Himachal Pradesh
At an altitude of 4300 mts, and kilometers from Kunzum Pass, in the district of Lahaul and Spitti, lies the majestic Chandra Tal.It is the connection between Lahaul and Spitti. Surrounded by snow, and acres of scree on all sides, this pristine blue lake is very beautiful, and is rated as one of the most exciting trekking spots in these parts of Himalayas. Chandra Tal is said to be the source of River Chandra.Legends have it,that this is the place from where Lord Indra's chariot took the eldest of the Pandava brothers to his heavenly abode. Your trip starts at Pinjore, which is 20 kms northwest of Chandigarh. Pinjore is well known for the 17th century Yadavindra Gardens. These gardens are Mughal style terraced lawns, with colourful flower beds and fountains. The high walls enclose beautiful patterned gardens with gurgling channels of water surrounded by airy pavillions that will definitely transport you to the granduer of the mughal era. From pinjore, make your way to Manali. This beautiful hill station is the star attraction for tourists in Himachal pradesh. Its flooded with tourists attractions and shopper's goodies, and a wild gamut of Himachali and Tibetian art and handicarfts. Places to see in and around Manali are Hidimba devi temple, the famous Temple of Manu and various assortment of Tibetian monastries. From Manali commences the trekking segment of the journey. Make your way to Sethan via Prini, which is roughly 11 kms away. Sethan is a small Himalayan hamlet and the inhabitants are mainly buddhists. The trek is a leisure walk, through forests of Silver oak, flanking a zig zaging trail. Camp out the night under the starry skies and enjoy the serenity of this quaint hamlet tucked away from the rest of the world. Next day trek to the Hampta base camp. It is at a height of 4270 mts and offers a exhilarating view of the valleys and mountains surrounding it. This base camp is located on the Pir panjal range. From Hampta make your way to Chattru.Chattru has some steep rock faces and is a rock climber's paradise. If you are less adventerous, then Chattru will hold the attraction of being another desolate pit stop offering the much needed rest and solace to your travel weary soul. From Chattru trek to Chota Dara. Chota Dara is on the banks of the River Chandra. The trek is very leisurely, and you will cross many granite rock faces, which is also very famous with rock climbers in these parts. From Chota dara, trek to Batal. This trek is also along a dirt path and pretty much like the one you had the day before. Be prepared for some gusty winds and dirt, which this wind kicks up in these parts. Camp over night at Batal. From Batal, make your way to Chandra Tal or the moon lake. The lake is surrounded by green meadows and the pristine waters of Chandra tal is like a silver sheet of rippling water, which pretty much impersonifies the Moon in its beauty and granduer. The lake is a true treat for your senses, if you are lucky enough to halt on its banks on a full moon night. That will aptly summerise what 'Heaven on earth' precisely means. Next day make your way to Topko Gongma, which offers a panoramic view of the himalayas. Next trek to Barchala, which is the main Pass connecting to Leh. Its a sharp descent, and a day's halt is advisable owning to the los of altitude, to which your body needs to adapt to. From Barchala, make your way to Manali, via Jipsa and Keylong. Keylong is a major location in the valley of Lahaul, and showcases a lot of the Ladakhi culture, much rampant in these regions. Come back to Manali and conclude this getaway to where the Gods are said to have roamed.