You will begin your journey by arriving in Manali, a popular hill station in Himachal Pradesh known for its serene atmosphere and stunning Himalayan views. After checking into your accommodation, take the day to relax and acclimatize to the cooler mountain climate. You can take a leisurely walk through Mall Road, the heart of Manali, where you’ll find local handicrafts, souvenirs, and some charming cafes offering traditional Himachali food. If time permits, visit Hadimba Temple, a beautiful, ancient wooden temple surrounded by cedar forests. It’s a peaceful spot perfect for soaking in the tranquility of the area. After a day of relaxation, enjoy a delicious dinner at one of Manali's cozy restaurants before retiring for the night.

On Day 2, your journey takes you from Manali to Chandratal Lake, a high-altitude lake located at approximately 4,300 meters. The drive to Chandratal is an adventure in itself, taking you through the scenic Kullu Valley and Batal before reaching the stunning Chandratal Lake. The journey is about 6-7 hours, and along the way, you will pass through stark, barren landscapes that provide a dramatic contrast to the green valleys. Once you arrive at the lake, you’ll experience the surreal beauty of the crescent-shaped lake surrounded by towering mountains. This place is known for its clear skies and peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for camping. Spend the evening relaxing by the lake, and take in the breathtaking views of the stars. The night at the campsite offers a peaceful retreat away from the noise of the world.

After spending the morning exploring Chandratal Lake and soaking in its mesmerizing beauty, you’ll continue your journey towards Kaza, the capital of Spiti Valley. The drive from Chandratal to Kaza is about 5-6 hours, passing through rugged terrain and sparse landscapes. As you descend towards the Spiti Valley, you’ll begin to witness the dramatic transition from lush green valleys to barren, desert-like surroundings. Kaza is located at a high altitude and is surrounded by majestic mountains, making it a serene and isolated town. Upon arrival, check into your accommodation and rest. In the evening, you can stroll through Kaza, enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, and take in the stunning views of the Spiti Valley.

Day 4 is packed with exploration. Start with a visit to the iconic Key Monastery, one of the largest and most important monasteries in the Spiti Valley. Perched atop a hill, it offers panoramic views of the valley and is a peaceful retreat for monks. From there, drive to the remote village of Kibber, known for its traditional Tibetan architecture and spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. Next, head towards Langza, famous for its rich fossil deposits and the impressive Buddha statue that stands tall, offering views of the valley. You’ll also visit Hikkim, home to the highest post office in the world, and Komic, which holds the title of one of the highest inhabited villages in the world. These remote, high-altitude villages offer an insight into the unique Tibetan culture and way of life. Return to Kaza for an overnight stay.

On Day 5, you’ll head south towards Tabo, an ancient village known for its historic Tabo Monastery, which is over 1,000 years old. The monastery is an important cultural and religious center, home to Buddhist murals, scriptures, and intricate architecture. After exploring Tabo, continue your journey towards Nako, a tranquil village set along a lake surrounded by high mountains. Nako is known for its traditional architecture, apple orchards, and serene atmosphere, making it a perfect place for relaxation. After checking into your accommodation, you can take a stroll around the village, visit the lake, or enjoy the peaceful views of the surrounding mountains.

Day 6 takes you to Kalpa, a picturesque village in the Kinnaur Valley. The drive to Kalpa is about 4-5 hours, offering mesmerizing views of the lush valleys and the towering Kinner Kailash Range. Kalpa is known for its apple orchards, traditional wooden houses, and the stunning views of the snow-capped peaks of Kinner Kailash, which is considered a sacred mountain by locals. You’ll spend the day exploring this charming village. Visit the Kinnaur Kailash Temple, or simply take a leisurely walk through the village, enjoying the beauty of the landscape and the peaceful atmosphere. Kalpa is a great place to unwind and enjoy nature.

On Day 7, you’ll drive to Sangla, a scenic village located in the Kinnaur region, about 2 hours from Kalpa. Sangla is known for its lush green landscapes, apple orchards, and the tranquil Baspa River that flows through the valley. The village offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers. You can spend the day exploring the village, taking a walk along the river, or visiting local farms. Sangla is an ideal place to relax after several days of high-altitude travel, offering a peaceful retreat with traditional wooden houses and stunning natural beauty.

Day 8 is dedicated to visiting Chitkul, the last inhabited village on the Indo-Tibetan border. A short 3-hour round-trip drive from Sangla, Chitkul is known for its stunning natural beauty and its position on the edge of the Tibetan plateau. The village is surrounded by towering mountains, lush forests, and the Baspa River, making it an idyllic location for nature lovers. You can take a walk around the village, visit the local temple, or simply enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings. After spending time in Chitkul, return to Sangla for an overnight stay.

On the final day of your journey, you’ll drive from Sangla to Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh. The drive is long, approximately 7-8 hours, but offers scenic views of valleys, rivers, and villages along the way. Once you arrive in Shimla, you’ll either take a train or flight back home, marking the end of your unforgettable 9-day travel circuit with Chandratal Lake. The memories of serene lakes, remote villages, ancient monasteries, and spectacular Himalayan views will stay with you long after your journey ends.