Chandratal Lake in Spiti Valley sits at 14,220 Ft (4,270 m) and opens to visitors only between mid-June and early October every year. The water shifts from turquoise at dawn to steel blue by mid-morning, and by the time the late afternoon light hits, it turns a deep golden-green. Locals and travelers call it the Moon Lake for its distinctive crescent shape, and once you see the colors change three times in a single day, you will understand why people keep coming back. In 2026, Kunzum Pass opened in late May, and the Batal to Chandratal diversion road is expected to clear by mid-June 2026 based on BRO clearance progress. Entry fee is Rs 150 per Indian visitor, and no permit is needed for Indian nationals beyond the free e-permit at the Batal check-post via eaagman.hp.gov.in.
Last Updated: June 2026
A trip to Chandratal mixes adventure with raw, desolate nature. You reach this high-altitude lake by traversing some of the toughest roads in the Himalayas and climbing between Rohtang Pass and Kunzum Pass. Or, you can club this trip with the road to Spiti Valley through Kinnaur and approach Chandratal from the Kaza side. Once you reach the lake, the first sight takes away all the pain of the journey. In this article, let me share a complete 2026 travel guide for planning your trip to Chandratal Lake, my friend.
Let's quickly dive into the details:
Quick Facts About Chandratal Lake
| Also Known As | The Moon Lake (crescent shape) |
| Altitude | 4,270 meters (14,220 feet) |
| Location | Lahaul-Spiti, Himachal Pradesh |
| Best Time to Visit | September (peak), or mid-June to July |
| 2026 Opening (Expected) | Kunzum Pass open (late May 2026). Chandratal diversion expected mid-June 2026. |
| Winter Status | Fully closed, roughly late Oct/Nov to late May. Roads sealed by official DDMA order, zero access. |
| Nearest Town | Batal (14 km) / Kaza (80 km) |
| Distance from Manali | About 125 km |
| Trek from Parking | About 1.5-2 km on foot |
| Entry Fee | Rs 150/Indian, Rs 500/Foreigner (free e-permit via eaagman.hp.gov.in) |
| Camp Site | 2-3 km before the lake at designated site. Rs 1,200-2,500/person with meals. |
| Permit Required | Rohtang Permit (if coming from Manali side via Rohtang Pass). No permit for Chandratal itself. Free e-permit via eaagman.hp.gov.in. |
| Mobile Network | No connectivity. Last signal at Losar or Gramphu. |
What is Chandratal Lake and Why Should You Visit?
At an altitude of 4,270 meters (about 14,220 feet), 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 about 2.5 km. The lake is a designated Ramsar Wetland site, protected under the wildlife act.
Some people also call it “The Moon Lake” because of its crescent shape, and it is also one of the sources of the Chandra River. Moulkila and Chandrabhaga mountain range have snow-capped peaks and snow slopes around the valley measuring from 3,000 meters to 6,500 meters approximately. Locals there believe that Chandratal is the point from where Yudhishtra (eldest among the Pandavas of the Mahabharata epic) was taken to heaven in his mortal form.
Setting all the legend and folklore aside, Chandratal Lake in itself is a very luring place. The colors of the water keep changing throughout the day, from turquoise to steel blue to soft green, depending on the light and clouds. It must be on top of your list if you love the Himalayas.
Where is Chandratal Lake Located?
Located in Lahaul-Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh, Manali to Chandratal Lake distance is about 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 is about 250 km of a journey by road. It will take about 12 hours to reach Chandratal from Mandi.
If you are coming from further west in Himachal, say from Dalhousie, you will need to first make your way down to Manali (roughly 220 km via Pathankot, Mandi, and Kullu) before joining this same Atal Tunnel and Gramphu route. My Dalhousie travel guide covers that leg of the journey in detail.
The motorable road to the lake exists only up to about 12.5 km from Batal. After the road ends, a remaining distance of about 1.5-2 km is what you need to trek from the parking point to the Moon Lake.
What is the Altitude of Chandratal Lake?
The altitude of Chandratal Lake is 4,270 meters or about 14,220 feet. 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. Do not take altitude sickness lightly at this height. I have written a separate guide on acute mountain sickness and the importance of acclimatization that you should read before planning.
What is the Weather Like at Chandratal Lake?
Weather at Chandratal remains mostly cold to very cold throughout the year. During winter, the temperature may drop well below -20 degrees Celsius. Although cold during summer, snowfall can happen any time of the year here in this part of Spiti Valley. In the last few years, I have seen heavy snowfall happening in June, August, and September 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 a 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 is the Best Time to Visit Chandratal Lake?
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 me break it down month by month so you can plan accordingly.
Pre-requisite: Any one of the mountain passes, Rohtang La (Rohtang Pass) or Kunzum La (Kunzum Pass), must be open for traffic to make a road trip to Chandratal. As of 2026, you can also use the Atal Tunnel (opened in 2020) to bypass Rohtang Pass entirely and reach Sissu directly, saving time and avoiding the Rohtang permit hassle.
Chandratal in January to April
It is impossible to travel to Chandratal Lake in January to April as the heaps of snow block all the roads 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, and 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. For 2026, Kunzum Pass confirmed opened in late May. The Chandratal diversion road from Batal is expected to clear by mid-June 2026.
So after the middle of June to the remaining season up to September, you can take your car or bike to 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 is highly likely that the 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 via Gramphu, with lots of notorious water crossings, but you do not have a choice. For the full picture on camping across the wider Spiti and Kinnaur belt, see our Spiti and Kinnaur camping guide.
In August, you will need to face the monsoon hassles in the 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 (or use the Atal Tunnel) 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 mornings 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 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 remain open almost all year round, the roads further ahead of Kaza to Chandratal can close anytime in November or December.
So What is the Best Time to Visit Chandratal?
Looking at these details month by month, the best time to visit Chandratal Lake is September, or you can also make a trip from the middle of June to July as well. In September, the road conditions are in the best 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.
Is Chandratal Lake Open in Winter?
Chandratal is closed in winter, full stop. The Gramphu-Losar stretch of NH-505 was shut by a DDMA Lahaul-Spiti order effective November 25, 2025 (issued November 21), and stayed sealed until BRO’s spring clearance reopened Kunzum Pass in late May 2026. There is no maintained winter trekking route and zero emergency access once the snow sets in.
The most recent dated closure order shows exactly how this happens. In 2025, the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), Lahaul-Spiti, formally shut the Gramphu-Losar stretch of NH-505 effective November 25 (order issued November 21), citing black icing and extreme cold as the trigger. This is the same administrative mechanism that seals off Chandratal every year, not an informal weather call. Once this order is issued, Spiti’s Lahaul side is cut off until BRO’s spring snow clearance typically starts in April and finishes by late May, as detailed in the month-by-month breakdown above.
If you are set on seeing Chandratal under snow, my honest advice after watching this region for over a decade is this. Do not attempt it independently. Winter access, where attempted at all, is expedition-grade mountaineering with proper gear, a guide, and satellite communication, not a road trip or a casual trek. Please take a sensible call for yourself and your loved ones waiting for your safe return.
Chandratal in Winter: What Is Actually Open (and What Is Not)
People asking about “Chandratal in winter” are usually after specific pieces of the picture, not just a general yes or no. Here is a quick, dated checklist covering the parts that matter most, road, lake, camping, permit, and rescue, so you know exactly where things stand.
- Road access: closed. The Gramphu-Losar stretch of NH-505, the gateway that every winter order names first, was shut by the DDMA Lahaul-Spiti from November 25, 2025 (order issued November 21, 2025), citing black icing and extreme cold. It stayed sealed until BRO’s spring clearance work reopened the route in 2026.
- Lake surface: frozen and buried. By December, Chandratal sits under a solid ice sheet with heavy snowpack on the approach, not a partially frozen lake you can safely walk near.
- Camping: not available. Every commercial operator at the campsite, including Parasol Camps and Tenzin Camps, packs up by early to mid-October, well before the road closure order is even issued.
- E-permit: technically live, practically pointless. The eaagman.hp.gov.in portal does not shut down for winter, but there is no functioning road to use it on once the DDMA order takes effect.
- Regular trekking route: none. There is no maintained or marked winter trekking route to Chandratal for ordinary travelers. What exists is expedition-grade mountaineering with a guide, proper gear, and satellite communication, and even that is rare.
- Mobile network and rescue: zero. Once the passes seal, there is no connectivity and effectively no emergency access until the following spring’s reopening.
Why September is the Best Month for Chandratal: What Changes After the Monsoon
I get this question a lot. People ask whether July is fine, whether August is OK, and whether September is really better or just a marketing line. So let me be specific about what actually changes in September at Chandratal, because the difference is quite real.
The water crossings calm down significantly. The Gramphu to Batal stretch, which gives most drivers nightmares in July and August due to glacial melt and monsoon runoff, becomes far more manageable by early September. The nallas are still there but their volume drops sharply. This alone makes September a safer month to reach the lake by car or bike.
The skies clear completely. During July and August, you often get patches of haze or cloud in the late afternoon because the monsoon is still active in the lower Himalayas, and moisture sneaks into Spiti. From September onwards, the sky above Chandratal becomes a deep, unbroken blue during the day and absolutely pitch-black at night. The lack of light pollution at 14,220 feet means the Milky Way is visible with the naked eye on a clear September night. Keep in mind this is one of the best places in India for stargazing, and September is when that window opens fully.
Crowds thin out dramatically. July and August bring the peak tourist rush to Chandratal, with camps booked weeks in advance and the 2 km trail to the lake crowded by afternoon. By the first week of September, that crowd drops by about 60%. You can walk the circumambulation trail around the lake in near-silence, which is exactly how this place should be experienced.
The temperature contrast becomes dramatic. Daytime temperature in September hovers between 10 and 18 degrees Celsius at the campsite, which is perfect for walking and photography. But nighttime drops below zero. This temperature swing is what creates those intense, glassy morning reflections on the lake surface. When the air is cold and still at dawn, the water mirrors the mountain peaks almost perfectly. If you have only seen photos of Chandratal’s reflections and wondered whether they are real, they are most consistent in September mornings.
One practical note: by the last week of September, most camp operators start packing up. So if you plan a September trip, I suggest aiming for the first two weeks of September to make sure you have accommodation options at the campsite and do not get caught in early snowfall that can close the diversion road.
What You Actually See at Chandratal: The Color Changes and Sunrise Experience
Most guides describe Chandratal in general terms. Let me tell you what actually happens at the lake at different times of day, because this is what will help you decide whether to stay overnight or just do a day visit from Batal or Kaza.
Before sunrise (5:30 to 6:30 AM): If you stay at the campsite, you can walk the 1.5-2 km to the lake in the dark and be there before the sun clears the ridge. At this hour the water is a dark, inky blue-green and the surrounding peaks are still in shadow. The only sound is wind and occasional water. This silence at 14,220 feet feels different from any other silence.
Sunrise (6:30 to 8:00 AM): When the first light hits the snow-covered peaks above the lake, the reflections appear on the water. The color of the lake shifts from the pre-dawn deep green to a vivid turquoise. The peaks reflected in the water turn orange-pink as the sun rises. This 30-minute window is what most Chandratal photographs capture, and honestly, it is worth the entire journey just for this. Day visitors who arrive from Batal after 10 AM miss this completely.
Midday (10 AM to 2 PM): The lake turns a deep steel blue under the overhead sun. This is when you can walk the 3 km circumambulation trail around the entire lake. The trail follows the shoreline and takes about 90 minutes at a relaxed pace. There are no signboards and no barriers, just the crescent-shaped shoreline with snow and rock on one side and open valley on the other. The crescent shape that gives the lake its Moon Lake name becomes clear from certain angles on this trail.
Late afternoon and sunset (4:30 to 6:30 PM): As the sun drops toward the western ridge, the water turns golden-green and then a deep amber. The peaks go from warm gold to pink. This is the second-best light window of the day. Most day-trippers leave around 3 PM, so by 4:30 PM you often have the lake almost entirely to yourself. I always suggest staying to watch the color change at sunset if you have the time.
Hence, the honest answer to “should I stay overnight or just do a day trip?” is this: if you only do a day visit, you will see the midday blue lake and possibly the late afternoon colors. That is still beautiful and worth doing. But the sunrise colors and the morning reflections are something else entirely, and they require an overnight stay at the campsite. For that experience, refer to the accommodation options below.
How to Reach Chandratal Lake?
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. Let me explain them in detail.
Route 1: Shimla – Kinnaur – Kaza – Chandratal
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 (4,551 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 ascent and helps you acclimatize to the high altitude of Chandratal Lake. Better acclimatization will help you fight 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.
Route 2: Mandi – Manali – Atal Tunnel / Rohtang Pass – Chandratal
The shortest route from Delhi to Chandratal Lake is from the Manali side. It takes just one night at Manali from Delhi to reach this lake. With the Atal Tunnel (opened in 2020), you can now bypass Rohtang Pass entirely and reach Sissu/Gramphu directly. The route is as follows:
Delhi >> Mandi >> Kullu >> Manali >> Atal Tunnel (or Rohtang La, 3,978 Meters) >> Gramphu >> Chatru >> Batal >> Chandratal
Although the route from Mandi – Manali is the shortest route to Chandratal, it is a risky one too because it does not provide any acclimatization to your body. You jump directly from less than 8,000 feet to 14,000 feet. By no means can you acclimatize your body for such a huge difference in altitude between two nights. Hence, the majority of people traveling to Chandratal Lake from Manali do get hit with Acute Mountain Sickness symptoms.
This is the reason I always recommend traveling to Chandratal via the 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 (officially Kullu-Manali Airport) is approximately 180 km from Chandratal Lake and is the nearest airport. The other one 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 is 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 India.
By Public Transport (HRTC Bus)
You can plan a trip to Chandratal Lake by public transport. However, there is no direct bus to the lake itself. You can still work it out if you like an adventure.
Manali to Chandratal by Bus
There are 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. The bus from Kullu reaches Manali around 4:45 AM and leaves at 5:00 AM. The ticket to Kaza costs approximately INR 400 – 600 per person (as of 2026, verify with HRTC online portal for current fares). You will need to get down at Chandratal diversion point after the bus crosses Batal and either hike or hitchhike 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. Schedules may vary seasonally, so I suggest verifying with HRTC before travel.
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 the remaining distance as explained above.
By Self-Drive Car
If you are driving your car, the choice shall be SUVs/MUVs for sure. I would highly recommend vehicles like Scorpio, Thar, XUV700, Fortuner, or similar high ground clearance vehicles. A 4×4 is not required, but it is an added advantage anyway for such terrain, especially when tackling 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 or mountain bicycles, be very careful at some of the stretches between Gramphu to Chatru to Batal to Chandratal. 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
What Are the Road Conditions to Chandratal?
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 Gramphu towards Batal – Kaza (Spiti Valley).
Manali – Chandratal Road Status and 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. Do not expect a smooth drive here. BRO carries out road maintenance during the season, but given the terrain and glacial melt, water crossings remain unpredictable throughout the season.
Kaza – Chandratal Road Status and Condition
If you are coming from Kaza towards Chandratal, you will find similar bad road conditions after crossing Rangrik just ahead of Kaza. Well, the roads from Losar to Kunzum La and towards Chandratal, the road condition further deteriorates. At the Kunzum crossing, taking a right will take you to Chandratal and left will lead you to Batal, Gramphu, and then Manali (left) or Leh (right).
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Main Troublesome Spots and 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 and rocks throughout the stretch. 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 is 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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What Things Should You Carry for Chandratal Trip?
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 do not 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 be prepared with the following must-haves:
- Snow/waterproof trekking shoes, preferably comfortable and lightweight (as you need to trek a lot) with powerful grip in snow or slippery surface
- Strong easy-to-grip walking stick for holding grip on snow while trekking
- Snow/waterproof clothing i.e. jackets and lowers
- Heavy woolens and inner thermals
- Basic medicines including Diamox (for AMS prevention, consult your doctor first)
- Torchlight / headlamp
- Woolen socks (carry 2 extra pairs in case any get wet) in your backpack. Wet socks will not let you walk with full 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
- Enough cash (Rs 5,000-8,000 per person minimum). There is no ATM at Chandratal or Batal, and camps do not accept UPI or cards due to zero internet connectivity.
Apart from the above list you can check my list of things to carry when you go on a trip.
Where Can You Stay at Chandratal?
There is no accommodation right at Chandratal Lake. The region is a Chandratal Lake Wetland Reserve, a Ramsar site protected under the wildlife act, and the local Panchayat of Koksar enforces a strict ban on camping at the lakeside. The dedicated camping site is about 2-3 km before the lake, near the parking area. This is where all the commercial camp operators set up their tents during the season, and where self-camping travelers also pitch their tents.
Important: Camping at the banks of Chandratal Lake is banned and enforced by the Koksar Panchayat. The campsite is 2-3 km before the lake, at the parking area. After this point, you hike the remaining 1.5-2 km to reach the lake itself. Please respect this rule. The lake’s ecology is fragile at this altitude and every responsible traveler should support the ban.
Parasol Camps Chandratal
Apart from self-camping at the camping site, there are temporary camps set up by local Bishan Thakur of Parasol Camps and Retreats at Chandratal and a few others. You can contact Bishan of Parasol Camps at 09418845817, 09459910098. Nawang can be reached at 09459073908, or the landline at 01906-200204. You can also write to them at parasolcamps@gmail.com or info@parasolcamps.com. The camps are spacious and comfortable with mattresses and quilts. Bishan also has a dining area and covered washrooms. Expect to pay around INR 1,500 – 2,500 per person per night including meals (as of 2025, verify locally for current 2026 rates).
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 Dhaba at Batal
Well, there is this all-famous Batal Chandra Dhaba 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 dhaba, so if you are lucky, you may get space to sleep there as well. They charge around Rs 300 – 500 per person for a night stay (as of 2025, verify locally) and provide quilts as well. You can take as many quilts as available with them.
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 at Batal, and you can take rooms there and eat at Chandra Dhaba with Dorje Chacha and Chachi. 08991722020 is the contact number of satellite phone 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 dhaba that can save you from cold winds in the evening or night.
Tenzin Camps
Dorje Uncle’s son Tenzin now also sets up camps at Chandratal. You can reach him at Tenzing Camp: +91-8991722020. Otherwise, call up the satellite phone and ask Dorje uncle to do the bookings for his son’s camps.
Other Accommodation Options
One more possibility is you come back on Manali – Leh highway and rest at Khoksar (right from Gramphu 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, about 20 minutes ahead of Khoksar. Another option many travelers overlook is Losar village on the Kaza side, about 35 km from Chandratal. Losar has a handful of basic guesthouses and homestays, and you can do a comfortable day trip to Chandratal from there without camping, leaving early morning and returning by late afternoon. This is a practical option if you want to avoid the rougher Manali side roads.
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 times in the future and are serious about it. In case you are interested in camping then you will need tents, sleeping bags (-5 to -10 rated) and mattresses. For more tips on camping at high altitude, check my camping guide for Spiti Valley.
What is the Entry Fee for Chandratal Lake?
As of 2025-2026, the entry fee for Chandratal Lake is Rs 150 per person for Indian nationals and Rs 500 per person for foreign nationals. You also need a free e-permit which can be obtained online through the Himachal Pradesh government portal at eaagman.hp.gov.in. I recommend getting this e-permit before your trip to avoid any issues at checkpoints.
What Are the Attractions Around Chandratal?
- Kunzum Pass: At an altitude of 4,551 m, this is the main access to Spiti Valley from Lahaul Valley. The ancient Kunzum Devi temple at the top is worth a visit.
- Bara Shigri Glacier: The largest glacier in Himachal Pradesh, located in the Chandra valley of Lahaul. This glacier, 25 km long and about 3 km wide, lies on the middle slopes of the main Himalayan range and feeds the river Chenab.
- Samudra Tapu Glacier: A large glacial lake about 4 km long, visible from the Chandratal approach road. It feeds the Chandra River and makes for a dramatic sight.
- Sissu: At an altitude of 3,170 m, this place is famous for a magnificent waterfall. With the Atal Tunnel, Sissu is now easily accessible from Manali in about 45 minutes.
- Darcha: At an altitude of 3,360 m, Darcha is an ideal place for trekkers. You can start trekking from here to Padum, Zanskar Valley passing through Shingo La.
- Baralacha La: This pass is 75 km from Keylong on the 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.
What is the Best Itinerary for Chandratal Trip?
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 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 the Chandratal trip with Spiti Valley in most cases. But if you do not have that many days at hand, you can refer to 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 day wise plans, refer to the article I linked in the last paragraph.
- Day 1 | Delhi to Manali and stay overnight at Solang Valley
- Day 2 | Solang to Khoksar / Sissu / Batal (use Atal Tunnel to save time)
- Day 3 | Khoksar / Sissu / Batal to Chandratal
- Day 4 | Chandratal to Manali
- Day 5 | Manali to Delhi
I hope this will help you plan a trip to Chandratal in an eased out manner 🙂 … Keep in mind, if you have 7-10 days, I strongly suggest combining this with a complete Spiti Valley circuit for a much richer experience.
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.
What Are the Nearby Utilities and Facilities?
- 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. I suggest keeping at least Rs 5,000 – 8,000 in cash per person.
- Petrol Pump: The nearest petrol pump to Chandratal is at Kaza. Next you will get fuel at the Tandi petrol pump on Manali – Leh Highway (about 32-35 km before Jispa). You should tank up at Manali as well. In case you are driving from the Kinnaur side, fill up at Reckong Peo as well.
- Medical Help: Losar has a medical dispensary which will be the nearest to get any basic medical help. The next best option for medical assistance 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. BSNL has limited coverage in Losar. Hence, it is best to stick to my tips on mobile connectivity in Spiti Valley. Make sure to download offline maps before you lose signal.
- Mechanics: The nearest mechanic you might get for any basic need is at Losar and Gramphu. Anything major with your car or bike will need to be taken care of in Kaza.
Other Important Tips for Your Chandratal Trip
- You do not need any special permit for Chandratal for Indian nationals. However, you do need a free e-permit from eaagman.hp.gov.in and pay the entry fee of Rs 150/person (Rs 500 for foreigners). If you come from Manali side via Rohtang Pass (not Atal Tunnel), you will also need to get the Rohtang Pass permit. If you use the Atal Tunnel, no Rohtang permit is needed.
- 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. At 14,000 feet, alcohol worsens AMS symptoms significantly.
- Since Chandratal Lake is at an altitude of about 14,000 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.
- Carry a good quality sleeping bag rated for -5 to -10 degrees if you plan to camp. Even in July and August, nights at 14,000 feet are brutally cold.
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 🙂 …
Last Updated: June 2026
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. In case you have any questions or need help planning, feel free to post your queries in the comments section below or connect with fellow travelers in the DwD Community. I will be happy to help 🙂 …
Frequently Asked Questions About Chandratal Lake
Is Chandratal Lake open in winter?
No, Chandratal Lake is completely closed in winter. The Kunzum Pass and Gramphu-Batal approach roads shut down by late October or mid-November and remain snowbound until BRO’s spring clearance reopens them around late May. In 2025, the DDMA Lahaul-Spiti formally closed the Gramphu-Losar stretch of NH-505 from November 25 (order issued November 21), citing black icing and extreme cold. There is no winter trekking route to the lake for regular travelers, and rescue access is effectively zero once the passes are sealed.
When was the most recent Chandratal winter road closure?
The most recent order came from the DDMA Lahaul-Spiti, which shut the Gramphu-Losar stretch of NH-505 from November 25, 2025 (order issued November 21, 2025), citing black icing and extreme cold. This is the same administrative order that cuts off all winter road access to Chandratal each year, and the route stayed closed until BRO’s spring snow clearance reopened it in 2026. Expect a similar order in the same November window each year going forward, though the exact date can shift with the season’s weather.
Is Chandratal Lake open in May?
No, Chandratal Lake is generally not accessible in May. The roads from both Manali side (via Kunzum Pass) and Kaza side remain blocked by snow. Snow clearance operations are in progress during May. The earliest you can attempt to reach is the first week of June, and even then you may need to trek through snow from Batal. For 2026, expect the road to open between late May and mid-June depending on snowfall.
Can I take a sedan or hatchback to Chandratal?
I would not recommend it. The road from Gramphu to Batal and further to the Chandratal parking area is extremely rough with boulders, rocks, and water crossings. Low ground clearance vehicles risk serious damage. An SUV or MUV with good ground clearance is strongly recommended. A 4×4 is not mandatory but is an added advantage.
Is camping allowed at Chandratal Lake?
No, camping directly at the banks of Chandratal Lake is banned. The lake is a protected Ramsar Wetland site and the Koksar Panchayat enforces this ban strictly. You can camp at the designated camping site about 2-3 km away from the lake, near the parking area. Several camp operators like Parasol Camps and Tenzin Camps set up temporary tented accommodation here during the season (June to September), charging Rs 1,200 to 2,500 per person per night including meals.
How long is the trek from parking to Chandratal Lake?
The trek from the parking area (camping site) to Chandratal Lake is about 1.5 to 2 km one way. It is an easy to moderate trek that takes about 30-45 minutes on a well-marked trail. The altitude makes it slightly harder, so walk slowly and take breaks if you feel breathless.
Do I need a permit to visit Chandratal Lake?
Indian nationals need a free e-permit from eaagman.hp.gov.in and pay an entry fee of Rs 150 per person (Rs 500 for foreigners). If you are traveling from the Manali side via Rohtang Pass (not Atal Tunnel), you will also need the Rohtang Pass permit. If you use the Atal Tunnel to reach Sissu/Gramphu, no Rohtang permit is required. You can check my Rohtang Pass permit guide for details.
Is there mobile network at Chandratal?
No, there is no mobile network at Chandratal Lake or the campsite. You will lose mobile connectivity after crossing Gramphu (Manali side) or after Losar (Kaza side). BSNL has limited coverage in Losar. Make sure to inform your family about the lack of connectivity before heading to Chandratal and download offline maps.
Can I visit Chandratal as a day trip from Kaza?
Yes, a day trip from Kaza to Chandratal and back is possible, though it will be a long day. Kaza to Chandratal is about 80 km one way and takes 3-4 hours each way due to road conditions. You can read my short trip to Chandratal Lake guide for planning details. However, I suggest spending at least one night at the campsite to experience the sunrise and the changing colors of the lake.
What is the best way to reach Chandratal to avoid AMS?
The best way to avoid AMS at Chandratal is to travel from the Shimla – Kinnaur – Kaza route and visit Chandratal while exiting Spiti Valley towards Manali. This route provides a gradual altitude gain over several days, allowing your body to acclimatize properly. If you must come directly from Manali, spend at least one night each at Solang Valley and Batal before heading to the Chandratal campsite.
What is the entry fee for Chandratal Lake in 2026?
The entry fee for Chandratal Lake is Rs 150 per person for Indian nationals and Rs 500 per person for foreign nationals. You also need a free e-permit from eaagman.hp.gov.in. This e-permit can be obtained online before your trip. Keep in mind, there is no internet at Chandratal or Batal, so get the e-permit sorted before you leave civilization.
How much does camping at Chandratal cost?
Commercial camps at the designated camping site (2-3 km from the lake) charge between Rs 1,200 to Rs 2,500 per person per night, including meals. Operators like Parasol Camps and Tenzin Camps are well-known options. If you carry your own camping gear, there is no camping fee at the designated site, but you will still need to pay the Rs 150 entry fee. The Chandra Dhaba at Batal offers basic shelter for Rs 300-500 per person.
Why does Chandratal Lake change color?
Chandratal Lake changes color throughout the day because of the angle of sunlight interacting with the depth and mineral composition of the water. At dawn, the water appears dark blue-green. As the sun rises and reflects off the surrounding snow-covered peaks, the lake turns a vivid turquoise. By midday under direct overhead sun, it shifts to deep steel blue. In the late afternoon, warm light turns it golden-green or amber. This is why the lake is worth experiencing across different times of day, and why an overnight stay at the campsite gives you a fundamentally different experience compared to a day visit.
