surface mirroring the jagged majesty of the snow-capped mountains surrounding it. Telephoto lenses can zoom in to reveal the intricate details – the way the sunlight dances on the water, the vibrant wildflowers clinging to the slopes, or perhaps a lone sheep, or horse grazing peacefully on the shore.
As the sun dips below the horizon, a fiery palette ignites across the sky, painting the mountains in hues of orange, pink, and purple. These fleeting moments offer a photographer the chance to capture the lake’s transformation into a liquid mirror reflecting the vibrant sky. The magic doesn’t end there. As night descends, a breathtaking display unfolds. Untainted by light pollution, the night sky at Chandra Tal explodes with a dizzying array of stars. Set up your camera with a long exposure and capture the Milky Way stretching across the heavens, casting a soft, ethereal glow on the still water. Imagine capturing the perfect image – a lone tent silhouetted against the star-dusted canvas, a testament to the awe-inspiring beauty of this remote mountain lake.
Stargazing.
Chandertal Lake offers an excellent opportunity for stargazing. Here you will find yourself beneath a canopy of stars. On a clear night, away from city lights, a simple tilt of the head unlocks a universe of wonder. Diamonds scattered across velvet darkness, the stars ignite our imagination. We trace the familiar shapes of constellations, heroes and mythical beasts frozen in time. A shooting star streaks across the canvas, a fleeting wish whispered on a current of light. In that moment, we’re humbled by the vastness of space, yet strangely connected to something far greater than ourselves.
Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Trip
Acclimatize Properly. Spend a day in Manali or a similar altitude to acclimatize before heading to Chandertal to avoid altitude sickness.
Stay Hydrated. This is very important if you want to enjoy your camping at Chandertal Lake. Drink plenty of water, juice, and soups to stay hydrated and help acclimatize.
Leave No Trace. Follow the principles of Leave No Trace. Carry back all your waste and avoid disturbing the natural habitat.
Check Weather Conditions. The Weather in the mountains can change rapidly. Check the forecast before your trip and be prepared for sudden changes.
Respect Local Customs. Be respectful towards the local culture and traditions of the Lahaul & Spiti Valley.
To SumUp
Camping at Chandertal Lake is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that offers a perfect blend of adventure and tranquillity. Whether you are a seasoned trekker or a nature enthusiast, Chandertal will leave you mesmerized with its breathtaking beauty and serene ambience. Plan well, respect nature, and enjoy the pristine wilderness of this Himalayan gem.
