“Where seven sacred lakes shimmer beneath the snow, and the wind carries the whispers of gods.”
📖 Overview
The Chandranahan Lake Trek is a 6-day alpine adventure that begins from Janglik village near Rohru, ascending through wildflower meadows, pine forests, and glacial basins to reach a cluster of seven sacred lakes at 4,260 m (13,976 ft). These lakes are revered by locals as the abode of Devta Shikru Maharaj, and the trail is often used by shepherds and pilgrims. The trek also serves as the approach route to Buran Ghati Pass, making it a great standalone or prelude trek.
🧭 Trek Profile
Attribute
Details
Trailhead
Janglik village (via Rohru, Shimla)
Lake Altitude
4,260 m (13,976 ft)
Trek Distance
~36–40 km round trip
Trek Duration
6 days
Grade
Moderate to Difficult
Best Season
May–early July & September–mid October
Permit Required
No formal permit; local registration advised
🥾 Day-wise Itinerary Snapshot
Day 1: Shimla ➝ Rohru ➝ Janglik (~150 km drive)
Day 2: Janglik ➝ Dayara Thatch (~3,300 m)
Trek through alpine forests, wooden homes, and wildflower meadows
Day 3: Dayara ➝ Litham (~3,600 m)
Cross Pabbar River, camp near glacial streams and snow bridges
Day 4: Litham ➝ Chandranahan Lakes ➝ Return to Litham
Visit seven glacial tarns nestled in a snow basin—a sacred and surreal experience
Day 5: Litham ➝ Dayara ➝ Janglik
Day 6: Janglik ➝ Shimla
🌄 Trail Highlights
Chandranahan Lakes: A cluster of seven glacial ponds, often partially frozen, surrounded by snow walls and moraine fields
Dayara Thatch: A meadow paradise with views of snow-capped ridges, grazing sheep, and carpeted wildflowers
Litham Campsite: Set beside a glacial stream, with views of waterfalls, snow bridges, and Buran Ghati cliffs
Flora & Fauna: Spot blue poppies, brahma kamal, Himalayan griffons, and marmots
🛕 Spiritual & Cultural Significance
Devta Shikru Maharaj: Locals believe the deity bathes in the lakes annually—pilgrims offer flowers and coins at the water’s edge
Janglik Village: A heritage hamlet with wooden Kath-Kuni homes, slate roofs, and folk legends
Sacred Geography: The lakes are considered tirthas, and the trail is walked in silence by many locals during ritual journeys
🧳 Essentials for Trekkers
Item
Notes
Footwear
High-ankle trekking boots (mandatory)
Clothing
Sub-zero layers, gloves, rain gear
Gear
Trekking poles, headlamp, crampons (early season)
Camping
Tents at Dayara, Litham; no shelters near lakes
Food & Water
Carry own supplies or trek with operator
Safety
AMS risk above 3,800 m—acclimatize well
🧭 How to Reach
By Road:
Shimla ➝ Rohru ➝ Janglik: ~150 km
Last stretch is narrow and bumpy—jeep recommended
By Train: Nearest railhead: Shimla (via Kalka)
By Air: Shimla Airport: ~160 km Chandigarh Airport: ~220 km
🏞️ Add-On Adventures
Buran Ghati Pass Trek: Extend the trek to cross into Barua village (Kinnaur) via a snow wall descent
Pabbar Valley Circuit: Explore Rohru, Chirgaon, and Dodra–Kwar for cultural immersion
Apple Orchard Homestays: Stay in Jubbal–Kotkhai belt for a post-trek unwind
