Chandratal Lake in Spiti Valley is considered to be one of the most beautiful lakes in Himachal Pradesh. A trip to Chandratal would mean a mix of adventure and raw, desolate nature. You can reach this pristine Lake by traversing through the most treacherous roads and climbing the high glaciers between Rohtang Pass and Kunzum Pass. Otherwise, you can always club this trip and travel the road to Spiti Valley through Kinnaur to reach Chandratal Lake.
But, once you reach Chandratal Lake, the first sight takes away all the pain of the arduous journey. In this article today, let me share with you a comprehensive travel guide for planning a memorable trip to Chandratal Lake.
Let's quickly dive into the details:
About Chandratal Lake – Spiti Valley
At an altitude of 4270 Meters, Chandratal Lake in Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh lies between a low ridge and the main Kunzum range. Mostly surrounded by snow in winters, this deep blue-water Lake has a circumference of 2.5 km.
Some people also call it “The Moon Lake” and is also one of the sources of the violent Chandra River. Moulkila and Chandrabhaga mountain range have snow-capped peaks and snow slopes around the valley measure from 3000 Meters to 6500 Meters approximately. Locales there, believe that Chandertal is this point from where Yudhishtra (Eldest among Pandava of Mahabharata epic) was taken to heaven in his mortal form.
Setting all the legend and folklore asides, Chandratal Lake in itself is a very luring place. It must be on top of your bucket list if you love the Himalayas.
Location
Located in Spiti Valley in Himachal Pradesh, Manali to Chandratal Lake distance is 125 km. You can either travel from Delhi to Chandratal Lake via Manali. Or, you can also plan to take the longer route from Delhi to Spiti Valley via Kinnaur and further to Chandratal.
A lot of people also travel from Mandi to Chandratal Lake, which about 250 km of a journey by road. It will take about 12 hrs to reach Chandratal from Mandi.
The motorable road to the Lake exists only up to 12.5 km. After the road ends, a remaining distance of 1.5 km is what you need to trek from parking points to the Moon Lake.
Altitude
The altitude of Chandratal Lake is 4270 Meters or 14220 Feet (approximately). Hence, you can see that this Lake lies at a very high altitude which means that you must plan your trip to Chandratal with a proper acclimatization schedule.
Chandratal Lake Weather
Weather at Chandratal remains mostly cold to very cold throughout the year. During winter, the Chandratal Lake temperature Lake may drop well below even – 20 degrees Celsius. Although cold during summer, snowfall can happen any time of the year here in this part of Spiti Valley. Already in the last few years, I have seen heavy snowfall happening in June, August, September months as well.
Do not forget to take heavy woolens at any time of the year you are going. You can always refer to what clothes to carry for Chandratal or Spiti trip.
So, when making a trip to Chandratal Lake, make sure you are well prepared for any emergency even in the summer months. Winter months are not at all recommended for traveling to Chandratal Lake.
When should I visit
As you can see that the months to visit Chandratal are pretty much limited to summer months. However, the definition of summer months can be different in a high altitude terrain like Spiti Valley. Let’s look at, which is the best month to visit Chandratal Lake.
Pre-requisite: Any one of the mountain passes, Rohtang La (Rohtang Pass) or Kunzum La (Kunzum Pass) are open for traffic to make a road trip to Chandratal.
Chandratal in January to April
It is impossible to travel to Chandratal Lake in January to April as the heaps of snow blocks all the road beyond Losar. Manali to Kaza road remains closed in winter from November to May period. From the Kaza side, the road to Losar even closes in February – March – April.
During these winter months, the glaciers are piled up between Gramphu – Chatru – Batal road and Kunzum Pass – Chandratal diversion road.
So, even when you plan a trip to Spiti Valley in March, you cannot reach Chandratal Lake.
Chandratal in May to June
The snow finally starts to clear up in May, and snow clearance operations are in full swing. The road from Kaza to Losar opens, but beyond Losar towards Kunzum Pass, the snow clearance will still be going on. Hence, in May it is again not possible to visit Chandratal Lake.
It is in June first week or second week, people will be able to reach Chandratal either by trekking the 14 km diversion road from Batal or when the Batal to Chandratal road clears up by mid-June to late June period.
So after the middle of June to the remaining season up to September, you can take your car or bike at the parking site and continue the Chandratal Lake trek of about 2 km to reach this beautiful Lake.
Still, thinking of planning late May or early June?
Well, you may try your luck first week June onward, but it’s highly likely that trek from Batal onward will be tough due to the presence of snow and for sure not motorable till the very end. You may reach Batal and then need to do the Chandratal Lake trek in the presence of snow, which makes it all very tough. I went on a trip from Delhi to Chandratal via Manali in the first week of June 2009, and it was a near-death experience for me.
Chandratal in July to September
July to mid-September is one of the better times to visit Chandratal Lake as the roads are open, the operators set up their camps at camping sites, and the weather is pleasant and favorable mostly. The roads are not in good shape, especially Manali to Kaza, with lots of notorious water crossings, but you do not have a choice.
In August, you will need to face the monsoon hassles in lower hills that can cause some nightmarish situations. The parts of Kinnaur Valley and Delhi to Manali route will be facing the music of rains. But, once you cross Rohtang Pass from Manali side and Nako from Kinnaur side, it is very much OK to reach Chandratal.
Come September, the rains go away, and it becomes one of the best times to visit Chandratal Lake. The water crossings are pretty tamed on Gramphu to Batal road and further Batal to Chandratal. However, as the days pass in September, the cold sets in the Himalayas. The nights and morning get cold and afternoons get cooler.
Chandratal in October to December
October is when most campsites at Chandratal pack up, and it becomes freezing to spend the night up there in Spiti, especially camping. I will not recommend planning a night stay near Chandratal Lake in October and beyond up to next season that starts in June.
November and December are said to be the winter months in Spiti Valley. Here, you should note that the roads to Chandratal will close down anytime in October. Hence, in November and December, it is not possible to make a road trip to Chandratal, in general, unless you want to take the risk of your life.
The roads to Spiti Valley from Manali close with the heavy snowfall around the middle of November or December. Although the roads from Kalpa to Kaza remains open almost all around the year, the roads further ahead of Kaza to Chandratal can close anytime in November – December.
What is the Best time to visit Chandratal?
Looking at these details month by month, the best time to visit Chandratal Lake is September month, or you can also make a trip from the middle of June to July month as well. In September, the road conditions are best in shape with tamed water crossings. So, making a Chandratal road trip is very favorable in this period.
You should also read my article on the best time to visit Spiti Valley for more details.
How to reach Chandratal
There are two possible routes from Delhi to Chandratal by road. One goes from Delhi to Manali, and the other goes from Delhi to Shimla to Kinnaur to Spiti Valley. Both routes have their advantages and disadvantages.
The route from Shimla – Kinnaur – Kaza
You can travel on this route starting from Delhi to Shimla or Narkanda. Then, from Narkanda move to Kalpa and further to Nako and Kaza. After exploring Spiti Valley, you can visit Chandratal from Kaza. The entire route is as follows:
Delhi » Shimla » Narkanda » Karcham » Powari » Puh » Nako » Tabo » Kaza » Losar » Kunzum La (4551 Meters) » Chandratal
I will strongly suggest that for visiting Chandratal Lake, you should travel from Shimla to Kinnaur and then visit Spiti Valley. Finally, when exiting Spiti Valley from Manali side, you should visit Chandratal Lake.
This route from Kinnaur provides a gradual ascend and helps you acclimatize to the high altitude of Chandratal Lake. Better acclimatization will help you fight the AMS and better enjoy your trip. Acclimatization is the key to success for any high altitude trip, and this one is no different. So, please take it seriously.
The route from Mandi – Manali – Rohtang Pass
The shortest route from Delhi to Chandratal Lake is from Manali side. It takes just one night to stop at Manali from Delhi to reach this Lake. The entire route is as follows:
Delhi » Mandi » Kullu » Manali » Rohtang La (3978 Meters) » Gramphoo » Chattru » Battal » Chandratal
Although the route from Mandi – Manali is the shortest route to Chandratal, it is a dangerous one too because it does not provide any acclimatization to your body. You sleep directly from less than 8000 feet to 14000 feet. By no means, you can acclimatize your body for such a huge difference in altitude between two nights. Hence, the majority of people traveling to Chandratal Lake from Manali does get hit with Acute Mountain Sickness symptoms.
This is the reason I always recommend to travel to Chandratal via Kinnaur side. If that is not possible and you only have the option to travel from Mandi to Chandratal Lake, better sleep at Solang Valley and Batal before planning to sleep at campsites of Chandratal Lake.
By Air
Bhuntar Airport near Manali is approximately 180 km from Chandratal Lake and is the nearest airport too. The other one being in Shimla is 375 km away. However, due to their small size, these airports have limited capacity and connectivity. The next major airport is Chandigarh Airport which 300 km from Manali and 112 km from Shimla.
Hence, Chandigarh is the best place to start the journey to Chandratal if you are flying from any other part of India than Delhi or other Northern states.
By Railways
Joginder Nagar railway station near Mandi is the nearest railway station from Chandratal about 290 km away. However, this would also have limited connectivity. My suggestion would be to have your endpoint of the railway journey as Chandigarh, which is well connected throughout.
By Public Transport
You can think, of course, plan a trip to Chandratal Lake by public transport. However, there isn’t any direct bus though you can still work it out if you like an adventure.
Manali to Chandratal by Bus
There are two HRTC buses that run between Manali and Kaza every morning, as soon as the road to Spiti Valley from Manali gets open in the season, mostly in June. You can hop on to any of these buses.
These buses run from Kullu to Kaza via Manali and it reaches Manali around 4.45 AM and leaves at 5.00 AM. Ticket to Kaza will cost you only about INR 250 approximately per person. You will need to get down at Chandratal diversion point after bus crosses Batal and either hike or hitch-hike for the remaining 14 km to the Lake.
Pro Travel Tip: You can read my article in detail on how to plan a Chandratal Lake budget trip.
Shimla to Chandratal by Bus
There is an AC bus from Chandigarh, which reaches Shimla around 11 AM and then further connects to Reckong Peo. Also, there are two non-AC buses from Shimla till Reckong Peo. Then you can take the 7 AM daily HRTC bus to reach Kaza.
After reaching Kaza, you can follow the same Kaza to Manali bus and get down at Chandratal Lake diversion point after Kunzum Pass to hitchhike further remaining distance as explained above.
By Self drive Car
If you are driving your car, the choice shall be SUVs/MUVs for sure (Safari/Sumo/Xylo/Scorpio/Jeep, etc.). A 4×4 vehicle is not required, but it’s an added advantage anyway for such terrain, especially when tacking water crossings between Gramphu to Batal stretch.
Travel Tip: If you are driving yourself to Chandratal or Spiti Valley, then do not forget to check the 40 must-have things to carry on a self-drive trip to remote Himalayas.
Manali to Chandratal by Bike
When you plan a trip from Manali to Chandratal by bike you should note that you will be riding on one of the toughest roads in the world perhaps.
If you are riding Motorcycles, Mountain Bicycles be very careful at some of the stretches between Gramphu to Chatru to Batal to Chandratal, are you will have to cross and tackle numerous notorious water crossings. Well, human feet are almost always required to trek some part in this journey so be ready to use them anyway 😉
Guide Road Map for Chandratal
Road Conditions
Road conditions to Chandratal are not so good once you take the diversion off the Manali – Leh highway i.e. when you take a right turn from Gramphoo towards Batal – Kaza (Spiti Valley).
Manali – Chandratal Road Status & Condition
The road from Gramphu to Batal to Kunzum Pass is basically nothing but a dirt track with many water crossings all the way till Chandratal.
Kaza – Chandratal Road Status & Condition
If you are coming from Kaza towards Chandratal, you will find similar bad road conditions after crossing the Rangrik just ahead of Kaza. Well, the roads from Losar to Kunzum La and move towards Chandratal, the road condition further deteriorates. At this crossing taking a right will take you to Chandratal and left will lead you to Batal – Gamphoo – Manali (Left) / Leh (Right).
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Main Troublesome Spots / Sections
From Batal to Chandratal from Manali side or Losar – Kunzum La crossing board to Chandratal from Kunzum side, it gets even worse due to the presence of boulders/rocks throughout the stretch, and you need higher ground clearance vehicles at many places.
You shall have to be extremely lucky negotiating with this stretch with lower ground clearance vehicles. It’s almost a kind of off-road driving experience. The presence of snow may make it more difficult. Many cars get damaged between Gramphu to Chandratal road.
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You will also have to clear 2/3 water crossings during this stretch of Batal / Kunzum La Crossing to Chandratal, and the current depends upon the time of the year. When I was there the latter one (near the Lake) was very violent.
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Things to Carry
Another common question I keep getting is what things to carry for a trip to Chandratal Lake?
If you are traveling in a pleasant time window, i.e., mid-June to mid-September, you don’t need any special thing apart from your basic travel kit and regular medicines. But, if you are traveling in a dicey time window to terrain like Chandratal Lake then better prepared with the following must-have –
- Snow/Waterproof trekking shoes, preferably comfortable, lightweight (as you need to trek a lot) with powerful grip in Snow or slippery surface.
- Strong easy to grip wooden stick for holding gripping snow while trekking
- Snow/Waterproof clothing i.e. Jackets and Lower
- Heavy Woolens and Inner Thermals
- Medicines
- Torchlight
- Woolen socks [carry 2 extra pairs in case one any gets wet]in your backpack. Wet socks won’t let you walk with all strength
- A small towel in your backpack to keep yourself dry as much as you can
- A water bottle for your backpack
- Camping gear if you need to set up your own camps at the camping site
Apart from the above list you can check my list of things to carry on a trip at the link List of things to carry when you go on a trip
Where to Stay at Chandratal
There isn’t anything to stay at Chandratal Lake because camping is banned and illegal. The region comes Chandratal Lake wetland reserve, which is a Ramsar site protected under wildlife act. Hence, one cannot pitch camps near Chandratal Lake. There is a dedicated camping site about 2 km before it where you can pitch your camps. It is also the parking site where vehicles are parked, and people trek further to the Lake.
Parsol Camps Chandratal
Apart from self-camping at the camping site, there are temporary camps set up by local Bishan Thakur – Parasol Camps & Retreats at Chandratal and few others. You can contact Bishan of Parasol Camps at 09418845817, 09459910098, Nawang: 09459073908, 01906-200204. You can write to them at parasolcamps@gmail.com, info@parasolcamps.com as well. The camps are more spacious and comfortable. They also have mattresses and quilts. Bishan does have a dining area and covered washrooms if required.
You can refer DoW or my name to Bishan and he will surely offer whatever best in his capacity. We did stay with him at DoW Mega Meet and everything was managed very well by Bishan.
Chandra Dhabha Batal
Well, there is this all famous Batal Chandra Dhabha of Dorje Uncle, which has room for 7-8 people on one side and the other side they may allow you to stay if there is space available. Workers and the Dhaba family itself occupy most of the space in the dhabha, so if you are lucky, you may get space to sleep there as well. They charge Rs 150 per person for a night stay and provide quilts as well. You can take as many quilts as available with them and if not in use by anyone.
There are many stories of Chacha Chachi bravery and they have been given gallantry awards too for saving lives of numerous people up there in this remote region of Chandratal Lake.
Batal PWD Rest House
There is an HP PWD Rest House as well now at Batal, and you can take rooms there and eat at Chandra Dhabha with Dorje Chacha and Chachi. 08991722020 is the contact number of satellite phones at Batal, and you can inquire from him if Dorje uncle can book a PWD Rest House room for you or a couple of igloo type huts just in front of Batal dhabha that can save you from cold winds in the evening or night.
Tenzin Camps
Dorje Uncle’s son Tenzin now also set up camps at Chandratal, you can reach him at Tenzing Camp – +91-8991722020. Else call up the satellite phone and ask Dorje uncle to do the bookings for his son’s camps.
As far as accommodation at the bank of Chandratal Lake is concerned, it has been banned by the GOVT. lately. So, you need to pitch tents alongside the parking site which is about 2 km from the Chandratal. After this point, you need to hike th remaining distance. Please respect the rules and nature else one day it will punish in its own way.
Other accommodation options
One more possibility is you come back on Manali – Leh highway and rest at Khoskar (right from Gramphoo towards Leh side) in HP PWD Guest House. You can travel further towards Keylong and reach Sissu which has many decent options of stay as well 20 minutes ahead of Khoksar. I have stayed at Hotel Triveni at Sissu myself many times on my Ladakh and Chandratal trip.
Self Camping
As mentioned above, you cannot pitch your own camps at the banks of Chandratal Lake but you can camp at the dedicated camping site.
There is always an option of taking your camping stuff or getting a tour package with a guide or a porter. You can either hire camps from Manali or Delhi or buy your own if you are planning to camp many a time in the future and serious about it. In case you are interested in camping then you will need tents, sleeping bags (-5 to -10 rated) and mattresses.
Attractions Around Chandertal
- Kunzum Pass At an altitude of 4551 m, is the main access to Spiti Valley from Lahaul Valley.
- Bara Shigri Glacier The largest glacier in Himachal Pradesh is located in the Chandra valley of Lahaul and it feeds the river Chenab. This glacier, 25 km long and about 3 km wide, lies on the middle slopes of the main Himalayan range.
- Sissu At an altitude of 3170 m, this place is famous because of a magnificent waterfall.
- Darcha At an altitude of 3360 m, Darcha is an ideal place for trekkers. You can start off trekking from here to Padum, Zanskar Valley passing through Shingola as well as Baralacha/Phirtsela. Darcha is around 24 km from Keylong and offers facilities for camping. A road to Shingo La has been built now and hence, you can plan a trip up there too.
- Baralacha La This pass which is crossroads on the summit is 75 km from Keylong. Baralacha La is on Manali – Leh road. It is also the watershed for the Chandra Bhaga and Yunam Rivers.
- Suraj Tal, you can trek from Chandratal to Suraj Tal and Baralacha La, however, that is a 2-3 days trek
Common Itinerary
Let us look at the common day by day trip plan for Chandratal Lake. Well, as mentioned above you can plan your trip either from the Manali side or from the Shimla side. It will take more days or time to reach when you come from Shimla – Kaza route as compared to the Manali route. However, traveling to Chandratal from Manali route will cause you AMS hassles.
Hence, you need to maintain a balance somewhere and my suggestion will be to club Chandratal trip with Spiti Valley in most cases. But if you do not have that many days at hand, you can refer my detailed itinerary of Chandratal trip in 4-5 days.
A basic plan for a trip to Chandratal is mentioned below as well but for detailed, refer to the article I linked in the last paragraph.
- Day 1 | Delhi – Manali and stay overnight at Solang Valley
- Day 2 | Solang – Khoksar/Sissu/Batal
- Day 3 | Khoksar/Sissu/Batal – Chandratal
- Day 4 | Chandratal – Manali
- Day 5 | Manali – Delhi
I hope this will help you plan a trip to Chandratal in an eased out manner.
Download your FREE high-resolution version pdf copy of this most common itinerary for Chandratal trip day by day plan infographic guide. If you like it and find it helpful, please feel free to share it with your family and friends to help them too.
Nearby Utilities
- ATM: The nearest ATM available is in Kaza and the next one in Manali. Hence, make sure you carry enough cash on your Chandratal trip.
- Petrol Pump: The nearest petrol pump to Chandratal is Kaza, next you will get fuel at the Tandi petrol pump on Manali Leh Highway. You should tank up at Manali as well.
- Medical Help: Losar has a medical dispensary which will be the nearest to get any basic medical help. The next best option to get any medical help on your trip to Chandratal is Kaza or Keylong.
- Mobile Connectivity: The moment you cross Gramphu and take the road to Chatru – Batal – Chandratal, there will not be any mobile connectivity with you. Hence, it is best to stick to my tips on mobile connectivity in Spiti Valley.
- Mechanics: The nearest mechanic you might get for any basic need is Losar and Gramphu. Anything major with your car or bike will need to be taken care of in Kaza.
Other Tips for Chandratal Trip
- You do not need any permit for Chandratal. However, if you come from Manali side, you will need to get the Rohtang Pass permit.
- Never cross the water nallas in a way that might get your clothes or socks wet. It will lead you to big trouble if you have wet clothes in such freezing conditions as chilly winds bite your bones. Try to protect your clothes as much as you can from getting wet. So, while crossing Nallas, fold your lowers up to the knee and remove shoes and socks before jumping in to cross it.
- Use your towel from the backpack if you get wet to dry yourself as soon as possible.
- No Alcohol shall be consumed while trekking or hiking in the high Himalayas.
- Since Chandratal Lake is at an altitude of about 14000 feet; it is not a good idea to go there without any acclimatization to stay overnight. The best way to plan a trip to Chandratal is that you come from the Shimla side as the ascent is very gradual as compared to the Manali side, of course, it takes more time to reach Chandratal from Shimla side.
- Do not forget to read my tips on acute mountain sickness and the importance of acclimatization.
Conclusion
No matter where you have traveled in the Himalayas, if you have not been on a trip to Chandratal Lake, you have surely missed something. The magical morning reflections in the Lake are something that can cure any mental or emotional turmoil raging within anyone.
A trip to Chandratal is one thing in life, I always appreciate and why not !! It gave birth to this wonderful travel blog that we call Discover with Dheeraj 🙂 …
Have a travel question?? You can subscribe to my YouTube channel and leave a comment to ask your travel questions on traveling to the Himalayas.
If you know your friends or family are planning a Chandratal trip or Spiti Valley, do share this article with them to help them make a memorable trip.
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CHANDERTAL 15-18OCT.
KUNZUM TAKK LE BUS YA BATAL TAK.ACCOMODATIONS KA KYA SCENE KARNA CHAIYE AND OTHER IMPORTANT THINGS REQUIRED(TENTS,WATER FOOD,CLOTHES,GET IN GET OUT ETC)
Shubham, kafi risk has us time par Chandratal karne k liye. Main recommend nahin karunga Chandratal us time par.
Hi Dheeraj,
I am looking for a short trip to Spiti Valley, I will be having 6.5 days from Delhi to Delhi, could to please suggest the places to visit and Stay.
Can I drive myself (I have Verna).
Also please let me know if I can travel with my 5.5 years old son.
Regards
Amit
Hi Amit,
In third week of October it will not be wise to travel from Manali to Kaza road as the risk of that no mans land after season end is a lot higher of being stuck without any help. From Kinnaur – Shimla side, it will take just 3 days to reach Spiti Valley and 3 days to come back, hence, there will be no enjoyment considering you will be with family. It is better that you stick to Kinnaur Valley only this time and plan a trip to Spiti Valley when you have more time on hands.
Regards
dheeraj
Thanks Dheeraj, My ohter 2 questions.
IS it ok to drive myself (I have Verna).
Also, I will be travelling with my 5.5 Years old son, is it ok?
Regards
Amit
Driving is fine but verna is going to struggle a bit on that section for sure. Gramphu to Batal is like a hell. Age does not matter as long as he can take the fatigue. Do keep him wrapped in woolens and especially protect from the wind at chest, head and neck. Applies to all in the group.
Thanks Dheeraj, my last question (probably)
1st day we should go to Narkanda or Thanedaar, which is better?
Sangla is same distance from both the places, right?
Regards
Amit
Amit, I will suggest that you choose any of them based on pricing of stay options may be you get. Narkanda is on the road itself while Thanedar is a bit off road from NH-22 so more peace. However you will not go wrong with any of them, IMHO.
H amit,
, I am.also planning to2 go spiti valley.pls suggest if we can go together.we are 2 boys leaving from delhi to manali then to kaza.
Date 2 oct to 5 oct .
Hi Dheeraj
Thanks again for the great article and references !!!! chandratal lake
I am planning to visit Chandratal lake in first week of October on bike with my friend. Please let me know the problems related to environment, route and accommodation. As I know chandra dhaba most popular there in providing food and accomodation and challenges related to bike ride and AMS , as we reach manali and next day morning we start on trip to chanratal lake.. Please advise boss!!! OCT FIRST WEEK WHETHER AND ROAD CONDITION 🙁 🙂 …..
Sandeep, it will be bone freezing cold during that time and chances of snowfall also raises during that period. Stay at Chandratal will not be suggested rather plan to stay at Batal dhabha if at all.Road condition will not be a challenge but sleeping at night can surely be. Reach Batal and stay overnight at Batal only on second day. Then next day go for Chandratal in morning (8-10 AM reflection time) and come back to stay either at Khoksar or if time allows continue back to Manali which will be quite long I feel.
Our team went to CHANDRATAL last week, and our over all experience could be better if Dorje Uncle’s son Tenzin treated nice with us. He was so rude and abusive and charged over from us. # travelers who are planning to visit the place, and most importantly if you want yourself to be treated well so never ever take TENZIN accommodation, will add bitterness into your trip
Also i wants to appreciate JAMAICA’s hospitality, they are another camping service provider in CHANDRATAL. Well behaved, educated, professional, fine scene of business.
Thanks Nitin for the feedback but why did you mark your name as John here? So, you guys first took Tenzin and then went to Jamaica? I am just questioning here to dump out any bogus review in favour of any party especially when you have actually put up some other name of yours which has raised a question in my mind. I know Jamaica very well and one of the core member of DoW infact has developed his website but on the other hand I do not want any bogus review be personally directed to other parties.
Hello Every One
We are planing to go Leh Ladak from Ahmadabad, We decide to take at route of shimla to shrinagar, kargil, to ladak , We need more information about to travel like what should we carry with us ? And where can we get the good food, petrol pump and all if any one can give me full information than please give me miss call at 7698068863 or whatts app me on this number so i will call to you
Awaiting for reply soon
Thanks ans regards
Mohammed Chhipa
You can check a very balanced and most common itinerary for Leh – Ladakh followed by many travellers including me at the link here for 13-14 days: Most Common Itinerary for Leh – Ladakh.
Dear Dheeraj je,
WE are going to chandratal on dated 21th of September 2015.will we be able to do Sourtal by trekking as we hear that Sourtal is much near & close to chandrtal?is ther near route from to Sourtal from chandartal?
waiting for your reply.
Thankew
rahul
Rahul are you talking about Surajtal? If yes, then it takes about 3-4 days of trek to reach Surajtal from Chandratal and the trek is not that easy and is of moderate difficulty.
Hey Dheeraj,
i just want to let u know that your blogs are awesome and of great help for travellers. I had a wonderful adventurous trip to Spiti. It was more a punctureful trip though 🙂 but every bit was woth memorizing. your responses were really useful to me. i read about your DOW causes and its great what you guys are doing. is there are any possibility that i can join you guys for such causes? any membership?anything? i would love to tag with you people for such events.
Thanks,
PR
Piyush, that is purely awesome !! Glad to know that you had wonderful time up there. Well, there is no membership bhai, you can join us on any Mega Meet trip we hold every year annually. This is starting in next 7 days now 🙂 🙂 … 4th to 14th September where almost 55 people from all over India are joining us for the travel for causes trip on their own. Any such event next time, feel free to join in. Or stay tuned in FB Page events. Meet is held once a year only to promote travel for cause and responsible travel in Himalayas
ok bhai.. thanks a lott.. i am already a member on your FB page.. will look forward for it..:)
Hi Dheeraj…… I am planning to visit chandratal in Mid of August. I’ll start my journey from 16th Aug night, travel throughtout the night to cover as much distance as i can…… My trip starts from 16th Aug & ends at 22Aug Sat, ym journey will start from Delhi & ends at delhi…. What you suggest, will it be a good decision to visit chandratal in this time span…… or should I go for my PLAN B & i.e. visit to DALHOSIE……. Ur suggestions awaited……
Thanks
Gaurav, one day you must rest in Manali or Solanag and then next day preferential is to stay at Khoksar or Batal at least before staying at Chandratal. A common itinerary is below:
Day 1 | Delhi – Manali and stay overnight at Solang Valley
Day 2 | Solang – Khoksar/Sissu/Chatru/Batal
Day 3 | Khoksar/Sissu/Chatru/Batal – Chandratal
Day 4 | Chandratal – Manali
Day 5 | Manali – Delhi
Thanks a lot Dheeraj………. It’s an appreciable job done by you….. thanks a lot for your valuable guidance…… GOD Bless……….
Regards
Gaurav
Thank you so much Gaurav !! Feels good and glad to know DoW proved helpful in planning your trip 🙂
Hi Dheeraj,
We are planning trip to kinnor,Spiti ,Chandler taal from 12the September to 19th September Delhi to Delhi . can we cover the whole area in such short time,my travel plan as follows Delhi -manali-chandratal-kaza-tabo-kalpa-shimla-delhi.
Paramita, with just 8 days in hand it will be a but struggle to complete the trip from Delhi to Delhi. Can you extend few days?
Hi Dheeraj,
I really appreciate the way you are helping travelers.
We are traveling from Delhi to Chandratal via Manali. We will be reaching Manali on Aug 3 and will leave for Chandratal on Aug 4. I am from Shimla and would be driving my own car. We are planning to halt at PWD guest house Khogsar on Aug 4 and leave for Chandratal early morning.
Next we want to go to Kee Gompa on Aug 5 and want to return from Manali to Shimla on Aug 7.
I want to know the following:
1. Is PWD guest house at khogsar is the nearest and best place for a halt? I spoke to someone from Lahaul, he said that Khogsar is nearest. But you are mentioning Gramphoo guest house. Please tell me which will be the best option.
2. Where can we halt next for Kee Gompa?
3. It will be raining..I am taking my Alto K10 and have driven through Chanshal valley. What precautions I must take?
4. Do you feel the plan is alright..or do we need to make any major/minor changes?
Thanks for help in advance. You are going a great job! 😀
Hi Siddharth,
1. Yes, I will say so though not nearest. There is one at Batal too with no lights and that is the nearest 🙂 There is one at Chatru as well from Gramphu to Batal road. I mentioned Gramphu guest house? where? If at all must be type, I recommend Sissu or Batal or Khoksar only
2. If you sleep well at Chandratal, you can sleep at Kibber OR stay at Rangrik/Kaza anywhere
3. There will be loads of water crossings violent ones too near Chota Dhara and then Dorni Nallah from Gramphu to Batal road. This will be quite touch to tackle so leave as early as possible in the day
4. Plan is OK given the days in hand
Hi, In the map you have shown a way from Pulga to Mud to Dhankar. Is it a road that we can take on 15 -Aug – 2015 to reach kaza 🙂 on our Motorcycles. Though Google maps says we will end up in a Glacier but you might give us happy news, else please remove the “Raasta”
Tariq, if you see it with more focus that route has gaps in between which denotes that it is a trek route not motorable one 🙂
Hi,
I am planning to visit Chandar taal between 10 to 15 August 2015 pax of 5 ppl
By Etios liva diseal
Which is most convient for travel via Shimla or via Manali…which is convient path for us and for car as well
Mohit, in just 6 days in hand and that too right up in monsoons, I can only suggest following if you really want to attempt it:
Day 1 | Delhi – Manali and stay overnight at Solang Valley
Day 2 | Solang – Khoksar/Sissu
Day 3 | Khoksar/Sissu – Chandratal
Day 4 | Chandratal – Manali
Day 5 | Manali – Delhi
Day 6 | Buffer Day
Etios will really struggle over the roads during monsoons.
Thank you sir
Hi everyone, I am Rakesh thakur, have completed Delhi-sarahan- Kalpa-Tabo- Dhankar- Kaza- Manali-Delhi on my wagonr during jun 20- 28 ,2015 .Though it’s ok till losar from Kaza side but won’t recommend any other vehicle other than SUVs not even muv beyond that. I consider myself lucky to have made through specially from batal to gramphoo specially on a rainy day on a late afternoon. Regards
Of course road conditions from gramphu to Bataan might be bad due to the fact that Kunzum pass got opened only 2 days back wen we passed through it.
We are planning to go chandratal on 24 th july through manani , the same way you had traveled. What will be weather forcast during that time…any guess
Amit, you can refer http://yr.no for weather updates about 4-5 days before and see what will be the weather when you will visit Chandratal
Hello,
I m planning in august with this route
Delhi – Shimla – Narkanda – Karcham – Powari – Puh – Nako – Tabo – Kaza – Losar – Kunzum La (4551 Meters) – Chandratal
Please suggest the best return route plan as well as some great stops b/w puh and Chandrataal and some accommodations information..
Thank
Asad, you can exit to Manali from Chandratal and then come back from there. For stay options in Kinnaur and Spiti, check the link: Some Good Options of Stays in Spiti Valley / Kinnaur Valley
HI Dheeraj,
Hope you are doing really well…..
i am back to u again for a query 🙂
Dheeraj i enquired at parasol camps about charges for staying and they told me around 3000 per head which is far more costly than i thought. Can you provide me with some budget options to stay at or near chandertaal with some contact information if available with you?
Thanks,
PIyush Rawat
Piyush there are only couple of camps run up there and one is Parsol and the other one I do not have the contact info. On the spot booking would be much less costly for Parsol or else go with PWD rest house at Batal.
thanks Dheeraj, i contacted another camp (Northface camps) but they will be setting up their camps in second week of July. they told me that chandertaal is closed till than. i am planning to reach chandertaal on 01-JULY-2015. will the road be closed or open?
also as per your above blog, Dorje uncle can book PWD guesthouse. is that so? can we just call him and ask him to book it for us?
Piyush, yes Dorje uncle can help you on that front. If you looking for economic option then it is better that you go either with on the spot booking OR stay with PWD Rest House. Road will be open or close will depend if it has been cleared of any blocks. Snow wont remain by then but sometimes rocks are present on the road. Majority of 12 KMs will be open rest you can trek otherwise.
HI dheeraj,
Can you let me know the location of Mud village? which is the nearest place to it??and whats so cool about it?i mean if its a must see place or not?
TIA 🙂
Hello Piyush, please check: Spiti Valley Sprint | A Scenic Drive from Mud Village to Kaza
This will give you idea what it offers. Mud Village lies in last end of Pin Valley where in general the road ends though road goes towards Baba Pass about 12-15 KMs ahead too. When you go from Tabo towards Kaza, first comes diversion to Dhangkar on the right side and then after crossing/by passing it there comes a Pin River – Spiti river confluence on the left. Just ahead of it there is Pin Valley bridge on the left which you can take to go towards Pin Valley all the way up to Mud Village on that road.
Hello Dheeraj,
I am from Bangladesh. Would like to explore Ladakh. AS this is difficult to get RAP, i would like to explore around Leh & leh srinagar high way & the places adjecent to leh- srinagar highway. In addition i would like to come/ leave Leh to/ from Delhi. moreover, pls advise tips which will be helpful.
Rayhan, how many days do you have in hand. You can fly to Srinagar and come back to Manali this way will cover Srinagar – Leh and then Leh to Manali for which you do not need any permits AFAIK.
Dear Dheeraj,
I want to fly from Delhi to Leh on 17 july morning & leave from srinagar to Delhi on 25 july morning flight. I do not want to explore Leh- manali route this time . My plan is to explore Leh local sights & all the interesting sights between Leh to srinagar ( if it needs 3 days taxi rent for leh to srinagar, it is ok too). First i wanted to start from srinagar & finish at Leh, but, Leh to delhi air tickets is scarce. Please advise me.
Thanks
Rayhan
Rayhan, a bbetter way is to do from Srinagar to Leh only because it helps you in acclimatization and saving the days as well. Otherwise, you will be using first two days only to rest in Leh for acclimatization and three days will be to travel to srinagar. So, it leaves not much with you only 3 days within Ladakh to explore. While if you travel from Srinagar side, then first three days you do acclimatization and exploring Srinagar to Leh as well. This saves you two days of sightseeing in Ladakh 🙂
Hello Dheeraj, yes, i wanted to start from srinagar & end at Leh. But, Leh to Delhi air ticket is not available. I will be greatful if you advise the sights i can visit & advise initiary. Thanks. Rayhan
Rayhan, you can follow something as below:
Day 1 | Delhi – Leh (By Flight)
— Checkin at Hotel. Many hotels provide free pick and drop from Airport. Ask while you book them.
— Take ample of rest as well as water or anything that keep your body hydrated enough. DO NOT OVER HYDRATE. Take ORS Soluted water or ORS – L tetra packs from home.
— Do not over exert your body at any cost. Avoid too much up-down on stairs or avoid it in entirety, if possible.
— After 5-6 Hrs of rest you can visit Leh Palace, Local Leh market, Shankar Gompa .
— If you feel exerted go back to Hotel, have dinner at Hotel and take rest. Avoid any exertion. Else continue and,
— Follow the sunset by stroll at Changspa road and have a nice dinner on varied cuisines offered in-around Changspa road.
— Go back to hotel for overnight stay at Leh.
Day 2 | Leh Local Sighseeing + Acclimatization
— Hire a taxi from Leh taxi stand or Hotel whichever suits you.
— Bargain hard with taxi driver. Book that single taxi for entire trip after explaining the complete plan.
— Take his inputs if you feel reasonable and if required modify the plan accordingly but should suits you best.
— Ask him to be with you guys starting first day itself, if required and charged reasonable else do it at your own.
— Again DO NOT over exert and take little steps and slow walks only.
— If feeling OK then do Local sightseeing. To know the about the places to visit check the link: Travel Guide for Local Sightseeing of Leh Town in Ladakh
— Do not use stairs at any of these places just to see them as it will exert your body much more.
— Overnight at Leh
Day 3 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder
— Head for Nubra Valley and stay overnight at Hunder / Diskit
— On the way enjoy a cup of soup at Highest Motorable Pass (as claimed) Khardung La
— Diskit has monasteries with tallest lord Buddha statue and Hunder has sand dunes and bacterian camel safari
Day 4 | Hunder / Diskit – Sumur – Panamik – Sumur – Khardung La – Leh
— Sumur has a famous monastery to check out and Panamik has hot water springs
— Overnight at Leh
Day 5 | Leh – Hemis Monastery – Pangong Tso Lake
— Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on the go towards Pangong Tso
— Overnight at Pangong Tso (Spangmik or Lukung)
Day 6 | Pangong Tso Lake – Leh – Sham Valley and stay at Alchi
— Sham Valley include Alchi, Likir, Basgo Palace, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Nimmu, Gurudwara Pather Sahib
— Cover either of Thicksey or Shey on return to Leh and then move further to Sham Valley
— Overnight at Alchi
Day 7 | Alchi – Lamayuru – Kargil
— Cover Mulbekh Maitrey, Lamayuru Moanstery, Lunar Landscapes
— Overnight at Kargil
Day 8 | Kargil – Drass – Zozi La – Sonamarg – Srinagar
— Enjoy the vistas enroute
— Have late drunch meal at Sonamarg
— Overnight at Srinagar
Regards
Dheeraj
Dear Dheeraj,
thanks for the valuable inputs to all of us here .
I had dream to travel chandertal lake all way from delhi on bike (avenger) with my gf, and i am going to make it happen any way. I need your valuable suggestions for the same. I have few constraints ..
a) Time period – Mid june to Mid july.
b) No. of days- 8
c) i hd gone to kalpa, hw far( in terms f km nd hrs. Will it take to reach chandertal base from kalpa)
d) Is it reliable to go via manali bcoz i hv the time constraint and my girlfriend too ,
e) plz. Streamline the journey in terms of each day target destination beginning from delhi to chandertal via both ( kalpa puh) and manali route….
f) Plz. Mark the servicebility points where bike can be reserviced if required and last petrol pump on either route…
g) is it customary to go via manali and come back via kalpa to have a beautiful glimpse of kalpa….
h) which route would you prefer overall keeping in mind, a girl all along the journey and comfortable stays in night is desirable.
I) i had a bad expierence via manali route, as i was travelling in aug-2013 and all f the road was flushed away 35 kms. ahead of diversion from manali leh road. And i was left with no option, but to travel to leh totally unplanned , so i dont feel like handy via manali to save time, if such situation occurs, which marely happens via kalpa route,,, kindly suggest✌
Plz. Help me with answer to ques. e) very specific!!!
Thanks,
Tarun (IIT-Roorkee)
m.no.9560701444
Dear Tarun,
Though much is answered in the article itself but still find my replies below
a) Better make it happen in July second week in this window.
b) 8 days are a bit less not sure if you plan to do full circuit better not do it and do just Spiti from Manali side only covering Chandratal.
c) It takes two days to reach Chandratal from Kalpa. But, like I said better go from Manali only.
d) Yes
e) Please refer below plan
f) Only Manali and you can get mechanic in Kaza. Again fuel will be in Kaza and Manali only.
g) Other way round is recommended but you do not have sufficient days to do it on ease.
h) With just 8 days in hand, Manali route onle
I) Kinnaur is not that much reliable too. In case you that much apprehensive, then add couple of days to do it in circuit.
Here is the plan:
Day 1 : Reach Manali and stay overnight at Solang Valley as preferred for acclimatization
Day 2 : Manali / Solang – Kaza
Day 3 : Kaza – Dhangkar – Tabo
Day 4 : Tabo – Pin Valley
Day 5 : Pin Valley – Kaza. Do Ki, Kibber in the evening.
Day 6 : Kaza – Langza – Komik – Hikkim – Kaza and then move to stay at Chandratal
Day 7 : Chandratal – Manali
Day 8 : Reach Delhi from Manali
Regards
Dheeraj
HI Tarun,
i am also planning a trip to chandertaal in End june and would be doing solo…How big is your group? i need fellow riders along.. if interested kindly let me know.
Hi Dheeraj
I am planning to drive all the way to spiti valley (Including chandrataal) in the 1st week of Jun’15 along with my wife..
I was planning to go from shimla-kinnaur side. Few queries to ask from u:
1. which route is good. From Manali or Shimla?
2. can we take our car till 2 kms distance from chandratal?
3. can we camp near chandratal and if then do we have to rent it from manali/shimla or we can get it their. what will be the cost of camp or tent?
plz suggest
thanks
Rahul
Hi Rahul,
Road from Manali to Kaza, Spiti Valley in general opens by mid of June only and hence you cannot take that route. Even the 14 KM road to Chandratal after Kunzum Pass will not be open and it may be required you need to trek there almost all the way of 14 KM. You cannot camp near Chandratal as it comes under Ramsar site and camping is banned on the lakes of Chandratal. Even if you get an opportunity, it is an humble request to not camp there and be a Responsible Traveler to protect this gem of nature as camping besides such sites destroys the pristine world around it.
If you plan to trek to Chandratal, in that case it will be better to get connected with someone in Kaza who can arrange it for you. Refer Parsol camps contact of Bishan in the article above.
Regards
Dheeraj
Hi Dheeraj
Thanks for such an helpful post. I am planning to visit Chandertal Lake in 2nd week of July. I am planning a 2 weeks tour from Manali – Leh – Srinagar. Before Proceeding to Leh I want to squeeze in a day or two for Chandertal Lake. But I am a little confused about a few details
Day 1 – travel from Delhi to Manali
Day 2 – Manali stay
Day 3 – Would it be advisable to proceed directly to chandlertal lake from Manali or take a stop somewhere in between for proper acclimatization?
Day 4 – Is it worth to spend an entire day in Chandertal Lake or proceed back to Keylong for onward journey?
Day 5 – Reach Keylong for onward journey to Leh
Thanks in advance for your help.
Hi Ankit,
To answer the question, well you will not acclimatized to sleep anywhere between Manali and Chandratal to get properly acclimatized. A lot more wise decision will be to make the journey in oppostire direction which will provide you many more benefits. I will suggest you that please plan it in other direction as going via Srinagar – Leh Highway will be much much easier on your body and help you acclimatize to the high altitude of Manali – Leh Highway. Also, it allows you to enjoy the beauty of Manali – Leh by splitting the journey almost evenly in two days which is very difficult in the other direction. Thirdly, it will allow you to fit Tso Moriri lake into the itinerary in better way. You can read more reasons on the link here
Lastly you will be able to visit Manali – Leh easily and accommodate Chandratal too in it without much worry of AMS.
Regards
Dheeraj
Hello Mr.Dheeraj,
Read your post of spiti valley .sir Needed your help…for the tour. am planing to do this tour with family .
in first week of june not more then 6 days. Am the only driver will drive my innova, plz suggest the places for fooding and loadging.
kindly keep in mind that having three children age of 7,10and12 yrs old,all of them carring the attitude of metro city mall in them self need to keep them near the nature.
thanks.
Sikander, 6 days are too less for a trip to Spiti Valley and that too with a family with kids. I will not recommend it. Also, Spiti Valley from Manali side will be closed during this time of the year. Hence, I will suggest add couple of more days and postpone the trip towards last week of June when roads will open.
We are planning a tour to spiti valley via Manali. Please let me know is it is ok to visit April last/May 1st week?
thank you.
Chetna, May first week will be a bit cold in Spiti Valley though not that much. Also, the road from Manali will not open in May as it gets open in mid of June. Hence, you need to travel from Shimla – Kinnaur side only and come back the same route.
Hi deepak,
read your blog and indeed its very helpful to plan for a trip. But could you clarify the following queries?
1. what are the charges to stay at parasol camps in chandertaal?
2. How far is batal from kaza and batal from chandertaal?
3. is prior booking necessary for staying at kalpa, Nako, Kaza and chandertaal?or we can easily get accommodation there?
i m planning to visit in mid june for a week trip on bike.
Thanks in advance
Hi Piyush,
1. It is about 1200-1500 per person
2. Batal from Chandratal is about 16-17 KMs, Kaza – Batal is around 85 KMs.
3. Not really if you are open to look for some places and does not have a single place in mind.
Mid June, road to Chandratal will not be open.
Regards
Dheeraj
Thanks dheeraj.
will contact further in case i needs any help. thanks a lot
is april month (1st week) safe for chandratal and spiti valley ? is it good time for photoshoot the valley?
Ashish, Chandratal is not accessible before mid of June. You can at max go up to Kaza in Spiti Valley from Kinnaur Valley route and come back the same route. However, there are cold conditions and most hotels remain closed. Also, snow slides and land slides are common in March – April as snow melts during this time taking debris with it.
Hi Dheeraj, What is the best way to connect back to Bangalore from Chandratal?
In case, there are flights from Chandigarh, then you can do Chandratal to Manali and then overnight volvo to Chandigarh or Delhi.
We are reaching chandratal on 10 june 2015 on our bullet from shimla . can we take our bike till chandratal or we have to park at battal ?
is it safe to park bike at battal and go to chandratal ?
or if we stay at battal , how far is chandratal from batal ? can we go and come in a same day ?
can we get stay option at battal ?
please replay because i dont have any information about this.
thank you.
HArdik, you can take the bike all the way upto 1 KM before Chadratal where the parking is made. There you can park the bikes and carry on further by foot to Chandratal. Since, you are planning in June then all will depend upon if to road from Chandratal to Batal is open or not due to snow. If it is closed you can take the bikes to the farthest point possible and then park them at a safe point else leave them at Batal only. There is Dorje Uncle Dhabha at Batal, then there is PWD rest house as well. Please check the article above.
Hello, I had been to Leh from Manali on bike in 2013 (End of Jun), and I would like to hit chandertal next year on bike. Can you please guide me which is the best route I should take ? and if there are any other precautions tips for it. Thank you.
Mihir, the above travel guide explains about both the routes that can be followed and all other required tips, stay options and all. All depen upon how many days do you have in hand for Chandratal from Delhi and which month are you planning to undertake this ride to Chandratal.
Hi Dheeraj,
Will the roads to Chandratal be open in end November (around 20th)?
No, the roads to Chandratal will soon be closed and at this stage as well it is not advisable to travel in that remote place with chances of road closure anyday now.
🙁
Thank you for your prompt response.
hello dheeraj, i have been following you since long on this page! You are doing a great job out there.. 🙂
I had a few queries, I am planning to leave for a solo ride to chandratal and spiti valley on 7th of october. Can you please guide me through the exact route from manali (step by step would be helpful) ?
I am going on a Thunderbird, so please tell me according to that. And please mention the things needed to taken care of!
Thank You
Cheers! 🙂
Shashant, the route has been explained in the article brother and you can also refer one article: Chandratal Lake | Cheapest Ways To Travel There
These two articles will give you all the details. Regarding, travel plan:
Day 1 | Delhi – Manali and stay overnight at Solang Valley
Day 2 | Solang – Khoksar/Sissu
Day 3 | Khoksar/Sissu – Chandratal
Day 4 | Chandratal – Manali
Day 5 | Manali – Delhi
and if one wants to visit spiti after chandertal then?
Then 5 days are too short for a trip to Spiti Valley 🙂
hay dhiraj,
i am hardik mehta. we are palnning to visit spiti vally in next may-june. please guide us about way from manali. we are planning to go by 8 bullate and one car. total 12person.following are the question we have.
1) which is best time to visit around may-june so that we can get all road open and we can enjoy weather.
2) What is the rought for spiti valley.
3) places to be visited in spiti valley.
4) we want to include chandra tall in this trip , can we go till chandra tall on our vehical ?
5) place to stay in spiti valley and chandra tall.
6) can we directally go to suraj tall from chandra tall in our vehicle. if yes what is the rought ?
7) how many days required for this trip from manali to manali.
8) how safe is this area for ladies
9) if any more information you want to share.
please replay because our trip depand on your replay,
thank you
hardik mehta
Hello Dheeraj,Please share your view on the feasibility/tightness of the following itinerary ..
Oct 1 Leave from Delhi in evening
Oct 2 Reach Manali and stay overnight
Oct 3 Leave early morning for Losar or Kaza and stay overnight (which would be preferable between the two ? )
October 4 Leave early morning for Chandratal and leave for Manali in evening . Overnight at Manali (Is rohtang opened at late evening to make this possible ?)
October 5 Leave Manali for Delhi
Vishesh, if you are interested in Chandratal then there is no point of going to Kaza or Losar. Stay at Batal the night before. Early morning go and visit Chandratal and leave back to Manali by 11 AM for sure. Night travel from Batal to Gramphu is not advisable at all.
PS: The tour will be quite quite hectic and will be pain at some stage. AMS is bound to happen and you might not be able to sleep well at Batal.
1) Late June will be the best time to plan the trip as Kunzum Pass opens by 2-3 week of June only. Hence, from Manali side you can travel to Spiti Valley in late of June only.
2 + 3) You can check a very balanced and most common itinerary for Spiti Valley followed by many travellers including me at the link here for 10-11 days: Most Common Itinerary for Spiti Valley.
4) Will depend on your luck. Trek route will open but not sure if route by road will be clear or not by that time.
5) Refer: Some Good Options of Stays in Spiti Valley / Kinnaur Valley
6) It will take two days to reach Surajtal from Chandratal with night halt at Keylong or Jispa and then next day visit to Surajtal and back.
7) Refer 2+3
8) Completely safe but it is a tiring terrain and harsh with basic facilities.
Dear Dheeraj,
Please provide your inputs on the following questions I have regarding trek to Chandratal on 1-5th Oct.
1) Time to reach Batal from Manali by road ? Condition of road ?
2) Time to trek from Batal to Chandratal ?
3) Tentative temperature at Chandratal at that time ? Will camps/tents be available at Chandratal ?
4) Time by road from Batal to Kunzum pass ?
Thanks !
Hi Vishesh,
I am just back from the Mega Meet of Spiti Valley which included Chandratal as well.
1. Batal – Manali with present road conditions will take about 5 Hrs, road is in best shape it can be when compared to whole season.
2. There is no need to trek, roads are open upto 800 Mtrs before Chandratal.
3. Will be very very very cold, had very tough time sleeping at Chandratal Camps this time on 19th September. Many of us could not sleep properly.
4. Batal to Kunzum Pass roughly, 45 Minutes.
Regards
dheeraj
Very Thanks for the prompt reply Dheeraj. Further adding to my questions:
1) Would you recommend a rented bike trip from Manali to Chandratal ?
2) Is there snow around ? How scenic is the lake itself at this time of the year ?
3) Would you recommend camping at Chandratal given the low temperature that you mentioned ? How cold does it get ? Can I rather camp at Batal to offset this ?
Vishish, here are my replies:
1. Yes, you can provided the conditions of the bikes is good and you know some basic fix up.
2. Lake is always scenic and has colors in day after 11 and 8-11 it reflects the surrounding peaks if you are lucky for no winds.
3. Batal will be much wiser choice I will suggest in the PWD Rest House or structures in front of Chandra Dhabha.
please let me know the days required to trek chandertal.
is there any shortcut to visit from manali. ???
Rasel, from Manali, you can check the below Itinerary for Chandratal
A common itinerary is below:
Day 1 | Delhi – Manali and stay overnight at Solang Valley
Day 2 | Solang – Khoksar/Sissu
Day 3 | Khoksar/Sissu – Chandratal
Day 4 | Chandratal – Manali
Day 5 | Manali – Delhi
Regards
Dheeraj
Hi Dheeraj,
I am looking forward to solo trip to Chadratal and Spiti.
I will be leaving on
25 Manali – Chadratal
26 Trek Chadartal
27 Chadratal – Kaza
28 Tour Kaza
29 Kaza – Reckong Peo
30 Rekong Peo – Shimla
Is is possible to do it in given time frame or should I add extra days?
Is it really difficult to solo trek Chadartal?
Will it be easy to get bus to and from Chadra tal?
Hello OM,
Why do you want to travel extra journey through treacherous roads of Kinnaur when you will not be doing sightseeing in buses. You can actually do something like below:
25 Manali – Kaza
26 Kaza – Dhangkar – Tabo
27 Tabo – Pin Valley – Kaza, second half do Ki – Kibber or Langza – Komik
28 Kaza – Chandratal
29 Chandratal – Manali
30 Manali – Shimla/Delhi
How to go about Kaza – Chandratal or Chandratal to Manali, please read: Chandratal Lake | Cheapest Ways To Travel There
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj
We are a group of 3-4 friends and planning to go Leh during 10-25 Sept. also looking towrads to cover Chandratal route. so is it possible to camp in our own tents at Chandratal. also how cold it may be during late Sept in this area and recommended clothing and tent quality. how frequently the PWD guest houses are available. Your inputs would be of great help to us.
Yes Jitender, you can camp in your own tents up there at Chandratal but at the camping site not at the lake as it comes under Wetland Reserve. September could be around 0-5 Deg C at night.
thanks awesome
Hi, I am planning to visit chandratal early october (1 to 5th october). Would it be appropriate time to travel. Please provide inputs. Also suggest the better route via manali or shimla?
Alka, it will be great if you can follow below plan:
Day 1 | Delhi – Manali and stay overnight at Solang Valley
Day 2 | Solang – Khoksar/Sissu
Day 3 | Khoksar/Sissu – Chandratal
Day 4 | Chandratal – Manali
Day 5 | Manali – Delhi
Hi Dheeraj,
We are 4 person and planning trip to Chandratal on 12-17 Aug and i have few questions:
1. We are Planning to Start Very early from Manali (4AM). As far as i remember there were few rules (Timings) to cross Rohtang Pass, Is that still applicable?
2. I am planning to do it on Bullet which i plan to take on rent from Manali, So it is safe to drive on bullet as i have heard there are few water front (Nallah) in between Gramphoo and Batal.
3. Road Conditions: Are they good to drive during that time (Aug Mid).
4. The Jamacian Tent which there at chandratal, how can we book them in advance ?
5. Mobile Network: Till which point we can get network?
6. We have 6 days (12-17) in total, Is it worth going till kaza and how are the Road condition between Kunzum pass and kaza?
Thanks,
Pankaj Sharma
Hi Pankaj,
1. No there will not be rules now. You can leave early, you will get the permits at Gulaba camp to cross Rohtang Pass.
2. If you are OK to travel and have riden in such terrain before, then you should go else not.
3. Will be surely challenging.
4. There are no signals at Chandratal, so not sure how can you book. You can walking and you should get there I believe. You can refer DoW to him.
5. Till Gramphu, it will work and then no signal.
6. Kunzum Pass to Kaza in majority is fine.
Regards
Dheeraj
Thanks Dheeraj for ur informations.
Hi, is it possible to take a round along the circumference of chandra tal in one day? Is it safe to stay in a tent at Chandra tal overnight? Pls tell me whether there is any mentionable point to take a very memorable snap of Chandra tal.Thanking you.
Sanjib, tents are pitched about 1 KM before the lake and Jamaica is the guys whose tent will be the closest. Regarding taking a round, I am not really sure if it is feasible to cover the entire circumference of the lake because some shores are at the base of the adjoining hills but if you can climb them, you can cover them. However, taking the low level shots might not be feasible at some parts of the lake. The reflections last about 10 AM in the morning only and then fades away as ripples are formed with blowing wind, so be sure to be there at early morning to take such pictures.
Just came back from this trip last Friday. The road conditions aren’t good at all. The dirt track after the right turn from Gramphoo was doable. But the water crossings were very dangerous even for my 4×4 Fotuner. Got stuck at 2 waterfalls for 4 hrs after some Tavera taxis blew out their tires and broke down due to other reasons. One water crossing we faced at 9 pm after Chhota Dhara was so bad that 5 cars and other buses spent the night in their vehicles on the mountain and returned to Manali the next morning, including us. So, I’d recommend 4×4 SUVs or taxis. You’d be lucky to cross this way in anything else.
Thank you Nikhil for the update. Seems like quite an adventure you went through. If possible, try and share your Himalayan experience with us at DoW – Himalayan Travel Community as Photo Tale or Travel Tale Or your reviews of the hotels/guest houses where you stayed or dhabhas/restaurants you ate food on your trip… All this might help others planning the similar trip too 🙂 🙂
Hi,
First of all a big thanks to DOW. There is no information about chandratal which is not here. You guys are the Google for backpackers 🙂
Just one question:
We are planning to go on Sunday-27July(via manali route), stay in camps of chndratal on Monday and drive back on Tuesday. Is this possible? as I have heard Rohtang pass is closed on Tuesdays?
Rishab, Very difficult but if you can sustain the penalty of High Altitude and the AMS, if it occurs, then the plan is possible. Such restrictions mostly are for Rohtang Pass for tourists and not the traffic outbound of it, that is coming from Leh, Spiti, Lahaul in general. Though you may face some stoppages. Plan is very rushed up and quick. You need to judge your fatigue levels in anycase.
Firstly, a big thank you for keeping us upto date through ur website.
I’m planning to go to Lahaul Spiti on september 1st week with total of 6 members via Shimla-Sangla-Kalpa-Tabo-Pin Valley-Kaza-Chandra tal-Jispa-Suraj Tal & Baralacha La & back to Keylong-Manali.My queries are:
1.availability of electricty for camera charging,
2.Where to book tent for Chandra tal(on sept.9,full moon)in advance,any contact person,
3.is it possible to cover Mud village,Ki,Kibber,Langza,Komik & overnight at Kaza in same day,
4.is it possible to cover Suraj tal & Baralacha La & back to keylong in same day.
Hi Sanjib,
Below are my replies to queries:
1. Should be available at most of the places except Chandratal.
2. Do it on the spot. There are options there, no need to book in advance.
3. It will be very difficult and long but if started early can be doable though in a rushed manner.
4. Yes, you can make a day trip to Baralacha La easily from Keylong and cover Deepak Tal and Suraj Tal too.
Hi sir
Can u guide me through this
Me my wife are planning to go to chandratal late july. Delhi-manali.
Nitestay at manali
Manali to patalsu for trek. (Acclimitsation)
Patalsu to battal
Battal to chandratal
2 nites at chandratal
Back to manali via rohtang la
All set and done.
But the question i want to ask is. Can i take my 2.5 year old kid with me??
It depends on person to person to take the children of such age group because AMS do not matter with respect to age or sex or any physical health condition. It can happen to anyone of any age or sex or fitness I shall say :D… The issue with children is that they tend to exert the body considering it the same kind of place they belong to and this elevates the chances of getting struck with AMS. Secondly, they are not much expressive about their uneasy feelings, so it is parents who need to watch out and take care that the child is not suffering from uneasy feelings, headache or nausea and is behaving properly. With 2+ year child, I think he/she will also be NOT able to convey the uneasiness he/she may feel. You have to be vigilant and if you notice any such feeling or he/she tells you about such a feeling then please do not ascend anywhere, either descend to lower altitude or stay at the same place to watch things overnight and if symptom increase then start descending immediately. Same is applicable for any adult as well. And yes, do keep the body adequately hydrated!!
Also, PLEASE read the article: Traveling to High Altitude with Kids or Babies. This article covers this topic in complete detail.
Hi Dheeraj, first of all cheers for the great things you are doing for the travelers. you are doing a great job 🙂
Dheeraj me and my friends are planning for lahul and Spiti valley trip around july 18th 2014 in my Car Polo. can you please guide us the best and unforgettable route. This is not the first trip for your knowledge. We have done lots of mountains trip earlier. Kindly reply soon.
Keep travelling
Ritesh, I am not sure how many days you have. You can check a very balanced and most common itinerary for Spiti Valley followed by many travellers including me at the link here for 10-11 days: Most Common Itinerary for Spiti Valley.
For hatchback/sedan taking on Manali – Leh Highway Or Spiti Valley via Manali Or Ladakh, please refer the link: FAQ | Can I do Leh – Ladakh / Spiti / Manali – Leh trip in Hatchback or Sedan? for more details.
Hi Dheeraj Sir,
We will be reaching Manali from Delhi on the morning of 26th July by overnight bus.
Following is the tentative plan we wish to follow :
26th : Reach Manali in the morning and spend the day in Manali to get acclimatized to the altitude.
27th : Leave for Chandratal on a taxi or motorbikes – depends upon the weather. Spend the day in travelling and halting at places. Reach the lake in evening and spend the night at the lake or maybe at chhatru or batal, whichever is suitable.
28th : Leave for manali and reach by evening to catch the overnight bus back to Delhi.
Or, if above is not feasible, we can add one more day during our ascend to the lake for which we have to stay somewhere mid of Manali and Chandrataal lake. Please suggest where we can put up for this night. This way, we will reach Manali on 29th evening and leave for Delhi.
Please suggest where we can get bikes for rent in Manali and other equipment for camping and is it possible if we can get a local guide who travels with us ?
Manali does not help in acclimatization, so better stay either at Solang Valley or Vashisht. Your plan logically is very much feasible, just that remember the AMS thing and rest should be fine. If you can add a day may be for a stay at Sissu or Khoksar for acclimatization, it could be better else take a chance.
There are mnay options of rent in Manali and there is no need of renting the camps from Manali. You will find various options at Chandratal lake now including the camps run by Jamaica. He knows DoW and me well, so no worries on that front.
Thanks for the reply!
Just for getting a cost estimate for our trip, how much will be the taxi or bike rent from Manali ?
Also, can you give a rough estimate for the accomodation expenses for stay at solang valley and khoksar (just basic low cost accomodation) ?
Harpreet, bikes are rented from Rs 800-1500 per day depending on the model and make. Taxi will charge about 9K for the drop I think.
Khoksar just have a PWD rest house, so 480 types you can pay, if staying at Sissu then Hotel Triveni charges about Rs 500-600 for one room. Solang the hotels are costly a bit. You need to pay about 1500-2000 there. Hotel Iceland is good place to stay in Solang Valley.
Hi Harpreet,
We are 3 guys also planning Chandratal on the same dates, i guess we can share the taxi if ok. Please let me know your thoughts. My contact: 09213222792
Hi Deeraj Ji,
We two frnds planning to go to Chadratal.kindly let me know that zis there any local transport or Bus or share jeeps that can take us to Batal from Manali Chandratal?
Regards
Rahul, to answer these queries on different options to travel to Chandratal from Batal / Losar, you can refer the article: Chandratal Lake | Cheapest Ways To Travel There
Hi Dheeraj,
This year again we are driving from chennai to do the leh circuit once more but from the manali side as opposed to the srinagar side which we did last year. Nowhere is my doubt.., Is there a road that takes us through chandrataal to sarchu from manali.
Thanks.
When you go from Manali, there will come a place called Gramphu after crossing Rohtang Pass. There you take the cut to Chandratal that goes from Chatru – Chota Dhara – Batal – Chandratal. Same route you need to come back and meet at Gramphu to carry on journey to Sarchu. There is no other route by road.
So there’s no driving route? Unfortunately we don’t have time to do the trek. We have a total of ten days and we are pretty much following ur itinerary. Delhi-narkanda-kalpa-tabo-kibber via dhankhar-kaza-chandratal-manali-chandigarh-delhi. We are doing this on the last week of June/first week July. Trust that’s a good enough time for roads etc?
Indra, there is driving route but currently Manali to Kaza road is being cleared only and once it gets open, the dozer will go over the Chandratal route, clean it before finally returning back to Losar or rest site for the season. So, if the route is open then you can drive over it else there would be some portion which will need to be trekked to reach Chandratal. If any blockade if in the early section of the road, then it is sheer luck or I shall say bad luck for you 🙂
Hi dheeraj,
we are driving up to spiti via the Hindustan-Tibet highway in the last week of June. Delhi-narkanda-Kalpa-tabo-kaza. we would like to camp out at chandratal lake and come back down to Chandigarh via pin valley, then onto kasol/khirganga instead of the regular manali way. Could you please suggest the best route in order to do that?
Thanks, super blog!
Indra, Pin Valley to Kasol Kheerganga via Pin Parvati Pass is a trek route. Are you planning to do the trek there? Also, how many days do you have in hand?
Also we our carrying our own camping equipment. Besides chandratal, which I believe is quite commercial now are there any other interesting campsites around tabo and kaza?
Indra there are many camping sites you will find around Tabo and Kaza. Phaldar Grounds are there, lot of villages from Rangrik to Phaldar ground too. Rangrik itself is nice place to pitch camps and so is Tabo / Poh village. Pin Valley too have many spots where you can camp. You can camp on the other side of Pin river in some villages too if you are open for it.
Hi Dheeraj,
Chandratal is in my list this time. I am planning to visit this place in 2nd week of July. I am carrying my own tent as well. Can I put tent near the lake? One more question. I am travelling on my 2 wheeler.Do you have any idea where can I park my vehicle. How far should I walk to reach Chadratal. Please suggest. Thanks in advance.
Jeevan, you can visit Chandratal in second week of July. But, you cannot put your tents near the lake as it is banned because this lake comes under Wetland reserve. You need to pitch your camps away from the lake. The camp site is about 700-800 Mtrs away and you will park your vehicles there only.
Thanks a lot for the details Dheeraj. Looking forward to visit this place.
Best wishes for your Chandratal trip 🙂
Buddy
I am going on a photography trip to leh via manali. On 27th July 14.
Route:
1. Delhi – manali – night stay at manali
2. Manali – jispa – night stay
3. Jispa – tso kar – night stay
4. Tso kar – leh – night stay
5. Leh – night stay
6. Leh – pangong – night stay
7. Pangong – Nubra – hunder – night stay
8. Hunder – night stay
9. Hunder – leh – night stay
10. Leh – sarchu – night stay
11. Sarchu – manali
12. Manali – Delhi
Needed to know can I include chandratal lake in the itenary?
Also what more is there to visit in spiti other then chandratal?
I will seriously advice you to reconsider like below:
1. Delhi – manali – night stay at manali
2. Manali – jispa – night stay
3. Jispa – Leh – night stay
4. leh – night stay
5. Leh – Nubra – night stay
6. Nubra – Leh – night stay
7. Leh – Pangong Tso – night stay
8. Pangong Tso – Leh – night stay
9. Leh – Tso Moriri / Tso Kar – night stay
10. Tso Moriri / Tso Kar – sarchu – night stay
11. Sarchu – manali
12. Manali – Delhi
This will be much easy, practical and will help you with photography and spend enough time for it.
Hey dheeraj
I’ll talk to my sir regarding your itenary,
Also needed to know if I come to manali 2 days earlier, can I visit chandratal lake on my own or will I need more days to visit?
Also if I can visit, then do let me know the route acc. Thanx
Aman, if you can reach two days early then from Jispa you need to go to Chandratal directly, long drive and then from Chandratal you go back to Manali next day. This way your two days will be utilized.
can i go to chandratal lake on bike from manali? please suggest the cheapest way and guide the routes.
Vishal, when are you planning to visit Chandratal? You can check the article: Chandratal Lake | Cheapest Ways To Travel There
hi dheeraj,
Thanks for sharing the information, would like to know what can be the shortest time tour from delhi to chandra tal and back.
Rohit, I will suggest at least 4-5 days trip to Chandratal.
HI Dheeraj,
Thanks for sharing this information in such detail, Needed your feedback on my travel plan to Spiti valley, can you suggest if this is ok or we should change it, please recommend must see places enroute, also do you suggest we stay at Narkanda instead of shimla on 1st nt.
• Day 1 – 31st May – Delhi – Shimla – 1 Night stay @ Shimla
• Day 2 – 1st June – Shimla Kalpa 2 Night stay @ Kalpa
• Day 4 – 3rd June – Kalpa – Kaza 2 nt stay at Kaza
• Day 6 – 5th June – Kaza – Manali – Leave at 4 am Visit Chandratal on the way reach manali by 7 pm ( is this achievable ) , 2 nt stay at Manali
• Day 8 – 7th June Manali delhi – leave at 4 am and reach Delhi by 7 pm
Yes, you can stay at NArkanda to avoid less travel next day. Chandratal will not be accessible during that period by road and in fact you cannot come from Manali side as the road from Manali to Kaza will only open by mid of June only. You have to come back from same route, Kinnaur.
Hi Dheeraj.Hope you’re doing crazy good.Your website has been of great help for me and my friend to plan our delhi to chandratal trip. We just spoke to cottage.Thanks for your recommendation. We have around 7 to 8 days on us dheeraj. Can you recommend a tentative itinerary within the given time frame. We are planning to go to spiti via shimla and return to delhi via manali as suggestd by you. We have approxminately 8 days and we are keen on camping and trekking. The guy at the cottage offered to help:)Thanks a tonne. peace!
Hi Urmi,
Yeah doing good !! When exactly are you planning the trip? also, what is the commute?
Regards
Dheeraj
We are looking at the second week of june. Planning to take a bus from delhi to shimla.
Second week of June, Manali to Kaza might not be open. So, you have to go from Shimla route which will mean you need at least 8-9 days to enjoy the trip else it will be like living on the road kind of trip.
Thanks dheeraj.We are going via shimla now and decided to stay the night at rekong peo before heading towards kaza. Can you recommend a place to stay at rekong? We have made a 10 day itinerary now so we don’t have to rush through the trip. Thanks a tonne for your help again.
Why not stay at Kalpa if you have 10 days. Reckong Peo, I do not recall much stays because Kalpa is just 30 minutes away from there. So, mostly I sat at Kalpa only. 10 days should be good fun. Keep it open and take it as it comes with public transport. There are buses from reckong Peo to Kaza, use that to hop onto to Places from Peo.
Ya, a friend suggested we stay at the aucktong hotel in kalpa.Will take a bus or a shared taxi to kaza the morning after. Thanks dheeraj. Best!
Best wishes for the trip 🙂
Hi Mr. Deeraj,
Can we reach Kaza from Rampur in one day. I’m planning my trip in 1st week of June. Actuall I want to travel Delhi to Rampur to Kaza , Manali & back to Delhi. We will not go to Chandral this year. Is it possible to finish this route in 7 days on Bike.
Ajay it will be very tough considering the conditions of roads in Kinnaur. Plus you will not enjoy any bit of journey apart from being just on road for almost all days. All your days will 12+ hours of ride with only few stoppages for clicking pics or seeing anything. You will be able to rest for a day or two then but if you are OK with that kind of a journey it should be fine enough….
Dheeraj, excuse me for late reply. Many many thanks for your promt response. These informations will be extremely helpful for us.
Best wishes for your Spiti Valley trip 🙂 …
Please let me know in case you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Dheeraj,
Nice blog. we have planned bhawa pass trek in 1st week of July, 2014. we will go from manali to mud via chandratal. I have some questions:
1) Is it possible to go manali to kaza in one day via chandra taal lake?
2) how much will be the hired Tata Sumo / jeep fare from one way journey from manali to kaza via chandratal. If possible can you name some good driver and contact no.?
3) Is there vehicle available from kaza to mud?
4) Can we hire trekking and camping equipments at kaza / mud? can you name any good guide at kaza / mud?
Best wishes?
Hello Joyasish,
1. Well, it will be very longish journey along with covering Chandratal I will say. Otherwise, you can do Manali – Kaza in one day in about 10-11 Hrs. Adding Chandratal means at least 2.5-3 Hrs in it.
2. Though I have never used their services but you can get in touch with Tashi Tandup from Kaza – 09418501644, Chering Tashi – 09418840616. The taxi might cost you about 8-10K. Kaza is connected by HRTC buses too going from Kullu – Manali – Rohtang Pass – Kunzum Pass – Kaza
3. You can hire local taxi and AFAIK, shared jeeps run too upto Pin Valley from Kaza.
4. Yes, you can hire camping gears in Kaza and guess shall be available in Mud too. Tara Guest House in Mud Village shall be able to help you with it.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
PLEASE SUGGEST as we are planning for spiti tour via manali from delhi…duration 4 days on i20 car..4 ppl ..please suggest on this we are planning on 16th of oct 2013…please help on urgent basis as we have to plan the tour based on your suggestion
Sandeep, it takes minium of 2 days to reach Spiti Valley from Manali – Rohtang Pass – Kunzum Pass route which is very arduous journey. With i20 I will say ONLY and ONLY if you have very good experience of riding on VERY bad roads then only make such a thing. 4 days will be very less for a Spiti Valley trip and it is really not recommended to make a trip at this time of the year now when both Rohtang Pass and Kunzum Pass has started getting snowfall and are on theverge of closure.
Regards
dheeraj
Hi Dheeraj
My wife and I are planning to travel to Spiti Valley for 7 days in Oct last week.
Firstly, is it advisable to travel during this time? Any risks? Should we defer our trip by a week or so? We unfortunately cannot prepone/advance our dates at all.
Anuraag, it will be very cold out there brother plus the chances of getting from Manali to Spiti Valley will be very very risky and not recommended. Now, you will be left with Kinnaur route which is not recommended as the roads are getting open/close again and again after the June flash floods. I will better suggest, go with some other plan.
I am not sure , but still we are planning to visit Spiti Valley. Our Journey will start on 11th august .
IS IT A GOOD TIME TO BE THERE ..
Surendra, you can plan it but go from Manali side only as the roads from Kinnaur are still not open. Keep in mind that you need go with some hassles of monsoons for sure but once you reach Spiti Valley, it shall be OK as it falls under rain shadow.
Dear Dheeraj
I am planning a 7-day trip from Gurgaon to Spiti/ Lahaul in Aug-Sep. My travel group consists of 5 pax.
Kindly advise the most convenient way to reach Lahaul / Spiti. Are there any cabs available from Delhi or Gurgaon and what would be the tentative cost of a return journey. And if it is humanly possible to cover both the places in 7 days?
Thanks
Puneet
Puneet, yes it is possible but it will be monsoons and roads from Kinnaur are closed. even if they open, not advised to go via Kinnaur. You can go via manali side. Also, 7 days a re a bit less for both Lahaul & spiti Valley. If you choose Lahaul then you may end up with only couple of days in Spiti with which at max. you might cover Chandratal.
We want go following area from Delhi ( Sangla – Kalpa – Chitkul-Recongpeo (Kinnaur) – Tabo – Kaza Ki Monastery.- Rohtang Pass- Kunzum La pass-Manali . We will back to Delhi . We will start our journey on Saturday Night and want to back on next Saturday day/night with 8 members in the month of April end . we dont want go to shimla .Pls guide us how we can plan the trip . Which area we should consider which not .
Thanks
Sumit
Sumit, if you are planning to do entire circuit then road from Manali to Kaza opens only in June thrid week type. Hence, it will only be possible to do it form Kinnaur side. Is it fine for you?
Dear Dheeraj,
This is an amazing blog! Two of us are planning a trip to Spiti Valley at the end of June, beginning of july. We will have 8 days. Can you recommend an itinerary. I am interested in some basic trekking and seeing the local culture. Also, do you suggest entering from Shimla or from Manali?
Hi Anj,
I recommend entering from Shimla and then exiting from Manali because that ways your bodies will be well acclimatized. 8 Days will be a bit short for Spiti Valley but it is doable in 8 days with little effort everyday 🙂
Day 1 | Delhi -Narkanda
Day 2 | Narkanda – Kalpa
Day 3 | Kalpa – Tabo
Day 4 | Tabo – Dhangkar – Kaza
Day 5 | Kaza – Local Sightseeing (Ki, Kibber, Gette, Hikkim, Komik, Langza)
Day 6 | Kaza – Kunzum Pass – Chandratal
Day 7 | Chandratal – Manali
Day 8 | Manali – Delhi
I am sure you will love to be at below link for your itinerary advice in more structured way 🙂 DoW – Himalayan Travel Community | Ladakh Itinerary Advice
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thank you Dheeraj…keep up the great effort…and thank you for being so fast and personalized in your responses:-)
Also, we don’t have our own vehicle. Is this itinerary possible by bus and shared taxi? Also, we were thinking of staying on one place for a few days in Spiti Valley…which village would you recommend?
Might be doable but will not allow any how to stay in Spiti for few days. You only have 8 with you.
pleasure, thanks for the appreciation.
Hi Dheeraj
I am leaving for Spiti on 3 May for 6 days. Could you please suggest what all places we can visit during this period as I want to cover all the major ones? We will be travelling on a Royal Enfield. Thanks.
Neha, for the list of major places or attractions enroute Spiti Valley, you can refer the article: Hindustan – Tibet Road | Interesting Places
Thanks a lot for your reply. I will share my experience when I will be back. Thanks again.
Looking forward to it, all the best wishes for the trip 🙂
Hi Dheeraj,
I once again need your help 🙂
we have almost planned our trip to spiti from 3rd to 9th of May. I wish to have some opinions on our itinerary. Here it is:
We will be going via shimla and will be coming back via that route only [as the other route won’t be open ].
Day 1(early morning around 3): From kalka to either kalpa or chitkul [we are undecided as yet. whether we should cover chitkul while going towards spiti or on our way back. please suggest]. Also the trek towards china border, is it possible to have it in the morning and what is the normal duration of the trek. Also, as this journey would be around 300kms, approximately how many hours of journey is this. will we be reaching chitkul/kalpa by the evening (5 or 6pm) or by the afternoon.
Day 2: From either chitkul or kalpa to tabu via nako lake, geyu. [Will the pin valley national park be open by then ..? Can it be covered on this day given the road conditions ?]
Day 3: Tabo to kaza or losar (if possible) seeing dhankar, dhankar lake (we are planning to do trekking here), dhankar monastery. [Will it be possible to stretch a little and reach losar by night ? Will the road till losar be open by that time ?]
Day 4: From kaza/losar -> ki monastery -> kibber -> hikim -> langza -> komik -> kaza
Day 5: From kaza to chitkul/kalpa. [whichever is uncovered on our way to spiti]
Day 6: From kalpa/chitkul to kalka
Also, about petrol pumps .. we heard that kaza and rampur are the two places on the way to have petrol pumps .. Are there any other places to get the fuel .. ?
Would be great to have the your views on this as this is our first road trip and we do not have much of an idea about the roads/ distance travelled and the timings.
Thanks a lot for your help 🙂
Neha, it would be much much nice if you can read the article linked here to know more about places which will help you making your trip more memorable and enjoyable.
Coming on to your petrol pump question, there is one more petrol pump at Powari and one at Reckong Peo just 8-10 KMs from Powari towards Kalpa on a diversion from Hindustan Tibet Highway. DO NOT miss this one and one at Kaza.
Finally, I will suggest the following plan taking into consideration the number of days in hand:
Day 1 | Kalka to Sangla, may be if you have time and energy then ONLY explore Chitkul else skip it
Day 2 | Sangla to Tabo
Day 3 | Tabo – Pin Valley (if roads open) OR Dhankar – Kaza
Day 4 | Kaza – Ki – Kibber – Hikkim – Komik – Langza – Kaza
Day 5 | Kaza – Kalpa
Day 6 | Kalpa to Kalka
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Well, road to Losar has been opened too. I am also leaving on 4th May from Delhi, let’s see I can see you guys up there. I will be reaching 4th to Sangla itself
Hey, wooow..thats amazing..Btw, we are not going to Sangla..hope to meet you somewhere in between 🙂
Sure!! I am going all the way upto Losar and beyond, cya on HTR 🙂
Hi Dheeraj, How are you doing ?
First of all, really sorry for the late response 🙁
So, how was your journey to Spiti valley ? I read your post btw, and I can imagine that you did really enjoy your trip
So, now if I talk about mine..it was Good I can now understand why people say it’s a different world…
We started our journey on Friday afternoon by train to Kalka, and then next morning, we actually started our road trip. My first one! It was unbelievable and without a doubt, a tough one too..
As already planned, on our second day we had to reach kalpa..which was a long journey to undertake. I had no idea about it till the time we actually did it. It was okay upto Rampur but getting progressively worse and worse. The road was terrible because of the road widening work and by then it was almost dark and we still had to cover a long way to reach Recong peo. I can never forget that thrilling sound of Satluj which totally complimented the road experience. And to add to all this, there came a stretch which was impossible to be covered on a bike, I almost got wet as there was water gushing down from the top on one side and on the other, it was the Satluj. But the only good part was, people were really helpful. They were ready to help us even when we did not ask for it
we managed to reach Recong Peo and it was already 8 pm by then. And then we again had to lift ourselves to cover the distance till Kalpa. Somehow, we managed to reach Kalpa. Met Dada. Believe me, when we reached our room, I was not even in the position to take off my shoes, my friend did it for me. It was terrible. We did nothing, absolutely nothing. That night I was almost in tears that if the road is like this, I cant go any further and we discussed that may be we have to go back. And then we slept…
Next morning, I was the first one to get up. I looked to my left side and it was Wooowwww ! I could not believe my eyes at what I was looking at. I immediately took out my DSLR. I did not bother to wear my chappals and clicked some pictures. And that very moment convinced me of the reason why I was there. And then, I decided I cannot go back like this. As the reason why I said yes to Spiti was that I saw the picture of Spiti river on Wikipedia and its beauty. I wanted to see it.
Then, I was all charged up. We started getting ready. Dada told me that they knocked at our door thrice at night but nobody answered That day, we started our journey with the thought that today we wont make our journey too hectic and Dada gave us an address of a guest house in Nako. The journey was bad initially but then the weather changed as it started raining and it became beautiful. Nature had never looked so beautiful to me before…
We reached Nako, had soup Maggie and Coffee and then, we decided to to see Nako lake as Nako monastery was already closed by then. It was really good.
And you know what..the next morbing it was snowing. It was beautiful. But, it was terribly cold. We decided not to take bath . Had early breakfast since we had to visit the Monastery. And here comes the bad part, due to some family emergency we had to come back from there and we could not go further.
Anyway, the experienced I had in those three days changed not only my perception about the our mother nature but it also helped me grow as a person.
I wish to go back to Spiti as soon as possible and the good part is may be we will be going there again in July or in August. I am just keeping my fingers crossed.I would also like to thank you for helping us in preparing our itinerary and providing us with all the necessary information.
Neha, wow!! Wonderful experience, I must say. Being on a road trip and enjoying it and cursing it… I know all these emotions and how one goes through it, experiencing on some of them. Well, that’s OK though sad that you had to return back but next time you will have a better idea of the terrain and you will be more mentally prepared for the trip. In between, if you missed DoW has started a community as well. If you love to travel to Himalayas then you can JOIN DoW – Himalayan Travel Community and share your Himalayan knowledge and experiences with other like minded travellers too and help us materialize the vision to help a Himalayan life & help travelers travel with a difference in various parts of Himalayas
Hey, that is great! 🙂
By the way, I am once again planning a trip to spiti on 2nd Aug and this time I have approx. 9 days with me. But you know what, I am hell scared. This time I read a lot about Spiti and experiences of some people who have already been there and saw the pictures. Those pics were scary.
So, here is my ques for you. Do you think its okay to go there at this time of the year ? We are only two and we will be doing this on a bike. I mean after seeing the pictures, it seems life threatening. And do you have any suggestions ? Or do you know anyone who will be travelling to spiti in the first week of august ? Hoping to hear something positive 🙂
Neha, currently the roads from Kinnaur side are closed due the cloudburst in June. Roads are still not restored. You can make a trip from Manali side to Spiti but since it will be monsoons so you will have to face the monsoon hassles almost upto the point before you enter Spiti Valley ahead of kunzum Pass. Once you in Spiti, it shall be fine enough.
Hi..just wanted to inform you..we are leaving for spiti today. 🙂
Thanks for all ur help..
Best wishes for the Trip Neha!! Have loads of fun…
Hi Dheeraj. What is the first pic in this blog? Have never seen that (unfortunately). It isn’t Chandtratal…and i suppose its not Dhankar either (or is it)?
Anyways, i have a question for you, something i ask everybody who has visited both Ladakh and Spiti. Which one do you find better? Keep in mind all the factors – the distance, the views, the ride, places to visit etc etc 🙂
Hi Saurabh,
Yes, it is not Chandratal rather a small lake just before Chandratal, about half KM before it at the top. Ha Ha Ha, the question is quite difficult to answer dost but still my first love is Ladakh and second Spiti Valley. Have been to both these places twice but I really like Ladakh especially the remote places of Changthang. Main Ladakh has gone touristy, thanks to 3 Idiots but still Ladakh has much more things and challenges to offer than Spiti. No doubt if you consider distance and accessibility Spiti is my alltime favorite and I can visit both these places any number of times without a second thought 😀
Regards
Dheeraj
Thanks a tonne for your tipe Dheeraj!! Will share my view when i come back..Thanks again
All the very best for the trip buddy!!
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
This certainly seems to be the best source of info on Leh-Ladakh.
We are a group of 3 friend planning to travel to Ladakh starting 1 Sep and I had a few questions:
1)How about hiring a atxi from Manali and use it for the rest of the trip(Manali to Leh and local sighseeing and back to Manali. What’s the cost like?
2)Can we cover Spiti as well, our dates are from 01 Sep to 10 Sep?
Thanks in Advance,
Cheers
Hi Ashish,
1. Taxis outside Ladakh are not allowed to do any sightseeing within Leh – Ladakh. You can use them from drop-in and take-away modes only. So, the taxi you are hiring locally must have private number plate otherwise you will have to again hire a taxi within Ladakh and pay for your local taxi without using it.
2. No, just stick to Manali – Leh – Manali only. For 10 days, you miht like to follow something below:
Day 1 | Delhi – Manali/Solang Valley
— Better stay at Solang Valley and avoid Manali as sleeping at Solang Valley does help in acclimatization
— If going by own car, get the permit made in advance to drive on Manali – Rohtang Pass road through hotel/travel agent in Manali
— Overnight at Manali/Solang Valley
Day 2 | Manali/Solang Valley – Keylong/Jispa
— It is always better to stay either at Keylong/Jispa so that you do not feel sick or hit by AMS.
— Avoid sleeping at Sarchu at any cost while going to Leh from Manali because your body will not be acclimatized by the time you reach there.
— I prefer staying at Jispa more because Keylong gives the feeling of a town while Jispa is more closer to nature having Bhaga river running just aside the Manali – Leh Highway at Jispa.
— Overnight at Keylong/Jispa
Day 3 | Keylong/Jispa – Leh
— Leave Keylong/Jispa early next morning, say by 4/5 AM types, so that you reach Leh in the evening.
— Overnight at Leh
Day 4 | Leh Local Sighseeing + Inner Line Permits
— Local sightseeing include Namgyal Gompa, Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, Shankar Gompa, Main Market, Hall of Fame, Spituk Gompa, Changspa Road Stroll in evening
— For more details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link here
— Overnight at Leh
Day 5 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder
— Head for Nubra Valley and stay overnight at Hunder / Diskit
— On the way enjoy a cup of soup at Highest Motorable Pass (as claimed) Khardung La
— Diskit has monasteries with tallest lord Buddha statue and Hunder has sand dunes and bacterian camel safari
Day 6 | Hunder / Diskit – Sumur – Panamik – Sumur – Khardung La – Leh
— Sumur has a famous monastery to check out and Panamik has hot water springs
— Overnight at Leh
Day 7 | Leh – Pangong Tso Lake – Leh
— Day trip to Pangong Tso
— Overnight at Leh
Day 8 | Leh – Taglang La – Moore Plains – Pang – Sarchu
— Stay overnight at Sarchu
Day 9 | Sarchu – Baralacha La – Keylong – Rohtang Pass – Manali
— On the way cover Suraj Tal, Deepak Tal which are on the road sides only
— Overnight at Manali
Day 10 | Manali – Delhi
— Return home
Day 11 | Buffer day to be kept incase of road closure due to landslides or snowfall or perhaps you want to enjoy more.
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Sorry for the delayed reply.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi
I wanted to see chandratal for very long time. I need your kind assistance on few points.
Will the children 2-8 be able to come along, any issues?
Sep third week is good time? rain or snow?
what will be minimum temp expected?
staying in manali, what is the minimum time required to see chandratal. i.e. manali-chandratal-manali.
and one final question, are there volvo buses from pathankot to manali, or if you can suggest some known and good travel agency in pathankot for a taxi to manali.
Hi Taher,
1. You can take kids with you but go at a slow pace and try to stay at Solang Valley instead of Manali for first day and may be on the way back you can stay at Manali.
2. September third week will be good time to go.
3. Minimum temperature should be around 12-15 types I guess (just guessing).
4. Can be done in 3 days at least, should be 4 if you want to take it lightly.
5. I do not think any volvo bus is there between Pathankot and Manali.
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Sorry for the delayed reply.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj.
Thanks for details. I hv dropped the plans for chandratal this time. Will probably take with frnds and if possible on bikes. With leh tour.
A couple of months ago, I was planning a trip to Spiti valley myself and was finding it very difficult as just couldnt find relevant info on some practical things. But your website is like a complete tour planner. Thanks
Thanks alot Snigdha, glad you liked the information present on the blog. I had more things on Spiti Valley in my drafts but could not really finalize them to publish as was in process of finishing things up for Ladakh. Soon, would be sharing loads of info. on Spiti Valley too. If you need any inputs, please let me know, may be I could be of some help 🙂
Regards
Dheeraj
Hi Dheeraj,
I along with my friends are planning to go to chandrataal lake in the second week of august , i read ur post and it was quite useful i have one question though i have slight problem in the righ leg so just want to know if it will be safe for me to go there . we have our own car that we will drive till manali and after that we are planning to rent bikes for the rest of the journey. Also please advice us where to find the availability of Tents near the lake as i want to spend night near the lake if possible. Waiting for ur reply.
Thanks
Hi Vinod,
You will be able to find the tents near the lake. I do not think there will be much issue but do consider if you are good at riding. The stretch from Gramphu (North Portal of Rohtang Pass) all the way to Chandratal is quite tough and with monsoons water crossings would be gushing full monty!! So, do consider if you are OK with adventure of such a kind. The slush at Rohtang Pass would also be tough to negotiate.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Please give me guidance regarding going to Chandra Tal & Kaza.Reaching Manali from Delhi on 14th Aug morning.To return to Manali to board bus for Delhi on 18th August.
Hi Amitesh,
You can follow the below plan:
14 – Rest in Manali or Solang Valley
15 – Manali/Solang Valley to Tabo
— Sleeping at Tabo will help you acclimatize which Kaza will not
16 – Tabo – Kaza – Ki/Kibber – Losar – Chandratal
17 – Chandratal Camp rest or return to Manali
18 – Chandratal to Manali and evening board the overnight Volvo to Delhi
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
It is great to see such a worthy traveling blog giving out planned day routes for one’s convenience. Thanks a lot Dheeraj Sharma. Your Effort is really appreciated.
Thanks alot Tushar!! A good start to lovely morning, reading your comments 🙂
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
Its very nice to see such great help to people. I feel very thankful to you for the same.
I read whole guide and comments, nobody is planning for less than 4-5 days for chandrataal.
We are 7-8 people wanted to go to chandrataal. We only have three days i.e. 18th, 19th and 20th Aug 20012. we can start on 17th night/evening from Delhi and want to come back on 20th night.
Is it possible to cover the chandrataal lake within this period? can you suggest the best itinerary.
Would it be worth going there for this small duration?
Hello Sanjay,
May be if the lake had been at 10K feet, I would have suggested you that you go ahead for Chandratal Lake in 3 days. The problem is with acclimatization. Unless you plan to acclimatize a bit, it is not possible to cover Chandratal because it is at about 14K which is considered as a Very High Altitude and if you can manage to add a day more, so that you sleep two nights, one at Solang Valley and other at Khoksar and then probably third day visit Chandratal and fourth day back to Manali by evening and catch overnight volvo to Delhi. This would have been possible.
Regards
Dheeraj
Hi Dheeraj,
We are 4 friends who are looking forward for a trip to Chandrataal in the month of August. We will be travelling Delhi to Delhi ( preferably via Manali). We can leave on the night of 14th Aug and have to reach back on 20th night or no later than 21st early morning.
Can you pls suggest me a good itinerary. We do not have a car and will be hiring one and want this trip to be economical. If you need any further information from my side, i will be happy to provide. I need info regarding the itinerary, hotels and the camps.
Thanks.
PS: If any one else also want to tag along, we can form a group or so. Lemme know 🙂
Hello Rahul,
You can follow a plan like below:
15th – Morning reach Manali from Delhi by overnight volvo and take rest for the day and enjoy local manali. Hire taxi for the next day
16th – Manali – Rohtang Pass – Khoksar/Sissu
17th – Khoksar/Sissu – Chandratal/Battal
18th – Chandratal OR Battal – Chandratal – Battal (if no tents are there) OR Chandratal – Kunzum Pass – Losar (stay at Chandratal upto noon and then head to Losar to via Kunzum Pass)
19th – Chandratal/Battal/Losar – Rohtang Pass – Manali
20th – Manali and then catch overnight volvo from Manali to Delhi to reach by 21st
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
So do you advice for hiring a car for Manali – Manali, i.e 16th to 19th, or we can hop on n hop off. Also, can you pls tell me the approx cost hiring car would take. I have contacted NorthFace camps, chandratall and they can arrange tents, fooding etc? Do you think its worth it ? I seriously need a guidance and is there any way i can talk with you or IM ?
Hi Rahul,
I guess you should hire a taxi as otherwise, it might be inconvenient to catch the shared taxis plying on that route. In such a case, the itinerary will vary as you will be catching shared cabs from main towns only. The cost of hiring a taxi to Chandratal shall be around 14-15K types for 3 days. Hmm, if you have budget them hiring camping / food with porters and all would be OK otherwise, just go over and see if camps are up or not (most likely they will be up) or come back and stay at Battal Dhabha only. Quite economic. I have emailed you my contact.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Himalaya has been on my radar since long, but never managed to make it… thanks for detailed post
Hello Shrini,
My pleasure, and I wish soon you get a chance to visit the God’s Abode on earth 🙂 … Whenever, you get a chance just ping me up and I will share all the possible details I have about that region 🙂
Regards
Dheeraj
Hi Dheeraj,
First of all thanks for all the information sharing and helping people to reach such unseen treasures in Himachal. I am from Joginder nagar, Mandi, HP. But staying in Gurgaon from long time now.
I am planning to visit chandrataal in the 2nd week of August somewhere near independence day. We will be 4-6 people (2-3 couples) and have 4-5 days for in hand for this trip including journey time.
Please suggest me the best itinerary to visit chandratal and places on the way. As we will be coming from gurgaon, i believe i should take the route via Shimla. Or you please suggest me the same.
Please design an itinerary for me. And also what all things we need to take care of.
If only 2 couples are coming then I would prefer to take my car(Dezire or Esteem). and If more people joined me then probably we will hire a jeep (scorpio).
Thanks,
Vipul
Hello Vipul,
In 4-5 days, you will not be able to go via Shimla side and do Chandratal. Go via Manali side only.
Day 1 | Delhi – Manali/Solang Valley
— Get the permits done for Manali – Rohtang Pass road in advance through some travel agent if going by own car
— Solang Valley will help in a bit of acclimatization as well
Day 2 | Manali – Rohtang Pass – Khoksar/Losar
— If you get stuck in Jam at Rohtang Pass, then you will only be able to manage to reach Khoksar or go ahead to stay at Sissu if you do not find accommodation at Khoksar.
— If not, then go and stay at Losar.
Day 3 | Khoksar/Losar – Chandratal
Day 4 | Chandratal – Manali
Day 5 | Manali – Delhi
In August, monsoon would be at its peak and it would be much better that you do not take your own sedan towards Rohtang Pass and further to Chandratal as there are some nasty water crossings on this route and Sedan would find really difficult to negotiate. Even if you are 4 in number, try going by overnight Volvo which will give a day’s complete rest at Solang Valley or Manali
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hello Dheeraj.
We are planning to go to chandertal lake via manali….Can you tell me waht are the options we have to take a taxi from manali and what is the approx. budget.
Hi Nitin,
I could not understand the first part of question correctly Nitin. Taxi from MAnali are available for Battal only I guess because the link route from Battal to Chandratal will not be in motorable condition completely. Rest you might need to trek. The taxi might cost you about 9-10K for two-three days Manali – Chandratal – Manali, though I am not 100% sure.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Nitin,
Please check the following for your chandra tal :
1. Pls check ""http:/.net/himachal/ourtariff.html" this is himachal taxi operator union. u may contact them and check the taxi charges for Manali-battal. it should be Rs. 5000/- for two days from manali to battal and back. taxi will go to maximum approachable road to chandratal.
2. Contact Rama Kant Sharma 9816183284, 9816749002. he is guide for chandratal trek and will charge Rs, 1500/- per person for tent, food etc.
hi Sanjay,
Thanks for the details. Also, AFAI remember, we gave about 6000 or 7500 for taxi fare in 2009 for two night stop at Batal. So, I guess within two years, it might have increased and the lin do not seem to have the updated charges.
I am sure that guide details will definitely help many.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
I am planning to visit ChandraTal in first week of July. I need help in structuring a possible trip. would really appreciate your comments about feasibility of the plan in my mind.
29th night around 12AM: start from Gurgaon towards Manali.
30th June: overnight stay in Manali.
1st July: Start at 7AM towards Losar (stay at Nomads if available).
2nd July: Start around 11 AM towards ChandraTal via Kunzum pass. Stay at ChandraTal.
3rd july: Either stay at ChandraTal or drive back to Manali.
4th July: Start towards Gurgaon.
Questions: I hope that this plan is not exhaustive, if it is please suggest a way around.
2) will accommodation be available in ChandraTal around those dates (approx idea will help a lot).
3) Though i will be travelling by Scorpio, however, not sure if can drive on this terrain (i did drive to Auli (Uttranchal) without any issues). so should i take a cab?
4) If i am taking a cab, should i prebook it or hire it from manali taxi stand (economical option please).
5) Approx cost for the taxi for the above route.
I would really appreciate your inputs. (Many thanks in advance).
Vivek
Hi Vivek,
1. Plan is good, the only thing is the AMS concerns at Losar on the second day itself which is about 4000 Mtrs. I guess we have limited option too because you have to do Chandratal so staying at Losar is the only good option otherwise going all the way to Kaza or Tabo and then starting from there would cost more than 2 or 4 Hrs (Tabo to Losar) extra. So, you have to somehow take a chance with AMS and go sleep at Losar. Call Sahil and ask for about 50% discount that he offers for my blog and he will keep it booked for you. You will have to come back from Chandratal as without your own tents, you will not be able to stay there. Rest of the plan looks OK to me.
2. It is difficult because road will be opened or not will be uncertain. One of the guy/reader of the blog is going there on 20th june, may be he will have the latest updates. But, as per locals this time it would be late setting up tents there.
3. May take a driver instead of taxi. The terrain is very harsh and way too difficult than Auli. You will also need to get permit from Manali SDM office to ply your own car on Manali – Rohtang Pass road.
4. Hire it in Manali only, there will be plenty of options.
5. Taxi for the entire trip might cost you about 15-18K for three days AFAI guess.
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
I am reaching Manali on June 25th and I wanted to opt for the below itenary. I would like to know if you have any contacts with Tour operators and what could be the tentative costings for 2 people .
Day 1 | Manali – Keylong/Jispa (Do not take HPTDC volvo as they will charge for whole Manali-Leh journey. Take a shared taxi from MAnali and either get a drop to Keylong but I will suggest stay at Jispa which is more close to nature and better in location being just aside Bhaga river)
Day 2 | Keylong/Jispa – Deepak Tal – Suraj Tal – Baralacha La – Keylong/Jispa
Day 3 | Keylong/Jispa – Manali
Viplav, I guess it could cost you around 6-8K. Get a taxi from Manali taxi stand, it will be much worth.
Regards
Dheeraj
Yr guidance is usefull' iwant to go to himachal with chidren ,temp between 10 to 25, road condition is also good and peaceful place. Where should I go .? I want to come on 23 may from delhi
Hi ajay,
When do you want to start, 23rd May is right after 3 days?? Guess I am already late in replying 😉
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
I am reaching Manali on 26 June 2012 . I want to see or cover these places with minimal stay -> Journey starting from Manali( 26 June)
-> Chandertal
Kunzum Pass
Bara Shigri Glacier
Sissu
Darcha
Bara Lacha La
Chandra Bhaga and Yunam Rivers.
Suraj Tal
Kaza , TaboYou , Kya ( wanted to see the old mummy of the monk )
Hi Viplav,
Let me know how many days you have in hand buddy. All these places are in opposite directions. Are you planning to go back via Shimla? Let me know the number of days you have in hand and I will suggest the itinerary accordingly. Also, Bara Shigri Glacier can only be viewed not reached 🙂
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi
I am planning for a trip to Kaza from Delhi in first week of june (1st – 9th 2012) – wife with 2 kids (7,11), please suggest what all place can i see and the plan in my mind is as follows
(1) Delhi – Narkanda – Day 1
(2) Hatu Peak and then Kalpa – Day 2 night
(3) Kalpa – Kaza – Day 3
(4) visit kibber and monestory – day 4
(5) visit kunzum pass and if possible chandratal lake – day 5
(6) return to kalpa – day 6
(7) stay in kapla and visit sangla etc – Day 7
(8) Kalpa – shimla – Day 8
(9) Shimla – Delhi – Day 9
Hello Abhishek,
I will suggest you follow a plan something like this:
Day 1 | Delhi – Narkanda
Day 2 | Narkanda – Kalpa
Day 3 | Kalpa – Nako – Nako Lake – Geyu Mummy – Tabo
Day 4 | Tabo – Dhankar – Dhankar Lake – Pin Valley (stay at Mud or Sagna PWD rest house)
Day 5 | Pin Valley – Kaza and then explore Ki – Kibber – Gette – Tashigang – Hikkim – Comic – Langza at your convenience and fatigue level. Ki and Kibber can be easily done.
Day 6 | Kaza – Kunzam Pass – Kaza/Tabo (Guess Chandratal would be tough to get in early June)
Day 7 | Kaza/Tabo – Sangla/Chitkul
Day 8 | Sangla – Chitkul – Sangla – Shimla/Rampur
Day 9 | Shimla/Rampur – Delhi
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
I am reaching Manali on 26 June 2012 . I want to see or cover these places with minimal stay -> Journey starting from Manali( 26 June)
-> Chandertal
Kunzum Pass
Bara Shigri Glacier
Sissu
Darcha
Bara Lacha La
Chandra Bhaga and Yunam Rivers.
Suraj Tal
Kaza , TaboYou , GIA ( wanted to see the old mummy of the monk )
Hi, We are planning to go to Spiti vally around Nov-Dec this year, so wanted to ask if it is possibility to reach Spiti in that time?
And if it is, what will be the best route to follow and the place to stay. We are planning for 7-8 days of trip.
Roughly I was thinking of hiring a jeep from Manali and then try to visit Spiti.
Thanks for any suggestion.
I had an incredible trip – more adventure than holiday but the experience of a life time. Unfortunately, as the weather was so terrible I couldn't make it to Leh which was my final destination – so I will have to come back. But the Spiti Valley will always be a very special place in my heart. Like nowhere else on Earth. I will be back soon for sure!!!
Hi,
We are planning a tour to chandrataal in last week of June. i need some contacts of guide. if any of you have details of guide for chandratal pls provide me.
Thanks
sanjay
9711113060
Hello Sanjay,
Why do you need a guide for Chandratal? Well, it is a straight path to the lake from battal, no going off until you plan to be over adventurous. In case, you need one talk to any travel agency in Manali or Kaza/Losar and they will provide one to you.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi i am planning to go to Spiti vally around 24th dec this year, so wanted to ask that is there is any possibility to reach Spiti in dec and if it is, which would be the best rout to Spiti via manali or via shmila
Hi Mohit,
Well, Spiti Valley in December… you just provoked a chill through my spine 😀 … Just kidding… Yes, you can reach Spiti Valley upto Kaza but only from Shimla side because there is no high mountain pass. Shimla – Rampur – Powari – Karcham – Puh – Spillow – Nako – Tabo – Kaza will be your route. The connecting roads to excursion around like Dhankar, Pin Valley, Kibber o rmay be Key as well, Lingti, Comic, Hikkim etc will not be operational at that time due to heavy snow on roads. Also, the road connectivity remains open upto Kaza but incase of heavy snowfall the road may get closed for few days until the roads get cleared up by BRO eventually. Also, finding accommodation in Spiti Valley will be tough and your best bet will be major hotels or PWD Rest Houses / Circuit Houses along the routes and in Tabo and Kaza as well. Not to forget the snow will be in abundance and expect temperatures to be way below freezing point… When I went to Spiti Valley last month in October the temperatures were already into -2 or -3 degree Celsius types at night.
I hope this helps. Feel free to let me know for any queries or doubts you have.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi guys, hope you still check this page.
I am travelling from the UK to visit this stunning area and wanted to ask your opinion on a couple of things. My plan is to rent a jeep and drive from Shimla up to Leh, via places such as Sarahan, Chitkul, Dhankar, Kaza, Losar, etc.
I am on a tight schedule so I am planning to spend maybe 7 or 8 days doing this. I have a young kid with me (six) – so unfortunately I wont be able to do many long treks and she might not share my enthusiasm for spending hours on hours staring at the landscapes and studying the intricacies of all the various gompas.
I have already organised some homestays along the route and might dabble in a yak safari as this should be fun for Grace (the six year old).
Anyway – questions are:
1. Do you think I am completely insane doing this drive without being able to read Hindi?
2. Do you forsee any real dangers for Grace (if we are spending a week acclimatising to the altitude?
3. Are there any places that you would say are unmissable?
4. Do you think the journey is actually achievable – leaving some time obviously to explore?
I would really appreciate your input, my biggest regret being that I dont have more time to enjoy and explore the region. But – I can always come back : )
Thanks again
Michael
Hello Michael,
First and foremost you are planning 7-8 days for Shimla – Leh which may be less and could be like rushing through the places instead enjoying them. In 7 – 8 days you could be doing something like below as I assume —
Day 1 | Shimla – Sarahan
Day 2 | Sarahan – Sangla/Chitkul
Day 3 | Sangla/Chitkul – Tabo / Dhankar (you will be skipping Kalpa)
Day 4 | Tabo – Dhankar – Pin Valley – Kaza
Day 5 | Kaza and around like Ki, Kibber, Komic, Langza etc
Day 6 | Kaza – Losar – Keylong / Jispa
Day 7 | Keylong / Jispa – Sarchu / Pang
Day 8 | Sarchu / Pang – Leh
or
Day 7 | Keylong / Jispa – Leh (very long journey so try splitting up in two days like above. You will be acclimatized by the day you reach Sarchu. So, nothing much to worry again if you chose to do so.)
Now coming back to your queries, here are my replies in the same order.
1. Well not really, Hindi may not be necessity and with little trouble only here and there you will be able to do it. This circuit is indeed common among foreign tourists and people may understand you for basic requirements for sure. So, don't worry too much about that.
2. Again this route provide good acclimatization by gradually increasing the altitudes starting from Shimla then Sarahan then Sangla/Chitkul etc and is mostly preferable route for Spiti Valley in terms of acclimatization over Manali route. Hence, again nothing much to worry but just follow the basic tips for acclimatization with most important being keeping the body hydrated. If you like you can check the below links for the same and some tips on acclimatization to remember –
https://discoverwithdheeraj.com/acute-mountain…
https://discoverwithdheeraj.com/traveling-to-h…
3. With limited time on hands, I am sorry but you can best manage the above destinations only. Generally, we do the Spiti and Pin Valley in 9 days to explore it with ease and yet they are not enough 🙂 …
4. Yes, assuming that you are following a similar plan as I am predicting above, I feel you will be able to do sightseeing as well on these places and yet complete the journey upto Leh in 7-8 days. Please share your plan if you have prepared so that I can better provide my inputs accordingly.
I hope this helps you a bit. Feel free to ask any queries or doubts which you might have.
Regards,
Dheeraj Sharma
Karan, first of all Chandratal is not possible in May, so please take that out of your plan. Now, Pin Valley is just about 30 KMs from Kaza, mainstay for Spiti Valley and can be covered as a day trip or if you like to explore more than may be one night stay as well. I will suggest you do something like this
Day 1: Delhi – Narkanda
Day 2: Narkanda – Kalpa/Peo
Day 3: Kalpa/Peo – Nako – Nako Lake – Geyu – Kaza (about 11 Hrs)
Day 4: Kaza – Comic – Langza – Kibber – Gette – Tashigong – Till motorable Road Ends – Kibber
Day 5: Kibber – Key – Pin Valley (30 KM) [Drive uptill Mud Village] – Dhankar Lake – Tabo (87 KM)
Day 6: Tabo – Rampur/Sarahan (about 11 Hrs)
Day 7: Rampur/Sarahan – Delhi (about 13/15 Hrs)
If you can start the Day from Shimla, it will ease the drives on some days. You can also take the erefernces from the sample itinerary below for hotels and meal stops. But, please don't take into account the distance as they might be worng.
Sample Spiti Itinerary
Regards,
Dheeraj Sharma
thanks alot dheeraj . also should i be gng to pin valley first or spiti valley first . i have 7 days with me . if u could just tell me a bit of route i should be taking for 7 days . and can i still trek to chandratal lake ??
thanks a lot for all the help , i really appreciate it .
cheerz
karan
Sonya, I am glad that the information was useful for you. Let me know incase you have any queries. Best wishes for your trip to Chandratal in August. do spare a day to visit Kaza as well in Spiti Valley.
Thanks for sharing such a wonderful experience with us.Your info is very useful.I'm planning this trip in aug…
Karan, well Spiti in itself has lots of things to offer. People do it clubbed with Pin Valley + Kinnaur Valley ( Ropa Valley too if you have plenty of time), depending upon the number of days in hand. How many days do you plan? You will need atleast 7-8 days ex-Delhi for Spiti and Pin to properly explore it. If you want a sprint through the places then it can be done in even 5-6 days. If you have about 9 days then you can cover the Kinnaur Valley as well along with Spiti and Pin, with just 1-2 hectic days. Yes, Chandratal will not be accessible to you.
hi..
guys we r planning to do spiti valley on 20th may and wanted to know if it would be a good idea to go right now,reading the reviews i know we would not be able to make it to chandratal lake . but is it still worth the trip and how many days do u guys think would be enought for entire trip.
thanks
karan
cheerz
Aniket, I will email you my contact number. I will do what all possibly I know :)…
Hey,
Thanks so much! How do I contact you? It would be good to take your help in planning the trip.
Aniket, thanks alot for liking the information. I hope it was useful for you. Nopes, it will be a great idea rather because Spiti Valley and Pin Valley are such places which definitely need solitude and peace. I am also eyeing on Solo trip to Spiti once in my life 🙂 … You will surely enjoy it thoroughly. Let me know incase you need details on anything. I will try to transfer all my knowledge on Spiti and Pin 🙂 …
Hey Dheeraj,
Thanks for the great post and information.
I wish to go to Spiti sometime between 20th to 30th June '11, but alone.
Want to know if it will be a really bad idea?
Your house is valueble for my situation. Thanks!…
I am glad that the information about Chandratal was useful for you. Let me know incase you have any queries regarding Chandratal Lake.
Hey Shashank,
Good to see you or a BCMTian at my blog as well. I hope you know me from BCMT as well (dheerajsharma14) 🙂 … Well, buddy you can do Spiti in March but Chandratal is no chance. Every approach road is closed even in May. We did it in June, 2009 and we were the only soul to get so close to it. We had to trek from Chota Dhara to Battal first day and second day we did Battal to Chandratal. It was not motorable even in June that time and so did last year which is a complete exception.
Also, I hope you have gone through the "Different Spiti" by Salil on BCMT, if you are planning Spiti in March 🙂 … Good luck for you trip, will watch out for the pics and log on BCMT then.
Cheers,
Dheeraj Sharma
Hey Raghav,
i am planning to ride to Spiti in March. I know some fellow BCMT guys have done it before. Am looking for bikers to ride together. Let me know if you are interested.
BCMT handle shashank_s
Hi Raghav,
Well you cannot visit Chandratal in March at all. If at all yo can be dropped at Chandratal, you will found it frozen and burried under snow 🙂 … Best time to go is June End to September… In June itself due to the presence of snow it is difficult. Secondaly, both Rohtang Pass and Kumzam pass open by mid/end June and then only road to Chandratal is accessible. Once you reach Battal, you need to trek in early summers and near September you can take the vehicle further towards the Chandratal but before 3-4 KMs ahead.
Please let me know, if you need any further details.
Regards,
Dheeraj Sharma
is it OK to go in march…will it be to tough to reach chandertaal..!! keeping the snow in mind..n the rough treaking terrain..plus i'll be travelling by volvo,cab, local transportation till i can..n then treak from there on..!!
I read your complete travel story..it was great and adventurous and risky trip for you guys as ur not from Himachal and not used to this cold.
I too went for the same trip with a group of 5 more people and a guide.Since i am also a determined person and very stubbon i also tok all hardships to reach Chander taal lake ..Check some shots i took there on and even on. I did the same track in 2009 but on 11 JUNE 2009.We reached Batal on 9th June 2009 but road was full of many glaciers and decided to travel around other places and start the trek to Chandertaal from Kunjum Laa after 2 days.2 of our frinds one was a doctor and Nurse decided to quit the trek o Chandertaal..We reached chandertaal aftera long track of allmost 6 hrs instead of 3 hrs due to many Glaciers in between and many mountains to cross..Me and the group took so much risk to reach Chandertaal and take pictures of Chandertaal in good sunlight..We reacehed at 13.00 hrs and left in 90 min as we were going the motor road way while on return…But we were not sure weather we cud make it in time and we had no sleeping bags and tents with us..So we had to leave early as temperature falls to minus 25 there at night..We wanted to stay there overnight..But i will go prepared next time and spend a nigh there for sure one day in future..But yes this is my favourite place in World though i have seen more than 35 countries around the world…Keep blogging such articles..they are great..
We didn't follow and we were luck to come back ;)..but actually it's lethal while trekking…may be we would have gone on to see Chandertal if we didn't consume it!!! but let'z make it next time
hii i m planning for long tour of around 15-20 days to vist himachal pradesh places also include leh ladakh …i m from chandigarh please guide me….and also tell me the routes which i have to follow…so that i cover all the places without repeating it thanx
Oh you will have an amazing time. I strongly advise you skip the easy road from Manalih to Leh and head East towards Chitkul. That way you can visit exciting and beautiful places like Dhakar, Tabo, Nako, etc. I spent 10 – 15 days on this route (which wasn't enough) but was the most exciting adventure of my life. Nako is perhaps the most beautiful place I have ever visited. Email me directly if you want any advice or help planning your route and where to stay michael.lucas@qgengroup.com Good luck!!!!!!
Hi Michael,
Thanks for your valuable suggestions. And yes, it is true that Spiti Valley is equally beautiful and the route is amazing. Plus you get very well acclimatized to the high altitude of Manali – Leh Highway while going via Spiti Valley route. Chitkul, Nako are one of the most fantastic and mesmerizing places I have been to also. The whole Spiti Valley is so enchanting that yes, even 20 days are less to explore every bit of it 😉
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Pawan,
I will also recommend that you take the Spiti Valley route and head towards Manali – Leh highway from there to reach Ladakh. I will suggest a plan like below for you:
Day 1 – Chandigarh – Sarahan
Day 2 – Sarahan – Sangla/Rakcham
Day 3 – Sangla/Rakcham – Chitkul – Sangla – Kalpa
Day 4 – Kalpa – Nako – Nako Lake – Geyu Mummy – Tabo
Day 5 – Tabo – Dhankar – Dhankar Lake – Pin Valley (stay at Mud village)
Day 6 – Pin Valley – Lingti Valley – Kaza
Day 7 – Kaza – Ki, Kibber, Gette, Tashigang in first half and may be Hikki/Kaumik/Langza in the second half
Day 8 – Kaza – Losar – Chandratal (either camp overnight at camping site of Chandratal or return to Losar for night stay)
Day 9 – Losar – Keylong/Jispa
Day 10 – Keylong/Jispa – Leh
Day 11 | Leh Local Sighseeing + Inner Line Permits
— Local sightseeing include Namgyal Gompa, Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, Shankar Gompa, Main Market, Hall of Fame, Spituk Gompa, Changspa Road Stroll in evening
— For more details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link here
— Overnight at Leh
Day 12 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder
— Head for Nubra Valley and stay overnight at Hunder / Diskit
— On the way enjoy a cup of soup at Highest Motorable Pass (as claimed) Khardung La
— Diskit has monasteries with tallest lord Buddha statue and Hunder has sand dunes and bacterian camel safari
— About 5-6 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between and at Khardung La
Day 13 | Hunder / Diskit – Sumur – Panamik – Sumur – Khardung La – Leh
— Sumur has a famous monastery to check out and Panamik has hot water springs
— Overnight at Leh
— About 7-9 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between
Day 14 | Leh – Hemis Monastery – Pangong Tso Lake
— Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on the go towards Pangong Tso
— Overnight at Pangong Tso (Spangmik or Lukung)
— About 5-6 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between
Day 15 | Pangong Tso Lake – Thicksey Monastery – Shey Palace – Leh
— Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on return to Leh
— Overnight at Leh
— About 5-6 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between
Day 16 | Rest day at Leh to enjoy local culture and some shopping or you can do tour to Sham Valley
— Sham Valley include Alchi, Likir, Basgo Palace, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Zanskar, , Gurudwara Pather Sahib
— Overnight at Leh
Day 17 | Leh – Tso Moriri via Chumathang
— Cover Karzok Monastery
— Overnight at Karzok or Tso Moriri
— About 7-8 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between
Day 18 | Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Debring (Manali – Leh Highway starts) – Moore Plains – Pang / Sarchu
— Try to start early in the day so that you reach Sarchu where the accommodation options are better than Pang
— Overnight at Sarchu or Pang
— About 11-12 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between
Day 19 | Pang / Sarchu – Baralacha La – Keylong – Rohtang Pass – Manali
— On the way cover Suraj Tal, Deepak Tal which are on the road sides only
— Overnight at Manali
— About 11-12 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between and of course the mess at Rohtang Pass
Day 20 | Manali – Chandigarh
— Return Home
Do keep Day 21 and 22 as buffer days. I hope this helps. Please let me know for any doubts or queries you have.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi,
I would definitely recommend that if you go to Sarahan you stay in the temple – it is very cheap, clean and peaceful although you will be woken early by the monks. Which is fine cos you can then enjoy the sunrise with spectacular views. I would also definitely allow some time to spend at least a night in Nako – you will not want to leave. Although not the most convenient place to stay, the hotel down by the lake is a wonderful place to stay and not stupidly expensive. Finally, if you can do, you can also stay with a family in Dhankar where one of the oldest temples can be found with breathtaking vistas.
Hi Michael,
Seems you had a rocking trip to the wonderland of Spiti Valley 🙂
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
I’m planning to go to chandratal in around 2nd week of june. me and my brother are planning to reach there by i20. is it advisable?? and what accommodation facilities should I expect around chandretal?? we are planning the trip to be around 6 days starting from chandigarh. kindly suggest accordingly.which other places can we visit?? thanks
Arvind, highly likely road will not open from Manali side for going to Chandratal in second week of June. Still the road has not cleared all the way to Battal. Six days will be less to do Chandratal trip to Shimla – Kaza road ideally.
No Alcohol shall be consumed while trekking.
hahahahaha…. I don't think we followed this one…!!!! 🙂
Sorry for the delay, guess I am late on this query a bit 🙁