Introduction

The lake of Chandratal is at an altitude of 4,300 meters above sea level and lies in the flood plains of the river Chandra between the Kunzam and Rohtang Passes. This is perhaps the most accessible high-altitude lake in Himachal Pradesh and is about twelve kilometers north and off the Kaza–Keylong highway. A pure glacial lake, this has a circumference of about four kilometers and is surrounded by several high peaks. The word ‘Chandratal’ means “lake of the moon”. The legend of the lake goes back to era of the epic, Mahabharata when the chariot of Indra, Lord of the Skies came down to earth and bore away Yudhishtra, the eldest of the Pandava brothers to heaven from this spot. ( In Hindu mythology, Yudhishtra is believed to have been the only person to be taken to heaven in human form as he was a perfect being; Yudhishtra refused to leave without his trusty dog and he too was taken by Indra). Many believe that Chandratal is still the point of transit between the two worlds. This is an area that still keeps its secrets till the time it wishes to reveal them – for example, in 2003, a group of trekkers found the wreckage of a plane that on a flight to Leh had disappeared in the 1980s with over a hundred soldiers on board.

The southern shore of the lake has good camping grounds and space for around two dozen tents. Downstream the area is devoid of vegetation and whatever plants that do grow, come up only in summer. The snow rooster, chukor, black ring stilt, Brahmi duck, kestrel, golden eagle and the chough are seasonal birds at the lake during their migration from Central Asia and Ladakh to the Indian plains.

The lake of Chandratal is twelve kilometers from Batal which is located just below the Kumzam Pass. The Kunzam Pass at 4551 meters above sea level is what connects the two sub-divisions of the district, Lahaul and Spiti. The pass remains closed for a substantial portion of the year.

Special Attributes

High altitude lake and pass

Nuisance

The site is very peaceful and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

Conservative and comfortable attire is recommended. Since these are remote areas, it is best to avoid anything too revealing. Always factor in local sensibilities.

Connectivity

Taxis, buses and trekking

Enjoyed by

Trekkers and nature lovers

Exposure

High levels of UV. Adequate protection like sunblock and head gear are recommended

Avoidable Season

November, December, January, February, March

Facilities

Basic, plan accordingly.

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction.

Tip

The months or August and September and considered to be the best to visit the lake

Type of site

Lake and mountain pass