10 Fun things to experience in Chandrataal, Spiti Valley
Chandrataal or Chandratal as the name translates to is the Moon lake, which is believed to be so because of its moon-like shape. It is nature’s gift to mankind. Situated in Spiti Valley, in the Lahaul and Spiti district of India at an altitude of 4,242 meters above sea level, the lake is at 14,000 ft above sea-level.
Table of Contents
1. Kunzum Pass:
Enroute to Chandrataal, you would pass by the famous Kunjum Mata mandir also renowned as the Kunjum pass. The sight of the snow-clad mountains and the prayer flags flying with the wind current is a sight to behold. The beauty and peace experienced at the Kunjum Mata mandir is one in itself and no wonder it is worshipped by many passersby as well as the locals.
2. Batal Dhaba:
To reach Chandrataal before sunset, it is ideal to start the ride early morning from the previous halt, which could be Langza, Losar, Chhataru etc. Hence for breakfast, you’d find a small yet cosy enough dhaba midway called ‘chacha-chachi’ dhaba in Batal. Do experience the sumptuous food at reasonable prices and tea served with a smile by the couple.
3. The long ride:
The road to Chandrataal starting from Kunjum pass is by far the most unforgettable road journey. The zig-zag roads in the mountains with the hairpin curves will have you praying on your seat yet you’d be enjoying the adventurous ride with remarkable beautiful landscapes on every side.
4. Chandrataal Camp stay:
Imagine being surrounded by snow-clad mountains and living in the Alpine tents with sleeping bags. Sounds like an adventure for a nomad? You’d be surprised to find yourself surviving in the cold temperature yet being happy about being at Chandrataal camps.
5. Herd of sheep:
Once settled in the camps and while you roam around, you’ll have the chance to encounter huge herds of sheep grazing around. Selfies here are worth it as with the camps, mountains and sheep in the background it makes a perfect profile and cover picture.
6. Trek to the lake:
Pack enough of glucose water and/or toffees, your pocket speaker for music, apply loads of sunscreen and embrace yourself for an hour-long trek to Chandrataal lake from the campsite. During the trek, you’d be mesmerised by the greenery with yellow flowers, pastures, birds humming and sunlight piercing through the snow-covered mountains. Though the trek might look difficult but eventually you’d be glad to do it because as it’s said ‘the best view comes after the hardest climb’.
7. The Lake
Chandrataal lake is a complete attraction and experience in itself. The pristine turquoise water and the picturesque view spread across is magnificent. Go wild and click pictures of the most memorable memories or sit by the lake and experience its calmness.
8. Stargazing:
After the beautiful start of the day in the Himalayas and fighting the cold breeze throughout Chandrataal, the star-studded sky is a relief. No words can match that experience.
9. Befriending and conversing with strangers/foreigners:
During dinner or even while on your walks to and fro to the washrooms you’d come across several other travellers, some national while most foreigners. Grab a chair, take a cup of tea and share stories. You’d be surprised at how fascinating talking to strangers can be.
10. Bio portable tent toilets:
For most people camping is fun until the time comes to visit the lavatories. But just like the rest of the adventures in Spiti, take this one as well sportingly. The portable tent toilets are well fixed to the ground and once used will definitely give you relief, pun intended.
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