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Chandra Taal: The Moon Lake of Spiti

Discover Chandra Taal: A pristine Himalayan lake with breathtaking beauty, spiritual significance, and thrilling trekking experiences in Spiti Valley.

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Chandra Taal, also known as the "Lake of the Moon," is a stunning high-altitude lake in Himachal Pradesh's Spiti Valley. Its crescent shape and pristine waters, reflecting the surrounding Himalayan peaks, create a mesmerizing landscape. Revered in Hindu mythology and a favorite among trekkers and campers, Chandra Taal offers a unique blend of natural beauty and spiritual significance.

A brief summary to Chandra Taal

  • Himachal Pradesh, IN

Local tips

  • The best time to visit is from June to September when the weather is pleasant and the roads are accessible.
  • Carry warm clothing as temperatures can drop significantly, especially at night.
  • Acclimatize to the high altitude to avoid altitude sickness.
  • Book accommodations and transportation in advance due to limited options.
  • Carry sufficient cash as there are limited ATM facilities.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Manali, drive towards Rohtang Pass and continue towards Gramphu. The road from Gramphu to Batal is a rough, unpaved track with water crossings. From Batal, hire a local taxi (4x4 recommended) to cover the remaining 14 km to Chandra Taal. This stretch can be challenging. Expect to pay around INR 2,500-4,000 for a round trip taxi from Batal. Parking near the lake is about 1 km away, requiring a short walk.

  • Public Transport

    Take an early morning HRTC bus from Manali to Kaza. Get off at Batal. From Batal, you can trek 14 km to Chandra Taal or hire a shared taxi. Bus fare from Manali to Kaza is approximately INR 250. Shared taxis from Batal to Chandra Taal may cost around INR 500-800 per person.

  • Trekking

    The trek to Chandra Taal from Batal is approximately 14 km and takes around 4-5 hours. The trail offers scenic views of the Spiti Valley and the Chandra River. Ensure you are acclimatized to the altitude before starting the trek. No special permits are required for trekking, but it's advisable to carry identification.

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Discover more about Chandra Taal

Chandra Taal, or 'Moon Lake,' is a breathtaking high-altitude lake situated at 4,300 meters (14,100 feet) in the Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh, India. The lake's name originates from its distinctive crescent shape. The mountains of scree on one side and the enclosing cirque on the other add to the dramatic landscape. According to local belief, the lake is considered a sacred spot where Lord Indra, the king of gods, created it as a gift to his wife on a moonlit night. This mythological connection adds a spiritual aura to the lake, making it a revered pilgrimage site for believers. Another legend connects the lake to Yudhishthira, the eldest of the Pandava brothers, who is said to have been picked up by Lord Indra's chariot from this very spot to ascend to heaven. Chandra Taal is the source of the Chandra River, a tributary of the Chenab. The lake's clear waters support various species of aquatic life, while the surrounding grasslands provide grazing grounds for nomadic herders and their livestock. The area is also home to diverse flora and fauna adapted to the harsh high-altitude conditions, including the snow leopard, Himalayan ibex, and various migratory birds. The lake is accessible from late May to early October, attracting trekkers and campers seeking adventure and natural beauty. The ever-changing colors of the lake, from reddish hues during the day to emerald green at night, offer a mesmerizing spectacle. Camping near the lake provides an opportunity to experience the starry Himalayan skies.

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