Thereâs something magical about Chandratal Lake. Maybe itâs the shape that looks like a crescent moon, or the way the water changes colours as the sun moves, or maybe itâs just the sheer feeling of being surrounded by mighty Himalayas in almost complete silence.
If youâve been scrolling Instagram or researching treks like Hampta Pass, chances are youâve come across dreamy pictures of this stunning lake. But trust me, pictures donât do justice youâve got to be there to feel it.
I visited Chandratal after completing the Hampta Pass trek, and I still remember the goosebumps I felt when I saw the lake for the first time. So, whether youâre planning to trek, drive, or just dream, hereâs a complete and personal guide to help you explore the Lake of the Moon.
Chandratal, which literally means âLake of the Moonâ, is a high-altitude lake located in the Spiti region of Himachal Pradesh. At about 4,300 meters (14,100 feet) above sea level, this stunning lake is a popular camping and photography spot, especially during the summer months.
It gets its name from its crescent shape like a semi-circle or half-moon. And trust me, when the light hits the water just right, the lake glows like something out of a fairytale.
Chandratal is located in the Lahaul and Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh. It lies on the Samudra Tapu plateau, near the source of the Chandra River.
If you're doing the Hampta Pass trek, your journey usually ends near Chatru, and from there, a drive to Chandratal is the perfect grand finale to your adventure.
Outside this time, the roads are closed due to heavy snow, and visiting is next to impossible.
There are two main ways:
If you're doing the Hampta Pass trek, you'll end near Chatru. From there, most groups include a drive to Chandratal as part of the itinerary (if the road is open).
This route is perfect for trekkers because:
If trekking isnât your thing, donât worry! You can still visit Chandratal by vehicle.
Note: The road from Batal to Chandratal (14 km) is rough, narrow, and rocky. Only experienced drivers or taxis used to mountain roads should attempt it.
You canât stay exactly at the lake, as camping next to the water is not allowed for environmental reasons. But campsites are set up about 1-2 km away, and staying here is an experience in itself.
Most tents include:
Bring your own torch, jacket, and tissuesâthe nights can get really cold and windy.
Being at such a high altitude, the weather is unpredictable.
Always wear layersâa thermal inner, fleece or sweater, and a windproof jacket. Gloves and a woollen cap are musts, especially if you're camping.
Hereâs a quick, desi-style checklist:
I could list a hundred things, but here are a few:
From deep blue in the morning to turquoise in the afternoon, and golden near sunsetâitâs like the lake is showing off.
Because thereâs no light pollution, the night sky is insane. I literally saw the Milky Way with my own eyes. If youâre into astrophotography or just love stars, youâll be in heaven.
Unlike touristy places, Chandratal is peaceful, raw, and untouched. No network, no crowds, no distractions. Just you, the mountains, and the moon-shaped lake.
Hereâs why Hampta Pass + Chandratal is a dream combo:
If youâre doing the Hampta Pass trek, make sure your itinerary includes a visit to Chandratal. If not, ask your trek operatorâthey usually add it if roads are open.
And of course donât forget a goofy photo with your gang doing a Bollywood pose near the lake.
Chandratal isnât just a lake itâs an emotion. A place where you forget the noise of everyday life, where your mind quiets down, and you feel completely present. Whether youâre coming via Hampta Pass or driving up from Manali, itâs a spot that will stay with you long after you return.
If youâre a mountain lover, nature seeker, or even someone just looking to disconnect and reboot, Chandratal Lake should definitely be on your bucket list.
So pack that bag, grab a few close friends (or go solo!), and head off to the Lake of the Moon.
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