The crescent-shaped Chandratal Lake in the mountains of the Himalayas is a stunning natural attraction. Located in the plateau of Samudra Tal in the heart of the Spiti Valley's breathtaking mountains lays a freshwater lake.
If you want to see Chandratal Lake at its most beautiful, you should go around September. But as September advances, the weather drops again, making travel less pleasant for some.
Among the best months to visit Chandratal is June. The Campsite often opens from 7th- 10th of June, as soon as the Manali Kaza route is clear. Campsites may be open on the first of the month if a path was opened early; however, it is best to double-check this information before making any firm plans.
Pre-monsoon showers begin in the Manali and Rohtang region around the end of June, and the monsoons arrive in full force by the beginning of July. Chandratal is located in a rain shadow, therefore it rarely rains there, although the path from Manali to Batal is drenched.
Heavy rains in August, monsoon season, can cause landslides and poor road conditions, making it difficult to travel to the lake. Avoid visiting Chandratal Lake in August, which is peak monsoon season.
Sometimes in August, relentless rains can cause disaster. Roads can get permanently obstructed and landslides are typical during this season. If you must go out, please double-check the forecast first.
All things considered, September is a fine time to go to Chandratal. Since there won't be as many campers at this time of year, you might be able to find a decent deal on a campsite.
The beginning of September in Chandratal will be mild, but the temperature will drop as the month progresses. Daytime highs will hover around 5 degrees Celsius and nighttime lows will dip below zero.
At night during the winter, temperatures can dip to -15 degrees Celsius, while during the day they hover around 5 degrees Celsius to 10 degrees Celsius.
Only the first ten days of October are accessible to tourists, as the rest of the month Chandratal remains closed. Every campground would be closed for the season by October 10th. If you get there after then, you won't be able to stay anywhere, not even at the lake.
Due to the risky weather and other factors, October is the most difficult time to visit Chandratal.