5 MinutesLocated in the Lahaul and Spiti region, and situated at an elevation of approximately 4,300 metres (14,100 feet), Chandratal, also called the “Moon Lake,” is famous for its changing colors, high-altitude camping experience, and raw Himalayan landscape. The lake sits near the Kunzum Pass route and remains accessible only for a few months every year because of heavy snowfall. Reaching here is not easy, and that’s why people choose Spiti Valley Packages for better safety and overall experience. With tour packages, you get throughout support, and you also travel with 20 - 25 other travelers, so the experience is even more wonderful and fun.
Chandratal Lake at a Glance
₹20,999
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₹18,499
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The name Chandratal literally means “Lake of the Moon.” Locals believe the curved shape of the lake resembles a crescent moon, which is where the name came from. Chandratal is also linked to an old Mahabharata legend. According to local stories, this is the place where Lord Indra arrived with his chariot to take Yudhishthira to heaven. That story still gives the lake a spiritual importance among nearby villages.
Apart from mythology, Chandratal is environmentally important because the lake supports high-altitude wildlife and fragile Himalayan vegetation. The area falls under a protected wetland ecosystem, which is why permanent construction near the lake is restricted. Travelers can camp near the designated areas, but authorities do not allow camping directly beside the lake anymore.
Reaching Chandratal is where the actual adventure begins. Google Maps may show a short distance, but mountain roads do not work like city highways. Landslides, water crossings, broken roads, and sudden weather changes can easily increase travel time.
This is the fastest and most common route to Chandratal.
Manali → Atal Tunnel → Gramphu → Chhatru → Batal → Chandratal
Distance and Time
Road Conditions
Taxi and Transport Cost
This is not the shortest route to Chandratal, but it is calmer and more scenic for travelers who do not want to rush directly into high altitude.
Manali → Kullu → Banjar → Jibhi → Jalori Pass → Rampur → Kinnaur → Spiti
Why Travelers Choose This Route
Road Conditions
Roads remain decent around Kullu and Jibhi, but Jalori Pass has steep curves and narrow stretches. During the monsoon, landslides can slow traffic heavily.
Travel Time
This route usually takes multiple days(3 - 4 days) because travelers stay overnight in Jibhi, Kalpa, or Kaza before reaching Chandratal. It suits travelers who want a full Spiti circuit instead of a quick Chandratal trip.
Vehicles cannot go directly to the lake. You must park near the designated parking area and walk around 1.5 km to reach Chandratal. The trail is mostly easy but feels tiring because of the high altitude and low oxygen levels.
Older travelers, people with breathing issues, or anyone not acclimatized properly may struggle during this short walk. Carry water, avoid rushing, and walk slowly.
Night walking near the lake is not recommended because temperatures drop sharply and visibility becomes poor.
The best time to visit Chandratal is from June to September, when the snow melts, the roads open, and designated campsites are operational. For the absolute clearest skies, optimal photography, and stunning stargazing, September is widely considered the prime month.
June is ideal for travelers who want to see snow walls near Kunzum Pass. July and August bring greener landscapes but also higher chances of rain and landslides around Manali routes. September works best for photographers and bikers because skies stay clearer and roads become slightly safer.
By October, snowfall can begin again, and the Chandratal route often becomes inaccessible for normal tourists.
Kunzum Pass sits at around 15,000 feet and acts as the gateway between Lahaul and Spiti Valley. Travelers usually stop here for panoramic mountain views and blessings at the small Kunzum Mata temple before continuing toward Chandratal. The air feels noticeably thinner here, and the weather changes very quickly. During early summer, huge snow walls remain visible near the road, making the drive memorable for bikers and photographers.
Batal is a tiny settlement famous among Spiti travelers for its rugged atmosphere and the legendary Chacha-Chachi dhaba. Most people stop here for food, tea, and rest before taking the Chandratal diversion road. Accommodation options remain basic, but the place becomes important during bad weather because it acts as a rescue and a halt point. Roads around Batal are rough, rocky, and often unpredictable, especially after rainfall or glacier melting.
Losar is the first major village after entering the Spiti side from Kunzum Pass. Sitting at around 13,400 feet, the village offers a quieter and more traditional Himalayan atmosphere compared to crowded tourist stops. Many travelers stay overnight here for better acclimatization before heading toward Chandratal or Kaza. Small homestays, local food, and wide valley views make Losar feel peaceful without trying too hard to impress tourists.
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