Best Time to Visit Chandratal Lake – A Complete Travel Guide

1. Introduction

Chandratal Lake, also known as the “Moon Lake,” is one of the most beautiful places in Himachal Pradesh. Located in the remote part of Spiti Valley, this lake attracts nature lovers, bikers, trekkers, and adventure seekers from all over India.

But unlike other places, you can’t visit Chandratal Lake throughout the year. The road to the lake remains closed for more than half of the year because of heavy snowfall. That’s why knowing the best time to visit Chandratal Lake is very important before planning your trip.

In this guide, I’ll tell you the best months to visit, what the weather is like, how to reach, what to carry, and some useful tips based on real travel experiences.

2. Where is Chandratal Lake and Why is Timing Important?

Chandratal Lake is located in Lahaul and Spiti district, at a height of about 4,300 meters (14,100 ft). The lake is around 125 km from Manali and close to Kunzum Pass, one of the highest motorable passes in the region.

Due to its high altitude and remote location, the road to Chandratal is open only for a few months every year. In the winter months (November to May), the area is fully covered with snow and is not reachable by road. Even the locals don’t go there in winter.

So, timing matters a lot when you’re planning a trip to Chandratal Lake. If you go too early or too late in the season, you may find the roads closed or camps shut down.

3. What is the Best Time to Visit Chandratal Lake?

The best time to visit Chandratal Lake is between mid-June to mid-September. During this time:

• The roads are open and safe
  
  

• Weather is pleasant
  
  

• Camping sites near the lake are open
  
  

• Sky is clear, perfect for photography
  
  

• Trekking trails are open
  
  

Let’s break it down by months:

June

• Mid-June is usually when the road from Manali via Rohtang Pass and Kunzum Pass opens.
  
  

• You may still see some snow near the lake or along the way.
  
  

• Camps start setting up during this time.
  
  

July

• Weather becomes more stable.
  
  

• The area is green and lively.
  
  

• It’s a great time for camping and photography.
  
  

• But July is also the beginning of the monsoon season.
  
  

August

• Monsoon continues, especially in lower Himachal.
  
  

• Roads can get muddy or blocked due to landslides.
  
  

• Still, many travelers visit during this time.
  
  

September

• Probably the best month to visit Chandratal.
  
  

• Monsoon ends, skies are clear, and views are sharp.
  
  

• Less crowd, peaceful experience.
  
  

Tip: If you want the best mix of beauty and comfort, visit in early or mid-September.

4. Can I Visit Chandratal Lake in Summer (June to September)?

Yes, this is the only period when the lake is open and accessible. Summer is considered the official travel season for Chandratal Lake.

• Roads are open
  
  

• Camps are running
  
  

• Weather is ideal
  
  

• Trekking routes are safe
  
  

But do remember, even in summer, nights are cold. So, carry warm clothes even if the day feels pleasant.

5. Is Chandratal Lake Open in Monsoon (July–August)?

Yes, the lake is open during the monsoon months of July and August, but there are some challenges:

• Landslides are common in the Manali–Rohtang area.
  
  

• Roads can get slippery and dangerous.
  
  

• Driving can be risky if the weather turns bad.
  
  

If you still want to travel in this time, go in the last week of August, when the rain reduces and conditions improve.

6. Can I Visit Chandratal Lake in September or October?

• September: One of the best months to go
  
  

• Clear skies, less crowd
  
  

• Comfortable weather
  
  

• Camps are still open
  
  

• October: Risky and not recommended
  
  

• Camps shut down by early October
  
  

• Temperatures drop suddenly
  
  

• Snowfall may start any time
  
  

So, avoid October unless you are fully prepared for extreme cold and are not dependent on camps or shared transport.

7. Is Chandratal Lake Open in Winter (November–May)?

No, the lake is completely closed in winter months.

• Roads are blocked with snow
  
  

• Kunzum Pass is shut
  
  

• No public or private transport
  
  

• No camps or facilities
  
  

The entire region becomes unreachable. It is not allowed or safe to go in winter.

8. Which Month is Best for Camping at Chandratal Lake?

The best months for camping are:

• Late June
  
  

• July
  
  

• August
  
  

• Early September
  
  

During this time, you’ll find several tented camps around 1.5 km from the lake. These camps offer:

• Beds and blankets
  
  

• Simple food (dal, rice, tea)
  
  

• Basic toilets
  
  

• Bonfire (in some camps)
  Note: Night temperatures can fall to 0°C or lower, even in summer. Pack accordingly.

9. How to Reach Chandratal Lake During the Best Season?

From Manali:

The most common route is:

Manali → Rohtang Pass → Gramphu → Chhatru → Batal → Chandratal

• Distance: 125 km
  
  

• Travel time: 6–8 hours
  
  

• Road condition: Good till Gramphu, then rough and narrow
  
  

Only attempt this route in mid-June to mid-September

Manali to Chandratal Lake Taxi Fare:

• Private taxi (one-way): ₹6,000 – ₹9,000
  
  

• Shared cab (if available): ₹2,000 – ₹3,000 per person
  
  

Try to share the ride with other travelers or check travel groups for cab pooling.

From Delhi:

• Take a Volvo bus from Delhi to Manali
  
  

• From Manali, hire a taxi to Chandratal
  
  

There is no direct bus or train to Chandratal Lake.

10. What Should I Pack for a Chandratal Lake Trip?

Packing right is very important. Here's a basic list:

Clothing:

• Warm jacket
  
  

• Thermal innerwear
  
  

• Woolen cap and gloves
  
  

• Rain jacket (if going in July–August)
  
  

Essentials:

• Trekking shoes
  
  

• Sunglasses and sunscreen
  
  

• Torch or headlamp
  
  

• Reusable water bottle
  
  

• Toilet paper and wet wipes
  
  

Medicines:

• For cold and fever
  
  

• Altitude sickness medicine (Diamox)
  
  

• Motion sickness tablets
  
  

Other:

• Power bank
  
  

• Identity card
  
  

• Extra cash (no ATMs nearby)
  
  

• Snacks and dry fruits
  
  

No mobile network works near the lake. BSNL may work near Batal.

11. Conclusion

If you’re planning to visit Chandratal Lake, make sure you go at the right time. The best time to visit Chandratal Lake is between mid-June to mid-September. This is when the lake is accessible, the camps are running, and nature is at its best.

Avoid going during winters or late October. Pack well, prepare in advance, and most importantly, travel responsibly. Chandratal is not just a destination — it’s an experience you’ll never forget.

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