Planning your dream British holiday or London study tour in near future? If the answer is a ‘yes,’ you need to start making plans for air tickets, accommodation and food immediately. A bustling modern city, London is complete with all imaginable comforts and joys of life. One or two days aren’t enough to experience everything London has to offer. Anyone planning to stay in London for a week or two should book a hostel to utilize all the brilliant services without spending too much. Not many people are aware of the fact that London has no dearth of these reasonably priced accommodations available to tourists.

British holidays are no doubt a must-have for every crazy traveler longing to taste, touch and see the most amazing places on planet earth. London is not a small city and therefore, you need to find a good hostel close to the destinations you intend to visit during your forthcoming British holidays. Whether you are traveling alone, in a group or with your life-partner, you can manage to find both shared and private hostel accommodations in London.The best thing about London is that it has got something special for everyone. Whether your heart longs for a quiet tranquil setting or a bustling ambiance, you’ll have no trouble getting everything you want in London.

Instead of draining all your travel funds on booking fancy hotels or guesthouses, you can just find a comfortable hostel in London that provides all essential amenities.

trekking routes in himachal pradesh

So this time we will be more specific about the trekking routes in Himachal Pradesh. In our last post, we covered general information on trekking in Himachal Pradesh. Trekking in all regions of Himalayas including Uttaranchal, Nepal, Sikkim is not very different either.

Here are the popular trekking routes in Himachal Pradesh –

Manali – Chamba – Sach Pass  Trekking Route

This trekking route will take around ten days to complete. So you should consider this trek only if you are free for at least two weeks! Sparing so much time is not possible for everyone. Trek will pass through a number of places including Chamba, Sach Pass, Alwas, Traila, Kilar and Bidrabani. And don’t worry, there will always taxis at your service to pick you up cover some difficult treks and passes if you like. Challenging your physical and mental strength on such occasions is great as well!

This trek can be safely assumed to be a difficult one and maximum altitude you will pass on the way is around 3600 meters.

Jagatsukh – Deo Tibba Base Trekking Route

This trek is also a difficult one. For a round trip, Jagatsukh to Deo Tibba Base trek will take around two weeks. It’s good for the people who are really serious about spending some quality time in Himalayas. Not everyone can take up this trek. You will need to know a good number of things including rock climbing and ice & snow climbing. Jagatsukh to Deo Tibba Base trek will be passing through medium level altitude mountains, snow clad hills and steep lands. Major stops on Jagatsukh to Deo Tibba Base trek are as follows : Manali, Jagatsukh, Seri, Chikha and Tenta. Since you will be moving through glacier areas, know that you will need to carry food and tents along!

Manali – Chandra Valley Trekking Route

This trekking route will cover Hampta Pass on the way. All the way from Manali to Chandra Valley, you will be enjoying the panoramic views. The Manali to Chandra Valley trek will take around five to six days to complete. First of all, trekkers move to Prini Village in Kullu District from Manali Town. From Prini, you will have to trek for about 3-4 hours to reach Chikha. That’s a great place for camping. Trek from Chikha will take you to Bhalu Ka Tera. This place is the base of Hampta Pass standing at the high altitude ( 4270 meters). You will need at least 7 hours to cross Hampta Pass!! Trek will come to an end at Chatru Village in Chandra Valley.

]]> http://www.crazytravelguide.com/2010/09/famous-trekking-routes-in-himachal-pradesh/feed/ 2 http://www.crazytravelguide.com/2010/09/the-majestic-mahamaya-temple/ http://www.crazytravelguide.com/2010/09/the-majestic-mahamaya-temple/#comments Fri, 17 Sep 2010 16:15:33 +0000 Tarun Goel http://www.crazytravelguide.com/?p=353

Temples have always remained an added attraction of Himachal Pradesh after Shimla honeymoon,  Manali trips and Leh adventures. Sundernagar, a place where every single person moving towards Manali halts to look at the beautiful lake, is a great place to find religious and spiritual insight. There are many temples located in and around Sundernagar but one of the most famous temples of the town is the beautiful Mahamaya Temple [महामाया मंदिर].

The temple is located outside the hustle and bustle of the growing town and it peacefully rests on the outskirts of the city. The temple can be reached through an approach road, which is quite good and broad considering the road standards in other parts of the state.

The temple is actually built inside one of the palaces cum fortresses of Sundernagar’s King. The temple looks like a fortress from outside and it makes you feel as if you are looking at an extension of the great Red Fort of Delhi.

Entrance to the temple is one of its most beautiful sights. The main gateway sneaks a look through the top of the green trees that surround the entrance. One can take his vehicle, car or two-wheeler, near the temples entrance gate.  Although there is no exclusive parking space but you will always find enough space to park your vehicle. As soon as you get out of your vehicle, you see greenery all around you and the beautiful town and villages down the hill. The temple oversees the remotest parts of Sundernagar town and the view of stone quarry makes you feel stoned for sure.

Entrance of the temple is made of silver, wood and aluminum sheets. Wood remains a part of the old construction and aluminum sheets serving the purpose of retrofitting of the gate to strengthen it. The entrance makes you feel happy and ecstatic. There is a ‘happy tree’ in the middle of temple and beyond that; one can see the abode of the goddess. The temple looks like an old palace, well maintained and painted in mystic red. Towards the left hand side, there is a Gurudwara [गुरुद्वारा holy shrine of Sikh’s] and in the middle lies the source of faith and belief of hundreds of people. The Goddess and the holy Guru-Granth sahib stay peacefully with each other within the temple premises.

Most of the times, the temple remains surrounded by the fog and it looks like a fortress that guards hundreds of secrets inside it. The temple faces towards the Murari Devi Temple and on a clear sunny day, both the temples look as if they are greeting each other.

The place is worth visiting during any time of the year.

One of the most sought after adventure activities in the state of Himachal Pradesh is trekking. People trek through snow clad mountain peaks, green meadows, dense forests and cross over gushing water streams. People go home with memorable experiences that stay intact for a lifetime!

Adventure freaks from all over the world have got themselves lured to the majestic Himalayas. Exploring the real nature on foot is something that adventure freaks love; totally. Nestled in Great Himalayas, Land of Gods – Himachal Pradesh offers countless opportunities to adventure lovers.

Himachal Pradesh offers excellent opportunities for deep and refreshing communion with Great Himalayas. Most of the trekkers comment that trekking in Himalayas was an unforgettable experience of their lives. In fact, dense pine forests, gurgling water streams, beautiful fruit orchards and magnificent views of valleys, peaks and passes can leave anyone amazed over the greatness of Himalayas and its natural belongings.

There are all sorts of trekking routes in Himachal Pradesh. You can choose smaller trekking routes if you have 2-3 days. If you are ready to get immersed in the tranquility of Himalayas, gear up for a weekend long trekking experience in Himachal Pradesh. These trekking explorations will be nothing short of a physical and mental strength.

Best time to trek in Himachal Pradesh –

Best season to take up trekking in Himachal Pradesh is March – October. Professional trekkers or those with previous experiences of trekking can also check out some difficult treks during winter season. Trekking in winters is pretty awesome but trekkers should be really tough; physically and mentally.

We will be covering famous trekking routes in Himachal pradesh in coming posts. Stay Tuned.

If you are trekking or touring at higher altitudes or just planning to, then you must know about the medical problems you can face due to high altitudes. Yes! You may happen to grow certain kind of illnesses that are caused by the altitude. This may seem ridiculous, but it is a fact that altitude may give rise to many serious medical problems.

As we move up from the mean sea level, the air pressure decreases gradually. However, the composition of the atmosphere remains same (ratio of oxygen and nitrogen). We cannot even feel significant change in the atmospheric pressure and oxygen level up to an altitude of 2000 meters. Above 2000 meters, you can feel the low pressure if you are walking. A significant fall occurs above 2400 meters, above which some of the people may grow sick. And, above 3000 meters, the oxygen available is not enough to sustain mental and physical alertness properly. Generally, those who are not adapted to high altitudes are more prone to such sicknesses as compared to those living in high altitude regions.

There are three major kinds of sicknesses, which are found to have caused due to high altitudes. Acute mountain sickness (AMS), High-altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE), and High-altitude cerebral edema (HACE). Let us take all of them one by one.

1.  AMS – Acute Mountain Sickness

Acute Mountain Sickness is the most common sickness caused at higher altitudes, usually at elevations over 10,000 feet or about 3,000 meters. The occurrence of AMS depends upon the altitude, rate of increasing altitude and susceptibility of the individuals for it. Generally three out of four suffering from AMS, experience mild AMS.

Symptoms of mild AMS: headache, dizziness, fatigue, shortness of breath, nausea, loss of appetite, restless sleeps, and feeling of malaise.

Symptoms of severe AMS: shortness of breath at rest, reduced mental status, inability to walk, and fluid accumulation in lungs.

Prevention: Mild AMS does not interfere with the normal body activities, and usually subside within two to four days. Two to four days are required for the body to adapt to the conditions at higher altitudes; this process is termed as acclimatization. However, in case of severe AMS, immediate medical assistance and descent to lower altitudes is recommended.

2. HAPE - High altitude pulmonary edema

HAPE is a condition of fluid filled lungs. The fluid in the lungs affects the oxygen absorption process. This in turn may cause decrease in the oxygen level in the blood. The effects of HAPE may include cyanosis, impaired cerebral function, or even death if not treated well in time. The occurrence of HAPE generally depends upon the altitude and individual.

Symptoms: shortness of breath, tightness in chest, fatigue, suffocation (usually during sleeps), weakness, cough with white or frothy fluid, longer time to recover from tiredness.

Prevention: In case of mild symptoms, consult medical practitioner. If the symptoms are severe, immediate medical treatment is required and descent to lower altitudes (600 meters-1200 meters) is essential measure to save life.

3.  HACE – High altitude cerebral edema

HACE is the result of swelling of brain tissue due to fluid leakage. It generally occurs after a week or more at high altitudes. It is a very serious condition and requires immediate attention.

Symptoms: headache, weakness, loss of coordination, decreasing level of consciousness, disorientation, loss of memory, hallucinations, and psychotic behavior.

Prevention: In case of above symptoms, immediately consult a doctor, as severe instances can lead to death if not treated properly well in time. A descent to lower altitudes of 600-1200 meters is recommended as a life saving measure.

Therefore, if you are planning to visit a place that is situated above 2400 meters and you are not used to it, then you must consult a doctor, who can prescribe you medications to avoid such conditions. You may find a number of recommendations on medications on internet, but it is advisable to consult a registered medical practitioner for proper prescriptions depending upon your body.

Tips for a healthy trip –

1.      Avoid overexertion for the first day of elevation.

2.      If you have enough time for the journey, try to move only 1000 feet per day. And take a rest after every 3000 feet of altitude gained.

3.      Keep yourself hydrated; it helps the acclimatization process.

4.      If you are driving, keep yourself busy in light activities. (of course not while driving :)

5.      Have a high carbohydrate meal to compensate the calorie loss.

6.      Avoid tobacco, alcohol and other depressant drugs.

Just a note: Remember to remove all the plastic marks of your visit to maintain the beauty and healthiness of the hills.

One of the longest and demanding motor-sport rallies in India, Maruti Suzuki Raid-de-Himalaya is open to everyone. Whether you are professional or an amateur motor sport lover, you can join the entourage to drive through the splendid Himalayan Mountains. There are doctors, housewives, teachers, real estate businessmen and even folks from non-profit organizations gathering once in a year to savor the splendid Himalayas.

Idea is to enjoy the real beauty of exotic and awe inspiring Himalayan ranges. Necessary elements of competitiveness have been added to Raid-de-Himalaya to make it more than just a tour. Now the rally has evolved into a unique Himalayan event that takes competition to a new level! First timers may begin with ‘Adventure-Trial’ in the first year and switch on to X-Treme levels of rally later on. ‘Participation Committee’ of Himalayan Motorsport can also allow the first times for X-Treme levels after an assessment.

Participants of Raid-de-Himalaya drive through some of the highest motor-able roads & passes in Himalayan ranges in North India. These roads and passes include Rohtang Pass, Jalori Pass, Barachala Pass, Kunzum La, Tanglang La etc. Drivers have to move through usually inhospitable and highly unpredictable terrains in areas of Lahaul & Spiti in Himachal Pradesh and Ladakh region in Jammu & Kashmir. Most of the drive in Raid-de-Himalaya is through rocks and boulders. Drivers move through snow capped peaks and gushing water streams all the way from source to destination.

The motoring event continues for about a week and participants cover around 300km in one day on an average. Approximate length of the journey is around 2000km. Raid-de-Himalaya is fast becoming popular among a number of domestic and foreign motorists looking for adventure, serenity and stillness! Himalayan Motorsport aims to let this event allow adventurous motorists to enjoy actual Himalayas in a stock car; devoid of any expensive modification as seen in demanded by rally cars.

Raid-de-Himalayas is one among a dozen motoring events listed on the off-road rallies calendar of Federation Internationale Motorcyclisme (FIM) Geneva, Switzerland. Hundreds of teams are now participating in this popular motoring event in Land of Gods – Himachal Pradesh.

Some quick facts on Raid-de-Himalaya

1.       Raid-de-Himalaya motorsport even was started in the year 1999.

2.       It is recognized as world’s highest Rally Raid.

3.       Most recent event (2009) was from Shimla, capital of Himachal Pradesh to Srinagar, winter capital of Jammu and Kashmir.

4.       Raid-de-Himalayas 2009 was divided in 6 legs. Commenced on Oct. 5 and finished on Oct 13.

5.       Rally passes through 11 world’s highest passes.

12th Raid-de-Himalaya will be held from 10th Oct onwards till 15th when it comes to finish line in Manali. A 6 leg event, 12th Raid will cover a total of around 2000km of which competitive section will be around 800km. Significant changes have been made in the route this time as situations in Leh were a little messed up. Roads are being used to carry out the relief work and that is the reason why management has made some changes in the rally route this time.

Photographs were contributed by Raju Verma who has taken part in Raid-de-Himalayas in past. We wish him and luck and success in all such endeavors. Kudos to volunteers and office bearers of the HMA who make it happen. You can check out the official website of Raid-de-Himalayas or reach their Raid’s facebook fan page to get information.

]]> http://www.crazytravelguide.com/2010/09/raid-de-himalaya/feed/ 2 http://www.crazytravelguide.com/2010/09/planning-a-tour-%e2%80%93-things-you-should-know/ http://www.crazytravelguide.com/2010/09/planning-a-tour-%e2%80%93-things-you-should-know/#comments Sat, 11 Sep 2010 22:23:22 +0000 Kamal Thakur http://www.crazytravelguide.com/?p=279

Planning a short or long tour to take a break from everyday monotony is a great idea. Gear up to visit some new places according to your budget and personal preferences.

1.      Pay attention to the destination you are choosing. You should be careful about :

a.  Availability of time – Last minute hurdle can be a complete mess! Choosing tailor-made tours to visit some places is a good idea as you don’t have to worry about the total duration of tour. It can be 2, 3 or any number of days but you will know well in advance. So you can prepare accordingly.

b.  Monetary capacity – You don’t have to be extravagant with your money even if it’s your favorite destination! You can always utilize that money to have some ‘extra’ fun on the way.

2.      Choose a suitable mode of transportation –

If you need to book air or rail tickets, be sure to check the details on websites before you start making your plans. Check out the prices and availability of seats. On the way to destination, you may need to get some motor vehicle as well. Getting in touch with a credible travel agency is the best thing to do. If you are purchasing full tour plans, you will be provided with everything from hotel accommodation to transportation and food.

3.      Get a travel map or design one at your own; it’s easy –

If you intend to stay somewhere in mountains or beaches for weeks, it is advisable to carry a map along. You won’t be staying back at same place every day. You can always get these travel maps at bus stands, railway stations and airports. Those who want to involve themselves a bit more with the destination can get an illustrative guide or diary of places. Get a printout if you just need the list of important destinations. You can get these maps at Google Maps as well.

4. Traveling in groups –

When you are traveling in groups, be careful to know about the companions who will travel with you. Being with friends is absolutely great but that’s not always the case. If you are traveling to far off places, you will be probably alone or traveling in groups guided by a travel business service provider or a local travel agent.

5. Divide your money according to needs – When you are estimating the expanses of tour, breakdown the estimates further.

6. Hygienic food – It’s natural to feel tempted to try out those supposedly delicious things on street hawks but you should always be careful about the surroundings. If you are allergic to some food items, ask shopkeepers before you buy some alien stuff to feed your belly.

7. Know your companions on the way – Talk to the people you are traveling with. Don’t worry about being a stranger; everyone is a stranger on the way. Travelers are usually eager to share their travel experiences with others in the group. Talk to the driver of cab if when you are finally reaching your destination. As you start knowing new people on the way, you will automatically acclimatize yourself to the surroundings!

8. List of necessary items – Make a list of necessary items with calm mind that you need to carry with yourself. It could be your identity documents, credit cards, first-aid box or medicines etc.

9. Utilize social networks – So you have been spending some four hours a day on Facebook, MySpace and Yahoo! You can quickly get in touch with someone who knows about the destination you are visiting. People are always glad to share information and tips in such cases. At least we have found none who was not interested in telling people about his native place

10. Locate ATMs – Get a list of ATMs at the destination you are visiting. Check out banks websites or simply make a Google search to locate the ATMs for your debit cards.

11. Carry emergency help numbers – Get the contact numbers of at least one automobile hire service, police department and friends if any.

A Manali trip is the first thing that comes to your mind when you plan your summer holidays in Himachal. Moreover, if you plan to take the road route, which is the wisest thing to do, you always halt at Sunder Nagar. Sunder Nagar is just 135 kilometers or 3 hours away from Manali.

Take a look at the small town called Sunder Nagar from a distance.

Sunder Nagar is famous for its lake and most of the tourists stop at the lakeside to enjoy the natural beauty and soothing sceneries. However, not much is known about the other places worth visiting in Sunder Nagar.  One such tourist destination is Murari Devi Temple, situated at the top of a hill that overlooks almost every part of the Sunder Nagar town. Not only the Sunder Nagar town but also one can see three other distant districts of the state from the temple on a bright and sunny day. Shikari Devi is the highest peak and gobind sagar is one the lowest places in the area that are visible from this peak.

You can enjoy fantastic winds here..

Rainy seasons are special in their own way.. If you happen to visit Murari Devi Peak on a bright sunny day, you can see far deep into valleys and planes from this place!

Check out the balh valley and snow laden peaks of Lahaul Spiti mountain ranges from Murari Devi.

One can choose the lakeside route, which goes through the villages of Sunder Nagar. This route will make sure that you do not have to walk more than few hundred steps to reach the temple. This route is suitable for people who come in a four vehicle. However, bikers absorb real beauty of the temple. Those who have been to Dharamshala will feel like moving through the curvaceous roads of Dharamshala towards Mcleodganj. During winters and rainy seasons, one will often find his bike literally moving on the clouds because mist and fog surround the roads, as if playing hide and seek with them.

The snaky road- Bikers Delight

The place is known for growing delicious cucumbers, which makes the hilly fields laden with cucumbers. Moreover, if you like to be adventurous, you can try stealing the cucumbers from the fields at your own risk. One rivulet flows through the region and divides the region into two halves. The terrain is easy and bikers will not find it difficult to navigate through the roads. The only problem is parking problem, which has become a universal phenomenon, so nothing new for those who come from cities. However, one can park bikes near the teashops and small dhabas and they never mind it. Not much is there to see except trees, mist and temples and bikers never mind seeing them again and again.

After parking the bike, there is uphill climb of approximately 2 Kilometers. On your way up, you will see many small temples local deities and universal gods like Lord Shiva and Hanuman Ji.

Below  you will find the Lord Shiva’s Temple.. Work on a cave is currently going on here.

Temple of Godadiya Siddha close to Murari Devi Temple.

As one reaches near the temple, the climb becomes tiring, as one has to climb inclined stairs. However, the sight and premises of the temple are worth all the trouble in world. One can see the seesaw board, traditional rope swing and other childhood playmates around the temple complex.

Temple of a deity

Walk with open eyes, there is so much to see… And if you are lucky enough to find sunlight around you, you can see the famous Govind Sagar Lake, Himalayan Range, Kamru Nag lake, Shikari Devi Temple and the Sunder Nagar lake looking like a shallow pond. Nearby lies ruins of the fort of the King of the region. The fort is in shambles but it is a great place for photographers to let their imagination run wild and create photographic masterpieces.

The legend says that the Paandava’s built this temple as they saw a natural Shiva Linga at this place. Road to the temple is made of tiles and concrete patches, which was built in 1993 by a retired forest ranger to pay homage to Mother Divine.

Where to stay?

There is an inn managed by the temple authorities and it has capacity of accommodating 18-20 people. The lunch and dinner is also provided in the langars. Those who are fond of Coca Cola and chips in dinner must get their stuff from the shops near the parking space. Otherwise staying hungry in the mystic land is not a bad option at all. Unlike Rohtang and other places in Lahaul and Spiti Valley, Murari Devi temple allows you to make use of any mobile connection you want because almost every company has put its tower on the top of hill.

How to Reach:

The temple is 21 kilometers away from the Sunder Nagar town. The road diverges from the outskirts of the town and one can see the conventional HP tourism board near the diversion point.

Another route is through the lakeside. Take your bikes, start moving along the periphery of the lake, and take first left turn. The best thing about this road is that it drops you near the parking area. However, the two-kilometer trek is something you will miss through this route.

When to visit?

Best visiting time is during April-May-June. However, those who love fog and want to ride through the clouds must visit during the month of July.

NAREGA workers carrying cement bags over a three km stretch!

Cucumber fields on Murari Devi – Sunder Nagar road.

The Alien Gateway

]]> http://www.crazytravelguide.com/2010/08/murari-devi-that-witnesses-valleys-planes-and-peaks-from-a-distance/feed/ 26 http://www.crazytravelguide.com/2010/08/khajjiar-lake-mini-switzerland-in-land-of-gods/ http://www.crazytravelguide.com/2010/08/khajjiar-lake-mini-switzerland-in-land-of-gods/#comments Thu, 26 Aug 2010 08:37:33 +0000 JP Mandyal http://www.crazytravelguide.com/?p=175

Surrounded by Cedar forest and beautiful hills, Khajjiar Lake is situated 24 kilometers from Dalhousie on Chamba road. The Lake is located at an altitude of 1950 meters. Due to its beauty and peaceful environment, Khajjiar hill station has earned the title of ‘Mini Switzerland’.

Impressed by its nature, the Swiss Envoy Willy P. Blazer put a signboard indicating ‘Khajjiar’ as ‘Mini Switzerland’ and showing the actual distance from Swiss Capital Berne to Khajjiar (6194Kms). He also put the Khajjiar in Himachal on the world map.

Below you will find the certificate

The Himachal government is working on the beautification of the place to make it a major tourist attraction. It has been designated as a ‘special development area’ under the Town and Country Planning Act. A body named ‘the Khajjiar Development Board’ looks after the cleanliness, maintenance and development of the region, which also regulates the Hotels in Khajjiar.

Check out the picture below. The buildings with green roofs are hotels owned by Himachal Pradesh Tourism Department. You can expect a fair deal and good quality but you will have to bear with the slow service of Himachalis working there

The lake never dries even in the summers, as its water is believed to be independent of the rain to survive. A tiny island keeps floating in the lake for divine reasons. Zorbing balls rolling on the surrounding ground backed by lush-green trees makes the view of lake even beautiful. One can enjoy horse ride circumambulating the lake.

If you feel like ‘touching’ the nature to feel it.. Kaladrop sanctuary in the backdrop of photograph below is an option worth trying!

About a kilometer from Khajjiar on Chamba road, you can observe great 81 feet high statue of Lord Shiva. Presence of Lord Shiva in such form makes the atmosphere even peaceful and awe-inspiring.

How to reach: Khajjiar is well connected from Chamba and Dalhousie from either side. One can enjoy a drive of 24 kilometers through the beautiful and green Khajjiar wildlife sanctuary on Dalhousie Khajjiar road. Another way is from Chamba, if you choose to reach Chamba via Jot.

Nearby places: If you are on a visit to Khajjiar Lake, there are a number of places of interest in the surroundings, which you may add to your tour. One of the most popular places includes Dalhousie, a beautiful town on the hill. You can enjoy a peaceful stay at Dalhousie and picturesque views including that of great Maharana Pratap Lake. Chamba town, situated on the bank of River Ravi is another place to visit. Chamba is an important place from cultural and industrial point of views. Famous Chamera Power Project of NHPC is based on beautiful Chamera Lake.

When to visit: Although Khajjiar remains open for tourists throughout the year, it is better to visit this place during summers when you fed up with high temperatures of plain areas. The natural beauty of the Lake becomes tranquilizing with snowfall in winters.

Here is one photograph taken during the winter season.

The peak commands some majestic views of Great Himalayan Ranges in Himachal Pradesh as well.

There is serenity, peace and some beautiful colors all around Khajjiar Lake ground.

Feel free to drop questions, suggestions, appreciations and criticisms

The source of the Chandra River is known as Chandrataal Lake. Although it is just another beautiful lake in the holy lands of Himachal Pradesh but it has its religious and cultural importance, which makes it one of the most visited places in the Lahaul and Spiti Valley. Many people believe that the Chadrataal Lake is located in the Spiti Valley but actually, it is a part of the Lahaul Valley. One can reach the lake through two different routes. One route will take you through the breathtaking and dangerous routes of the Kinaaur District. The second route is considered as road less traveled and it diverts from the National Highway 21 near Gramphu and takes the traveler on an awe-inspiring journey.

The Lake Moon – Birthplace of one half of the Chenab River

Chandra Basin

The Chadnrataal Lake is situated at a height of 4270 meters above the sea level and is clear water and still surroundings make it known as ‘Lake of the Moon’. The lake shines like full moon on a sunny day and it looks as if the lake has absorbed all the sunlight and it is spreading the photons in the surroundings, making everything look tranquil and blissful. One the periphery of the lake, one can find many small temples built by the ancient commuters and natives of the Spiti Valley to please the local deities. The temples are in the form of idols and people still worship and believe in their powers. The lake remains frozen in the winters. The trekking route also starts from Chandrataal Lake, which connects the two famous passes of the valley namely Baralacha La and Kunzum La.

Road Less Traveled – Towards Chandrataal Lake.

White House- The Comfort Zone @ Batal

In nature’s lap @ Chandrataal Lake

How to go there:

The Manali Route

One starts from Manali towards Rohhtang (52 Km) and then starts moving towards Keylong on National Highway-21. Just after 14 KM, you reach the diversion point (Gramphu), where you can see the milestones. Move into the valley and enjoy the roads that look like roads and at times, you feel like driving on a water body.  After you have traveled 17 KM, you reach a Chhatrru, where you can relax, eat food, pack yourself with biscuits, chocolates and cigarettes. One can find a PWD rest house and Mr. Sood’s guesthouse where people get cheap and comfortable accommodation.

Travel another 25 KM and you reach at Batal, which is a famous place among the trekkers and travelers. The Chandra Dhaba at Batal is a great place to eat, drink and sleep. There is another PWD rest house in between at Chota Darra but it’s better to move towards Batal and avoid halt at Chota Darra. From Batal, one can go through the road, which is just 14 KM’s towards Chandrataal Lake. Once you have reached at the lake, get down from your vehicle, walk for 500 meters and you know it when you see it, that you have found heavenly beauty on Earth known as Chandrataal Lake.

Dhaba @ Chatrru

Just close to the Chandrataal Lake, you will see colorful tents. The place is overwhelming and it can be termed as a luxurious place in the Himalayas. The charges are, however, much more than the Batal and Chatrru.

Batal is a windy place and cool, bone-chilling winds blow there throughout the year. One can stay inside a enclosed structure, which they call a White House and it is actually a safe place to stay.

Charges: 50 INR per night stay @ Batal and Chatrru

@ Chandrataal Camp: 500 INR per night.

Important Information:

The road towards Chandrataal Lake is not in a great condition, so even if there is slight hint of rain or snow, do not move from your base position. If your vehicle breaks down there, or if you are stuck, you will find no mechanic for at least two days because it takes two days from Batal to go and come back from Manali or Kaza. Manali is 108 KM from Batal and Kaza is 88 KM from the same place.

State transport runs two buses each in either direction. One bus starts at 5 AM from Manali/Kaza and the other one starts at 6 Am from Manali/Kaza. However, depending upon the weather, the buses change their timings, so it’s better to give half an hour buffer time yourself, if you are planning to travel via bus.