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Tucked atop a small hill at an impressive altitude of 4100 meters above sea level, the Dhankar, with its dazzling blue waters, is one of the most popular places to visit in Spiti Valley. The lake sits at the end of the famous Dhankar Lake trek known for its treacherous paths, rocky snow-capped mountains, and incomparable vistas. Adventure enthusiasts and photography lovers are enchanted alike by the magical realism of the trek.
The Dhankar Fort Monastery sandwiched between Spiti and Pin rivers offers a special spiritual touch as it plays hide and seek on the trail. And once you reach the lake, the rare and diversified views will make your jaw drop!
Location: Near Rohtang Pass connecting Kullu and Lahul.
Timings: No timing restrictions.
Dhankar Lake is located in Spiti Valley, in the state of Himachal Pradesh, India. This lake is a blissful and breathtaking retreat. If you want to rejuvenate your soul and mind — away from the hustle and bustle of city life, this is the place to be. It is a place where you can sit for hours and just soak in the natural beauty. The cold wind giving you goosebumps and the sparkling blue water reflecting the bright sun -- what else can you ask for. Consider adding Dhankar Lake to your Spiti Valley Packages for an unforgettable experience.
This region is blessed by nature and has spectacular and winsome landscapes in the Lahaul region. In the distance, you can see snow-covered mountains while there are cattle grazing in the lush valley. The landscape of this region offers diversity with a touch of ancient history, thanks to the beautiful temples and monasteries.
Legend has it that Lord Shiv had visited and stayed at this lake during his quest for lord Vishnu. While Lord Shiva was busy with his search, his attendant Nandi drank some water from the lake. As a reward for quenching the thirst of this beloved Nandi, Lord Shiva blessed the lake to be filled with plenty of water. Another myth has that Lord Indra asked Lord Shiva to make this barren land fertile.
However, since Shiva was busy with his quest, Lord Indra threw his axe here, and a spring popped up — leading to the formation of the lake. The festival of Mouni Amavasya celebrates the same myth.
Highlights
• Marvel at the beautiful scenery of Dhankar Lake, where the Manirang mountain range and valleys create a stunning backdrop.
• Plan adventure activities like trekking and camping at Dhankar Lake to explore rugged terrain thoroughly.
• Visit the Dhankar Monastery and explore the region's cultural heritage, history, and traditions.
• Experience the peaceful ambiance of Dhankar Lake, situated in the serene setting of the Himalayas.
• Spot diverse fauna as the lake offers rare glimpses of animals like the Himalayan Ibex and snow leopards in their natural habitat.
How To Reach
If traveling by air, take the direct flight to Kullu-Manali Airport from Delhi. From there, you can hire a car or take the bus. Dhankar Lake is about 285 km from the Kullu airport. If you are going by train, then the Joginder Nagar is the nearest railway station. It is situated at a distance of about 400 km from the lake.
You can again go by road from here. A major part of your journey will be via road. So you can reach Tabo or Kaza first and continue the rest of the journey via road.
Best Time To Visit
It is suggested to visit Dhankar Lake during the summer months. Ideally, April-end or early May up to September. The pleasant summer months are perfect for enjoying the outdoor beauty of this range. Temperatures range from 5-20 degrees in the Summers. The valley is lush and filled with a variety of flowers, which adds to its natural beauty.
The winter here is bitter and cold. Due to snow and ice, the area is rather slippery and not suited for activities like trekking. September and October are the rainy months here. So try to check the expected monsoon prediction before coming here.
Other Essential Information
Dhankar Lake has been listed as one of the 100 most endangered sites in the world. So if you are visiting this place, make sure:
- You don’t pollute it. Enjoy the natural beauty of this area, but avoid taking plastic products — or at least dumping them in the lake.
- Do not harm the animals.
- This unconventional spot has decent accommodations, which include government-operated hotels and also a Dhankar Monastery guest house. It is best to book your rooms in advance because it is a popular spot for trekking.
Visit the Dhankar Monastery
Make sure to visit the Dhankar Monastery which is located near the Dhankar Lake. With over a thousand years of history, this ancient monastery is built on a cliff above the confluence of the Pin and Spiti rivers. From here, enjoy breathtaking views of the Spiti Valley and immerse yourself in a serene atmosphere. You can discover Buddhist murals and ancient artefacts once you reach the monastery. You can also engage with the resident monks, learn about Buddhist teachings, and witness traditional rituals. This unique experience transports you back in time and allows you to connect with the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Explore the Dhankar Village
Visit the Dhankar village and explore its streets which are lined with traditional mud-brick houses. To experience the rural Himalayan atmosphere, take a walk through the village lanes. In addition to that, you can engage with locals and learn about their customs and traditions. Experience the Himalayan culture by engaging in authentic activities such as farming. You can learn about agricultural practices and harvest local produce like barley and buckwheat. Delight your taste buds with Skyu and Thupka which are prepared with fresh ingredients. Additionally, you can try traditional handicraft-making, including intricate weaving and pottery. You can also join villagers in traditional folk dances and music performances like Chham.
Camp near the Dhankar Lake
Camping at Dhankar Lake offers a unique experience as you are encircled by the stunning beauty of the Himalayan mountains. Set up your tent by this serene lake and enjoy beautiful views of snowy mountain peaks and sparkling waters. Feel the gentle breeze and listen to the soothing sounds of nature, experiencing a refreshing break from daily life. Here, you can also enjoy activities like birdwatching, capturing photographs of the mountains reflecting in its water, or relaxing by the lake. Additionally, you can also plan a picnic with your favorite snacks and drinks at his place.
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