Chandratal Lake | Nature's beauty at its best

Chandratal is one of the most beautiful lakes located at an altitude of about 14,000 feet. Tso Chikgma or Lake of the Moon or Chandra Taal, or Chandratal is a lake in the Spiti part of the Lahul and Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh, India. The lake is near the source of the Chandra River. Moreover, it was designated as a world heritage site back in 2005. Despite the rugged and inhospitable surroundings at 4300 meters, it is in a protected niche with some flowers and wildlife in summer.

Why is Chandratal famous?

It was also a famous trading location for Tibetan and Ladakhi traders. The lake, with its wandering terrain typical of the secluded Spiti Valley, is a popular walking spot due to its mild climbing grade.

Himalayan Mountain Goat and sheep in front of Chandra Taal

How can I go to Chandratal lake?

Batal is midway between Manali and Kaza. And a diversion from Batal will take you to the lake. Firstly, you can reach Chandratal from Manali which is about 110 kilometers drive. It takes about 2.5 hours non-stop via the new Atal Tunnel. Here the route is right next to the Chenab river. You can go via the famous Rothang Pass to make the drive more adventurous. Secondly, you can reach Chandra Taal from Kaza which is about the same distance and time. Here the route is right next to the Spiti river. On the way, you will be crossing the Kunzum La / Pass [video link].

What is the best time to visit Chandratal lake?

The paths to Chandratal Lake are available for a little more than 4 months, from the third week of June to the first week of November. However, the greatest time to visit Chandratal Lake is in September, when there is a good possibility of seeing flowering flora and wildlife, breathtaking terrain, and brilliant blue sky. During the following months, it will be blanketed in snow.

Dirt road drive from Manali to Chandra Taal next to river Chenab

Is camping allowed near Chandratal lake?

Can we stay at Chandratal lake? - Chandra Taal is a tourist destination for trekkers and campers. The lake is accessible on foot from Batal as well as from Kunzum Pass from late May to early October. There is also a motor road accessible as far as the parking lot, 1 kilometer from the lake. The lake is also accessible from Suraj Tal, 30 kilometers away. There are vast meadows on the banks of the lake. Expect these meadows to be full of wildflowers, during springtime.

We couldn't spend much time exploring the beautiful landscape as the only mode of transport did not want to drive back once it is dark. The place and surroundings have almost zero human habitation, with just a few campsites. The nearest fuel station or repair shops are a few hours of drive away and no one wants to take the risk of driving after dark on this dirt road. You may stay overnight at ChaCha - ChaChi Dabha or near Batal.

Final hike from the parking area to the Chandra Taal Lake, the first glimpse

Short hike just before the lake

You will not be able to drive all the way to the Chandratal. From the parking area, be ready for a short mile-long hike. I have been to this place twice. Firstly, after completing the last day of the Hampta Pass, on a clear day from the Chhatru campsite. Secondly, on the way to Kaza during the Kanomo Peak trek. Even though this mile-long hike is more of a flat walk, you can feel short of breath and is still in the high altitude danger zone. There are chances of getting altitude sickness as Chandratal is at 14,000 feet.

Ravindra Joisa at Chandra Taal

Why is Chandratal lake famous?

According to Hindu mythology, Chandratal is the location where Indra, the King of Gods, arrived in his chariot to carry Yudhishthira, the eldest of the five Pandavas, to Swarga in his mortal form (heaven). Fairies, according to locals, visit the lake at night.

Chandratal lake mystery

The glacier at Baralacha Pass is its source, but how the water gets from the glacier to the lake is a mystery in and of itself. Suraj Taal is said to be called after Bhaga, the son of the sun deity, and Chandratal after Chandra.

To conclude, even though the journey to this place is a bumpy drive on a dangerous mud road next to the Chenab river. The picturesque lake is worth the effort to reach this remote place. The landscape on the way is breathtaking. There are no stops to fuel your vehicle and just a few Dabhas to keep the hunger away. As of this writing, camping next to the lake is not allowed as per the new rules made by the government. This is to save the beautiful place from irresponsible tourists. The next place to visit around is the Kunzum pass.

Read Next: Mount Kanamo Basecamp High altitude Himalayan Trek

Also, check out my YouTube video of my visit to Chandra Taal lake and consider SUBSCRIBING to my channel to support my work.

https://youtu.be/h1rUVWy_JKc

Shea Goru via Hampta Pass with a stunning view of Mt Indrasan | Day 4

Trek to Shea Goru via Hampta Pass is a few hours of gradual ascent. The trail after becomes a steep downhill after the pass. You get to see some amazing landscapes when you are at the pass from the most beautiful valleys, to the mountain peaks and glaciers. This day of the trek is the most challenging. It can be tricky at some places and is dangerous as well.

Check previous day: Balu Ka Ghera – Hampta Pass Trek – Day 3

To the right bottom is the Shea Goru Campsite, to the center, is the Hampta Pass. Photo: Ravindra Joisa

The ascent to Hampta Pass

Day 4 of the Hampta Pass trek in the Himalayas, is an ideal trek for beginners who are completely new to high altitude Himalayan treks. The trail isn't super easy but not too complex either. But with zero practice, this slope can prove challenging. The trail from Shea Goru via Hampta Pass can be broken into two stages. The climb to Hampta Pass is moderately steep with few flat walks on snow patches, followed by a steep descent to Shea Goru. You will want to take a small break at the top of the pass, have lunch there and then start the descent.

On the way near Hampta Pass to the right. Photo: Ravindra Joisa

The Rock Fall area

You begin your day by heading towards the mountains from Balu Ka Ghera which is the day 3 campsite of Hampta Pass trek, check out the link above. You may get to see lots of tiny pink and yellow flowers growing by the side of the river. Move along the river for an hour after which you will be above it. In a rock fall-prone area to the left, the climb picks up. Be careful at the top of the pass as this is a rockfall area. Also, on the way to Shea Goru via Hampta Pass you might see some interesting patterns in the stones of the prehistoric lava flow.

The final ascent near Hampta Pass, crossing the snow patch full of rock and boulders. Photo: Ravindra Joisa

The Danger Zone and the Pass

Keep climbing up and you reach the Hampta Pass which is at 14,000 feet. Do not underestimate the altitude of Hampta Pass as there were incidents of death recently. High altitude sickness, rockfall at the pass, and narrow trail while descending can be notoriously dangerous at Hampta Pass. Two hours of a steep descent from the pass, followed by sliding on a snow patch and finally easing off into a flat walk till Shea Goru campsite.

When you are at the pass, you get to see some of the amazing valleys. Behind is the journey that you covered all these days from Jobra campsite, full of greenery. Moreover, to the left is the dry valley of Lahul Spiti. To the right is the Indrasan peak which stands tall at 6221 meters.

After crossing Hampta Pass, Peak at the center is Mount Indrasan. Photo: Ravindra Joisa

First glimpse of Shea Goru campsite

Just after crossing the pass, the view of Shea Goru, Lahul Valley, and mount Indrasan is breathtaking. The descent is slightly trickier than the ascent. You can see the Lahaul valley side of the pass below and to the left. Once you reach down the valley take a left. To the right is the Indrasan peak. By the way, you are now in the Lahul valley and expect dry weather. Because we are still in the mountains, Shea Goru's weather cannot be predicted.

The glacier near Shea Goru

This area near Shea Goru towards Mount Indrasan appears to be a glacier once. You get to see from above the valley just after crossing Hampta Pass. The glacier is hard to make out as it is covered with stones and huge boulders. But if you zoom your camera lens, then you can see huge crevices in glaciers. This is when you will realize that it is not the rock, but a glacier covered with dust.

On the other side of the river, Shea Goru campsite. Photo: Ravindra Joisa

Finally, we made it to Shea Goru. Shea Goru is an almost level walk from here next to the stream formed by the melting of glaciers ice. It should be an easy walk some may find it tiring after the long day traversing the pass.

Also read: Absolute mandatory Hiking Accessories to carry

Is Hampta pass a difficult trek?

The Hampta Pass trek is simple to moderate in difficulty. Including the difficulty of the Chandratal Lake hike. Making this hike, which is ideal for beginners. The Hampta pass hike lasts 5 days and 4 nights. Is Hampta worth a pass? - Hamta Pass is a beautiful pass in Himachal Pradesh. It is a worth visiting site in the Himalayas of India if you want to be away from the city crowd and experience true bliss. Shea Goru is one of the campsites in the Hampta pass hiking trail. We have Shea Goru on one side and Balu Ka Ghera on the other side. You cannot camp at the Hampta pass.

Firstly, choose a nice campsite close to the river and retire happily for the day after crossing the Hampta Pass. Secondly, spend less time inside the tent, and explore the campsite. Also, a climb to the nearby cliff to get a better view of the Indrasan peak. If you are a photographer like me, then you may want to go late in the evening or early morning for a better golden hour view of the peak.

Checkout next day: Chatru Campsite | Hampta Pass Trek | Lahaul | Day 5

Watch the video below and SUBSCRIBE to my YouTube channel. Also, consider subscribing to my newsletter for travel and photography tips and stories.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P-HfEx4rZEU

Balu Ka Ghera | Scenic campsite before an intriguing pass crossing

Trek to Balu ka Ghera campsite is moderate and is another beautiful campsite. It is a short meadow walk followed by a boulder section for a couple of hours, leading to a trail on loose rocks all the way to the campsite. By the way, Jwara is one of the most beautiful campsites in the Himalayas.

Jwara Campsite - Hampta Pass Trek. Photo: Ravindra Joisa

Also read - previous day: Trek to Jwara – Hampta Pass Trek – Day 2

Hiking next to Rani Nalla

Firstly, a very gradual incline through the day right next to the stream. Secondly, During the monsoon, because of the rain, you get to see a lot of unnamed waterfalls. Just for fun, you are free to keep your own name to one of these waterfalls. On this day you will gain approx 1,500 feet and will hike right next to the Rani river. The melting of snow forms the stream and hence the river Rani, which flows down all the way to the Hampta Valley. In front are snow-clad mountains beyond which lies the Hampta Pass.

Rani River on the way to the campsite

A visit to Dabha

Visit the Dabha if it is open and have warm tea. Surprisingly, it is not overpriced considering the location of dabha. The Dabha owner can play mouth-organ. Request him as he is happy to play it for you and do not forget to appreciate it. On request, he kept us entertained with some melodious music, while we had snacks, hot spicy maggie, and much-needed warm masala tea on a rainy day. Make sure to go around the dabha and try to pick any leftover plastic items and keep the Himalayan slopes clean. We follow this in all the slopes.

Ravindra Joisa in front of Dabha - Hampta Pass trek

Valley before reaching the campsite

Walk along the Rani river heading into the valley. On your way to the campsite, you will find a variety of tiny flowers – purple, yellow, pink, etc. There are high chances of you finding some wild strawberries on the way. It takes about half an hour to cross the valley. After you come out of Jwara, you need to walk further along. The terrain flattens as you reach Chota Balu Ka Ghera where you can rest for a bit and have a packed lunch.

Continue further along the river, crossing small snow flows and jumping across rocks. Towards the end, the rocks are quite far apart, and jumping across the gets tricky. Soon after, you will reach your destination for the day. By the way, to the right of the trail just before the campsite is a huge cave. Explore this place if time permits.

Cave near the Campsite. Photo: Ravindra Joisa

About Campsite

Balu Ka Ghera or the bed of sand is the last campsite before Hampta Pass. In addition, the ground is formed mainly by the sand and dust brought down by the mountain slopes and the streams around the campsite. The water is ice cold and if you can manage to walk in the sand bed then there is a stone at the center of the sand bed where you can sit for a while and enjoy the entire trail that you just covered.

It is level ground and behind you are the mountains you will traverse the next day to cross the famous Hampta Pass. Pitch your tent and enjoy a beautiful sunset behind the Bandarpunch peak. Moreover, you are now close to 12,500 ft (Balu ka Ghera altitude) above sea level.

Balu Ka Ghera or the bed of sand - Hampta Pass trek. Photo: Ravindra Joisa

In conclusion, this is a wonderful campsite to explore. Spend less time inside the tent and use it only to sleep. Spend all your time outdoor. Check out Trek to this campsite from Jwara, day 3 of Hampta Pass trek on my YouTube channel, and consider SUBSCRIBING.

Read Next: Shea Goru via Hampta Pass | Hampta Pass Trek | Day 4

https://youtu.be/NYLOC_p3Ea8

Beautiful campsite of Jobra with breathtaking Valley view | Hampta Pass Trek | Day 1

Hampta Pass is a famous hike if you are in Himachal, India. Also, this is a 5-6 days hike and an ideal hike for beginners to get that true Himalayan hiking experience. Additionally, you will be covering the most picturesque lake after the trek. The trek starts from Jobra and ends at Chhatru. The trek has some breathtaking landscapes, stream crossing, and many more. However, I recommend a short weekend hike before attempting this trek. For instance, you might want to go for a weekend hike to the western ghats.

Pine forest as you drive uphill to Jobra campsite. Copyright: Ravindra Joisa

In this post, I will be covering the first day of reaching the campsite located at Jobra, the basecamp for Hampta Pass. After that, I will be sharing more posts for each of my days spent on this slope. In addition, you might want to check the video on YouTube which is at the end of the post. So, consider subscribing to my channel - link.

Staying a bit outside of Manali town can keep you away from the tourist crowd. Also, booking a room on the mountain slopes with a beautiful view can be a memorable stay. Gather enough ration needed for your hike and pack your backpack. Because there are no shops on reaching basecamp or on the way up. However, you might find a few huts during the trek where you can have maggie, tea, and snacks.

Drive to Jobra campsite

There is no public transport available to reach the Jobra campsite. The only option would be to hire an expensive jeep drive to the top. This will cost around ₹ 2,600 per vehicle which you can share among other trekkers. However, if time permits, then it can easily be a one-day hike to the Jobra campsite. It is a picturesque drive from Manali to Jobra with some 40+ hairpin curves and a one-hour drive uphill. The panoramic view of Kullu valley with the mountain slopes full of pine trees is just breathtaking.

Rani Nallah. Trekker crossing over the stream. Copyright: Ravindra Joisa

The short trek to Jobra basecamp

The drive starts from the Manali bus stand and ends near the hydel plant and the reservoir. After that, you will have to hike for another 45 minutes from here to reach basecamp. As you enter the forest, the trail is through the pine trees, a few maple trees. In addition, the last stretch as you come out of the forest area is the meadows. The hike is right next to the Rani Nallah / stream. Likewise, the next three campsites are right next to this stream till you reach Hampta pass.

Jobra Campsite - Day 1 of Hampta Pass trek. Copyright: Ravindra Joisa

To sum up, there isn't much of a hike on day one. It is more of an uphill drive followed by a short hike. But, the scenery that you get to see on the way is breathtaking. Also, even at the Jobra campsite, the view above the cloud is heavenly. Explore the campsite at Jobra. Spend some time next to the wooden bridge and a small waterfall nearby. Similarly, you get to see many unnamed waterfalls all along the trail.

My advice would be to spend less time inside the camp and explore the campsite around. Enjoy the clean air, morning mist, clear night sky, etc. It might rain at times. So, I recommend, carrying an umbrella or a rain cover. The temperature drops below 5 degrees Celcius. Therefore, having an additional layer of clothing is advised.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PdCWUqVIkm0

SUBSCRIBE for more videos. Copyright: Ravindra Joisa

Read Next: Day 2 of Hampta Pass trek from Jobra to Jwara campsite.

Hotels in Manali

There are no hotels or homestays in Jobra. On the previous day before the start of the trek, you can stay in Manali. The landscape is scenic and you can stay in hotels rooms with some amazing views. There are hostels where you can stay overnight for as little as rupees 250 to the expensive hotels.

Check out the remaining days of the trek by clicking here.

https://ravindrajoisa.com/hampta-pass/