Chandratal Baralacha Trek- Itinerary and Trek Route Map

The trek starts after a drive to the Chandratal lake. Nowadays the drive is much easier owing to the opening of Rohtang tunnel, and thus we avert the Rohtang pass crossing. Proper acclimatization is needed as the Chandratal has an altitude of 13,940 feet/ 4,250 meters.

The trek can even be started from Kunzum La.

It takes 4 trekking days from Kunzum La to reach Baralacha La, with average trek of more than 12 KM everyday.

The trek covers some of the most remote areas that you can come across in the Indian Himalayas. The topography is very unique and is nestled between two prominent ranges of the Himalayas, namely the Great Himalayan range and the Zanskar range. There is no trace of any form of civilization along the route and your only companions will be the Gaddi shepherds that wander these lands. If ever peace could be found in the vast swathes of wilderness, you are surely going to find it on this trail.

Interestingly, the trek can be combined with the popular Hampta Pass trek, which starts very close to Manali, to make one spectacular journey, with tales for a lifetime. Further, the acclimatization as a result of the Hampta Pass trek saves time that otherwise would be spent leisurely acclimatizing for the Chandratal to Baralacha La trek.

You can combine it with more treks and make your way all the way up to Zanskar, the heart of Ladakh.

Regardless in itself the trek is a great add on if you are traveling to Leh and will provide a vivid experience as you cross two prominent passes (3 if Hampta pass is added to the itinerary).

Here we share a brief itinerary to guide you for the longer trekking route. You can check out the standard itinerary for the Chandratal Baralacha trek further below -

Itinerary

Day 1: Drive from Manali to Jobra, trek to Cheeka

Day 2: Trek from Cheeka to Balu Ka Ghera

Day 3: Trek from Balu Ka Ghera to Shea Goru via Hampta Pass

Day 4: Shea Goru to Chattru trek, drive to Chandratal

Day 5: Rest day at Chandratal/buffer day

Day 6: Chandratal to Tokpo Gongma trek

Day 7: Tokpo Gongma to Tokpo Yongma trek

Day 8: Tokpo Yongma to Baralacha La trek, drive to Manali/Pang (if headed to Leh)

If rest days are excluded, the trek can be managed in a mere 1 week time period from Manali. It offers a lot of thrill for such a short period. We can curate this itinerary for a wholesome experience for a private group.

The trek opening often used to coincide with the opening of the Manali-Leh highway & the road to Spiti from Manali. Nowadays, the road opens well early, sometimes by April itself. The ideal time for the trek is June mid to late-September.

There are two river crossings along the trail, which require careful planning but can be managed despite the rainy season. The weather will generally stay dry in the Lahaul area but short recurrent showers are to be expected.

The route to Manali can be challenging and 1 buffer day needs to be kept for any roadblocks. The bad stretches of roads are now mostly improved with the opening of 2 tunnels (as of August 2022) and another 3 soon to be opened for all-weather connectivity.

Trek Inclusions

Our treks are specially designed by the experienced team at Himalaya Shelter, taking you on an adventure of a lifetime all while making you connect not only with the bountiful nature but also with yourself and with others on the trek with you creating wonderful memories which will last you a lifetime. All Himalaya Shelter treks are guided by experienced Trekkers having vast knowledge and experience of the region, providing with insightful information and stories pertaining to the region’s flora and fauna and the history of the region whilst the trek. It is safe to say that on successfully completing the trek, one will gain tremendous insight and experience along with lifetime memories.

Transportation from Manali to Batal, further Kuzum La/Chandratal & return to Manali from Baralacha La in Cab
Accommodation – At Base Camp, stay at a local homestay or guest house for one night each, which will give you an insight into the authentic lifestyle of the locals.( INR 5000 per person extra for single sharing throughout the trek )
On Trek stay in a 2-person Vango Halo Pro/A-Shape tent, which is to be shared by two trekkers, built to withstand extreme weather conditions and at the same time making you comfortable after a hard day’s trek.
Camping Equipment – specially designed sleeping bags that can withstand harsh weather conditions, foam mattresses. Other safety gear like microspikes, gaiters, an ice axe, and helmets will be provided.
Medical Kit – our team will be equipped with an extensive medical kit, which our team is trained and experienced to use. Oxygen cylinders are used after they are thoroughly inspected throughout the Trek. Even campsites have large oxygen cylinders as backups.
Permission - Forest entry charges for Indian nationals (Additional charges will be applicable for international tourists)
Meals – Breakfast, packed lunch (on trek days), evening snacks, and dinner will be served. A hearty, delicious, and nutrition-filled Veg meals with egg preparation will be provided throughout the trek. (Jain and Vegan Food can also be arranged on prior notification.)There will be a dedicated Kitchen Tent along with a dining tent, which will have a dining table too.
Our Team – A highly experienced and AMC-certified Trek Leader who will help ensure that the entire trek goes smoothly and safely while navigating the challenging conditions during the trek, and is skilled enough to navigate any medical emergency that can arise during the trek. Local and route Guides who are well-versed with the region and provide an in-depth insight into the local customs and knowledge of the flora and fauna endemic to the region. A dedicated Kitchen staff, which includes a Cook, a helper, and other support staff. There will also be porters and mules to carry common equipment.
Cloakroom - We have a cloakroom facility available for extra luggage. Every trekker is permitted to leave their luggage behind at no charge.

Trek Exclusions/Add-Ons

Transportation to Manali from Delhi and return (or onward journey to Leh) - can be arranged at an additional cost depending on mode of transport (bus/private cab)
Personal expenses like tips, personal medicines, phone calls etc.
Travel Expenses - Travel expenses from your hometown to the mentioned Pick-Up Point are not included in the trek fee.
From the scheduled pick-up spot to the base camp, we have our own fleet of vehicles like Bolero, Innova, Dezire, or Tempo Traveler (12-seater). This is be shared by trekkers for a pre-decided amount. All vehicles are non-AC.
Personal Equipment - Any personal gear like jackets, shoes, cutlery, or backpacks are not included in the trek fee. We recommend renting them from our Rental Store for an affordable fee. This can be pre-arranged to avoid last-minute hang-ups.
Offloading - We encourage carrying your backpack to get into the true spirit of trekking. However, if needed, you can opt to offload your personal luggage of up to 12 kgs for an additional cost of INR 500 per bag per day.
Trek Insurance - A mandatory trek insurance fee is charged in addition to your trek fee. Since most medical insurance doesn’t cover adventure activities, trek insurance offers essential coverage, enhancing your safety without a significant financial burden.
Buffer day on the trek - We have kept a buffer day on the trek to account for any weather-related delay. If this is utilized, you will need to pay an extra amount to your trek leader.
Anything apart from inclusions
Please carry a lunch box for a packed lunch/breakfast to avoid using polythene and Aluminium foil.

Keeping the Himalayas clean is our own responsibility. Reduce the use of Plastic when you are in the abode of the Sacred Himalaya. 🌱

Chandratal Baralacha Trek