Chandra Taal Lake in Himachal-Pradesh is the trekker’s paradise. Chandratal Lake is one of the most charismatic lakes one can come across in the laps of the Himalayas. This enticing lake is perched on the Samudra Tapu plateau which lies in close proximity to Chandra River at an altitude of 4300 meters. The lake is one of the two high-altitude wetlands of India which have been designated as Ramsar sites.
There is a brownish patch “Samundari Tapu” in the middle of the lake which a number of people have tried to reach but in vain. There is a story of a mermaid living in a glacial lake. This is also said that a shepherd from Hansa village in the Spiti valley fell in love with the fairy and spent some time with her under the water. Cranes and ducks abound in the lake.
Chandra Taal is a favorite halting-place for the shepherds because of the rich growth of grass. The water in the lake is so clear that stones at its bottom are easily visible.
Alpine vegetation grows on the surrounding moraines in summer. This lake freezes during the winter season. Its waters are crystal clear and free from pollution. A number of temples exist along the periphery of the lake.
If you are looking for a perfect blend of adventure and laidback holidays, there could not be a better site to kickstart your journey than Chandratal.
The lake is accessible on foot from Batal as well as from Kunzum Pass from late May to early October. There is also a motorable road from Batal which is 16 km (9.9 mi) away from Chandra Taal, but before August, its condition can be bad. The road from Kunzum Pass is accessible only on foot, and it is about 8 km (5.0 mi) from Chandra Taal.
Chandra Taal Lake in Himachal-Pradesh Trekking paradise……
On your way, you will also get to climb the glaciers between Kunzum pass and Rohtang Pass. This mesmerizing site has much folklore attached to itself but what lures the visitors is its turquoise blue water, majestic mountains, and serene surroundings which make it an apt place for camping.
Spread over an area of 2.5 square kilometers, Chandratal sees a massive influx of travelers during the summer months.
In the winter months, this place majorly remains on the bucket list of adventure enthusiasts who want to push past their limits.
Vast meadows on the banks of the lake are the camping sites. During springtime, these meadows are carpeted with hundreds of kinds of wildflowers. The most surprising thing about this lake is that there is no visible source of this lake but there is a visible outlet of this lake which means that water to this lake comes from underground. It reflects the ever-changing colors of the sky and you will feel bliss on its shores.