TRIP FACTS
- Region: Lahaul & Spiti, Himachal Pradesh
- Duration: 6 Days / 5 Nights
- Best Season: July to September
- Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
- Group Size: Maximum 15 Participants
- Maximum Altitude: 4,890 m (Baralacha La)
- Mountain Passes: Kunzum La (4,551 m) & Baralacha La (4,890 m)
- Accommodation: 5 Nights Camping in Twin-Sharing Tents
- Activities: 4 Days Trekking & 2 Days Scenic Mountain Drives
- Meals Included: 5 Breakfasts, 6 Packed Lunches, 5 Dinners
- Starting Point: Manali
- Ending Point: Manali
INTRODUCTION
The Chandratal to Baralacha La Trek is one of the best monsoon treks in Himachal Pradesh, offering an incredible journey through the spectacular landscapes of Lahaul and Spiti. Located in the rain-shadow region of the Himalayas, this trek remains relatively dry during the Indian monsoon, making it an excellent choice for trekkers seeking adventure between July and September.
Beginning at the famous Chandratal Lake, often called the "Moon Lake" of the Himalayas, the trail traverses remote valleys, alpine meadows, glacial streams, and dramatic mountain terrain before reaching the historic Baralacha La Pass. Along the way, trekkers enjoy panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, pristine high-altitude campsites, and some of the most breathtaking scenery in the Indian Himalayas.
The Chandratal to Baralacha La Trek is ideal for trekkers looking to escape the heavy monsoon rains found elsewhere in India while experiencing the rugged beauty of the Trans-Himalayan landscape. Combining adventure, wilderness, and spectacular mountain vistas, it is widely regarded as one of the finest summer and monsoon trekking experiences in Himachal Pradesh.
HOW TO REACH MANALI
- The nearest airport serving this beautiful hill station is situated at Bhuntar. Known as Kullu Manali Airport, it is at a distance of approximately 60 from Manali.
- The road instead since there are some spellbinding picturesque views en route to be enjoyed. The destination has a good connectivity by road with cities like Delhi, Ambala, Chandigarh and Shimla serving as pivotal points. A number of bus services including private services like the very comfortable Volvo ply frequently from Delhi to Manali.
- The closest railway station is Chandigarh (315 km) or Pathankot (290 km). You can make your travel bookings till either of these two cities and then take a prepaid bus or a cab till Manali.
- Visit the spectacular Chandratal Lake (Moon Lake).
- Cross the historic Baralacha La Pass.
- Exciting river crossings throughout the trek.
- Stunning views of glaciers, alpine meadows, and snow-capped peaks.
- Trek through the remote landscapes of Lahaul and Spiti.
- Meet traditional Gaddi shepherds in high mountain pastures.
- One of the best monsoon treks in Himachal Pradesh.
- Scenic trail from Kunzum La to Chandratal Lake.
- Beautiful high-altitude camping under star-filled skies.
- Excellent opportunities for photography and wildlife spotting.
- Spectacular drives through the Himalayan valleys before and after the trek.
DAY 01 - DRIVE TO BATAL (3960M) 100 KM. / 5 To DRIVE 6 HOURS.
We travel by Jeep from Manali over the Rohtang Pass (3978 m) and reach Batal, a small place in the remote Lahaul Valley with only two Dabha.Get used to the high altitude of the dry and cold mountain dessert with its awesome high snow covered mountains.
Overnight in The Tent
Meal: Lunch + Dinner
DAY 02 - DRIVE FROM BATAL TO KUNZUM PASS (4551M) 1 HOURS. & TREK TO CHANDRATAAL LAKE 3 - 4 HOURS TREK.
We drive towards Kunzum la following small stream, which originated above pass. Arriving at pass has a glimpse of Spiti valley, which runs 170 kms towards south. We take a path, which goes to Lake 8 km; approach large meadows - a favorite area with a multitude of shepherd’s huts. Passing and crossing a long stretch of stony ground and small stream arrive at the lake. Across Chandra river most fascinating sight of Samudra Tapu glacier, North Dakka glacier, South Dakka glacier and Silver glacier. Above the glaciers towering mighty peaks of Moulkila and C.B. peaks. Leaving Kunzum we trek to Chandrataal which is 8 kms long and has a wide panoramic view of Chandra Bhaga peaks all around. Camp after Chandrataal.
Overnight in The Tent
Meal: Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
DAY 03 - CHANDRATAAL TO TOKPO GANGMO (4320 M) 5 HOURS.
After a moderate trek with good views of mountain peaks and glaciers, we end on the river Topka Gangmo. In Tibetan Topka means river and Gongma means big.
Overnight in The Tent
Meal: Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
DAY 04 - TOPKO GANGMO TO TOPKO YANGMO (4640M) 5 HOURS.
The trek today involves an early morning river crossing, since the water level is low in the morning. We reach the next river in the afternoon. Nice View of the C.B. Range, Mulkilla Range and of the Dhaka Glacier.
Overnight in The Tent
Meal: Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
DAY 05 - TOPKO YANGMO TO BARALACHA LA (4890 M) 5 TO 6 HOURS TREK.
Baralacha is an interesting 8 km long pass and gives rise to three rivers: Chandra, Bhaga and Yunam. Baralacha means “pass with cross roads on summit”. Roads from Zanskar, Ladakh, Spiti and Lahaul meet on top of that pass. It is the highest point of the trek.
Overnight in The Tent
Meal: Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
DAY 06 - BARALACHA LA TO ZINGZINGBAR (18 KM) TO MANALI BY JEEP (167 KM) DRIVE 6 HOURS.
We trek via Suraj Lake, source of Bhaga River, descend along Bhaga River and reach Zingzingbar (4270 m). From there we take a jeep to Manali.
Meal: Breakfast + Lunch
What is included in the tour
- Services of an experienced Himalayan Yeti Adventure trek leader and local guides with extensive knowledge of Himalayan flora, fauna, geography, culture, and mountain safety.
- Complete camping logistics throughout the trek.
- Horses, mules, and porters for carrying camping equipment, food supplies, and personal baggage (up to the permitted weight limit of 10 kg). Participants are required to carry only their day pack with personal essentials.
- Twin-sharing accommodation in high-quality expedition tents.
- Foam mattresses, insulated sleeping mats, sleeping bags, kitchen tent, dining tent, and western-style toilet tent.
- Professional camp staff including cook and camp helpers.
- Freshly prepared nutritious meals throughout the trek, including breakfast, lunch, dinner, tea, and snacks.
- Safe boiled and filtered drinking water during the trek.
- Warm water for personal use at camps whenever feasible.
- All transportation as per the itinerary, including transfers to the trek starting point and return transfers after the trek.
- All forest permits, camping permits, environmental fees, and wildlife levies wherever applicable.
- All campsite fees and camping charges.
- Trek briefing, orientation, and post-trek debriefing.
- Emergency medical support including a comprehensive first-aid kit, oxygen cylinders, pulse oximeter, and emergency response equipment.
- Insurance coverage for trekking staff and support crew.
- Charges associated with implementing internationally recognized Leave No Trace environmental practices.
- All applicable government taxes and service charges.
What is NOT included in the tour
- Hotel accommodation in Manali before or after the trek.
- Meals and beverages during hotel stays in Manali.
- Personal trekking clothing, footwear, and equipment.
- Personal expenses such as bottled water, soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, snacks, laundry, telephone calls, internet charges, and gratuities.
- Travel insurance, medical insurance, and high-altitude adventure insurance.
- Medical treatment, hospitalization, rescue, evacuation, or helicopter evacuation expenses.
- Any transportation not specifically mentioned under "Trek Inclusions."
- Additional accommodation, meals, or transportation resulting from early arrival, late departure, illness, injury, trek abandonment, or evacuation.
- Expenses arising from unforeseen circumstances such as landslides, road closures, extreme weather, natural disasters, political disturbances, flight cancellations, or any other force majeure events beyond the control of Himalayan Yeti Adventure.
- Any item not specifically mentioned under "Trek Inclusions."
Note: We strongly recommend that all participants purchase comprehensive travel and adventure sports insurance that covers trekking, medical emergencies, and helicopter evacuation in the Indian Himalayas.
Backpacks
- Backpack (40–50 Litres) with rain cover – Carried by horse, mule, or porter during the trek.
- Day Pack (15–20 Litres) with rain cover – To carry personal essentials such as camera, water bottle, snacks, extra clothing layers, and personal items.
Footwear
- Trekking Shoes – Good quality trekking boots with ankle support and proper grip are highly recommended. Sports shoes are not suitable for most Himalayan treks, especially at higher altitudes and on rough terrain.
Socks
- 2–3 pairs of trekking socks.
- 2 pairs of woollen socks for use at camp and while sleeping. Woollen socks are generally not recommended while trekking.
Clothing
- 3 pairs of trekking pants (including the pair worn during travel). Quick-dry trekking pants are recommended.
- 3 quick-dry T-shirts (including the one worn during travel). Full-sleeve shirts provide better sun protection.
- Fleece jacket for insulation.
- Waterproof rain jacket and windproof outer layer.
- Down or synthetic insulated jacket suitable for cold mountain conditions.
- 1 pair of thermal base layers (upper and lower) – optional but recommended for colder months.
Accessories
- Warm woollen cap or beanie.
- Warm gloves.
- Sun cap or wide-brimmed hat.
- UV-protection sunglasses.
Personal Essentials
- Sunscreen (SPF 40+).
- Moisturiser and lip balm.
- Personal toiletries and biodegradable soap.
- Toilet paper and personal hygiene products.
- Personal medications.
Additional Recommended Items
- Headlamp or torch with spare batteries.
- Camera and spare batteries.
- Repair kit (needle, thread, safety pins).
- Two water bottles (1 litre each) or hydration system.
- Trekking poles (optional but highly recommended).
- Personal snacks and energy bars.
- Power bank for charging electronic devices.
Waterproof Packing
- Use waterproof plastic liners or dry bags inside your backpack.
- Pack all clothing and sleeping gear in separate waterproof bags to protect them from rain, river crossings, and moisture during transport by horses or porters.
- Carry extra plastic bags for storing wet clothing and gear.
When you decide to embark on a tour with Himalayan Yeti Adventure, it’s essential to book in advance to allow us sufficient time to prepare all necessary documents, permits, and arrangements, including hotels and transport.
Payment Schedule
- Full deposit at the time of booking to confirm the reservation
Cancellation Policy
- If you need to cancel, please note the following refund terms:
- 30+ days before the tour starts: 75% of the full payment is refunded; 25% is retained.
- 20–29 days before the tour starts: 70% of the full payment is refunded; 35% is retained.
- 7–19 days before the tour starts: 20% of the full payment is refunded; 80% is retained.
- After departure or during the tour: No refunds will be issued once the expedition or tour has started.
- Non-refundable costs: Permit fees, travel documentation charges, and similar expenses are non-refundable.
Note: Himalayan Yeti Adventure conducts all ground operations in advance upon receiving your confirmation. We make prepayments to our vendors to guarantee the promised services for your trip.
Additional Information
In the event Himalayan Yeti Adventure must cancel a tour due to insufficient participant numbers, we will issue a full refund of all payments received. However, if a tour is canceled or altered due to force majeure events such as natural disasters, strikes, civil unrest, or technical difficulties affecting transportation, we will do our best to make alternate arrangements, though liability may be limited.
