Introduction
Manali to Chandratal Lake drive is not just another mountain journey — it’s a soul-stirring experience that feels like you’re touching the edge of the sky. Nestled deep within the Spiti Valley, Chandratal Lake, or Moon Lake, mirrors the Himalayas so perfectly that you often can’t tell where the mountains end and the reflections begin.
Last July, I set out from Manali with my backpack, playlists, and a promise to myself — to witness the lake I’d only seen in travel photos. By the time I returned, it wasn’t just a trip. It felt like therapy, carved into winding roads and mountain air.
So here’s everything you need to know before you plan this incredible road trip — from Manali to Chandratal Lake distance, route details, road conditions, weather, and the best hotels and camps along the way, to personal tips from my own journey.
Why Chandratal Lake Deserves a Spot on Your Bucket List
There are countless beautiful places in Himachal Pradesh, but few can match the mystic calm of Chandratal. Perched at 4,300 meters, this high-altitude glacial lake lies in the Spiti region and is accessible only for a few months each year.
What makes it truly magical is how it changes color throughout the day — from deep blue in the morning to turquoise by noon and golden at sunset. The reflection of the sky and mountains is so surreal that locals say it feels like “the gods built it for their mirror.”
But perhaps the real beauty lies in the journey itself — covering the rugged Manali to Chandratal Lake distance through Rohtang Pass and Batal. Every turn opens to waterfalls, wild rivers, and snow peaks that feel close enough to touch.
Manali to Chandratal Lake Distance by Road
The distance from Manali to Chandratal Lake is approximately 125 kilometers, and it takes 6–8 hours depending on the road and weather.
| Segment | Distance (km) | Travel Time | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Manali – Rohtang Pass | 50 | 2 hrs | Snow views & valleys |
| Rohtang – Gramphu | 15 | 30 mins | Hairpin bends & rivers |
| Gramphu – Batal | 40 | 2.5 hrs | Dirt tracks, scenic canyons |
| Batal – Chandratal | 20 | 1.5 hrs | Narrow trail with glacial streams |
Although it’s not a long drive on paper, the mountain terrain makes it a thrilling, slow-paced adventure — one where every kilometer demands focus and rewards you with jaw-dropping views.
Manali to Chandratal Lake Route Map & Travel Time
Route:
Manali → Rohtang Pass → Gramphu → Chatru → Batal → Chandratal Lake
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Total Distance: ~125 km
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Total Duration: 7–8 hours
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Best Season: June to September
This route remains closed for most of the year due to snow. It officially opens around mid-June, once the Rohtang and Kunzum Passes are cleared.
Alternate route (if you’re coming from Spiti):
Kaza → Kunzum Pass → Chandratal Lake (90 km / 4–5 hrs)
Both routes are scenic, but the Manali to Chandratal Lake route is more dramatic — you literally drive above clouds at one point.
Best Ways to Reach Chandratal Lake
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Self-drive SUV:
Ideal for seasoned drivers. Vehicles like Mahindra Thar, XUV700, or Bolero perform best on rocky stretches. -
Bike ride from Manali:
A dream for bikers! You can rent Royal Enfields in Manali and do a 2–3 day circuit including Chandratal and Kaza. -
Shared taxi or jeep:
Available from Manali during season. You can reach Batal by shared cab and trek the final 2 km to the lake. -
Private driver hire:
Local drivers know the terrain well; recommended if you’re not used to off-roading.
Road Conditions & Driving Tips
From Manali to Gramphu, roads are smooth and scenic. After Gramphu, expect rocky trails and narrow passes, especially near Batal, where two vehicles barely fit side by side.
My experience: The stretch between Chatru and Batal is the most challenging but also the most photogenic — with waterfalls crossing the road and glacial streams cutting through valleys.
Travel Tips:
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Start from Manali by 6:00 AM.
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Carry extra snacks and water (no restaurants after Chatru).
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Refuel completely at Manali (no petrol station till Kaza).
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Avoid traveling during rains; landslides are common.
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Always check the Rohtang Pass permit in advance.
Best Time to Visit Chandratal Lake
The best time to travel the Manali to Chandratal Lake distance is mid-June to late September, when roads are open and camps operational.
| Month | Temperature | Landscape | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| June | 5°C–15°C | Fresh snow patches | Ideal for first-time visitors |
| July – August | 8°C–18°C | Lush meadows | Perfect for camping |
| September | 0°C–12°C | Crisp blue skies | Best for photography & stargazing |
Visiting in July felt perfect — cold enough for bonfires but warm enough to explore comfortably.
Where to Stay Near Chandratal Lake
You won’t find hotels right next to the lake (it’s a protected eco-zone), but 2–3 km before it lies a serene camping valley surrounded by peaks. Staying here is part of the magic — waking up to icy winds, sipping chai, and seeing the sun rise over the lake.
Here are top-rated camps you can book online or on-site:
| Camp Name | Type | Price (₹) | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parasol Camps Chandratal | Luxury Tent | 3,500–4,000 | Hot meals, attached washroom, cozy blankets |
| Jamaica’s Camps Chandratal | Mid-range | 2,500–3,000 | Run by a friendly local; best community vibe |
| Tenzin Camps | Deluxe Tent | 2,800–3,200 | Bonfire nights & clear stargazing sky |
| Chandra Dhaba Tent Stay (Batal) | Budget | 1,500 | Basic beds, meals, and legendary Maggi |
| Spiti Eco Camp Chandratal | Premium | 4,000–5,000 | Glamping tents, solar power, and eco-luxury experience |
Personal Tip: I stayed at Jamaica’s Camp and it was one of the most heartwarming stays — simple food, laughter around the bonfire, and stories shared under a billion stars. They even helped arrange an early morning hike to the lake.
Best Hotels & Camps on the Manali–Chandratal Route
If you don’t want to rush the entire Manali to Chandratal Lake distance in one day, you can stop at scenic locations along the way. Here are verified hotels and stays perfect for rest stops:
The Highland Park, Manali
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Location: Near Nehru Kund, 2 km from Manali town
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Price: ₹6,000–₹7,000/night
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Why stay here: Perfect mountain view rooms, riverside dining, and luxury amenities before your rough journey begins.
Triveni Cottages, Solang Valley
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Price: ₹3,500–₹4,000
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Best for: Families and couples who want to start early next day for Rohtang.
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Personal Note: Their breakfast with views of pine forests makes your journey’s start magical.
Hotel Keylinga Inn, Sissu
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Distance from Manali: 38 km
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Price: ₹2,800–₹3,500
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Why stay: Cozy rooms overlooking the Chenab River, warm hospitality, and an ideal halfway stop for acclimatization.
The Nomad’s Cottage
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Price: ₹1,800 – ₹2,500
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Best for: Travelers seeking a cozy, authentic Himachali stay before continuing to Chandratal Lake.
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Highlights: Rustic wooden cottages with mountain views, locally cooked meals, warm hospitality, and proximity to the famous Chacha–Chachi Dhaba. Ideal for acclimatizing before tackling the final stretch to the lake.
Spiti Village Resort, Kaza
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Distance from Chandratal: 90 km
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Why stay: For travelers continuing into Spiti after Chandratal. Offers warm rooms, hot showers, and stunning sunrise views.
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Price: ₹5,000–₹6,000
Recommended Itinerary with Comfortable Stays
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Day 1: Manali → Stay overnight at Sissu
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Day 2: Sissu → Chandratal Camp
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Day 3: Return to Manali or continue towards Kaza
2-Day Road Trip Itinerary: Manali to Chandratal Lake
Day 1: Manali → Rohtang → Batal → Chandratal
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Start at 6 AM
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Breakfast at Marhi Café
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Quick photos at Rohtang top
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Lunch at Chacha–Chachi Dhaba, Batal (famous roadside stop)
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Arrive at Chandratal by evening
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Walk to lake for sunset view
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Camp overnight
Day 2: Chandratal → Gramphu → Manali
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Early morning lake hike
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Breakfast at camp
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Depart by 8:30 AM
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Stop at Chatru waterfall for photos
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Reach Manali by evening
Travel Tips, Permits & Fuel Info
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Permit Required: Rohtang Pass (apply online at himachal.nic.in/rohtang-permit)
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Fuel: Last pump at Manali, next at Kaza (~200 km away).
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Network: BSNL works patchily near Batal.
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Health Tip: Carry Diamox or consult doctor for altitude sickness prevention.
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Packing Essentials:
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Thermal layers, wool socks, gloves
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Power bank, torchlight
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Snacks, chocolates, and electrolytes
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Extra camera battery (no charging at high camps)
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Personal Recommendation: Keep printed copies of IDs and travel permits — internet is unreliable in this region.
Comparison Table: Route Options
| Route | Distance | Time | Terrain | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Manali – Rohtang – Batal – Chandratal | 125 km | 7–8 hrs | Tough & scenic | Adventure lovers |
| Kaza – Kunzum – Chandratal | 90 km | 4–5 hrs | Smooth & high-altitude | Spiti travelers |
| Batal – Chandratal (Trek) | 2 km | 1–1.5 hrs | Easy hike | Photographers & trekkers |
FAQs About Manali to Chandratal Lake Distance
Q1: What is the exact Manali to Chandratal Lake distance?
A: It’s about 125 km, taking 6–8 hours by road via Rohtang Pass and Batal.
Q2: Can I take my car to Chandratal Lake?
A: Yes, till the parking area 2 km before the lake. The last stretch must be done on foot.
Q3: Are there hotels near Chandratal Lake?
A: No permanent hotels, only camps — like Parasol, Jamaica’s, and Spiti Eco Camp.
Q4: Is Chandratal safe for family travel?
A: Yes, during June–September. Avoid during heavy rain or early snow.
Q5: Which is better, Manali route or Kaza route?
A: The Manali route offers more adventure and views, while the Kaza route is smoother and less crowded.
Final Thoughts
The Manali to Chandratal Lake distance might seem like just 125 kilometers — but every turn, every stream, and every silent mountain whisper tells a story.
There’s a moment at the lake — when the wind slows, the reflection becomes still, and the world feels weightless. That’s when you realize this journey isn’t just about reaching a place — it’s about rediscovering your calm.
If you’re ready for an unforgettable adventure, this is your sign to take the trip. Pack light, drive slow, and let the Himalayas show you what peace truly feels like.
Author Box
Shweta Garg | Travel Writer & Hotel Researcher | BestHotelsIn.in
I specialize in handpicking hotels that deliver real experiences. My research includes site visits, personal stays, guest review analysis, and direct hotel communication to help you travel smarter.
I would love to hear feedbacks regarding your stay in any of the above hotels and any recommendations for the hotels in Manali. Just comment down and i will research and add that to list. And if you love to read more about other location’s recommendations , just browse our website besthotelsin
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