Suraj [Vishal] Tal

Suraj [Vishal] Tal lies at 15,747 feet above sea level in Lahaul region of Indian state of Himachal Pradesh.

It lies on Manali – Leh highway.

The lake originates at Baralacha.

The original name of the lake was Suraj Tal.

However, it was renamed as Vishal Tal in memory of Caption Vishal who lost his life in helicopter crash at the location.

Internet sources claim that the lake is source of Bhaga River; however during last week of September, I could not see any river / stream originating from the lake.

Deepak Tal

Deepak Tal is a high altitude lake at 12,300 feet above sea level.

It is located in Lahaul region of Indian state of Himachal Pradesh.

It is fed by glacier at Patsio.

It lies on Manali – Leh highway [around 50 km from Keylong towards Sarchu].

During last week of September, a few wild flowers were visible.

Chandertal Lake

Chandertal Lake is a natural high altitude lake nestled in the Western Himalayas, situated near the Kunjam Pass [6 km], which joins the Great Himalayan and Pir Panjal Ranges.

It lies in the Upper Chandra Valley with an outlet into the Chandra River, in the Lahaul and Spiti District of Himachal Pradesh.

The Lake has been identified as a Wetland of National Importance, declared as a Ramsar Site [November 8, 2005] and Wildlife Sanctuary [November 5, 2005] due to presence of rare plants, variety of animal species, and its role in the maintenance of ecology and biodiversity of the region.

The Lake lies at an altitude of 14,009 feet above sea level.

Chander Tal Sanctuary's area is 38.56 square kilometres.

Vehicles stop 1.5 km short of the Lake. Tourists have to walk 3 km [return] to visit the Lake.

View of mountains on the way to Lake is surreal!

During first week of October, a variety of vegetation could be seen.

A very small lake existed nearby.

River Chandra originates from the Lake.

Accommodation is available a few kilometres away from the Lake in camp [tents]. Those, who do not wish to stay at high altitude / in tent, can stay at Manali and do a day trip to the Lake. However, permit is required to cross Rohtang Pass and it has to be obtained minimum a day in advance.