SpitiChandra Taal (meaning the Lake of the Moon), or Chandra Tal is a lake in the Spiti part of the Lahul and Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh, India.[1] Chandra Taal is near the source of the Chandra River. Despite the rugged and inhospitable surroundings, it is in a protected niche with some flowers and wildlife in summer. It is a favourite spot for tourists and high-altitude trekkers. It is usually associated with Spiti, although geographically it is separated from Spiti. Kunzum La separates Lahaul and Spiti valleys.
Description
Chandra Taal Lake is on the Samudra Tapu plateau, which overlooks the Chandra River (a source river of the Chenab). The name of the lake originates from its crescent shape. It is at an altitude of about 4,300 metres (14,100 ft) in the Himalayas.[1] Mountains of scree overlook the lake on one side, and a cirque encloses it on the other.
Access
Foot path to Chandra Taal, Aug 2016
Chandra Taal is a tourist destination for trekkers and campers. The lake is accessible by road from Batal and by road as well as on foot from Kunzum Pass from late May to early October. The road to Chandra Taal branches off from NH-505 about 2.9 kilometres (1.8 mi) from Batal and 8 km (5.0 mi) from Kunzum Pass.[3] This 12 km (7.5 mi) motor road runs as far as a parking lot 1 kilometre (0.62 mi) from the lake. One has to travel on foot for the final 1 kilometre1 km (0.62 mi). It takes approximately two hours from Kunzum Pass to Chandra Taal. Chandra Taal is also accessible from Suraj Tal, 30 km (19 mi) away.
Fauna and flora
Herd of sheep passing the lake, Jul 2016
There are vast meadows on the banks of the lake. During springtime, these meadows are carpeted with hundreds of varieties of wild flowers.[4] In 1871, Harcourt, Assistant Commissioner of Kullu, reported that there was a plain of good grass to the north of Chadra Taal, where shepherds brought large herds for grazing from Kullu and Kangra.[5] Due to overgrazing, the grasslands are now degraded.[2]
Ruddy (Brahminy) shelduck, Jun 2018
Chandra Taal is home to a few species such as the Snow Leopard, Snow Cock, Chukor, Black Ring Stilt, Kestrel, Golden Eagle, Chough, Red Fox, Himalayan Ibex, and Blue Sheep. Over time, these species have adapted to the cold arid climate, intense radiation, and oxygen deficiency by developing special physiological features. Migratory species such as the Ruddy shelduck are found in summer.[6]
Other details
The lake is one of two high-altitude wetlands of India which have been designated as Ramsar sites. Tourism seems to be having its effect on this pristine hidden paradise.[2]
