Where to Stay at Chandratal – Accommodation at Chandratal

by Vargis.Khan

where to stay at chandratal

For anyone planning a visit to Chandratal, the biggest question is about where to stay at Chandratal. A lot of people get confused about where they can stay, how much is it going to cost, and whether it is safe or not. In this article, I will try to answer all these questions and provide information on what your options are in terms of accommodation at Chandratal Lake.

Please note that in this article, I will only talk about the stay options at Chandratal. If you want to know how to get there, the best time to visit, which route to take, and other necessary details, please read How to Plan a Trip to Chandratal.

If you want to know about the entire Spiti Valley, I will recommend reading How to Plan a Trip to Spiti Valley.

Where to Stay at Chandratal

If you want to stay as close as possible to the lake, the only available option is of campsites. There is no cemented hotel or guest house. Chandratal is in a very secluded area and the nearest town is Losar which is miles away.

From Kunzum Pass top, a small road, barely wide enough for one car, takes you to Chandratal, about 15 kilometers away. There is no village or any locals around the lake so you have no other choice but to stay at one of the campsites.

road to chandratal

The other two nearest places where accommodation is available are Losar or Batal. In Losar, there are a few guesthouses but it is about 33 kilometers from the lake. Batal has a few more campsites and a Dhaba where you may get a bed for the night for a few hundred Rupees. Batal is approximately 16 kilometers from Chandratal.

Other than this, the next nearest hotels are in Kaza, at a distance of 58 kilometers.

dhaba at batal

Camping at Chandratal Lake

Until a few years ago, the nearest campsites were just about a kilometer away from the lake. These were also the cheapest stay at Chandratal where you could get a tent for 2 for only Rs. 500. Below is a picture that I took during my first visit here. Unfortunately, this option is no longer available.

Where to Stay at Chandratal

Chandratal is a wildlife reserve and as such, a protected area. The ecological system of the lake is very delicate. After the recent boost in tourism, a lot of people started to camp right next to Chandratal. This resulted in a lot of littering and the wildlife getting disturbed. There was even a death when a drunken guy drowned in the lake while camping there for the night.

To prevent all of this, a new rule was brought into place. Camping on the banks of Chandratal is now forbidden by law in order to not disturb its ecological system. There now cannot be a campsite anywhere in a radius of 3 kilometers of the lake and even self camping is not allowed.

As you get closer to the lake, you will reach a large ground like area where all the campsites are (the first picture in this article). Just take a look around and check into the one that you like the most.

This is the closest the camps can be now. The road from here goes for another 2 kilometers and ends at a parking-like area. You will leave your vehicle there and walk the last 1 kilometer to the lake.

Also read: Clothes for Spiti Trip – What to Pack?

Chandratal Camping Cost

What are the campsite charges at Chandratal? It pretty much depends on how well you are able to negotiate but expect it to be at least Rs. 1500 per person, meals included. Some of the campsites charge more than that as well but I am mentioning the lowest Chandratal lake camping cost that you will have to pay. No one will charge you any lesser than this.

Self Camping at Chandratal

Can you pitch your own tent at Chandratal? Yes, you can. A lot of people as a matter of fact do it. But it is always good to check with a campsite for a spot where you can camp.

Stay a bit close to the campsite; and if the owner agrees (you will need to pay for this of course) you can use their washrooms as well. Another plus point of this will be that your food can also be bought from the campsite. This will save you the hassle of cooking on your own.

Do not camp right next to the lake primarily for three reasons. One is that it is against the law and you will surely get in trouble for it. Second is that wild animals come to this lake at night so for water so it is unsafe as well.

The third reason is that the locals here, the shepherds to be precise, treat Chandratal as their own property; and you will be surprised to know that all the owners pay them money for running their campsites at the lake. You really do not want a local at your camp arguing and demanding that either you pay or pack up your tent.

Charges for pitching your own tent near to a campsite are Rs. 300-500 per tent. Pay that and you can use the campsite washroom facilities as well.

How Hygienic are the Camps at Chandratal?

Considering the kind of money you will be paying at these campsites, you would expect these camps to be pretty neat and yes they are. The inside of the tent, bedding, and blankets are all very clean. But as I said, take a look around and check into the one that is per your liking.

Where to Stay at Chandratal

How are the Washroom Facilities at Chandratal Camps?

Depending on the charges, some camps offer attached washrooms and some offer a common washroom. You may want to check the washrooms yourself once before you decide to stay.

Also read: Mobile Network & Data Connectivity in Spiti Valley

How Safe are the Campsites at Chandratal?

These are quite safe but then there is also the point that a person’s safety is in their own hands. Do not wander around at night; stay on the trek while going towards the lake and you will be all right. You will find both men and women at the campsites so there is no issue at all of women safety.

How is the Food at Chandratal Camps?

I cannot really make a generic comment on this; because the quality of the food will be different for each camp. But no matter where you stay, it will not be horrible.

The menu will only comprise of simple vegetarian dishes. Liquor is also not available for sale at any of the camps. If you brought your own, then yes, you can have it.

I will strongly advise against consuming alcohol at such an altitude and in the middle of nowhere. If it triggered altitude sickness at night, you will have nowhere to go and no help to get.

Is Hot water available?

Yes, all the campsites at Chandratal have the facility of hot water. But expect it to be in buckets, not running hot water. It will be boiled on a stove and given to you so you also will have to use it a little conservatively.

Hotel at Chandratal Lake

There are no hotels near Chandratal. The nearest hotels you will find are in Kaza or a couple of small guesthouses in Losar.

PWD Guest House Batal

Batal also has a PWD rest house. In case you want to stay in a cemented building; then this will be the best choice if you are able to find the caretaker and talk him into letting you stay. Chances are that you will find it locked and the caretaker gone. I have been on Spiti Circuit numerous times and never have I found him available.

If by some miracle, the caretaker was there at the rest house, he will not let you stay. He will ask you to talk to the Dhaba owner in front of the guest house and book a campsite there.

But nonetheless, the PWD rest house Batal is a great option to stay within walls for a night. Please note though that there is no electricity here, no TV and even though you stayed at the rest house, you will still be eating out at the Dhaba.

Batal also has the facility of a satellite phone, the number of which is 08991722020. If you want to call in advance and inquire about booking the PWD guest house; you can do so at this number. It belongs to the Dhaba owner at Batal.

How to reach Chandratal?

The best way to reach Chandratal is by your own vehicle. You reach Kunzum Pass top and from there you take the small road that I posted a picture of above. The road is hard to miss, and there is a large board as well which will point you in its direction.

If you are not using your own vehicle, then the next best option is to hire a private taxi from either Manali or Kaza, depending on which side you are coming from.

Shared taxis on this route are not that frequent and it may be a while before you find one. There is a bus from Manali to Kaza and back which starts early in the morning from both Kaza and Manali that you can board.

Keep in mind though that the bus and shared taxis will only drop you at Kunzum Pass from where you will have to walk 14 kilometers to Chandratal. There is no bus service or shared taxis from Kunzum Pass to Chandratal.

bike trip to chandratal

Is there any wildlife at Chandratal?

Chandratal is a sweet water lake in the middle of nowhere so yes, there is a lot of vegetation around it and wild animals do visit the lake for drinking water.

I happened to be one of the lucky ones to see a wild animal near our campsite, I am not sure what it was but it looked like either a fox or a wolf. It was definitely not a dog and we all could tell that by the way it was growling and the howling noise it made. But this was a rare incident. Chances of you running into a wild animal are extremely rare.

Are there any Shops?

No there aren’t so bring whatever you think you may need; like cigarettes if you smoke. It is better to buy from either Kaza or Manali, depending on which side you are coming from, and carry it along with you.

Hotel at Kunzum Pass

There is no hotel at Kunzum Pass or any other sort of accommodation available. Kunzum Pass is a high altitude pass that remains closed for 7 months in the year. There cannot be a hotel here.

Also read: Recommended Guest Houses & Hotels in Spiti Valley

Camping at Chandratal

I have been at Chandratal many times and it is indeed a great experience. Camping in the middle of nowhere where you will sleep under two blankets in even July is a memory that you will cherish for long. The lake is extremely beautiful and the road to it is extremely adventurous. If you have even the slightest interest in photography, you will get some amazing landscape photos.

Is it Safe?

Let us talk a little in terms of safety. A lot of families and couples stay here so women safety is not really a problem. The concern will be in terms of acute mountain sickness, extremely cold weather, and dangerous road.

I will not recommend staying here for the night if you had young kids with you, less than 5 years of age. In that case, you should make a day trip to the lake.

The road to Chandratal is a very narrow stretch and you will have to be good at the wheel if you are coming by car. It will probably be the most adventurous road you have ever been on.

Acute Mountain Sickness at Chandratal

If you were traveling on Spiti Circuit from Shimla side, you will not face altitude sickness at Chandratal. By then, your body would have acclimatized and you will be Ok.

But if you were coming from Manali to Chandratal, then yes, you may face some symptoms of mountain sickness. The idea is to stay warm and no exhaust yourself. If you can, you should first go to Kaza, spend a day there, and then cover Chandratal while on your way back to Manali. For more details on this, please read How to Handle Acute Mountain Sickness in Spiti Valley.

Hotels in Losar

Losar is just a small village so there are no big hotels here. But it does have a few small guesthouses and homestays where you can stay for the night.

Bonfire at Chandratal

You cannot do bonfires anymore. It is forbidden by law and none of the campsites will allow you to light a fire at night. The below picture is from my first trip here when we were able to do a bonfire until late at night.

bike trip to chandratal

Accommodation at Chandratal Lake – Conclusion

I hope the information above regarding where to stay at Chandratal was of help. If you have any further questions, please feel free to ask in the comments section below; or at our Community Forum; and I will be glad to answer.

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177 comments

Ayushi May 8, 2023 - 1:37 pm

Hi we are planning chandrataal lake in first week of june. Can u suggest good campsites and any particular person whom we can contact for booking?

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Kavita June 14, 2023 - 2:44 pm

We are planning to stay chandratal camp on 16 night…Will i be able to get camp on the spot or i need to contact anyone to book prior reaching Chandratal

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Anuj July 7, 2022 - 4:54 am

Hi Vargis, great information as always…
If suppose we are ok with cooking our own food, how close to lake, we could camp ???

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Thakurdas Goswami May 26, 2022 - 5:16 pm

Hello sir,
I have plan to visit chandratall from KAZA on 9th oct’22 and i also want to stay chandratall Parasol Chandertal camp at night. Is it possible to view the chandratall lake in moonlight ? Is the chandratal lake visible from camp at night or will be have to travel to the lake from the camp at night/morning. we are traveling in inova and there are 6 member in group.

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Dr Ajay Sharma June 9, 2022 - 2:29 pm

Hi dear Varggis, Great information. Thanks . We 5 guys 60-67 of age , planning to visit Chandra taal from Chandigarh. How long does it take from Manali to Kaza by own Brezza ?! And from kaza to chandr taal ?

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Thakurdas Goswami May 26, 2022 - 5:15 pm

Hello sir,
I have plan to visit chandratall from KAZA on 9th oct’22 and i also want to stay chandratall Parasol Chandertal camp at night. Is it possible to view the chandratall in moonlight ? Is the chandratal lake visible from camp at night or will be have to travel to the lake from the camp at night/morning. we are traveling in inova and there are 6 member in group.

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Pranay May 14, 2022 - 10:38 am

We have planned to stay at chandrataal lake on 23rd June , should I get tent at site or have to book in advance
I am eagerly waiting for your response
Thanks sir

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Vargis.Khan May 15, 2022 - 1:20 pm

You will easily get one on the spot. No need to book

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Ankur Jarial May 11, 2022 - 11:33 pm

In may 14-18 that is 2nd week. The area near kunzum pass is still having snow. So by any chance will we be able to get tents in chandrataal at this time.

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Vargis.Khan May 15, 2022 - 1:29 pm

Tents are available now

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Somya April 14, 2022 - 9:45 am

Helloo,
Any idea if Chandrataal isn’t frozen by 10th May onwards?
We are planning a trip from Delhi to Kaza by will only plan if Chandrataal lake isn’t frozen.
Please suggest!

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Vargis.Khan April 14, 2022 - 11:24 am

It is frozen only from Jan to March, not in May.

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Kishan Lal May 7, 2023 - 4:34 pm

Sir batal m stay k liya contact no apnay show kiya h but no.are not correct. Pl send me no.

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Vargis.Khan May 8, 2023 - 5:48 am

Bhai mere paas us time ke yahi contacts the. Udhar network nahi aata toh that could be the reason

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Aditya Dubey September 19, 2021 - 8:45 pm

Thanks for the best info Sir
can we go chantrala lake by renting bike at manali and do we need any type of permit for visting chandrtala by rented bike?

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sanyog murdia July 2, 2021 - 2:16 pm

hi vargis….can you suggest any reliable tent operator at chandrataal other than jamaica and with contact details if you have….also can you suggest good hotels to stay in Kaza for couples…

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Vargis.Khan July 2, 2021 - 7:26 pm

Hi Sanyog – You can talk to Ajay @ 93019 04027

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Pradipta Ghosh March 12, 2021 - 9:05 am

Thanks for very informative and nice information Vergese. I am planning Chandratal around middle of June, this year with my family of 3 of us aged between 15 to 52 years . If I get dropped by a bus or shared jeep from Kaza to Kunjum top and trek 14 kilometers to Chandratal and if, by chance, every single accommodation in the campsite is full, then any suggestion about how to deal with the crisis? We generally move in public transport and without detailed and and specific staying plans. We have been to kaza in 2019 May. What are the chances that we won’t get an accommodation at the campsites

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Priyank Sinha March 11, 2020 - 11:50 am

Hi,could you please suggest some good campsite operators at Chandrataal lake as we are planning to visit in July.
Thanks

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Vargis.Khan March 11, 2020 - 7:41 pm

You can try Jamaica’s camps

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Chandratal Status 2020 | Chandratal Lake Road Status - Vargis Khan October 28, 2019 - 1:43 am

[…] Accommodation at Chandratal […]

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Sagnik January 28, 2020 - 5:22 am

Hi,
Do I need to book camps in advance if I am heading Chandrataal in September ? Will I be able to get caps for staying after reaching there??
Thank you in advance

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Vargis.Khan January 28, 2020 - 6:25 pm

No need to book in advance. You can easily find camps on the spot.

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Swarnali Dasgupta August 30, 2021 - 7:28 pm

Hello.. Loved ur blog.. We r planning to stay in a campsite on 1st october. Any idea if its going yo be subzero in the night? Will it be too cold to stay in a tent? Planning to stay at Sakya camp.. Thanks in advance

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Anil Nouduri September 23, 2019 - 8:36 am

Hi Vargis,

I am planning for a 2 day one night trip to Spiti valley..here is what I am planning.

16-Oct’19 – Start early morning around 6 AM from Manali.Stop at Rohtang pass for sometime..via Kunzum paas visit Chandratal lake and stop at few places on the way to Kaza.Reach Kaza by 6-7 PM and end the day.
17th-Oct’19 – Start by 8 AM from Kaza visit Key Monastery and any other place if possible and back to Manali by 7-8 PM

Considering the extreme weather during that period,not planning to stay for long.

Please let me know if it is feasible.

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Vargis.Khan September 23, 2019 - 11:19 pm

Hi Anil – The first question is how are you traveling?

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Vivek Agarwal August 9, 2021 - 8:55 am

Hi Anil… I have the same question! In fact I m planning to take bus from delhi to people on 17th oct and 18 th to 19 people yo kaza hrtc bus. Then from kaza rent a bike and tour around villages. Did you do it? How was it? Please tell me. Also was chandratal camping open that time? Thank you

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Anit Nobert August 3, 2019 - 5:06 am

Hi Vargis. Thanks a lot for the detailed explanation. Is it feasible to start from Kaza early morning then cover Chandratal Lake and head towards Manali so that we could reach by evening/night. We are planning to hire a taxi for this day trip. October 2 to October 8 is when we were planning for Spiti. Any issues with that time period?

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Vargis.Khan August 3, 2019 - 6:16 am

Hi Anit – Yes you can do it and the timing is fine as well.

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Ash June 30, 2019 - 3:36 pm

This blog is awesome.
We 3 friends are planning to go to chandratal lake during first week of August.Is it a good time to visit nd do we have to book before hand?

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Vargis.Khan June 30, 2019 - 4:11 pm

You do not have to book beforehand but it is going to be rainy season so be prepared

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DEbendra Shaw June 18, 2019 - 6:24 am

Hi
Is there any braething problem at Chandra Taal

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Sachin June 12, 2019 - 7:54 am

I have a new swift dzire fully automatic transmission in which one can have a manual drive also . Want to vo from mashobra to sarhan to kalpa to kaza chndratal manali and then back to delhi. Want to leave delhi around 25th June and be back by 7th ir 8th july. Is it doable in this time frame on a swift dzire? Or should I dent a car from narkandA? In that case what will be the cost? Thanks

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Vargis.Khan June 12, 2019 - 12:31 pm

No you can do it in a Dzire but if it is a choice, then renting an SUV will be better. And rent one from Delhi itself. There are no rentals in Narkanda.,

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Sachin June 13, 2019 - 5:06 am

Thanks. I am clear about your reply. Can I do it in a dzire or not?

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Vargis.Khan June 13, 2019 - 1:00 pm

You can do it but the risk of damaging the car’s underbelly and getting stuck will remain. You will have to be extremely careful.

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Ritvik May 19, 2019 - 1:26 pm

Hi Vargis

I am starting from Chandigarh on June7th via Shimla/Kaza and planning to reach Chandratal around 13th June. Do you have any insight on the condition of roads from Kaza to Chandratal.. I am slightly apprehensive about doing Chandratal and return via Manali because I have heard that Chandratal and Rohtang is closed around mid june. My initial plan was to return via Chandrataal>>Manali.. Can you please advise on the same?
Thanks in advance

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Vargis.Khan May 19, 2019 - 4:20 pm

It will be open by Mid June Ritvik so you can do it. And Kaza – Manali road is always in a bad condition.

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Mriganka Bera June 5, 2019 - 1:41 am

Hi, Vargis
Please tell me the opening date of manali to kaza road.

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Vargis.Khan June 5, 2019 - 3:59 pm

It should open in another week Mriganka

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Prakhar Singh May 13, 2019 - 4:29 pm

Hi Vargis,

We are a group of 6 people and we are planning to do camping at Chandratal lake probably on 6th or 7th June. Can you please tell me if the camps are available on the spot or do we have to pre-book them by any sort?
Also, it would be really helpful if you can tell the status of leh-manali- rohtang-kunzum road, will it be open by 5th June?

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Vargis.Khan May 14, 2019 - 2:15 pm

Plan your trip after 10th June Prakhar. There is a high chance that the camping at the lake may not be available before that.

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tarunbikas biswas May 10, 2019 - 3:51 pm

We a senior citizen couple will be going to Chandratal & Pin Valley on 3rd week of june’19 and have a circular tour either from chandigarh- manali- kaza- recong pio- chandigarh or vice versa…..kindly let me know can we visit chandratal from kaza and cmoe back same day to kaza ? what may be the taxi fare ? and will there be any problem in june 3rd week to come from recong pio to kaza crossing malling nala ?

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Vargis.Khan May 10, 2019 - 11:39 pm

Yes Mr. Biswas. You can travel Chandratal and back to Kaza on the same way. And no, there will be any problem around Malling as long as you have some decent driving experience.

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Amit Banerjee May 1, 2019 - 8:58 am

Hi Vargis ,
I am planning to go Spirit in 2nd week of October and would like to go Chandratal on 15th October . Can I expect camp site to be open that time ?

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Vargis.Khan May 1, 2019 - 1:51 pm

Hi Amit – It entirely depends on how the weather will be October, hard to predict right now. Historically, they wrap up for the season between 10th and 15th

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Shatabdi Chakraborty March 28, 2019 - 3:34 pm

If a solo traveler wants to stay at the tent what’s the deal? Are there tents available for one person? Or are all of them meant for a couple or more?

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Vargis.Khan March 28, 2019 - 4:51 pm

There are smaller tents available as well for one person.

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Abhijeet February 24, 2019 - 7:12 am

Hi Vargis,

Thanks a lot for all the information that you have provided. I am planning road trip to Spiti in May 2019 with my family of 2 kids. I plan to start from Simla side and comeback from Manali side. I am not too keen on tented accommodation and would prefer staying in cemented accommodation. From all the reading that I have done, looks like Losar is the only plane nearby which has decent accommodation.
Assuming if Manal-Spiti road gets opened by May end, can I do Losar-Chandratal-Manali on the same day? If that is not possible, how practical is the idea of doing Losar-Chandratal-Losar staying at Losar again for the night and then starting for Manali next day?

Many Thanks
Abhijeet

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Vargis.Khan February 24, 2019 - 9:49 pm

Hi Abhijeet,

Cemented accommodation at Losar: Yes it is available.
Losar – Chandratal – Manali: You can do it but it will give you very less time at the lake and you will reach Manali after dark because of the traffic at Rohtang.

You can go back to Losar as well if you want to spend a few hours at the lake having fun, it is doable yes.

There are a few problems here. If you started by first light of the day from Losar to make it to Chandratal and go back to Manali, then you would run into the traffic coming back from Chandratal in the morning. As you can see in the picture above, it is a very narrow road, barely wide enough for one car. So with vehicles moving from Chandratal to Batal in the morning, it will become tricky for you. Ideally, until 10, traffic moves from Chandratal towards Kaza. And after 10, vehicles coming from Kaza reach Kunzum and go towards Chandratal.

A deviation from Kunzum to Chandratal to Kunzum would at least take 3 hours, could even be more.

If I was you, I would go for option # 2. Take an easy start from Losar at about 9 or 10 in the morning, no rush. Reach Chandratal, walk around the lake, have fun and go back to Losar. Next day, take the same route back till Kunzum Pass and go to Manali.

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Abhijeet March 4, 2019 - 8:14 am

Thanks a lot Vargis. Will take your suggestion about little late start from Losar to avoid the oncoming traffic from Chandratal.

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Vargis.Khan March 4, 2019 - 5:41 pm

You are welcome brother !!! Let me know how your trip went.

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Soumillya February 17, 2019 - 2:31 pm

Hi Vargis
Thanks to your blog our Lahaul spiti plan is in full swing.
we want to prebook tent for chandrataal for end of aug. could you please let us know a good accommodation and their contact details?
Appreciate it.
Regards
Soumillya

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Vargis.Khan February 17, 2019 - 4:25 pm

Hi Soumillya – Can you check back with me in July or August please before you go? I will route you to someone at that time and you can book then.

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Samar Modak April 2, 2021 - 12:20 pm

Can you provide me the mobile/WhatsApp number of Jamaica’s camp in Chandrataal?I am planning for the next June.

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Adarsh September 14, 2018 - 1:46 pm

Thanks a lot for the information provided in this Blog Vargis. You just made things easier for me 🙂

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Vargis.Khan September 14, 2018 - 2:09 pm

Thanks for taking the time to drop a note Adarsh. I am glad that the information posted was of help.

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Vikram Malhotra August 2, 2018 - 10:00 am

Hi Vargis
Your blog is really helpful!

I wanted to ask if Jamaica’s camps are still a good place to stay? Since, I saw some not so good reviews about them. Please let me know. Additionally, we are planning a trip at the end of August, due to time constraints. Is it a good time to go?

Thanks in advance.

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Vargis.Khan August 2, 2018 - 7:21 pm

Vikram Bhai a few people have come back and provided negative reviews this year so I really do not want to recommend as of now. My advice would be that you arrive at the lake, check out a few camp sites and pick the one that you like. There are about 10 different camps there, all in the same ground like area, so you won’t even have to go too far. Jamaica’s camp are a bit away from rest, on the right side of the road. Take a look at his tents, if you like then you may stay otherwise take a look at any of the others.

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Vargis.Khan August 2, 2018 - 7:22 pm

To answer your other question, yes end of August is fine. It won’t be raining too much by then, the intensity of monsoon would have reduced.

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manindr July 28, 2018 - 6:56 am

Thanks Buddy … I am planning to go there hope it would help…..

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Vargis.Khan July 28, 2018 - 4:59 pm

Thanks Manindr

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Tushar July 8, 2018 - 1:10 pm

Hi Vargis. Thanks a lot for your highly informative blog. It has been of much help.
Just wanted to confirm – Is Mid August suitable for visiting Chandrataal Lake ?
I’m planning a trip from 12th to 16th Aug .

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Vargis.Khan July 8, 2018 - 9:00 pm

Hi Tushar – It is not the best of the times to go but yes, you can plan a trip in August as well. Be prepared for rain and riding through some fierce nallahs though.

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kamal Sharma June 23, 2018 - 9:26 am

hi
your blog is of great help. I am leaving from chandigarh and will be staying in sangla for the first night, then will head to kaza for the second night. For the third night, i am planning to stay in manali. Can you please brief me, what things to do during our trip.

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Vargis.Khan June 23, 2018 - 3:08 pm

The time is way too short and there really isn’t much that you can do. Most of your time is going to be spent on the road traveling.

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Siddhant Bitla June 9, 2018 - 6:25 pm

Hi Vargis,
Hope your doing good!

Request you to kindly go through my itinerary and suggest if any changes need to be done.

Day 1 : Chandigarh to Smila and stay in Narkand.. 17th Aug 180KM
Day 2: Narkanda to Chitkul 18th Aug 185 KM
Day 3: Chitkul – Gue Village – Tabo 19th Aug – 220 KM (Mummy Stupa)
Day 4: Tabo – Dhankar – Mud Village – Pin valley 20th Aug 65 KM
Day 5: Pin valley – Kaza – KI – Kibber – Gette – Tashigang – Kaza 21st Aug 50 KM
Day 6: Kaza – Hikkim – Komik – Langza –Losar – Kunzum – chandratal lake 22nd Aug – 120 KM
Day 7: Chandratal –Rotang pass – Kasol 23rd Aug – 205 KM
Day 8: Kasol – Chandigarh 24th Aug 290 KM
Day 9 25th Aug Buffer day…

Also, let me know if this is achievable in the worst situations.(Kindly Ignore KM)

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Vargis.Khan June 11, 2018 - 3:20 pm

Hi Siddhant. Your itinerary is good and definitely doable.

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Noel K John June 4, 2018 - 1:30 pm

Amazing blog! You mentioned a camp site guy Jamaica in another one if your blog, is it possible to tent with him if we have our own tent?

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Vargis.Khan June 5, 2018 - 9:14 pm

Thank you. Yes, you can pitch your own tent as well. You can pay him for a spot and in return, you can also use his washrooms.

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Anirban Maitra May 7, 2021 - 9:24 pm

Hi Vargis,
Your blog is really helpful. My question is can I do it Manali-Chandrataal- Manali using atal tunnel on a same day (using my own bike)? If not then please tell me about the availability of accommodation in Batal Dhaba. Thanks in advance

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mansi May 29, 2018 - 5:41 pm

hi loved your blog for spiti its very helpful.. we are 4 ppl traveling to spiti starting to trip from shimla and ending at manali. can you help me with few things:
1) is july a good time to travel?
2) does ti rain in july?
3) how are the road conditions through out , specially chandrataal to manali, we will be traveling by innova
4) which camp options are available in chandrataal?

thanks

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Rajesh Narayanan May 17, 2018 - 11:49 am

Hi vargis, we are planning to do a Spiti trip starting 26th jul to 2ng aug. I would to know if v should do a round trip from Chandigarh – Shimla – kaza – Manali – to chandigarh or to n fro via Manali considering the number of days. V will reach Chandigarh on 1st day by 12 afternoon…then travel via rented car. If v do round trip, Will we be able to explore enough places ?

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Vargis.Khan May 17, 2018 - 6:02 pm

Hello Rajesh – If you have 6-7 days from Chandigarh then yes, you can definitely do the circuit. I will recommend it.

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Aman Jain May 16, 2018 - 8:21 am

Hi, we’re planning a trip to Spiti valley around june end. We were planning to stay near chandrataal lake on 29th. Can you help us as to how should we go about with the booking.

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Vargis.Khan May 17, 2018 - 2:47 am

Drop a message to Jamaica on Watsapp at 9418200183. Let him know which date you will be at Chandratal and that is it.

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Anjali Mayne May 14, 2018 - 10:07 am

Hi Vargis!
We’re planning on visiting Chandratal lake around the first week of June this year. Do I need to carry a sleeping bag of some form to stay at the campsite for additional warmth or are the blankets provided there enough?

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Vargis.Khan May 15, 2018 - 5:30 pm

Hi Anjali – No need to carry anything. The beddding provided will be very warm and comfortable.

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Suraj Bavda May 4, 2018 - 5:11 am

Hello Vargis bhai,
Thank you for the help you are providing !
I am planning from manali to spiti on bike and haulting at chandratal on the way to spiti, so i saw in above comments that we can easily get tents over there and no need to pre book, so i wanted to know what are the rates of tent there per tent, and i can get to stay in spiti without pre booking too?
I am travelling in mid of June.

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Vargis.Khan May 4, 2018 - 3:16 pm

Hi Suraj Bhai – Expect the price of the tent to be around Rs. 1500 per person at least including meals.

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Ayush sharma April 16, 2018 - 4:37 am

As soon as I see a blog written by you,I read it…they are so useful.. am planning a trip to kaza in june.. can you please tell that is rented bike available in kaza for chandratal or rohtang? If yes what are its charges?

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Vargis.Khan April 16, 2018 - 10:54 am

Thanks Ayush. Yes rented motorcycles are available there. Rent is between Rs. 1200 to Rs. 1500 depending on which bike you chose.

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Chirag March 18, 2018 - 5:31 am

Thanks for the information Buddy! It was a great read.

just wanted to know a couple of things,
Where are the rohtang pass timings given?
Also does it rain during end of July?
Is pre booking required at the chandrataal campsite for the 2/3 week of july!

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Vargis.Khan March 19, 2018 - 6:24 pm

Hello Chirag,

1. Rohtang timings to control the traffic are only declared after the pass is open.
2. Yes it does
3. No you do not have to book in advance. Plenty of options to chose from on the spot.

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Krishna March 15, 2018 - 7:06 am

Hi Vargis Bhai,

We are planning to drive from Mussoorie to Kaza via Rampur, Tabo and then to Chandrataal and take the return journey via Manali to Shimla. Our plan is :

Day 1 Mussoorie to Rampur
Day 2 Rampur to Kaza
Day 3 Kaza to Chandrataal (Stay at some camp)
Day 4 Rest at ChandraTaal (Camp)
Day 5 Chandrataal to Manali
Day 6 Rest at Manali
Day 7 Manali to Shimla

Can you please tell me if this kind of plan is possible in early May between 3rd May to 9th May? Looking at the progress of the road clearance work do you think it is possible the Manali- Kaza route opens by then?

And finally do we need any permit to take any of these routes from any of the offices?

Thanks in Advance
Krishna

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Vargis.Khan March 19, 2018 - 6:41 pm

Hello Krishna Bhai,

1. No permit needed
2. Road may not open that early. Camp sites too at Chandratal do not get functional until early June.
3. Your first two days of the travel are very long and hectic.

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Krishna March 20, 2018 - 6:01 am

In that case is there any alternate place to stay from where we can have a visit to Chandrataal and then head back to that place?

Also what would be your suggestion to split up the first 2 days into 3 days of travel? Where can we stop in between?

Thanks,
Krishna

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Vargis.Khan March 20, 2018 - 2:37 pm

You cannot cover Manali route at this time. The only way to visit Chandratal is to make it a day trip from Kaza, and that too will highly depend on the road conditions at Kunzum top.

From Mussorie, reach Shimla on Day 1, then Shimla to Reckong Peo on Day 2 and then to Kaza on Day 3.

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Nikhil March 14, 2018 - 10:46 am

Hi Vargis, I am planning solo trip from Delhi to Spiti in first week of July. I also plan to trek to Chandratal Lake, is it possible to get camps without pre-booking. Or do I need to inform the tent owners in advance.

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Vargis.Khan March 14, 2018 - 2:39 pm

Hi Nikhil, No need to pre-book. You will easily find a place to stay without booking.

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prabir das January 5, 2018 - 8:01 am

hi
mr khan
I am planning to come after 15 th oct 2018
is rotangpass open and can stay atchandratal?

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Vargis.Khan January 5, 2018 - 5:36 pm

Hello Mr. Das – Rohtang Pass will be open but accommodation at Chandratal may become a challenge. The camp sites usually warp up by October 10th

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Anil Haria October 26, 2017 - 12:02 pm

Hi Mr Vargis, it has been a very informative blog.
I had read dat u need inner line permit for crossing rothang pass.. but id i wish to do lahul-spiti circuit from shimla & out from manali, are the permits still required then?.
If yes, then from where should i get it?
Thanks in advance
Anil

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Vargis.Khan October 29, 2017 - 9:22 pm

Hello Mr. Haria – Thank you for appreciating the blog. You do not need any permit if you start from Shimla and exit at Manali.

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virender hira September 20, 2017 - 6:17 pm

Hello Mr.Khan,

We are 5 people planning to visit Chandrataal and the places around during the 2nd October Weekend.

Day1- Reaching Manali by 9 in the morning, and then leaving for Chandrataal maybe around 12 noon. First question- Is it possible to reach before dark, if we leave manali around 12? We will be hiring a taxi for travelling beyond Manali.
What is the nearest camp site? Women are travelling with us, so are there any options for a guest house?
Day2- Going to Chandrataal, it should take half a day to cover chandrataal? right?
If we leave for Kaza maybe in second half of the day, will it be possible, what are the best places to visit/stay?
Day3- Exploring Kaza and what all places can be explored around? As we don’t wish to spend time on road that much.
Day4-Early morning leaving for Manali.

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Vargis.Khan September 21, 2017 - 2:55 pm

Hello Mr. Hira,

First thing you need to worry about is the permit for Rohtang Pass. It would be best that you book a taxi in advance and let the driver and the rental company know to keep the permits arrange beforehad so that you can be on your way to Chandratal the moment you arrive at Manali. If you reach there by 9, call the driver and have him pick you from the bus stand and be on your way to Kaza straight away. Do not halt at Chandratal. On Day 2, explore Kaza. On Day 3, Come to Chandratal from Kaza and return to Manali on Day 4. I am asking you to go to Kaza first because of Altitude sickness. Chanddratal is in the middle of nowhere and in case you need medical help becuase of altitude sickness, there is nowhere to go. Reach Kaza first, spend a couple of there days, rest and let you body adjust at a good hotel and then camp at Chandratal.

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Tarun Kaushik September 13, 2017 - 4:24 pm

Hi Vargis,

Nice and informative blogpost.

My friend and me, are planning a budget trip to Spiti (esp. the monasteries) and Chandrataal. We will be in Shimla on 25th. We have to return to Delhi max by 3rd Oct.

Is it possible to cover the major attractions (I do not wish to miss the Kye, Tabo and campstay at Chandrataal) in the limited time?

Can you suggest a rough itinerary? We shall be travelling mostly by public transport!

Thanks in anticipation 🙂

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Vargis.Khan September 15, 2017 - 4:25 pm

Hi Tarun – Yes it is possible to cover most of Spiti within that time frame. Finding public transport however could be a bit of a challenge. Take a look at this post, will help you plan better. Let me know if you have any further questions.

https://vargiskhan.com/log/travel-spiti-valley-by-bus-taxi-services/

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Tarun Kaushik September 19, 2017 - 5:12 pm

Thanks Vargis,

Considering your plan and our limited time, we have planned to take a bike on rent at Manali. One rider with pillion.

The plan we made is as follows:

We leave Delhi at 6pm by Bus
Day 1: We reach Manali at around 10.00 am. Rent a bike, and take off to Chandrataal. Take a campsite. Preferably Jamaica’s.

Day 2: Leave for Kaza at 11.00am. Reach there by 5pm. Take a homestay.(PLEASE SUGGEST ANY, if possible. I am aslo looking in Airbnb.)

Day 3: Visit Kye Monastery. Leave for Tabo at around 3.00pm. Reach Tabo and take a homestay. (PLEASE SUGGEST ANY, if possible)

Day 4: Return to Manali after visiting Tabo Monastery.

Please note that this plan is just based on reading blogs. I am sure this contains multiple flaws.I would like that you have a look at this and suggest some edits.

Thanking you in advance!!

Tarun Kaushik

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Vargis.Khan September 20, 2017 - 2:45 pm

Hi Tarun – The biggest hindrance in your plan is of Rohtang Permits. You cannot just reach Manali, rent a bike and be on your way. You will also have to arrange the permits which can take up to a day. You submit the documents before in first half of the day and then go back to DM office to collector the permits in second half. Since you are renting a a bike in Manali, you cannot even apply online. Better would be to first call a rental agency in Manali and ask them if they can keep the permits ready as well, but then you will be stuck with whatever motorcycle they gave you. You will not have the option of trying another rental agency in case you did not like the bikes offered.

Kye Monastery is on the way to Kaza from Chandratal, about 10 kilometers before the town so you can visit it either while going to Kaza or while returning from Kaza on last day. No need to come back on Day 3.

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Nikhil September 9, 2017 - 6:23 pm

Hey we are 7 people with a innova. Will it be possible to visit rohtang in morning and camp at night at chadratal lake? We would be traveling on 1st and 2nd of October.
And also both the number provided of batal satellite phone and Jamaicas are unable to be reached, is there any special time when i should contact them
Thanks in advance 🙂

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Vargis.Khan September 9, 2017 - 8:49 pm

Hi Nikhil – If you mean start from Manali in the morning, cross Rohtang and reach Chandratal to stay for the night then yes, the answer is yes. Phone connectivity is a problem in Spiti so that could be reason you are unable to reach anyone. Nevertheless, just reach there and look for Jamaica’s camps. He will be there till 7th-8th of October. Give my reference and he will take good care of you at a discounted price.

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Arka August 30, 2017 - 6:19 am

I have a tent and the necessary camping supplies. Planning to visit in mid-late September in my own 4×4. I haven’t been to Chandratal but it seems there is a place to park the vehicle about 1 km from Chandratal? I was thinking of parking the vehicle there, spending some time at Chandratal and then head towards Samudri Tapu and camp there. Is this doable? Should leaving the vehicle near Chandratal overnight is an option?

Thanks in advance!

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Arka August 30, 2017 - 6:29 am

The iterneray is a bit like:
– Day 1 – Leave from Manali early in the morning. Reach Chandratal and stay near one of the camp sites in my tent.
– Day 2 – Park vehicle near Chandratal in the morning. Spend some time at Chandratal and then towards Samudri Tapu. Spend evening and night there.
– Day 3 – Leave early in the morning and head back to Manali directly.

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Vargis.Khan August 31, 2017 - 5:02 pm

Actually the spot is about 2 kilometers away. Do not camp annywhere near the lake though, it is forbidden by the law. Plus the local shepherds here think the lake belongs to them so they may too bother you for money. Then also the fact that there is wildlife here so all alone in middle of nowhere can be a bit of a risk. Wildlife, I have encountered myself. I cannot tell you what it was but all that we heard was a growling sound and a pair of eyes in the dark. We were a group of 7 – 10 people and all of us heard / saw it.

If you want to camp on your own, then best is to pitch your tent near a camping site. They will take a bit of money but will give you a nice spot and also allow to use their washrooms.

For Samudri Tapu, same things applies. You can camp there but seek guidance at the camping sites at Chandratal and if possible, take a guide from there.

I would recommend that you camp with Jamaica at Chandratal, number is on the tents that I posted pics of. Give my reference and he will take good care of you, will help with camping at Samudri Tapu as well.

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Sanchit Dhawan August 29, 2017 - 4:10 pm

Thanks for the information Mr. Khan. I am travelling from Delhi to Kaza via Kinnaur and back via Manali from 1st to 10th September. Could you please advise on the road conditions and any rains/landslides/road blocks i could expect at this point of the year.
I am driving on my Ecosport and hope that should not be a problem. Thanks. Sanchit

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Vargis.Khan August 29, 2017 - 8:41 pm

Hello Sanchit Bhai – There is currently a damaged section of the road after Nako, at Malling Nallah. The entire road actually got washed out in landslide. It is still under work and a bit risky to cross, as I was told told a couple of days ago. People are however still crossing it and reaching Kaza so you can go, but just be careful. Rest the entire route is open. Expect rain around Kinnaur and Manali.

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Nazim August 27, 2017 - 9:23 am

As Salamu Alaikum Mr Vargis,

I am planning for trip to Spiti in third weekend. Can you help in assisting cab facility from Manali and Kaza.

Is there a home stay in Kibber as I read that it’s an amazing place for stargazing.
Please provide mobile number of campsite

Thanks

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Vargis.Khan August 28, 2017 - 2:29 pm

Walaikum As-Salam Nazim Bhai,

For cab facility, please contact Jamaica in Kaza @ 9418200183

Regarding your trip to Kibber, please take a look at the post below.

https://vargiskhan.com/log/plan-trip-kaza-to-kibber-gette-tashigong/

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Gourav August 25, 2017 - 4:03 pm

Could you assist with info abt where to Rent bikes in KAZA from ?

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Vargis.Khan August 28, 2017 - 2:16 pm

You can contact Jamaica in Kaza @ 9418200183

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Amit Pathania July 9, 2017 - 7:34 pm

Hi Vargis,
We are group of 4 people planning to go on spiti trip from 15 th July 17 to 23 rd july.could you just help us on how to get our stay booked on these places. Itenenary will be like this
Day1 Chandigarh to narkanda
Day2 narkanda to sangla
Day3 sangla to kalpa
Day4 kalpa to nako
Day5. Nako to tabo
Day6. Tabo to kaza
Day7. Kaza to chandratal
Day8 chandratal to Manali

Please suggest is this the right time to go as we are driving by our own car.

Regards
Amit Pathania

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Vargis.Khan July 10, 2017 - 4:40 pm

Hello Amit – There is a lot of rain in the region so please prepare accordingly. As for accommodation, you really do not need to book in advance. There are plenty of options at all the places, just reach there, find a hotel per you liking, strike a deak and check in. Which Car are you bringing?

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Raj Chaudhary June 23, 2017 - 9:29 pm

Hi Vargis Sir,

Thank you so much for such information. We are 4 people and planing a trip from 1st July to 4th July. We need your suggestion for accommodations. And what other options are available there. Except Chandratal Lake what are the nearby places to visit? We all nature loving and adventurous. Please do inform.

Regards,
Raj Chaudhary

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Vargis.Khan June 25, 2017 - 3:03 pm

Hello Raj Bhai, 4 day trip from where? Accommodation at Chandratal is pretty much limited to what I described above. Apart from Chandratal, if you have some time, you can also drive through Lahaul valley, towards Jispa.

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Raj Chaudhary June 26, 2017 - 3:52 pm

Hi Vargis Sir, We will start our journey from Delhi from 1st July morning on Bikes via Chandigarh and Manali as we have planned to stay at Manali on Saturday night. Please suggest other options to stay.
Thanks.

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Vargis.Khan June 26, 2017 - 6:56 pm

Raj Bhai for 4 days, trip will be something like this.

1. Delhi to Manali
2. Manali to Chandratal
3. Chandratal to Manali
4. Manali to Delhi

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Vargis.Khan June 26, 2017 - 6:59 pm

There is really no other option to stay. You will have to stay at the camps at Chandratal or Batal. The only other option is PWD rest house at Batal if you can talk to the caretaker in letting you stay.

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Akshay Jachak June 19, 2017 - 3:56 pm

Hii, Vargis. Your articles have been a huge help in planning my 10 day trip to Spiti during Sept 19-30 alon with 2 other friends(Will be in Spiti for those many days). We are planning to travel by public transport. We’ll catch an early morning bus from Kaza to Manali and planning to get down at Batal. Is it possible? Also, I spoke to one of the guides who said, batal-chandrataal-batal taxi is difficult to get. So, I’m going to try my luck with PWD workers’ vehicles or a lift. Is it feasiible? please suggest something. We are on a tight budget but we are cool with hiring a cab for 2 days(planning to stay at Chandrataal) on Sept 26-27 hopefully.

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Vargis.Khan June 19, 2017 - 9:17 pm

Hi Akshay – Why not go all the way till Kaza, rent motorcycles from there, come to Chandratal, stay for the night and go back to Kaza the next day?

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Akshay Jachak June 20, 2017 - 12:36 pm

Actually, only one of us knows how to ride. Hence!! Please suggest something 😀

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Vargis.Khan June 20, 2017 - 5:17 pm

You can rent a taxi from Kaza, will be a bit cheaper than renting one from Manali.

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Akshay Jachak June 22, 2017 - 3:23 pm

Yeah that’s the only feasible option left now. Do you have any idea what will be the cost of going from Kaza to Chandrataal and coming back next day to Batal or Kaza by Taxi?

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Vargis.Khan June 22, 2017 - 8:25 pm

I will give you a contact. This guy has a hotel in Kaza and a camp site at Chandratal as well. Talk to him, stay at his hotel and camp while you are there, give my reference and the taxi won’t cost you much. Name is Jamaica and number is 9418200183.

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Akshay June 17, 2017 - 1:21 pm

Vargis, Thanks a lot for all these information. This is really great work you are doing and very much helpful for people are planning to visit here.
I need your advice for my trip. We’ll be leaving from Ludhiana on 24th Jun afternoon and want back by 28th evening. We are 4 boys (min. age 25 and max 32) having Handa Amaze. Could you please suggest me with the route plan for Chandrataal and Kaza and if our car is fine to travel Gramphoo to Batal.

As i think our route plan should be as below
Day-1 Ludhiana – Manali
Day-2 Manali – Kaza (will have night stay at mud village if possible)
Day-3 Kaza – Batal/Kunzum (will see Key Gompa, Kibber and others nearby)
Day-4 Batal/Kunzum – Chandrataal (Will stay in Jamaica’s camps at chandrataal)
Day-5 Chandrataal – Kullu – Ludhana (Full day driving)

Permit is a biggest issue i can see. Since online portal is not working and offline it seems 1 day spend to get that.
Please suggest if there any way around to have permit without spending much time at Manali.

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Vargis.Khan June 17, 2017 - 8:55 pm

Hi Akshay – Thanks a lot for your kind words, I really appreciate it.

Coming to your questions,

Amaze is definitely not a car I would recommend for Chandratal. I own an Amaze myself and there is no way I would take it there every. Look for an alternative brother. Take a look at this article and you would know what I mean.

https://vargiskhan.com/log/spiti-valley-road-conditions-pictures/

Your itinerary looks Ok, though Manali to Kaza and then to Mud can be a bit of long stretch to cover on a single day.

Biggest hassle of course is of Rohtang Permits and unfortunately there is no way around this. Only thing I can suggest is to contact a travel agent or some hotel in Manali a few days in advance and ask if they can arrange for your permits in exchange of a payment.

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Ashish June 11, 2017 - 10:06 pm

I’m planning to visit Chandra Tal this June end but my issue is that I’ll be having 5-6 days max for this tour. We will be 2 couples travelling from Delhi our dates will be fixed from 23-27/28, so can you please help us with the itinerary & the routes that we should take, your help will be much appreciated.
Thank you

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Vargis.Khan June 12, 2017 - 9:06 pm

Please read the article below Ashish, this should be helpful.

.

https://vargiskhan.com/log/how-to-plan-a-trip-from-delhi-to-chandratal-lake/

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Disha Roy June 6, 2017 - 12:19 pm

Hey Vargis,
what great information.. thank you so much.. I am planning to travel to spiti from gurgaon starting 17th june till 29th June, going through shimla and coming out through manali(pretty much the same itinerary as you have recommended in your posts). Can you help me with few queries –
a) I will be traveling with my son who is 8 years old, he had been to leh 2 years back and was decently fine throughout the journey, so I am hoping he will be ok through this one too…any pointers you would like to give me for him,
b)We will be driving in our innova, will that be fine or do we need a 4X4
c) We wanted to hire a driver cum guide from Sarahan or Kalpa just in case we get tired driving, do you have any recommendations, we intend to drop the person in manali on our way back.
d) any other recommendation considering I will be traveling with a child..
Thanks,

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Vargis.Khan June 6, 2017 - 2:28 pm

Hello Disha – If your Son was fine during Ladakh trip, am sure he will be Ok IN Spiti. AMS is not that big a problem in Spiti as it is in Ladakh. Innova is fine for the trip, you do not required a 4×4 anywhere on the entire circuit. I am sorry but I do not have any contacts for anny drivers but if you are travelling for 9-10 days following my itinerary, you wont really need a driver. Just carry a good sunscreen lotion as sun is very harsh in Spiti and won’t just tan you but can even burn if you are not careful so keep your son protected from that. Only chance of AMS is at Chandratal so if you son shows any signs of uneasiness at Kaza, skip Chandratal altogether and head straight to Manali.

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pravin June 5, 2017 - 3:42 pm

Hello Vargis,
i am amazed and pleasantly envious at your knowledge as well as the genuine interest with which you reply to all the queries.keep doing the grt work.
i wanted your help in planning an itinerary for spiti valley trip(shimla to manali ).i am located at nahan(3-4 hrs from shimla) and i have 10-14 days(depending on places i find) at hand.i am travelling with my wife in swift dzire after 20 june and we both are vivid nature lovers.we have our own tents and any camping places enroute shall be welcome.kindly let us know of homestays or other staying options.
Regards,
Pravin

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Vargis.Khan June 6, 2017 - 4:13 am

Hello Pravin Bhai, Thank you for your appreciating words.

10-14 days is more than enough to cover the entire Spiti valley, as a matter of fact you can even include Ladakh with it. There are plenty of places worth spending a few days.

1 Nahan to Sarahan
2. Sarahan to Chitkul (camp here and spend a day, lovely place)
3 Chitkul
4 Chitkul to Kalpa
5. to Nako (camp here)
6. Nako to Mud Village (Pin Valley)
7. Stay another day. Take a drive to the nearby villages in Pin Valley
8. Mud to Kaza
9. Kaza to Kibber / Komik (Talk to the villagers for a camping spot)
10. Kibber to Kaza
11. Kaza to Chandratal
12. Chandratal to Manali
13. Manali to Nahan

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Shailesh Upadhyay May 31, 2017 - 5:05 am

Very informative post Vargis bro. We are planing trip from 8th june to 12th june 2017 via Manali. So what will be the ideal itinerary to visit Spiti Valley so that we can cover many places (including Chandratal, Kaza, Kunzum pass) and return via same route ? Also, will there be camps available at this time near Chandratal lake ? I will be glad if you can guide us.

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Vargis.Khan May 31, 2017 - 1:01 pm

Hi Shailesh – Where are you starting from? Or will you be in Manali on 8th?

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Shailesh Upadhyay June 1, 2017 - 12:36 pm

We will be in Manali on 8th morning if everything goes fine. Otherwise we will be there on 15th June.

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Vargis.Khan June 1, 2017 - 1:21 pm

I will recommend that you plan according to 15th June. If you reach there on 8th June, there is a high chance that the road across Kunzum Pass may not be open and no camps available at Chandratal as well. If you are in Manali on 15th, you can plan something like this,

15th – Manali to Kaza
16th – Kaza to Mud Village (Pin Valley)
17th – Mud Village to Kaza (Visit Tabo and Dhankar on the way)
18th – Kaza to Kibber / Komik / Langa to Kaza
19th – Kaza to Chandratal
20th – Chandratal to Manali

If you cannot plan this for 6 days, then you can make it a day drive to Mud Village and save a day there. Drive up to Pin Valley and return to Kaza the same day.

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Shailesh Upadhyay June 1, 2017 - 2:45 pm

We just have 4 days for the trip and as you suggested, will be planning from 15th to 18th.
And will there be camps available at that time near Chandratal lake ? As jamaica’s camps are opening on 20th june.

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Vargis.Khan June 2, 2017 - 3:22 am

Jamaica’s camps will be up and running by 11th, I just spoke to him. You can also call him at 9418200183 and stay with him. Give him my reference and you will get a discounted price.

Shailesh Upadhyay June 2, 2017 - 4:13 am

Thanks a lot bro for the info.

Vargis.Khan June 2, 2017 - 1:57 pm

You are welcome Bhai !!!

Srirastu satish May 29, 2017 - 7:11 pm

Hey Vargis

A friend and I from Bangalore will be travelling across Spiti from Jibhi on the 17th of June to 24th. We are planning to make our last stop in Chandertaal and want a good camping place which has a kickass view when we wake up. Does Jamaica camp have a good view. And also I found your blog really helpful

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Vargis.Khan May 30, 2017 - 1:25 am

Hi Srirastu – Thank you for your appreciating words. Yes, Jamaica’s camps will offer you a good view of the surroundings around.

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Kinjal May 29, 2017 - 6:07 pm

Great piece of information !!!!!!

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Vargis.Khan May 30, 2017 - 1:22 am

Thank you !!!

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Anirban Dasgupta May 23, 2017 - 7:19 am

Hi Vargis,

Thank you for the detailed blog . We are planning to visit Mid august. Will that be Ok or Monsoon will create too much problems.

In Chandra Taal If we stay at Jamaica’s camp do we have to arrange anything? or everything will be provided by him (like Blankets,bedding and all) and we need to just pay the decided amount

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Vargis.Khan May 23, 2017 - 2:36 pm

Hi Anirban – Monsoon can be a little troublesome at this time of the year around Manali but people still travel to Spiti so you should be Ok. Everything will be provided by Jamaica, you do not have to arrange for anything at all.

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GAURAV KHARA May 21, 2017 - 12:29 pm

VERY HELPFUL INFORMATION SIR. I AM PLANNING TO VISIT CHANDERTAL LAKE WITH MY FRIENDS ON 18TH JUNE. I HAVE MARUTI S CROSS WITH GROUND CLEARANCE 185MM. WILL IT BE FINE OR DO I HAVE TO HIRE A TAXI? ALSO WE ARE COMING FROM CHANDIGARH. SO ACCORDING TO YOU WHICH ROUTE SHOULD WE TAKE?

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Vargis.Khan May 22, 2017 - 1:47 am

Hello Gaurav, Yes you should be able to take S-Cross. Take a look at the article below for some pics of how the road between Manali and Kaza is; that you will be driving on.

http://roadragas.com/index.php?threads/batal-to-gramphoo-road.2589/

Route depends on how many days you have in hand. Let me know and I can suggest an itinerary.

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GAURAV KHARA May 22, 2017 - 9:37 am

THANKS FOR REPLYING SO FAST SIR.. WE ARE PLANNING DEPARTURE ON 17TH JUNE FROM CHANDIGARH AND PLANNING TO GO BACK ON 22ND OR 23RD JUNE..

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Vargis.Khan May 22, 2017 - 9:04 pm

Hi Gaurav Bhai, you can follow the below mentioned itinerary.

17 – Chandigarh to Sarahan
18 – Sarahan to Chitkul
19 – Chitkul to Kalpa
20 – Kalpa to Nako
21 – Nako to Kaza
22 – Kaza to Manali
23 – Manali to Chandigarh

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Rupendra May 19, 2017 - 7:29 pm

Absolutely great knowledge about the place. Thanks for writing it. July is partially a rainy season, will that be a breaker to drive to chandratal from Delhi? Also is it ok to take swift Dizire to this terrain?

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Vargis.Khan May 22, 2017 - 1:45 am

Thanks Rupendra. You will encounter rain around Manali but nothing after you cross Rohtang Pass. Spiti is in a rain shadow area and it hardly rains. From Shimla, you will encounter until Kalpa but not after that. Swift Dzire’s low GC wiil be a problem, especially on Kaza to Manali stretch.

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Vargis.Khan May 22, 2017 - 1:46 am

Take a look at the pics in this article, this is how the road between Kaza and Manali is.

http://roadragas.com/index.php?threads/batal-to-gramphoo-road.2589/

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Vibhuti Sharma May 11, 2017 - 7:45 am

Hey, I along with my two friends are planning to go to Chandratal from Manali. We have decided to take our own car. Planning to go on 20th June. My friend owns a Hexa. Will it be viable to take this car from Manali?

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Vargis.Khan May 11, 2017 - 3:16 pm

Yes Hexa will be fine. You can take it.

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jan April 26, 2017 - 1:14 pm

Hello V. Khan

Quite nice write and blogg. I envey you .. wish i had the time like you to spend.. keep it going.. I am planing to drive – 2 of us from Dehradun to kaza to manali back to delhi on 16th of may – please find time to send me an itinerary – places to stay and get food and fuel .. do not wish to do in a hurry as well do not wish to miss any spot – especially pics . thanks for the time

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Vargis.Khan April 27, 2017 - 2:31 am

Hello Jan – You will not be able to do Kaza to Manali on 16th May. Kunzum Pass will probably remain closed until late May.

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Rithik Kothari April 20, 2017 - 8:04 pm

Hey Varghis,

I’m 18 and planning to do a solo backpack to Spiti Valley b/w May 15 – May 30, anywhere there for 7-10 days. I’m on a tight budget of ₹15,000 ( can stretch till ₹20,000).

I was looking up for information and I did find a lot but it was all too confusing. I could not find a proper guide to create the itinerary I was looking for.
I’m not yet convinced on how I must be traveling once there or where I should be staying.

One of my main objectives is to make the most of the nightlife, so which would be the best place for that? Chandratal? Also, I’m just looking to make the most the changing vistas of Spiti and the home stays and monasteries, etc.

Your website was the only one which i found to be the most detailed and specifics on how to travel there.

Which is why I would really appreciate it if you could give me a short Itinerary on how I should plan my trip there given the budget constraints.
I was thinking of starting at Shimla and finishing at Manali.

One last thing, would it be any helpful if I can get a friend to tag along? Would my expenses go down significantly? (I’m traveling from Bangalore, btw)

Sorry for the long message.
Hope you can help.

Thank you,
Rithik Kothari

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Vargis.Khan April 21, 2017 - 2:29 am

Hello Rithik – Thank you for your kind words and appreciating the blog.

I can help you with an itinerary but how are you traveling from Bangalore. to which place and on what date I am assuming you are taking a train to Delhi or Chandigarh? Let me know and I will help in any way I can.

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Rithik Kothari April 23, 2017 - 12:23 pm

Thanks for the reply.

I plan to take take a train to Chandigarh and be there by 16th or 17th of May. (I do not mind Delhi if that’s more convenient)

I wish to be there for 7-10 days.
From 17th of May to 27th of May.

Thank you!

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Vargis.Khan April 24, 2017 - 2:47 am

No a direct train to Chandigarh would definitely be better.

Since you are traveling by public transport, I recommend that you take a look at this article first, will give you an idea on bus timings, charges and budget limits.

https://vargiskhan.com/log/travel-spiti-valley-by-bus-taxi-services/

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rithik kothari April 26, 2017 - 9:34 pm

I’ve given it a read, i think I’m gonna stick to a similar itinerary as in the article but skipping Sarahan. The costs do seem manageable with that kind of an itinerary given the budget constraints.

1) Is it possible to fit Dhankar and Mud Village to this itinerary? (As a Plan B)
2) Will i be able to find camps at Chandratal as I had read somewhere that camps are going to be set in mid-june.
3) Also, will the manali route be closed while ending my trip? Again, in one of the articles on the net it said that that way opens only in june.
4) Lastly, will i be able to rent a bike/two-wheeler at Kaza to travel to the nearby places?

Thanks in advance!

rithik kothari April 26, 2017 - 9:35 pm

And any other suggestions would be great!

Vargis.Khan April 27, 2017 - 2:35 am

Hi Rithik – Yes you can fit in Pin Valley (Mud village). There is a bus that goes to Mud village every evening 4 PM from Kaza. You will have to catch this bus from Attargo bridge at around 5 PM.

No camps will not be available at Chandratal by late May. 6th or 7th June at earliest is when the camps will start at Chandratal.

Chances as of now are that Manali route will remain open.

Yes you can rent a bike from Kaza. Pulsar I think would cost around 700-800 … Royal enfiled around Rs. 1200 per day.

Rithik Kothari April 27, 2017 - 5:23 pm

Thanks, Varghis!
But is there no other way to spend a night at Chandratal? As that is the main place I wanna go to.

Vargis.Khan April 29, 2017 - 4:45 pm

Rithink – No Chandratal camps will set up around June 1st week at earliest. If Kunzum Pass is open, you can go to Chandratal but finding a place to stay would be tough. What you can do is, if the road is open, you can rent a bike from Kaza, visit Chandratal and come back to Kaza. Next day, catch a bus from Kaza to Manali.

Rithik Kothari April 29, 2017 - 6:09 pm

Thanks a lot for all the help, Varghis! Really appreciate it! 🙂

Vargis.Khan April 30, 2017 - 1:38 pm

You are welcome brother. Do not forget to contact me after you come back from the trip. I would love to hear how it went and see some pics.

Aditya April 11, 2017 - 7:20 am

thanks for the info

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Vargis.Khan April 12, 2017 - 2:56 am

You are welcome bro !!!. Thanks for taking the time to drop a note.

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Sumit Kumar Dey May 18, 2019 - 12:30 pm

Hello sir,
Could you please tell me how far is Chandrataal from the road head bus stop? And how far are the camp sites? If I want to catch the morning bus for Manali when do I need to leave the campsite?

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paramita manjhi January 13, 2017 - 8:21 am

nice info , thank you. I would like to know abt the pocket pinch for these camp sites and what is the best time to visit lahul spiti and chandratal

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Vargis.Khan January 14, 2017 - 6:00 pm

It will cost you anywhere between Rs. 1000 to Rs.2000 depending on the camp site and your negotiation skills. Best time to visit Chandrataal would be anywhere between July till September.

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Sachin March 21, 2017 - 6:43 am

1000 per head or per tent?

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Vargis.Khan March 21, 2017 - 4:14 pm

Per head

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A.s.manoj Kumar August 29, 2016 - 2:28 pm

Very good info…thanks Mr.khan

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Vargis.Khan August 29, 2016 - 2:39 pm

Thanks Manoj Bhai

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