Chandernahan Trek: A Hidden Himalayan Gem for Soulful Wanderers

There are treks that test your endurance, and then there are treks that touch your soul. The Chandernahan Trek in Himachal Pradesh quietly falls into the latter category—a mesmerizing journey into the untouched valleys of the Pabbar region, far away from the chaos of popular trails. If you crave solitude, serenity, and nature at its rawest, this trek might just be your next calling.

Discovering the Chandernahan Trek

Tucked deep in the upper reaches of the Rohru Valley in Shimla district, the Chandernahan Trek is a lesser-known but stunning route that leads to the glacial Chandernahan Lake—the origin of the sacred Pabbar River. The lake sits at a height of approximately 13,900 ft (4,237 m), surrounded by a series of seven mysterious glacial ponds, snowfields, and towering peaks that remain snow-laced almost throughout the year.

Unlike crowded treks like Kedarkantha or Triund, Chandernahan offers the true charm of untouched Himalayas, often only known to shepherds, local villagers, and a handful of experienced trekkers.

The Journey Begins: Rohru to Janglikh

The base village for the Chandernahan Trek is Janglikh (also spelled Janglik), a quaint Himalayan hamlet located at about 9,200 ft. Reaching Janglikh itself is a scenic experience. After a long drive from Shimla (about 8–9 hours), the road winds through apple orchards, pine forests, and mountain ridges.

Upon entering Janglikh, one immediately notices the distinctive wooden architecture, hand-carved temples, and a lifestyle seemingly frozen in time. The villagers are warm-hearted and welcoming, often sharing tales of deities and legends associated with the sacred lakes above.

Day-by-Day Itinerary of Chandernahan Trek

Let’s break down the Chandernahan Trek itinerary for a typical 5–6 day trek.

Day 1: Janglikh to Dayara Thach

Altitude: 9,200 ft to 11,150 ft
Distance: 4–5 km
Duration: 5 hours

The trail begins with a gradual ascent through pine and oak forests. Wooden bridges, chirping birds, and moss-covered trunks add an enchanting quality to the walk. Soon, the forests open up into the lush alpine meadows of Dayara Thach, offering panoramic views of the valley below. You’ll pitch your tent here and soak in the first views of the snow-capped ranges.

Day 2: Dayara Thach to Litham

Altitude: 11,150 ft to 11,800 ft
Distance: 4 km
Duration: 4–5 hours

The next leg of the journey moves deeper into the mountains, traversing across streams, boulders, and grazing grounds. Litham, the next campsite, is a wide-open valley with views of the Chandernahan waterfalls cascading from the glaciers above. It’s also where you start feeling the isolation and purity of the high Himalayas.

Day 3: Acclimatization and Chandernahan Lakes Exploration

This is the heart of the Chandernahan Trek. On this day, you hike to the cluster of seven glacial ponds, culminating at the Chandernahan Lake, the sacred source of the Pabbar River. Locals believe these lakes are inhabited by deities and perform rituals to seek blessings.

Surrounded by snowfields and silence, the lake reflects the clear blue skies and towering ridgelines—almost like a mirror into the heavens. It's cold, mystical, and unforgettable.

Day 4: Return to Dayara Thach

After soaking in the spiritual calm of the Chandernahan Lake, you begin your descent back toward Dayara Thach, taking your time to photograph and admire the route from a new angle. The downhill journey is gentler but equally scenic.

Day 5: Trek Back to Janglikh and Departure

Your final walk back to Janglikh completes the loop. As you descend into civilization, a quiet sense of accomplishment and gratitude fills your heart. From Janglikh, you can take a jeep or shared cab back to Rohru or Shimla.

Best Time for Chandernahan Trek

The ideal time to do the Chandernahan Trek is from May to October. During this period:

May–June: Meadows are blooming with wildflowers, and snow is still present at higher altitudes.
July–August: Monsoon may cause landslides; not recommended unless weather conditions are clear.
September–October: Clear skies, post-monsoon freshness, and breathtaking views—an excellent window.

Winter treks to Chandernahan are possible but only for experienced mountaineers with proper gear and guidance, as snowfall makes the route treacherous.

Difficulty Level: Is Chandernahan Trek for Beginners?

The Chandernahan Trek is a moderate trek. While it does not require technical climbing, trekkers should be physically fit to handle:

Daily walks of 5–6 hours at altitude
Cold temperatures, especially near Litham and the lakes
Steep climbs and rocky patches

Beginners with basic trekking experience can attempt it, especially if acclimatized well and accompanied by a local guide or group.

The Spiritual Connection: More Than Just a Hike

What truly sets Chandernahan Trek apart is its spiritual aura. Locals believe that the lakes are sacred and that Lord Shiva himself walked these valleys. During certain months, villagers from Rohru and nearby regions ascend to offer prayers at the lakes, carrying small idols and ceremonial items.

As you stand beside the Chandernahan Lake, wind whipping across the frozen waters, it's easy to understand why ancient people believed these places were touched by the divine.

Essentials to Carry for the Chandernahan Trek

Good trekking shoes (ankle-high, waterproof)
Layers of warm clothing (temperature can drop to sub-zero)
Rain jacket or poncho
Sleeping bag and tent (if trekking independently)
Personal medication, first aid kit
Snacks, energy bars, water purification tablets
Camera or smartphone for photography
Walking stick or trekking pole

Hiring a local guide or joining a group trek is advisable as the route is remote and not well-marked.

Why Choose Chandernahan Trek?

Offbeat trail with minimal crowd
Breathtaking alpine landscapes
Rich culture and local traditions
Spiritual and serene atmosphere
Perfect for photographers and nature lovers

Unlike mainstream treks, Chandernahan Trek offers a connection—with nature, with silence, and often, with oneself. It’s not just about reaching the lake. It’s about feeling the journey in your bones, tasting the wind, and hearing the mountains whisper.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to break away from the routine, to explore a place that feels raw and untouched, the Chandernahan Trek might be exactly what you need. It’s a Himalayan experience that lingers long after you’ve returned—etched in snow, silence, and serenity.

So pack your bags, lace up your boots, and answer the call of the mountains. Chandernahan awaits.

Blog