High in the cold desert of Himachal Pradesh lies a place that feels otherworldly. Surrounded by towering mountains, endless silence, and a sky full of stars, Chandratal Lake is not just a travel destination but also an experience wrapped in mystery, legends, and unexplained stories. Often called the “Moon Lake of Spiti,” Chandratal has fascinated travelers, trekkers, and storytellers for centuries.
What makes Chandratal truly unique is not only its breathtaking beauty but also the ancient folklore and UFO myths associated with it. From mythological tales of gods to modern stories of strange lights in the sky, Chandratal Lake stands at the crossroads of nature and the unknown.
This complete travel guide covers things to do at Chandratal Lake, its legends, UFO stories, best time to visit, how to reach, where to stay, and essential travel tips, along with everything a traveler needs to know.
Where is Chandratal Lake Located?
Chandratal Lake is located in the Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh, at an altitude of approximately 4,300 meters (14,100 feet) above sea level. The lake sits near the Kunzum Pass, one of the highest motorable passes in India, and is surrounded by the mighty Himalayas.
Due to its high altitude and remote location, Chandratal remains inaccessible for much of the year to make it an untouched and mysterious charm.
Why is Chandratal Called the Moon Lake?
The name “Chandratal” comes from two Hindi words:
Chandra meaning Moon
Tal meaning Lake
The lake is crescent-shaped, resembling the shape of the moon. During full moon nights, the reflection of moonlight on its crystal-clear waters creates a surreal glow, which makes the lake appear almost magical.
The Folklore of Chandratal Lake
One of the most famous legends associated with Chandratal Lake comes from the Indian epic Mahabharata. According to folklore, Yudhishthira, the eldest of the Pandavas, passed through this region during his final journey to heaven.
It is believed that:
- A celestial chariot descended from the sky at Chandratal.
- Yudhishthira ascended to heaven from this very spot.
Locals believe the lake is sacred and protected by divine forces. This myth gives Chandratal a spiritual aura that visitors can still feel today.
The UFO Myth of Chandratal Lake
Apart from ancient legends, Chandratal Lake is also known for its UFO sightings and unexplained phenomena.
Strange Lights in the Sky
Many trekkers, campers, and locals have reported bright, fast-moving lights in the night sky, objects changing direction suddenly, and lights hovering above the lake.
These sightings usually occur late at night when the surroundings are silent, and the sky is crystal clear.
Sudden Electronic Failures
Some travelers have reported camera batteries draining unusually fast at this place, mobile phones losing signal completely, and GPS devices malfunctioning near the lake.
While scientists often explain this as extreme cold or altitude effects, believers of the UFO myth think otherwise.
Why Chandratal Attracts UFO Stories
There are a few reasons why Chandratal is often linked to UFO myths:
- Extremely remote location
- Minimal light pollution
- Clear night skies
- High altitude near international borders
Whether you believe these stories or not, spending a night near Chandratal under the stars is enough to make anyone feel small in the vast universe.
Best Time to Visit Chandratal Lake
Summer (June to September)
- This is the only time Chandratal Lake is accessible. Roads open after the snow melts, and the weather is relatively stable.
- Day temperature is between 10 to 15 degrees Celsius.
- Night temperature is around 0 to 5 degrees Celsius.
July and August bring green meadows and blooming wildflowers.
Winter (October to May) – Closed Season
During winter, the lake is completely covered in snow, and roads remain closed due to heavy snowfall. Only experienced trekkers attempt winter expeditions, which are risky and not recommended for casual travellers.
How to Reach
Your journey to Chandratal Lake will be adventurous, with rocky mountains and scenic routes. You can take any one of the two main routes, the first one is from Manali and the other one from Shimla. Chandratal is located in a very remote area with limited connectivity.
Once you have chosen the route that you are going to follow, here is how you can reach Chandratal Lake:
By Car
- From Manali Route – If you are going from the Manali route, then you can reach Chandratal Lake by car, following the Koksar route. From Manali, there will be 110 kilometres journey of about 3 to 4 hours.
- From Shimla Route – You can follow the Spiti route, if you are coming from Shimla to reach Chandratal Lake in around 9 to 10 hours, after covering a distance of about 340 kilometres.
By Bus
- From Manali Route – You can take a public bus from Manali to the Kaza route. You will have to hike from the drop location.
- From Shimla Route – Take a non-AC public bus from Shimla to Reckong Peo. Hike for a while from the Chandratal Lake diversion.
Things to Do at Chandratal Lake
Walk Around the Crescent-Shaped Lake
Walking around Chandratal Lake is a peaceful and spiritual experience. The changing shades of blue and green water, depending on the sunlight, are mesmerising.
Important: Swimming or touching the water is strictly prohibited to protect the fragile ecosystem.
Camping Near Chandratal Lake
Camping is one of the most popular things to do near Chandratal. Designated campsites are located a few kilometers away from the lake.
Camping highlights:
- Stunning night skies
- Milky Way visibility
- Bonfires (weather permitting)
This is also when most UFO stories are shared around campfires.
Stargazing and Astrophotography
Due to zero light pollution, Chandratal is a paradise for stargazers and photographers. On clear nights, you can see:
- Thousands of stars
- Shooting stars
- The Milky Way
Bring proper camera equipment and warm clothing.
Trekking Around Chandratal
Chandratal is a popular stop on several trekking routes, including:
- Chandratal – Baralacha La trek
- Kunzum Pass treks
The terrain is rugged but rewarding, offering panoramic views of glaciers and snow-capped peaks.
Visit Kunzum Pass
Located nearby, Kunzum Pass is another spiritual and scenic spot. Travellers usually stop here to seek blessings for a safe journey through the Spiti Valley.
Where to Stay Near Chandratal Lake
There are no hotels near the lake due to environmental protection. You can stay at a hotel or choose a place based on your budget and comfort in Manali, Shimla, or any other place on your itinerary. Join local trekking groups for your upcoming journey to Chandratal Lake.
You will easily find eco-friendly campsites or tented accommodations with basic facilities from local trekking groups on rent. All camps are a few kilometres from the lake, so it is best to bring all the required camping equipment.
Food Options
Food is simple and limited in the area, but you can easily get dal, rice, roti, soup, and tea along with basic vegetarian meals. You can also carry energy bars and snacks.
Read More:Things to do in Lambasingi – A Complete Travel Guide
Travel Tips for Chandratal Lake
- Acclimatize properly to avoid altitude sickness by spending sufficient time resting at lower elevations.
- Carry heavy woolens even in summer because temperatures drop sharply at night near the lake.
- Avoid alcohol and smoking since they worsen dehydration and increase the risk of altitude sickness.
- Respect local beliefs and nature by behaving responsibly and honoring the cultural significance of the region.
- Do not litter or disturb wildlife, as this fragile ecosystem needs protection and mindful travelers.
- Follow camping rules strictly to ensure safety, environmental preservation, and a peaceful experience for everyone.
Is Chandratal Lake Worth Visiting?
Without a doubt, yes, Chandratal Lake is definitely a must-visit place. It is not just about scenic beauty but also about feeling connected to something ancient and unknown. Whether you are drawn by its folklore, curious about UFO myths, or simply want to witness one of India’s most scenic landscapes, Chandratal leaves a lasting impression.
Chandratal Lake stands as a reminder that some places cannot be fully explained; rather, it can only be experienced. Wrapped in myths, legends, and unexplained stories, this moon-shaped lake continues to intrigue travelers from across the world.
If you are seeking adventure, mystery, spirituality, and raw Himalayan beauty, then Chandratal Lake is a destination you will never forget.
