Hike to Dhankar Lake
A high-altitude day-hike from Dhankar village to the alpine Dhankar Lake above Dhankar Monastery in Spiti Valley. The trail offers panoramic views of the Spiti River gorge, terraced hamlets, the ancient Dhankar Monastery and fort, and a serene glacial-fed lake fringed by scree and alpine meadows. The route is moderately strenuous due to elevation gain and thin air, suitable for fit trekkers who have acclimatized in Spiti (Kaza/Dhankar). Duration: typically a half- to full-day return hike. Experience: panoramic vistas, quiet high-altitude lake, local shepherds, and excellent photography opportunities.
Location
Dhankar Lake (above Dhankar village), Dhankar / Kaza (Spiti Valley), India
Duration
4–6 hours round-trip (depending on pace, acclimatization and time spent at the lake)
Best Time to Visit
June to September (post-snow window). July–August for greener meadows and maximal accessibility; late September can be cold but quieter.
Pricing
Free to access the trail. Typical costs: local guide ₹800–1,500 per day, porter ₹800–1,200 (optional), transport from Kaza to Dhankar ₹200–700 by shared taxi; homestay/guesthouse in Dhankar or nearby Kaza ₹600–2,000 per night. Permit costs: usually none for Indian nationals; foreign visitors should check local regulations. Prices vary by season.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Views of Dhankar Monastery and the Spiti River gorge
High-altitude alpine lake with reflections of surrounding cliffs
Wildflowers and summer grazing yaks/sheep
Photographic vantage points above the village and terraced fields
Opportunity to combine with Dhankar Monastery / Dhankar Fort visit
Itinerary
Start from Dhankar village / monastery courtyard after breakfast
Check gear, water and permits; hire a local guide if needed.
Ascent to Dhankar Lake
Trail: stone-paved sections, loose scree and steep pitches. Pace slowly; take breaks to acclimatize.
Explore and lunch at the lake
Photograph, rest and enjoy packed lunch. Avoid disturbing local grazing animals.
Return descent to Dhankar village
Descend carefully on loose sections; replenish water and head back to Kaza or accommodation.
Safety Requirements
Prior acclimatization in Kaza or similar altitude (avoid arriving directly from low altitude)
Carry warm, windproof and waterproof layers (temperatures can drop rapidly)
Hydration and slow ascent to reduce risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS)
Good trekking shoes with grip; trekking poles recommended for loose scree
Carry basic first-aid, sunscreen and sunglasses (strong UV at altitude)
Inform host/guide about your route and expected return time; avoid solo hikes if inexperienced
Check local weather and avoid the trail after heavy snowfall or rain
Tips
Start early to avoid afternoon winds and for best lighting for photos
Hire a local guide for navigation, info on local culture and to support the community
Carry at least 2–3 liters of water and high-energy snacks; there are no facilities on the trail
Pack layers—even in summer nights are cold—include a down jacket and windproof shell
Respect local religious sites: dress modestly and ask before photographing people or monastery interiors
Leave No Trace: carry out all plastic and waste
If you feel headache/dizziness, stop and descend; consider medication for altitude only after consulting a doctor
Combine the hike with a visit to Dhankar Monastery and nearby attractions like Tabo or Pin Valley for a fuller Spiti itinerary
