Chandratal Lake
Chandra Taal
A crescent-shaped high-altitude lake at about 4,300 m, whose water shifts from deep blue to emerald with the light. Camping in the meadows beside it and watching the Milky Way is a highlight of any Spiti trip.
Chandratal, the “Moon Lake,” takes its name from its crescent shape. It sits on the west side of Kunzum Pass. The lake is about 2.5 km around and is listed as a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance. The clear water reflects the surrounding peaks. From the parking area it is about 1.5 km on foot to the lakeshore, and walking all the way around the lake takes about 1 hour.
Camping is not allowed at the lake's edge. Campsites are on meadows about 2 km away. Night temperatures often drop below 0°C, and the starry sky is spectacular. The lake is about 85 km from Kaza. The road crosses Kunzum Pass and is only open in summer.
Opening hours
Daytime in summer
Nearby sights
- Kunzum Pass
- Chicham Bridge
- Kibber Village
- Key Monastery
- Langza Village
- Kaza Town & Sakya Tangyud Monastery
- Hikkim Post Office
- Komic Village