Dhankar Lake,Himachal
Dhankar Lake is a high-altitude glacial lake in the Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh, set above the historic Dhankar (Dhangkar) village and monastery. The site combines natural beauty (alpine lake, stark Himalayan landscapes) with cultural and religious importance because of its proximity to Dhankar Gompa, an ancient monastery that has long been a spiritual and administrative center for the local Spitian community. The lake and surrounding ridges form part of the fragile cold desert ecosystem of Spiti and offer important seasonal grazing and forage areas.
Places to visit
- Dhankar Lake (high-altitude alpine/glacial lake)
- Dhankar Gompa (cliff-top monastery with murals and ancient artifacts)
- Panoramic views of the Spiti Valley and surrounding peaks
- Alpine meadows, seasonal wildflowers and rocky ridgelines
- Traditional Spitian villages and stone architecture
Unique Aspects
- High-altitude, glacial-fed lake at roughly 4,000–4,200 m (seasonal snowmelt-dependent)
- Dramatic cliff-side setting with the monastery perched above the valley
- Rain-shadow, cold desert environment — clear skies and stark landscapes
- Relatively short but steep trek from Dhankar village with excellent photo opportunities
Things to do
- Trek/hike from Dhankar village to Dhankar Lake (1.5–3 hours depending on pace and route)
- Visit and explore Dhankar Gompa and its small museum/collection (where open)
- Photography of the lake, monastery and Spiti panorama
- Birdwatching and observing alpine flora during summer
- Short day excursions around Dhankar village and rim walks
Best Time to Visit
June to September — late spring and summer when the trek is snow-free, the lake is accessible and weather is most stable. Early autumn (September) gives clear skies and good visibility. Winters are extremely cold and the route is generally inaccessible.
Weather Conditions
High-altitude climate: cool to cold even in summer. Typical daytime summer temperatures range roughly from 5°C to 20°C, nights near or below freezing. Very dry (rain-shadow), but sudden winds and temperature drops can occur. Expect strong sun and high UV at altitude.
Accessibility
Nearest major hub: Kaza (about 15–20 km by road from Dhankar village depending on route). Nearest airport: Bhuntar (Kullu–Manali) (~200–260 km by road to Kaza) or Shimla/Chandigarh much farther. Road travel on NH505 to Kaza, then local road to Dhankar village; shared taxis and private jeeps operate from Kaza. Final approach to the lake requires a steep trek from Dhankar village (motorable road typically reaches the village but not the lake). Mobile network is patchy; facilities at Dhankar are basic — carry cash, supplies, and water. Foreign nationals should verify any Protected Area Permit (PAP) or local permit requirements before travel.
Recommended Duration
If based in Kaza or nearby, plan half a day to a full day for Dhankar village + lake (trek, explore monastery, return). If you prefer a relaxed pace or want to acclimatize, allow 1–2 days and stay overnight in village homestay or guesthouse.
Clothing & Gear Tips
Warm layered clothing (base layer, insulating mid-layer, windproof shell), sturdy trekking shoes with good grip, hat, gloves for cold mornings/evenings, sunglasses and high-SPF sunscreen, walking poles for the steep ascent, water bottle and basic first-aid. Carry altitude-sickness medication if you are not acclimatized and ascend gradually.
Local Food & Souvenirs
Local cuisine: thukpa, momos, barley-based dishes, local breads and yak/pony dairy products such as cheese; tea/ butter tea in homestays. Souvenirs: prayer flags, small thangkas, woollen shawls/handicrafts and locally woven items.
