Brief Description
A cycle expedition from Manali to the beautiful Chandratal lake. It takes you from the lush green lands of Kullu through the arid landscape of spiti & lahaul . The blue water of chandratal lake will take your breath away & reaching here on cycles gives you another level of high. A must do cycling trip for anyone who is into cycling . One of india's best cycling route in terms of natural beauty. Chandra Taal (meaning the Lake of the Moon) is situated at an altitude of about 4,300 Metres. Mountains of scree overlook the lake on one side, and a magnificent cirque presents a view on the other. The name of the lake originates from its crescent shape.
Itinerary
Itinerary
Show complete Itinerary
Arrival in Manali, Distance: 0, Altitude: 1,980 m (6,400 ft)
Check-in to the booked hotel or orientation camp set up by Bikat Adventures. Proceedings will start after lunch with a round of introductions for the participants and organizers. The tour leader will brief about the expedition and after that fellow cyclists will be free to explore around Manali. Overnight at the hotel/ camp.
Manali-Marhi, Distance:38 kms, Altitude: 3,300 m (10,800 ft)
The first ascent of the trip prepares up for the tough ride ahead and takes you through the panoramic view of pine and deodar trees. We will take an early start to beat the traffic rush destined for Rohtang Pass. One has to negotiate many hairpin bends to reach Marhi. Marhi offers picturesque camping sites and prepares up for the muddy ascent of Rohtang Pass. Overnight in camps.
Marhi-Chhatru, Distance: 50 kms, Altitude: 3200m (10,499 ft)
We start the day by finishing the 18km ascent to the Rohtang pass (3980m) and there are some lovely scenic views on the horizon of snow covered peaks and glaciers of Spiti valley. After a refreshing halt at Rohtang, a steady descent takes us to Gramphoo (3250m) on the highway along Chandra river. The day ends with camping at Chhatru. Tucked away hidden in the vast expenses of the rugged Himalayas, a tiny little hamlet Chatru stands out like an oasis in the middle of this "high altitude cold desert" of Spiti in Himachal Pradesh.
Chhatru-Batal, Distance: 31 kms, Altitude: 4095m (13,435 ft)
We start early as the road condition from Chhatru to Batal is bad which means more time. Major part of this road is boulder strewn. There are many water crossings where vehicles get struck quite often, but nothing to worry with bicycles. The route goes along the Chandra river.We cross the small village of Chhota Dara (3640m) .After few hours of more paddling we arrive at Batal, where we have the hot lunch in our camps.
Batal-Chandratal, Distance: 14 kms, Altitude: 4300m (14,100 ft)
From Batal diversion up to Chandratal is a gruesome climb. Climb is challenging but the views are equally rewarding. It will take 3-4 hours to arrive at Chandra Tal. The camping is not allowed at the lake but a few Kms before the lake there are good camping sites. We will spend rest of the day soaking in the natural beauty of this jewel in the mountains, Chandratal. Overnight in tents. The most surprising thing about this lake is that there is no visible source of this lake but there is a visible outlet of this lake which means that water to this lake comes from underground.
Chandratal-Manali, Distance: 118 kms, Altitude: 3250m (10,663 ft)
The ride back will be in support vehicle . After an uphill ride to Rohtang, we will cruise along the downhill and will reach Manali by evening . The trip ends here & you can book your bus from Manali as per your convenience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Pick your question
Age limit: What is the minimum & maximum age limit?
The minimum age limit is 13 years. However, minors aged between 13 to 17 should be accompanied with their parents or guardians. If you are above the age of 60, kindly carry a medical certificate from your doctor that deem you fit for adventure activities like trekking.
Eligibility: Experience required
- Should be a regular biker
- Should have done at least easy routes mountain terrain biking before
- Should have done challenging treks in case of a novice in mountain terrain biking.
Eligibility: Is this trek good for me?
Are you an avid biker or even a regular cyclist? If yes, then Manali-Chandratal Cycling Expedition is just the adrenaline boost for you. Manali-Chandratal Cycling expedition is a 6-day challenging consisting of difficult terrains and uphill riding conditions. Factors like high altitude, difficult passes, and hairpin bends make it completely different from cycling in plains. However, if you are a newbie and still want to take up the challenge, it is advised that you start preparing for the expedition well in advance. You will need to invest in a good bike and follow a strict exercise regimen before the final showdown.
Eligibility: Fitness benchmark
- Ability to ride on inclined planes for 35 - 40 Kms in a day
- Ability to hold the breath (in standing position) for 35 - 40 seconds
- Ability to sustain downhill biking for 3-4 hours at a stretch
Eligibility: Requisite skills
- Should know how to use a Mountain Terrain Bike Gear shifters, Shock absorber, Seat adjustment, etc.
- Disassembling & Assembling the bike
- Knowledge of disc alignment or brake pad
- Basics of Camping - How to use a sleeping bag, toilet tent, and sleeping tent
Packing List: What to pack
Cycling gear
- A good MTB (Mountain Terrain Biking) - You can also rent it from us
- Cycling helmet
- A lock for your cycle
- Front torch - optional
- Rear View Mirror - optional
Footwear
- Cycling shoes - 1
- Sandals/ flip-flops for camps - 1
On-the-bike Clothing & Accessories
- Cycling Jersey or Any Dry Fit T-Shirt or Cotton T-Shirts - 2
- Cycling Shorts - 2
- Track Pant (Preferably Warm & Quick Dry) - 2
- T-shirt full sleeves - 2
- Undergarments - ( 6 to 8 )
- Rain Coat of Good Quality & light weight - 1
- Riding Glove - 1 Pair
- Sweat Band or Bandana
- Cotton Socks - (6 to 8 pairs)
- Polaroid U V Sunglasses - 1
Off-the-bike Clothing
- Warm Jacket (Preferably Waterproof which might be needed while biking in case of exceptionally cold weather) - 1
- Thermal Inners Upper & Lower - 2
- Woolen Sweater - 1
- Woolen Glove – 1 Pair
- Woolen Cap – 1
- Big Towel – 1
- Hand Towels - 2
- Woolen socks- 1 or 2 pairs
Toiletries
- Sunscreen lotion (SPF–50 or above), lip balm, toothbrush, toothpaste, hand sanitizer, toilet roll, cold cream, small towel.
- Anti-rash cream or powder to avoid any rash near groin area from cycling.
- Anti-fungal cream: Carry an antifungal cream if you are sensitive to sweating and prone to skin irritations around genitals or groin area.
- For women:
- Tampons or sanitary napkins,
- 2-3 zip pouches to dispose off non-biodegradable waste
- Vaginal wash to avoid any irritation due to lack of bathing.
Miscellaneous
- Small Day Pack/ Waist Pack -1
- Hydration pack or water bottle - 1
- Flashlight/headlamp - 1
- Pocket knife
- Basic first-aid kit with emergency numbers
- Sewing kit
- Camera - GoPro and Still (optional)
Bike Spares- In case you are not renting from us
- Bike Reflectors Front & Rear – 1 each
- Spare Tubes – 4 Nos.
- Brake Shoes -1 Set
- Brake cables – 2 Set
- Gear cables – 1 Set
- Spokes – 5 Nos
- Lock (for cycle) – 1 Set
- Spare Tyre – 1 No.
About the activity: Why should I go for this trek?
Manali to Chandratal Cycling Expedition
Stunning cycling expedition from Manali to the high altitude glacial lake of Chandratal across stunning mountain passes, hair-pin bends.Best Season: What are the best months to visit this trek?
Best months to do the trek is between the months of June to October.
Connectivity: How to Reach the base of the trek & how to go back from the end point?
Manali is well connected to Delhi with through road and air. There are no direct trains from Delhi though.
By Road
The road distance from Delhi to Manali is 536 km. There are overnight HPRTC buses and Volvos available from ISBT Kashmere Gate, Delhi for Manali. It is a 14-hour journey by bus. You can book your bus tickets online through hrtchp.com or any other bus services available. You can also hire a private taxi or an outstation cab from Delhi.
By Rail
To reach by train, take a direct train from Delhi to Pathankot. Some of the trains that run on this route are Delhi-Pathankot Express, Jammu Tawi Express, Delhi-Dhauladhar Express. You can then take a bus from Pathankot to Manali. Or you can take a connecting train from Pathankot to Joginder Nagar which is the nearest station to Manali. There are buses running frequently between Joginder Nagar and Manali.
By Air
The nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport which is located 50 km from Manali. There are taxis available at the airport which will take you to Manali. You can also take local buses that keep running from Bhuntar to Manali at a regular frequency. Buses are decent and very cheap compared to a taxi that can cost you around INR 2000 to 2500 depending upon the season.
Connectivity: What is the cellular network connectivity for this trek?
You will get a good connectivity till Rohtang Pass. Beyond Rohtang pass, BSNL network is available on some other campsites.
Nearby attraction: What are the nearby attractions that I can explore?
When you reach Manali, you will have a day to explore the tourist place. Manali is the gateway to Solang Valley where you can participate in adventure activities like paragliding, and zorbing in the summer months when the snow melts. This famous tourist hill station has so many places to visit in Manali. Visit the ancient Hadimba Devi Temple which has an interesting mythological tale associated with it. Walk through the charming lanes of Old Manali. Visit the bazaar to buy some souvenirs. Jogini Fall and Vashisht Temple are other famous attractions in Manali. You can also visit Rohtang pass while you are in Manali.
Accommodation type: What will be the accommodation type in this trek?
Twin/Triple sharing rooms in Manali. Please note that hotel meals are not included in the stay. On all other days during the expedition, we would set up camps with toilet tents, sleeping tents, and dining tents.
Equipment and facilities: What kind of tents and sleeping bags will be provided to us?
We provide 4 seasons tents by Gipfel for higher altitudes which can easily withstand heavy snowfall and storms. They are spacious enough to accomodate 3 people at once with a vestibule to place the backpacks. Our sleeping bags are made up of Heatseeker Pro synthetic insulation that can provide you comfort in -10 degrees celsius. We also use additional fleece liners to have thermal efficiency even in the extreme temperatures of -17 degrees Celsius.
Equipment and facilities: Are there any washroom/toilet facilities on the trek?
Toilet tents will be provided to you on the trek. These are portable toilets tents where a deep pit will be dug. A shovel will be provided inside the tent to cover the waste after you have made your business. You can take a toilet roll inside. Make sure you dig used toilet paper along with the waste. Though water is recommended in place of toilet paper. Please refrain from using wet wipes as they are non-biodegradable. There will be no facility for bathing on the trek. Go to our blog section for tips on how to maintain personal hygiene on treks/expeditions.
Equipment and facilities: What kind of food will be provided for the trek?
Vegetarian food will be served throughout the trek. The only non-vegetarian item served on our treks are eggs. Our kitchen staff follows a proper menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner which has been designed in order to fulfill the nutritional requirements of the participants. There will be milk, poha, eggs, muesli/corn flakes, and bread butter served in breakfast. Rice or simple roti sabzi will be packed for lunch. In dinner, you will have dal, egg curry or any other vegetarian dish along with rice, roti, and a dessert item. Packed lunch will be provided to you on the days you are cycling. You are requested to carry your own tiffin box and a mug to consume food.
Weather conditions: What will the temperatures be like during this trek?
During the day, the temperature will range from 13-18 degrees Celsius. The nights will get cold dropping the temperature to 0-7 degrees Celsius. The higher the altitude you gain, the colder it gets. Lahaul and Spiti, both are arid regions. So, the probability of rainfall during the expedition is very low after you cross Rohtang La but till then, you can expect some rains.
Weather conditions: When will there be snow on this trek?
One can see snow at the passes during June and early July batches but post that you can only see snow in patches around the passes (Rohtang La).
Miscellaneous : Is there an option to offload my backpack?
Your luggage would be in the support vehicle but you should carry you day pack with you with your nutrition bars, dry fruits, and hydration packs.
Miscellaneous : Who will lead us on the trek?
There will be a Lead cyclist and an expedition leader with you on the expedition.
Miscellaneous : Are there any local stores/shops from where I can shop trekking necessities?
Manali is the last point where you can buy anything related to the expedition. Once we move from Manali, you would not find anything before Chandratal.
Miscellaneous : Is it safe for solo woman traveller to trek in Fixed departures?
Absolutely. We have many single women who have traveled with us for this expedition. You would be provided tents either to share with another woman or in case there is no one to share, then alone. Proper toilet tents are pitched at all camp sites.
Miscellaneous : Will you give certificates on completion of trek?
Yes, e-certificates will be given at the end of each trek provided that you completed it. It will bear your name, the trek, and the maximum altitude you achieved on the expedition.
Why Bikat
Why Bikat
Learning Experience
- We are an Adventure Learning Organisation first.
- We want you to not just complete a trek safely but also pick up some basic trekking knowledge and skills along the way.
- To achieve this we have integrated learning modules into our itineraries.
- These modules will help you build the necessary skills to progress from trekking to mountaineering over time.
Loyality Programs
Our community is an integral part of us and we take pride in our trekkers and climbers. When you complete at least three days on any trek or expedition with us, you become eligible for our membership and referral programs.
- Currently we have three levels:
- Basic Membership
- Summiteer Membership
- Leader Membership
Personalized Attention
- Our group sizes on treks don’t exceed 15 members in order to maintain a healthy Participants : Leader Ratio of 8:1.
- Over time we have found this number to be optimum when it comes to ensuring personalised attention to every member of our group.
- On mountaineering expeditions this number is even smaller. Our group sizes are capped at 12 members ensuring a Participants : HAP Ratio of 2:1.
Best Expedition Leaders
- Our Expedition leaders are advanced mountaineering course qualified, specially trained in rescue procedures from NIM and certified first-aid responders.
- Even our local guides are certified first-aid responders.
Eco-friendly Practices
- Group sizes are capped at 15 people.
- Batch sizes are capped at 250 people per trail per season.
- We follow a rolling campsite model.
- We are constantly exploring and introducing new trails to reduce the burden on existing ones.
Safety
For us, a successful summit is not about reaching the highest point of a mountain but about making it safely back to base.
- To ensure this:
- Every region of ours is mapped with an emergency evacuation plan.
- The equipment we use is UIAA certified.
- Our trek leaders are AMC certified with specialisation in rescue procedures.
- Our support staffs are trained in first aid as well.
Reviews
What's Included
Whats Included
- All Meals during the expedition ( Starting Lunch on Day 2)
- Entry Fee,if any (Upto the amount charged for Indian nationals)
- Camping Charges,if any (Upto the amount charged for Indian nationals)
- 1 Night Hotel/Guest House Stay in Manali on sharing basis
- Separate Camping Vehicle
- One support vehicle per 6 Participants. 2 Support Vehicles in a batch of 12.
- Services of a First Aid certified expedition leader & Asst. Leader in group of 12.
- Services of support team include expedition cook,helper.
- Certified first aid support & kit includes Oxygen Cylinder.
- Energy Bars, Dry Fruits & Refreshment during day ride.
Whats Not Included?
- Bicycle Rent
- Meals during Hotel Stays
- Any Kind of Insurance
- Any expense of personal nature
- Any expense not specified in the inclusion list
Cancellation Policy
Cash Refund
Cancellations up to 30 days prior to departure date
5% Deduction
Between 30 days to 15 days prior to departure
50%
deduction
Less than 15 days of departure
No Cash Refund
Voucher Refund
Cancellations up to 5 days prior to departure date
No Deduction
Cancellations less than 5 days prior to departure
No Refund
Please note
- Cash refund is applicable only in case of bookings made without using any promotional offer code or vouchers.
- This is only a brief of cancellation terms. For finer details please refer Detailed Cancellation Policy.
Blog Posts
How To Pack Your Backpack
Bikat Adventures 31 March 2015
All of us pay a lot of attention in selecting a rucksack or for that matter any specialized item like hiking boots, ice axe etc etc. When we have done so much research on internet to get that awesome ruck sack its time we learn how to use a rucksack
Read More
Informative
Bring It On: Manali-Leh Cycling's Toughest Challenge
Manali to Leh Cycling Expedition is Epic and Challenging
Why Manali-Leh Cycling is the next big thing for all the cyclists out there
A participant interview - Manali Leh Cycling
The Manali-Leh Cycling Campsites are Legendary, Here's Why
Places that you must visit in Leh Ladakh
Experiential
