Manali to Chandratal Lake

Chandratal Lake

Chandratal Lake, also known as the “Moon Lake,” is a stunning high-altitude lake nestled in the Spiti Valley at 4,300 meters above sea level. Thanks to the Atal Tunnel, the journey from Manali to Chandratal has become faster and more accessible, making it ideal for adventurous travelers looking for a one-day or overnight escape into the Himalayas.

Distance from Manali: Approx. 110 km (3 –4 hours one way via Atal Tunnel)

Best Time to Visit: June to October (Chandratal is closed in winter due to heavy snowfall)

Duration: 01 Day

Tour Itinerary

Manali to Solang Valley

Solang Valley is the “Adventure Capital” of Himachal Pradesh. Located about 13–14 km from Manali, it serves as a year-round hub for thrill-seekers and is currently one of the few high-altitude spots open to tourists this winter. The venue for Adventure Activities such as Ropeway Joyride, Paragliding & other adventure games.

Solang Valley to Atal Tunnel

The Atal Tunnel is a 9.02 km engineering marvel that has fundamentally changed travel in the Himalayas. It bypasses the treacherous Rohtang Pass, cutting the journey from Manali to the Lahaul Valley from 4 hours to just about 30 minutes.

Atal Tunnel to Kokksar

Kokksar is the first village you encounter after exiting the Atal Tunnel (North Portal) into the Lahaul Valley. While it has historically been a transit point for travelers moving toward Leh or Spiti, it has recently emerged as a standalone destination for snow lovers and offbeat travelers.

Kokksar to Gramphu

Gramphu is the most critical junction in the Lahaul and Spiti region. At an altitude of 3,200 meters (10,500 ft), it serves as the “Y-junction” where the smooth highway from Manali splits: one path leads toward the high-desert of Leh, and the other toward the rugged, remote Spiti Valley.

Gramphu to Chhatru

Chhatru is one of the most rugged and atmospheric stopovers in the Himalayas. Located at an altitude of 3,300 meters (10,800 ft), it marks the dramatic transition where the greenery of the Kullu Valley disappears, replaced by the stark, moon-like desert of Lahaul.

Chhatru to Batal

Batal is the true “Frontier Outpost” of the Lahaul and Spiti region. At an elevation of 4,000 meters (13,123 ft), it is not a village in the traditional sense, but a crucial survival point located on the banks of the Chandra River. Batal is famous for Chacha-Chachi Dhaba (Chandra Dhaba). Run by an elderly couple, Dorje Bodh (Chacha) and Hishey Chhomo (Chachi), since 1975, this dhaba is the heartbeat of Batal.

Batal to Chandratal Lake 

Chandratal, the “Lake of the Moon,” is a high-altitude glacial lake nestled at 4,300 meters (14,100 ft) in the Lahaul and Spiti district. It is world-renowned for its crescent shape and crystal-clear turquoise waters that reflect the surrounding snow-capped peaks.

Chandratal Lake to Manali 

Return back from Chandratal Lake to Manali.

Tour ends here with happy memories.

Things to Know

Some important essential information for Chandratal Lake trip.

  • The road from Manali to Batal is mostly in good condition, but the last 14 km to Chandratal is a rough, off-road stretch.
  • Wear warm clothing, as temperatures can drop significantly at Chandratal Lake.
  • Carry water, snacks, and a camera for capturing the stunning views.
  • Don’t forget sunscreen and sunglasses for protection against the sun and snow glare.