The Chandratal Lake trek via Hampta Pass is one of the most popular treks in Himachal Pradesh. It is known for its beautiful mix of landscapes. The trek starts in the lush green Kullu Valley and ends in the dry, desert-like region of Spiti. Trekkers get to see rivers, forests, snowfields, and finally the crystal-clear Chandratal Lake. It is an ideal trek for beginners and also satisfying for experienced trekkers.

This route offers a dramatic change in scenery and gives a chance to experience two different Himalayan regions in one trip. The trek is not very difficult, which makes it suitable for fit beginners as well.

Manali is the base for this trek. It is a well-known tourist town located in Himachal Pradesh. Set on the banks of the Beas River, Manali is surrounded by pine forests and snow-capped peaks. It lies at about 6,700 feet and is well connected by road from Delhi and Chandigarh. You can also reach it by air via the nearest airport at Bhuntar, which is around 50 kilometers away.

Manali is also a good place to shop for last-minute trek gear and warm clothes. It is recommended to spend a day here to rest, adjust to the altitude, and prepare for the trek.

If you’re planning to experience the Chandratal Lake Trek with Hampta Pass, visit our official website Himalayan Dream Treks to book your trek, check dates, and get expert guidance.

Hampta Pass Section of the Chandratal Lake Trek

The Hampta Pass is at an altitude of about 14,000 feet and acts as a gateway between the green Kullu Valley and the cold desert of Lahaul and Spiti. This trail gives trekkers a complete experience of snow crossings, river walks, alpine forests, rocky trails, and open valleys.

• Day 1 – Manali to Jobra to Chika
  A short drive from Manali takes you to Jobra (about 2 hours). From Jobra, you trek for around 2 hours to reach Chika, the first campsite. This part of the trek goes through forests of pine, maple, and birch.
• Day 2 – Chika to Balu Ka Ghera
  The trail becomes more open and follows the river. You cross wooden bridges and walk beside snowmelt streams. Balu Ka Ghera is a wide valley surrounded by tall peaks.
• Day 3 – Balu Ka Ghera to Shea Goru via Hampta Pass
  This is the most challenging and exciting day. You start early to reach the pass. The climb is steep and may involve walking on snow, depending on the season. At the top, you get amazing views of both valleys. Then you descend to Shea Goru, which is a flat camping ground in the Spiti Valley.
• Day 4 – Shea Goru to Chatru and Drive to Chandratal
  The descent continues along the riverbed. You cross small streams and reach Chatru, where roads from Spiti, Rohtang, and Hampta meet. From here, if roads are open, you drive to Chandratal Lake.

• River crossings on makeshift bridges
• Beautiful wildflowers and meadows
• Snowfields and mountain passes
• Glimpses of Deo Tibba and Indrasan peaks
• Entering Spiti’s barren, high-altitude landscapes

After completing the trek and reaching Chatru, the journey to Chandratal Lake is by road. This route runs through the rugged terrain of Lahaul and Spiti. The road passes through Batal and follows the Chandra River.

• Distance: About 70 kilometers from Chatru
• Travel Time: 3 to 4 hours depending on road and weather conditions
• Vehicle: Only sturdy vehicles like jeeps or 4x4s can handle this route
• Permit: Sometimes a permit is needed to visit the lake depending on local rules

The drive offers views of glaciers, barren mountains, and rocky riverbeds. It is a thrilling ride on narrow roads but full of natural beauty.

If you want to skip the trek and visit Chandratal Lake directly from Manali by road, here are the key points:

• Total Distance: About 130 to 140 kilometers
• Route: Manali – Rohtang Pass – Gramphu – Batal – Chandratal
• Travel Time: 7 to 9 hours, depending on weather and road condition

This route crosses Rohtang Pass (around 13,000 feet), which is usually open from June to October. After Gramphu, the road becomes rough and dusty. From Batal, it takes about 1.5 hours to reach the Chandratal parking area, followed by a short walk to the lake.

Chandratal Lake is located at a height of 14,100 feet. The name means "Lake of the Moon" because of its crescent shape. The lake is known for its clear blue water and peaceful surroundings.

Camping Guidelines on the Chandratal Lake Trek

• Camping is not allowed within 2 to 3 kilometers of the lake to protect its ecosystem
• Campsites are set up in nearby flat areas on the way to the lake
• You can stay in fixed camps or set up your own tents with a guide

What to Expect During Camping at Chandratal Lake

• Basic tents with sleeping bags and mats
• Simple food like dal, rice, roti, vegetables
• No mobile network and limited electricity
• Star-filled sky and freezing temperatures at night

Weather Conditions During the Trek

• Daytime: Pleasant with sunshine (10°C to 15°C)
• Nighttime: Cold and windy (can drop to -2°C or lower)

Make sure to carry enough warm clothes, a headlamp, and personal medication. Oxygen levels are low at this altitude, so move slowly and stay hydrated.

The ideal time for the Hampta Pass and Chandratal Lake trek is from mid June to the end of September. During this time:

• The snow has melted from the trail
• The lake is accessible by road
• The skies are clear and views are stunning

In early June, some sections near the pass might still have snow. In October, it starts to snow again and the lake becomes hard to reach.

• Fitness
  Start walking or jogging 3 to 4 weeks before the trek to build stamina.
• Clothing
  Carry layered clothing for changing temperatures. Include a waterproof jacket and gloves.
• Footwear
  Use sturdy trekking shoes with good grip. Avoid sports shoes.
• Health
  Carry medicines for altitude sickness, cold, fever, and upset stomach. Avoid alcohol and smoking during the trek.
• Safety
  Always follow your guide’s instructions. Avoid wandering off alone.
• Eco-Friendly Travel
  Do not litter. Carry your waste back with you. Avoid using plastic bottles or wrappers.

The Hampta Pass to Chandratal Lake trek is one of the most rewarding treks in the Indian Himalayas. It offers a complete mountain experience, from green valleys to rocky deserts, from river crossings to high mountain passes. The final reward is the peaceful and breathtaking Chandratal Lake. Whether you’re trekking with friends or going solo with a guide, this journey will leave you with unforgettable memories of nature, silence, and adventure.