Himachal Diaries: Part Sixteen

Day Nine (09.07.2024): Road trip from Losar to Manali

Losar is one of the last villages before the Indo-Tibetan border, at an elevation of around 13,400 feet above sea level. Surrounded by towering mountains, snow-capped peaks, and vast expanses of barren land, it offers breathtaking views at every turn. It serves as a base for various treks and explorations in the surrounding mountains. It's a popular starting point for treks to the stunning Chandrataal Lake and the challenging Kunzum Pass. 

I woke up at 3am and got ready for breakfast. Everyone assembled in the dining area and we were given packed breakfast of maaza, samosa, sandwich and banana. We left the homestay at 4:30am. It was pitch dark outside and quite a chilling cold weather. Driving in the dark with only the car headlights to guide us, we reached Kunzum pass at 5:30am. 

Kunzum Pass 

It is a high mountain pass in the Himalayas, at an elevation of 14931ft above the sea level, connects the Lahaul and Spiti valleys. It's known for its stunning views and challenging terrain, making it a popular destination for adventure travelers.

Kunzum Mata Temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga and is considered one of the most sacred places. Kunzum Stupas are a group of three Buddhist stupas.

We further drove to the lake passing through water streams generated due to the waterfalls. We passed by making camping sites towards the lake and reached the base, maximum point till which vehicles are allowed, at 7:30am. Then started our trek towards the lake with signboards and Hrishikesh, Sanket to guide us. Everyone walked at their own pace, some didn't make it to the lake. I reached the lake at 8am. 

Chandrataal

It is a breathtaking high-altitude lake at 14100ft nestled in the Himalayas. It's renowned for its stunning beauty, pristine turquoise waters, and serene ambiance. Lake of the Moon, this name is incredibly apt as the lake is said to change color throughout the day and night, often reflecting a silvery, moon-like hue, especially on clear nights. The trek to Chandrataal itself is moderately challenging but immensely rewarding due to the stunning landscapes encountered en route. Camping near Chandrataal is a magical experience. Many visitors choose to camp overnight to witness the starlit sky, the changing colors of the lake at dawn and dusk, and the overall peaceful atmosphere.  Like many natural sites in India, Chandrataal is steeped in local mythology and folklore. Some believe it's associated with Hindu deities and holds spiritual significance. Local legends might tell tales of fairies and spirits dwelling in the lake's vicinity. Surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas, Chandrataal offers breathtaking panoramic views. The landscape is stark yet majestic, with rugged mountains, glaciers, and open skies.

The 30 minutes walk was worth the awe inspiring beauty of the lake. We spent some time admiring the lake and landscape and returned to our vehicles at 9am. The uphill walk was tiring. We drove towards Manali, the road journey was rough and back breaking. I dozed off till we reached Chacha Chachi Dhaba for actual breakfast at 10:30am. 

A lot of parathas being prepared with butter and served with pickle. I had maggi, safest option for me. Thank God for the rest house in front of the dhaba, we could take a washroom break. We drove further and the back breaking journey continues. We halted at a small tent restaurant for lunch at 1:45pm. 

It was time to say goodbye to the kitchen team for they would not accompany us further. Everyone expressed gratitude for feeding us with delicious homemade food, from morning tea to dinner, mentioning their favourite dishes. We started the back breaking journey at 2:30pm towards Manali. Bhumi got into our vehicle. The road conditions from Chandrataal to Manali are rough and bumpy. We passed through water streams, rocky paths, etc. Finally we reached the Atal Tunnel at 4pm. 

We crossed the tunnel in 13 minutes. We reached hotel Whistling Pines at 5:30pm and had tea. My room was 304. 

We were too tired to explore the streets of Manali. We had dinner at 8:30pm. Another group had their DJ night at the basement. 

Post dinner I was trying to sleep but had immense pain in my left ear, which the painkiller could not suppress. Hoping to get better tomorrow.