Overview
The Chandrabhaga Glacier Trek is a secluded trekking trail in the Lahaul area of Himachal Pradesh state. This trek gets its name from the Chandrabhaga mountain ranges, where the Chandrabhaga river forms due to the confluence of two major rivers named Chandra and Bhaga Rivers at Tandi. Chandra River has its origin in the glacial terrain of the area.
Route, which is frequently published, starts from Manali, goes through Darcha, and ends up at the region of Baralacha La. After that, the journey leads through alpine areas and moraine fields, during which the source regions of the Chandra River, glacial lakes like Kya Tso and Ga Tso will be seen. The landscape features of the place represent a typical Trans-Himalayan cold desert: barrenness, stony slopes, plains, and snow-capped mountains.
Unlike most treks that take place at low altitude in the Himalayas, this trek involves many hours spent walking at altitudes higher than 4,800m, with certain routes getting to about 5,243 metres. The fact that the trek takes place at high altitude in such an isolated region with rocky terrain, low temperatures, and lack of communication lines is quite risky. Therefore, this trek must only be undertaken through a professional tour operator.
Photos And Videos
Highlights
- Chandrabhaga glacial landscape
- Chandra River source area
- High-altitude glacial lakes
- Baralacha La and Suraj Tal
Trek Details
Seasons
Departure Cities
Terrain
Itinerary
- 1
Arrival at Manali
Route: Arrival and preparation at Manali Distance travelled: Local travel, if required Trekking distance: 0 km Altitude: Approximately 6,700 ft Activities: Meet the expedition team, check equipment, complete the briefing and rest before travelling into Lahaul.
- 2
Manali to Darcha
Route: Manali → Darcha Distance travelled: Approximately 120 km by road Trekking distance: 0 km Altitude: Manali — approximately 6,700 ft; Darcha — approximately 11,000 ft Activities: Drive through the mountain valleys toward Darcha. Rest after arrival and follow the team's acclimatisation guidance.
- 3
Acclimatisation at Darcha
Route: Darcha and surrounding area Distance travelled: Short acclimatisation walk; no fixed distance Trekking distance: Variable Altitude: Approximately 11,000 ft Activities: Rest, hydrate and take a gentle walk if advised by the expedition leader. Use this day to prepare for the higher-altitude section.
- 4
Darcha to Lunar Campsite via Baralacha La
Route: Darcha → Baralacha La → Paralatse La area → Lunar Campsite Distance travelled: Approximately 50 km by road, followed by 6 km trekking Trekking distance: Approximately 6 km Altitude: Baralacha La — approximately 16,000 ft; Lunar Campsite — approximately 16,100 ft Activities: Travel toward the high-altitude trailhead and trek to Lunar Campsite. The route involves exposed, rocky terrain and requires professional guidance.
- 5
Chandrabhaga Glaciers Excursion
Route: Lunar Campsite → Chandrabhaga Glaciers viewpoint → Chandra River origin area → Lunar Campsite Distance travelled: Approximately 11 km round trip Trekking distance: Approximately 11 km Altitude: Campsite — approximately 16,100 ft; viewpoints and river-origin area vary, with some sections around 15,500–16,200 ft Activities: Explore the glacial landscape and the upper Chandra River region with the expedition team. Glacier access depends on current conditions and the guide's assessment.
- 6
Lunar Campsite to River Campsite via Kya Tso and Ga Tso
Route: Lunar Campsite → Kya Tso → Ga Tso → River Campsite Distance travelled: Approximately 10 km trekking Trekking distance: Approximately 10 km Altitude: Campsites — approximately 16,100–16,200 ft; high point near Ga Tso — approximately 17,200 ft Activities: Trek through the high-altitude terrain around the glacial lakes before reaching the next campsite. This is a demanding day due to the elevation and remote environment.
- 7
River Campsite to Baralacha La and Return to Manali
Route: River Campsite → roadhead near Baralacha La → Manali Distance travelled: Approximately 5 km trekking, followed by about 150 km by road Trekking distance: Approximately 5 km Altitude: Starting camp — approximately 16,200 ft; Baralacha La region — approximately 16,000 ft; Manali — approximately 6,700 ft Activities: Complete the final walk to the roadhead and travel back to Manali. Road and weather conditions may affect arrival time.
Things to Carry
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