A taxi from Chandratal to Manali covers about 125 km and usually takes about 6 to 7 hours. Quoted before booking. The last 12 km are a rough track, so we advise an SUV.
Chandratal to Manali at a glance
| Route | Chandratal to Manali, via the Atal Tunnel, Gramphu and Batal |
|---|---|
| Distance | About 125 km |
| Drive time | about 6 to 7 hours |
| Road | Mountain road, then a 12 km rough dirt track from Batal with water crossings |
| Fare | Quoted before booking |
| Vehicles | Sedan (4 seats, 2 bags), SUV or MUV (6 seats, 4 bags) and Tempo Traveller (12 seats) |
| Pickup | Chandratal parking area, Batal or any campsite near Chandratal |
What the drive is like
From the Chandratal parking area, the track runs back to Batal and joins the main Manali–Kaza road. From Batal you go to Gramphu and the Atal Tunnel and then down to Manali. The Chandratal–Batal track has boulders and 2 to 3 stream crossings, and it can be hard on low cars.
Leave the lake by early afternoon. Water levels rise later in the day and the long drive back to Manali is better done in daylight.
Good stops between Chandratal and Manali
- Atal Tunnel – the shortcut into Lahaul
- Gramphu – junction for the Kaza and Keylong roads
- Batal – the turn-off for Chandratal
- Chandratal parking area – start of the short walk to the lake
- Chandratal Lake – at about 4,270 m, famous for its colour changes
Fare and what is included
There is no standard fare for Chandratal. The price depends on the vehicle, whether you go for a day or stay overnight, and the road condition on the date. Send us your date, group size and luggage on WhatsApp and we reply with a fixed fare before you book.
Vehicle choices: Sedan (4 seats, 2 bags), SUV or MUV (6 seats, 4 bags) and Tempo Traveller (12 seats). Local sightseeing in Manali with the same driver can be added on request.
Best time and road conditions
Chandratal is open only for a short season, from about mid-June to early October. The road is closed by snow for the rest of the year, so a trip in mid-October or later is usually not possible. Plan for June to September and check with us before you travel, because road and stream conditions change quickly in the high hills.
Chandratal to Manali Taxi: common questions
How far is Chandratal from Manali by road?
About 125 km by the usual route (via the Atal Tunnel, Gramphu and Batal). The exact distance changes a little with the road your driver takes on the day.
How long does the Chandratal to Manali taxi ride take?
Plan for about 6 to 7 hours. Traffic, weather, road work and meal stops can add time, so do not book a tight train, flight or hotel check-in without a buffer.
How much does a Chandratal to Manali taxi cost?
There is no standard fare. It depends on the vehicle, the day trip or camp stay, and the road condition. Message us and we quote a fixed fare.
Can I drive all the way to the lake?
No. Vehicles stop at the parking area, and you walk about 1.5 to 2 km to the lake. Camping is not allowed on the lake shore.
Is a sedan fine for Chandratal?
We advise an SUV or MUV. The 12 km track from Batal has rocks and stream crossings that are hard on a sedan.
Can I book the Chandratal to Manali taxi on WhatsApp?
Yes. Message +91 70307 30001 on WhatsApp with your pickup point, date, number of passengers and luggage. We reply with the vehicle options and a fixed fare.
Book your Chandratal to Manali taxi
Call +91 70307 30001 or message us on WhatsApp. Tell us your pickup point, date, group size and luggage. You can also use the Request a quote button on this page. Details on this page were last checked on 12 October 2026. Road and permit rules in the hills change, so we confirm the latest position with you when you book.