A Complete Travel Guide to Chatru Village

Chatru is a small mountain village in Himachal Pradesh that many travelers pass by without even realizing it. Located deep in the Chandra Valley, near Batal and Chandratal Lake, Chaturu offers something rare peace, silence, and untouched natural beauty.

There are no tourist crowds here. No hotels. No markets. Just mountains, a wild river, and a calm that settles deep into your bones. If you're someone who enjoys open skies, rugged paths, and the simple joy of being still, Chaturu is a place worth discovering.

Where Is Chatru Village?

Chatru lies in the Lahaul and Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh at an altitude of around 3,500 meters. It’s a tiny settlement with just a few huts, located along the banks of the Chandra River, surrounded by rocky cliffs and snow-covered peaks.

While not a traditional destination, it’s often visited by trekkers and road travelers making their way between Batal, Chandratal, and Kaza. For some, it’s a stopover. For others, it becomes the unexpected highlight of the trip.

How to Reach Chatru

Getting to Chatru requires some planning, but the journey is as rewarding as the destination.

From Manali by Road

The most common route begins in Manali, heading toward Rohtang Pass, then down to Gramphu, and finally along a rocky road toward Batal. The stretch from Gramphu to Batal is rough and requires a sturdy vehicle, ideally a 4x4. From Batal, Chatru is about 10 kilometers away and can be reached by foot or by catching a ride with passing vehicles.

From Kaza (Spiti Side)

Chatru can also be approached from Kaza via Kunzum Pass. This route is longer and subject to road closures, especially in bad weather, so always check local updates before planning this leg of the journey.

Trekking via Hampta Pass

Many travelers come across Chatru while completing the Hampta Pass Trek, a popular trail that begins near Manali. The trek takes you through forested valleys and alpine meadows before crossing the high-altitude Hampta Pass, where the lush greenery of Kullu fades into the stark desert-like landscape of Spiti.

As you descend into the Chandra Valley, the first signs of civilization appear near Chatru. For those on foot, the village is often a welcome sight a quiet place to rest, reflect, or even spend the night before heading toward Chandratal or back to Manali.

Best Time to Visit Chaturu

The best time to visit Chatru is between mid-June and late September. This is when the high mountain passes are open, and the roads are (mostly) accessible. During this window, the landscape is alive with color, and the days are cool and pleasant.

July and August may bring occasional rains and slippery roads, so it’s wise to check weather forecasts. Nights are cold even in summer, so warm clothing is essential.

Outside of this short season, Chatru remains cut off due to heavy snowfall.

Where to Stay in Chatru

Chatru is not a developed tourist village, so accommodation is limited and rustic. That said, there are still a few options:

Camping

Most visitors bring their own tents and set up near the river or in flat open areas. This is the most peaceful way to experience Chatru under the stars, with the sound of the river nearby.

Temporary Shelters

Occasionally, you’ll find a local dhaba or shepherd hut that offers simple food and a place to sleep. These are very basic but warm and welcoming.

Nearby Options

If you prefer something a bit more structured, Batal has a few roadside dhabas offering beds and meals. Chandratal also has organized campsites during the travel season.

What to Do in Chatru

There are no sightseeing tours or busy markets here — and that’s exactly the point. Chatru invites you to slow down and enjoy what’s around you.

Explore the Trails

Short walks around Chaturu offer stunning views of the Chandra River, rugged cliffs, and faraway glaciers. Whether you're a trekker resting after Hampta Pass or a traveler exploring by road, a slow walk here is deeply rewarding.

Sit by the River

The Chandra River flows wild and free near the village. Sitting by it with a cup of tea, watching the water rush by, is one of the simplest and most peaceful things you can do.

Stargazing

With no light pollution, the night sky in Chatru is brilliant. The stars feel closer, and the Milky Way often stretches clearly overhead. If you enjoy night photography or just want to lie back and gaze, this is the perfect spot.

Meet Fellow Travelers

Chatru often draws in trekkers, bikers, and nomads. Conversations happen naturally here around a fire, over shared meals, or while setting up tents. Everyone has a story, and in a place like this, they often get shared.

Travel Tips for Visiting Chatru

• No Network: There's no mobile signal in or around Chatru. Let someone know your plans in advance.
• Carry Cash: There are no ATMs. Bring enough money for your entire route.
• Pack Essentials: Bring food, water, warm clothes, a flashlight, and basic first aid.
• Leave No Trace: Take all your trash with you. Help keep this place as clean as you found it.
• Respect Local Life: If you meet locals or shepherds, greet them kindly. Respect their space and traditions.

Why Visit Chatru?

Chatru is not about doing. It's about being.

You don’t come here to tick things off a list. You come here to listen to the river, to the wind, to your own breath slowing down. Whether you arrive after the Hampta Pass trek or stumble upon it during a drive, Chatru has a way of staying with you.

It’s not a destination for everyone. But for the few who do make it, it often becomes the part of the journey they remember most.