I am deviating from my standard Spiti posts (days 1-3 and days 4 and 5) to focus on one particular experience – our hike to Dhankar Lake.
Dhankar Lake is one of the high-altitude lakes above Dhankar village (height 3870m) in the Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh and at an elevation of 4270m (14010 ft) above sea level.
To access the lake, you must do a 5 km trek from Dhankar monastery (the new one). Although the distance is not much, it can be tedious and difficult because of the lack of oxygen and the steep climb required.
The path is also very narrow. So you must be careful while walking, as many places have a deep ditch beside the trail. The way is also covered with loose stones, so watch your footing – especially when taking pictures.
The trail was pretty deserted, and you are left to your own devices if you get injured. Cellphones don’t work here. There are no guides unless you hire one in advance (which I recommend).
Finally, after much struggle, we reached Dhankar Lake, surrounded by mountains. The water was crystal clear and serene. You can even drink it.
The mountains and the surrounding area are dry, and you will not see any vegetation apart from some bushes. But it will dig deep into your mind, and you will fall for nature’s barren yet gorgeous beauty. It will spellbind you with its tranquil character.
I could have spent hours over here, relaxing by the side of this body of still water. It was so quiet and peaceful. Some of us were bold enough to venture into the water, but it was pretty cold, and I was afraid I’d catch a cold (I was already feeling a bit under the weather due to the elevation and abrupt weather changes).
We were there in July, the peak of summer, so the mountains were completely brown, and parts of the lake had dried out. But in the shoulder seasons, you can see snow-covered mountains surrounding the lake.
One of the most unforgettable hikes I have been on.
I remember my Spiti trip which where I have done the whole circuit within 10 days. I have been to Dhankar but not had time for the lake. Next time, will love to hike this place.
This looks like a wonderful hike! I guess you should have some experience in wilderness hiking, if the paths is not marked and there is no wifi conection. But it should not be too difficult to find the way. The lake looks wonderful!
Dhankar Lake looks incurable with drinkable water. I love nature, but this takes it to whole new level. The view of the mountain is spectacular.
What actually interests me is the monastery.. do they accept guests to stay there? 🙂 I’d sign up if given the chance. Thanks for sharing the beautiful sceneries and pristine environment. I hope it will be preserved so future generations can also hike the same trail and drink the clear waters without worry.
There are plenty of monasteries in this area. I don’t think they allow visitors to stay overnight though.
They are also quite isolated and spartan. While lovely to visit, I am not sure I’d want to spend the night there.
Wow! The view is amazing. Thank you for the heads up regarding the cellphone signal. Will take your advice and hire a guide should we get a chance to visit.
Definitely recommend a guide!
To get to drink the lake water is a selling point for me. I can imagine how fresh it is. I think it’s a good choice to hire a guide especially if this is your first time and you are new to high elevation hike. I won’t swim either. Too cold!!
I couldn’t even put my toe in there. The water is freezing, but very fresh and good to taste.
It appears that the 5 km trek from monastery to the lake was worth it. A little discerning to know that that there is no cell phone coverage, and that there is a steep grade, not to mention the lack of oxygen too! Glad to hear you made it!
Yeah, it was one of the high points of my trip. Worth the trouble!
Woah, looks like a nice hiking/relaxing place for those who like a bit of a challenge. The steep climb and lack of oxygen worries me as I’m not an experienced hiker, but the views look really lovely and as you mentioned the mountains must look beautiful covered in snow.
The trek to Dhankar lake looks quite promising with such serene views of the surrounding mountains. It’s great to spot few bushes in an otherwise barren landscape. And nice to know that there are monasteries in the locality adding to the beauty of the valley. You don’t need a guide unless the route is confusing or new. Great clicks!
Normally I would agree with you. But, I think this hike might need a guide. There really isn’t a clear path, and because there are wide-open sections, sometimes it wasn’t very clear on the way to go.
A couple of times, the open path was not the one we should take.
Plus, there are no trail maps or markers or anything of that type.
I definitely felt more comfortable with a guide, and would recommend using one.