Ever seen the moon touch Earth on a starry night? At Chandratal Lake, it feels like it!

Chandratal Lake, also known as Moon Lake, is like something straight out of a fantasy! Tucked away between Manali and Spiti Valley, this stunning high-altitude lake sports a striking blue that rivals Pangong Lake in Ladakh. For those heading to Spiti Valley soon, here’s a must-read guide on how to reach this stunning lake and what to expect.

Chandratal Lake: A Hidden Himalayan Gem 

Chandratal Lake, or Chandra Taal, is the hidden gem you didn’t know you needed! Its crescent shape earned it the nickname "Lake of the Moon." Perched at 4,250 meters near the Chandra River, it’s one of India’s highest lakes. While it hasn’t hit the mainstream like Pangong Lake yet, it's a quiet retreat with stunning views and a touch of wilderness. You’ll need to navigate a rough road and skip public transport, but the reward? Gorgeous scenery and a cosy glamping spot to call home!

Getting to Chandratal Lake: Your Roadmap 

Getting to Chandratal Lake is an adventure in itself. Here’s how you can make it happen:

From Kaza

It’s about 95 km and takes roughly 4-5 hours. You can catch a shared bus or taxi heading towards Manali. Get off at Batal and either hitch-hike or walk the 13 km to the lake (though walking isn’t ideal). For a smoother ride, hire a 4x4 or Sumo taxi from Kaza Taxi Union for around 10,000 INR for a round trip, including a night at the lake.

From Manali

It’s a 110km drive, taking about 4 hours. You can take a shared taxi or bus to Spiti Valley, get off at Batal, and then hitch-hike or walk to Chandratal. Just a heads-up—if you’re coming from Manali straight to the lake, the altitude change can be tough. It’s easier to start from Kaza and get used to the altitude there first.

When’s the Best Time to Hit Up Chandratal Lake? 

If you’re planning a trip to Chandratal Lake, aim for the summer months from May to September. Outside this window, the road usually shuts down because of snow, ice, or landslides. Even in summer, be ready for chilly nights close to freezing and daytime temps between 15-20°C when the sun’s out. Keep an eye on road conditions before setting off from Manali or Kaza, as landslides can sometimes block the way even during the warmer months.

Discovering the Magic of Chandratal Lake 

Once you get to Chandratal, park up in the small lot and walk the last 1 km to the lake. As you climb over the ridge, the stunning lake will come into view, nestled between snow-capped peaks. On a sunny day, the lake’s colour is an incredible, bright blue, mirroring the sky. 

There isn’t much to do but take in the view, so take your time exploring and enjoy the peace. When you reach the lake, you’ll see some colourful banners and signs perfect for photos. If you want a bit more, there’s a 5 km trail around the lake that’s flat and easy. It takes about 1.5 hours to walk the loop, and it’s a great way to see the lake from different angles and avoid the crowds.

Before you head out, a couple of tips: Chandratal Lake is free, but keep your ID handy for any checks. Wear comfy shoes if you’re walking around. There’s no phone signal or WiFi, so charge up that power bank. Bring a head torch since electricity is limited. You can grab tea and snacks at stalls before the lake. Now, when are you going to experience this stunning place for yourself?