Chandratal is an enchanting glacial lake situated at approximately 4300 meters in the Chandra valley of Lahul district, Himachal Pradesh.

A simple description fails to capture the lake's true beauty. It is a crescent-shaped lake that displays various personalities and feelings influenced by the sunlight and the clouds. The different tones of the lake are just as captivating, tempting you to return for a visit from time to time.

In addition to the scenery, the landscape around the lake also hosts unique wildlife, including snow leopards, Himalayan ibex, blue sheep, and red foxes, which can thrive in these harsh conditions.

If you have a passion for birds, you can observe Chough, Kestrel, Snowcock, Chukor, and even the Ruddy Shelduck that migrates from frigid climates to the milder summers in the Himalayas.

The lake is located on the 'Samudri Tapu' plateau, encircled by large mountains of scree or snow during the off seasons.

It is supplied by streams that come from the “Samudri Tapu Glacier,” which serves as the origin for the Chandra River, part of the glacial system of the “Chandrabhaaga Ranges.” The lake also empties into the river directly through a gently flowing stream. For a considerable duration, it was thought that 'Chandrataal' was the origin point of the river.

Because of the lake's remote location, it can only be reached 4-5 months annually, specifically from June to October, when the connecting roads and hiking paths are clear of snow.  The lake can be accessed from Manali via the Atal tunnel or from Kaza by way of Kunzum Pass.

The roads are bad, many times on the riverbed, as the region receives more than 20 feet of snow in winter. Only the most adept drivers can maneuver through the perilous roads without becoming trapped. A 4x4 is recommended for anyone intending to visit independently.

Mythologies -

Several folklores exist about the lake, passed down through the ages.

As per the 'Mahabharata', Lord Indra descended from the heavens to the lake to bring back 'Yudhistir', the eldest of the Pandavas, to 'Swarg'. The lake attained its sacred status due to this reference.

Another story from Spiti narrates a connection between a mermaid and a shepherd. Some claim they tied the knot; others assert that the shepherd rejected her plea, and the sorrowful mermaid appears occasionally, but only to single men. Some think the mermaid takes things from single men because of past betrayals.

Another folklore exists that describes the ‘Moon god’ restoring his beauty and strength after immersing himself in the lake.

No matter what the tales or legends claim, a trip to the lake is truly enchanting. Definitely a place worth visiting.

Note - Trips depend upon road closures, weather and other such conditions.

Early season might see fresh-cut roads in the snow. Such conditions require a 4 x 4 vehicle, which is not included in the costing.