Dreaming about visiting Chandratal Lake when it’s calm, clear, and devoid of crowds? September is your time!
When both Manali and Kaza are accessible, the tourist traffic is much thinner, sunsets turn golden, starlit nights are freezing, and you get to see the rawest, realest version of Chandratal before the season is finished.
Here’s everything to know to plan a safe, beautiful, and unforgettable visit to Chandratal in September 2025.
Why Visit Chandratal in September?
September is often considered the sweet month for Chandratal travel. The monsoon has passed, skies are clear, and the first hints of cold make the lake look even more miraculous.
- Roads via both Manali with the Atal Tunnel and Kaza via the Kunzum Pass are still open till most of the month and camps near the lake are still operational till the first or second week of October.
- Visitor traffic dramatically reduces from the tourist wave of July to August, allowing for a feeling of isolation and space.
- Photographers get the best of both worlds – snow-dusted peaks alongside deep-blue lake reflections in golden light.
Weather Conditions at Chandratal in September
The weather remains mostly stable, but the temperature drops quickly, especially after mid-September.
During the daytime, it will be cool enough for hiking and sightseeing but by nighttime, with the increased wind, the temperature can drop to below freezing — especially after the 15th of September. Even a clear sky can feel absolutely freezing at night due to the wind.
By the end of the month, the possibility of seeing the first signs of snow, starting at Kunzum Pass, or on distant peaks. This is why September is the last easy opportunity to visit Chandratal before winter closes in on the area.
How to Reach Chandratal in September
You can approach Chandratal from two primary routes, depending on your intention:
1. Manali to Chandratal (Most Popular Route)
This is the most direct approach if you are visiting Chandratal as a short excursion.
Leave Manali early in the morning and cross the Atal Tunnel to reach Gramphu.
Continue along the Batal–Chhatru route, leaving the main road and joining the bumpy (and scenic!) road at Batal Work your way along the road from the road to Chandratal, (final 14 km mark before arriving at Chandratal however the final 14km is rocky dirt road and only suitable for SUVS or off-road vehicles.)
If you’re planning just a 2- or 3-day trip, this is the fastest and safest way.
2. Kaza to Chandratal (Part of Spiti Circuit)
If you are doing the full Spiti Valley circuit, you’re probably coming from Kaza.
- The route takes you through Losar, you climb up Kunzum Pass and drop down towards Chandratal.
- The drive is breathtaking, so make sure to take in the views of snow-capped mountains and rugged, raw terrain.
- It is advisable to check with locals regarding camping and the conditions of the road, especially after 20 September.
Camping at Chandratal in September
Camping near Chandratal is an unforgettable experience but isn’t going to be fancy.
The campsites are located about 2 km prior to the lake, as camping right beside the lake is prohibited to protect the environment and ecology.
Most campsite options will provide:
- Tents with bedding, sleeping bags and additional blankets
- Basic toilets (dry pit or western-style)
- Meal plans (vegetarian/egg food)
- Solar lighting or battery lanterns
- No Wi-Fi, no charging ports and no phone reception
If you are visiting towards the end of September you will want to check availability before, as several of the camps will start to close down by the last week of September..
Tip: Bring your own thermals, windproof jacket, gloves, and woollen socks! Night at the lake can be pretty intense with the cold with all the weather conditions.
Photography and Stargazing Tips
September is a photographer’s and an astro-wonder’s dream.
- The best time at the lake is after sunrise, when the lake is still and reflections are perfect.
- The soft light during the golden hour puts a warm glow to the mountain peaks, the orange-pinks are stunning.
- When the skies are clear the stargazing is incredible – consider taking a tripod with you for some Milky Way shots.
- You can forget about taking star shots if the moon is full.
Short Itinerary: 3-Day Trip to Chandratal from Manali
Here is a sample plan if you have time to take a long weekend:
Day 1 – Drive from Manali to Batal via Atal Tunnel and stay overnight at Batal or Chhatru.
Day 2 – Arrive at Chandratal in the early morning, wander around the lake, take photos and stay overnight at a campsite.
Day 3 – Return to Manali, or drive on to Kaza if you are doing the full circuit.
This quick trip is perfect for a photographer, couple, or weekend explorers.
Can You Visit Chandratal in September Without AMS?
Altitude sickness (AMS) is serious at 4,300 m.
Here are a few tips to keep safe:
- Do not go directly from Manali to Chandratal. You should sleep one night at a lower altitude, so either Chhatru or Batal.
- Stay hydrated, drink constantly – even if you don’t feel thirsty.
- Do not drink alcohol or smoke, especially before you sleep.
- Whenever you are near the lake, walk slowly, don’t rush.
- If you feel dizzy or breathless, descend!
FAQs – Chandratal in September (2025 Travel Guide)
Is Chandratal open in September?
Yes. It stays open until the first week of September. These sites remain open until the first week of October.
Will I see snow in September at Chandratal?
Not along the lake but Kunzum Pass and surrounding peaks may have early snowfall at the end of the month.
Can I drive a sedan to Chandratal?
Not advisable. The last section of road from Batal to Chandratal is off-road and needs a high clearance vehicle.
Are toilets available at the camps?
Yes. There are basic toilets, no running water and don’t expect western-style standards.
Is there any mobile signal at Chandratal?
No network works past Batal so you cannot contact anyone, let your family know you are entering the no signal area.
Is it safe for solo travellers and couples?
Yes. A friend or guide will help with acclimatisation, otherwise Chandratal is perfectly safe.
Plan Your Chandratal Adventure with Spiti Valley Packages
We are not just a tour operator — we are locals, we know these mountains as home.
With our Spiti Valley Packages, you get:
- Experienced drivers and safe vehicles to travel on rough terrain.
- Verified campsites and backups plans on standby
- Customised Chandratal + Spiti circuit trip
- 24/7 support throughout your trip
- Options for solo travellers, couples and small groups
Allow us to help you experience Chandratal in the best way – raw, real and truly memorable.
👉 Start Planning Your Trip to Chandratal Now
Also read: Last Chance Chandratal Camping in October 2025 – Book Before Camps Close