CHANDRATAL TO BARALACHA LA TREKKING EXPEDITION 2017

If you ever had a dream of going to a place which you can truly call being “in the middle of nowhere”, Chandratal lake trek is the place for you. The charm of this magnificent lake cannot be delineated in words, array of snow burnt mountains reflecting themselves in the deep blue water makes the view aw-inspiring. Chandratal word is the mixture of two words, first word is Chandra (Moon) and second word is Tal (Lake), hence the other name of lake is “MOON LAKE”. This splendid lake beholds number of mysterious stories and the enchanted beauty of the Himalayas. It is situated on Smaudra Tapu, one of the larges glacier in Chandra Basin of district Lahaul and Spiti. It is regarded as a wetland and is part of Ramsar Conservation Project. Trail will also take you to one of the high-altitude mountain pass, which is called Baralacha La pass. Baralacha La is a double mountain pass. It Marks the divide between (Great Himalayan Range and Lahaul Range) and (Great Himalayan Range and Baralacha La Range).

The Trek

The trek is fairly moderate in Nature and requires crossing numerous streams, multiple mountain passes, and some tough phases. The overall trek distance is approx. 95 KMs and can be done in 4-5 days. The best time to hike this trail is May to October, however avoid this trail during monsoon season. The passes are chilling and cold in the morning time and night become colder. The temperature during is moderate for the trek. You don’t require any technical equipment to complete this trek, but the one is going early in the season then carry a rope and an ice axe, however one needs to be self-sufficient for provisions and sleeping.

Day 1: Batal to chandratal (5-6 Hours)

The trail entails crossing over Chandra river and ascending from Batal. Expect a long trek of around 6 hours. Along the way, enjoy the sights of Chota Shigri Glacier, the White Sail peak and Lalan peak.

Day 2: Chandratal to Tokpo Gongma (5-6 Hours)

Started at around 07:30 -08:00 am from Chandratal. The route is steady ascend. An added delight are the several streams gushing by. One need to take off the boots and have to walk through the icy cold water to avoid wet boots. I could describe the terrain but the best way to get an idea of it is from the pictures. So here is one.

Trail between chandratal to baralacha la

Along with the Chandra River one have to walk but, a point will come where on could not find any trails, but in the season time one can find few “Faddi Shepherds” along the way, where one can find the occasional patches of grass, in the rocky landscape. Before campsite, a largest stream will come to cross. Stream is around 15-16-meter-wide and has fast flowing water.

Day 3: Tokpo Gongma – Tokpo Yongma (6 hours)

Left the campsite early in the morning. Today also one will face two tough streams. While hiking the rocky terrain one can see beautiful snow- capped peaks. Take the boots off for the first stream crossing, stream has knee high and icy cold water. River is raging and so wide around 20 m. Pull up the socks and get ready again to hike and become witness of snow bridge which is little difficult to cross. After, crossing bridge land show some softness and become plain.

Day 4: Tokpo Yongma – Baralacha la Pass (6 Hours)

Today’s trail is little easy rather than other days. From campsite, it is a gradual climb and then there is a big stretch of plain which will lead one to Baralacha La Pass. Last day trail is marked with numerous cairns and Ladakhi flags. You will witness of some amazing views of Himalayan Range. On the way, there is a one stream which has very strong flow, so take out the boots and go into icy water. If ever there is peace and tranquility in the mountains vista it is here. Be the witness of speechless beauty which cannot explained in words. When one reaches to the road no one can stop to press shutter button.

Difficulty Level

The Chandratal Baralacha La trek is classified as a trek of easy to moderate difficulty.

For easy treks: Click here

What to Pack in your Rucksack

Mandatory Stuffs

Trekking shoes: There are so many slippery patches on the trail where you need trekking shoes with good grip. Sports shoes will not be comfortable enough.
Backpack (40-60 liters): A backpack with sturdy straps and a supporting frame is required for this trail. Carry rain cover of your rucksack.

Clothing

Two warm layers: At high altitudes, temperature goes down to 2-6° after sunset. So we suggest you to carry two light layers fleece and one woolen padded jacket
Two trek pants: One pair of pants should suffice for this trek. But you can carry one spare pair in case the first one gets wet. Wear one pair and carry one pair.
Two collared t-shirts: Carry light, full sleeved t-shirts that prevent sun burns on the neck and arms. Again, wear one and carry one.
Thermals (Optional): Those who are more susceptible to cold can carry thermals to wear at night.

Accessories

Sunglasses: Sunglasses are to prevent snow blindness. There might be snow closer to the lake, so carry a pair of sunglasses.
Suncap: The sun is more
Synthetic hand gloves: One pair of fleece or woolen hand gloves. One pair of water proof/resistant, wind proof gloves.
Balaclava: You may use woollen scarves instead as well.
Socks (2 pairs): Apart from two sports socks, you can take a pair of woollen socks for the night.
Headlamp/LED torch: Mandatory
Trekking pole: Watch this video to understand why you need a trekking pole.

Others

Daypack (20 litres): If you are offloading your backpack, you will need a smaller backpack to carry water, medical kit and some light snacks.
Toiletries (Sunscreen, moisturiser, light towel, lip balm, toilet paper, toothbrush, toothpaste)
Cutlery: Carry a spoon, coffee mug and a lunch box. We insist on trekkers getting their own cutlery for hygiene reasons.
Two water bottles: 1 litre each
Plastic covers: While packing, use plastic bags to compartmentalise things and carry few extra plastic bags for wet clothes.

Mandatory Personal Medical Kit