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Trips 
India
Ladakh - Chandratal (Moon Lake) Trek
This overland drive & trek adventure is a great introduction to
the beauty of Himachal Pradesh and Ladakh in the Indian Himalaya. The
first part of the journey involves a drive from Manali to the trail
head for our trek to Chandratal Lake. The 2nd part of our journey is
a 250-km overland jeep safari on the famous Manali-Leh highway over
some of the world's highest passes - Rohtang Pass (3980m), Baralacha-la
Pass (4892m), Lachulang-la Pass (5065m) and Tanglang-la Pass (5360m).
Nestled at an altitude of 4270-m, the Chandratal Lake is a beautiful
glacial lake located at the source of the Chandra River in the Lahaul
Valley of Himachal Pradesh. Aptly called 'Moon Lake', it lies in a broad
turquoise crescent along the flank of the Great Himalayan range itself,
surrounded by the high peaks of the Chandrabhaga and the Mulkila massifs.
The lake is fed by melt-waters from the Chandra glacier and freezes
during the winter season. Alpine vegetation grows on the surrounding
moraines in summer. The waters of Chandratal are of an unimaginable
crystal clear blue that changes hues as the sun goes through its paces
overhead. In the summer, the vast meadows here prove to be irresistible
grazing fields for the famous Gaddi shepards who may stay the season
with their large herds.
This journey to Leh (3290-m), capital of Ladakh, offers some of the
most stunningly stark, arid lunar landscapes and mountain peaks of the
Indian Himalaya. Ladakh, also called 'Little Tibet', is a high altitude
desert and the western extension of the Tibetan plateau in northmost
India. Predominantly Buddhist, it is a land of medieval Buddhist monasteries;
of vivid red prayer wheels; of millions of prayer flags fluttering from
every pole and every bridge. A land with a blend of mysticism, traditions,
natural beauty - and yes, it must be admitted - swiftly growing commercialism
- it is definitely worth a visit.
It's an adventure that promises to stir up the appetite of those seeking
a truly Himalayan adventure
Highlights
- Stunning mountainscapes & culture
- Hike to Chandratal Lake (4,270-m) & Baralacha La (4892-m)
- Spectacular drive on the high altitude Manali-Leh highway
- Cultural sightseeing of monasteries in and around fascinating Leh
What is Included :
- Airport transfers and all transport costs in chartered transport from airport to airport including transport for all sightseeing as indicated in itinerary.
- Seats in trains between Delhi to Chandigarh in air conditioned chair car
- Accommodation in Hotels with B&B
- Trekking arrangement to Chandratal Lake at per the itinerary and camping at Sarchu with all meals
- English speaking Indian Leader from Delhi airport to Leh traveling with the group all the time, from Delhi airport arrival to departure
- Ladakhi Guide in Ladakh during visit to monasteries.
Click here for a general description of what is provided in this organised trek
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Duration: 15 days
Maximum Altitude :
| 5,360-m Tanglang-La (on vehicle) |
| 4,892-m Baralacha-La (on trek) |
| Group Size |
2006 Price * |
| 10 - 15 persons |
$ 1400 |
| 8 - 9 persons |
$ 1475 |
| 6 - 7 persons |
$ 1550 |
| 4 - 5 persons |
$ 1650 |
| 2 - 3 persons |
$ 1750 |
| * Price above is land cost only and does not includes international return air fares ( estimated at about +/- $750 including taxes & fuel surcharges as in June 2006 ) |
Grading: 
Best Season : mid June to October
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Trekking through Ladakh is not easy - its harsh, rugged terrain, inhospitable
climate, and high passes up to 5500-m is enough to tax the most seasoned
of hikers - but once you've walked these trails, you could easily get
hooked for life. For more info on trekking in the Himalayas, click
here.
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