Chandra Taal (meaning Moon Lake) is situated in the Lahaul valley in Lahaul and Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh (India). The name of the lake originates from its crescent shape. It is situated at an altitude of about 4,300 meters (14,100 ft) in the Himalayas.
Mountains of scree overlook the lake on one side and a magnificent cirque presents a grand view of Chandra Bhaga series of Peaks on the other.
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Situated on the Samudra Tapu plateau, which overlooks the Chandra River, this lake is one of the two high-altitude wetlands of India which have been designated as Ramsar sites.
Must Read: Villages of Spiti Valley A Bawray Banjaray Guide (Part 1)
With no air pollution and very little light at night, this lake is one of the best destinations in India for astrophotography.
Here are a few essentials that you need to keep handy while planning for a trip here:
How to reach Chandra Taal
This lake is a popular destination for trekkers and campers. While the best way to reach is to hike from either Kunzum La or Batal but for the convenience of people, there is a road. The road ends 2 km before the lake at parking.
Taking vehicles or camping ahead of this point is prohibited. There is one road but you can reach here from two sides. The one from Manali crosses Rohtang pass while the other one crosses Kunzum La. Both of them meet 3 km the lake is just 8 km from Batal.
There is a daily bus from and to Manali and Kaza. One has to get down at Batal and then either take a lift or hike to Chandra Taal. Shared cabs are also available from Manali and Kaza.
Suggested Read: Villages of Spiti Valley A Bawray Banjaray Guide (Part 2)
Best time to visit
Chandra Taal is only accessible during summers when the snow melts and nature give way to the human. Early into summer, during late May, it is found frozen or semi-frozen. While rains of summer and melting snow keeps the wetland alive, the meadows around the lake are carpeted with hundreds of wildflowers.
Stay Options at Chandra Taal
Recently there has been some confusion regarding the abolition of campsites. At the time this article is written there is plenty of options to choose from…
As customized as this…
Further Read: Villages of Spiti Valley A Bawray Banjaray Guide (Part 3)
Have you been to the Chandrataal? Share your stories and photos in the comments below! 🙂