Dhankar Lake: A Calm Blue Jewel in the Mountains

Dhankar Lake is a quiet and lovely lake in Spiti Valley. It is found high up in the mountains. A feeling of peace is felt as soon as someone stands near it. The water looks very blue and clear. The mountains around it look big and silent.

Many people love visiting Dhankar Lake because it feels hidden and special. Not many tourists crowd the place. A soft wind blows over the water. The sky seems very close and wide. A sense of wonder is felt by those who reach it.

Where Dhankar Lake Is Located

Dhankar Lake is placed above a small village called Dhankar. This village is found in Spiti Valley in Himachal Pradesh, India. It sits on a rocky hill. A monastery called Dhankar Monastery is also found in this village. The lake lies higher than the monastery.

It takes a trek to reach Dhankar Lake from the village. The trek goes uphill. Stones and dusty paths make the walk a bit tough. But beautiful views are seen on every side. The lake is like a hidden surprise at the top.

The Dhankar Lake Trek

Dhankar Lake Trek is taken by many adventure lovers. It is not very long but feels tiring because of the high altitude. The trek starts from Dhankar village. The path goes up for about two to three kilometres. It can take about one and a half to two hours to climb.

Breathing feels a little hard because the air is thin. Rest is taken many times on the way. Water is carried to keep the body fresh. People say the trek is worth it. A peaceful silence is felt once the lake is reached.

How to Reach Dhankar Village

Dhankar village can be reached from Kaza or Tabo. Both towns are found in Spiti Valley. Buses or shared taxis go on these routes. Roads feel narrow and winding. Cars move slowly because of the rough roads.

The journey from Kaza takes around one and a half hours. From Tabo, it takes about an hour. The ride feels bumpy sometimes. But the scenery looks amazing all along. Tall mountains and blue skies are seen from the windows.

The View From the Trek

During Dhankar Lake Trek, mountains look very close. Brown rocks shine in the sun. Green patches of plants are seen here and there. Wind makes soft sounds over the stones. Shadows keep changing as clouds float above.

Birds sometimes fly across the sky. Small flowers grow on the ground. Steps feel heavy because the path goes higher. But the lake comes into sight at the end. It shines like a piece of glass in the sun.

The Lake’s Special Colour

Dhankar Lake is known for its bright blue colour. The water looks very clean. Stones can be seen under the water. The blue seems to change shades as the sun moves. Sometimes it looks dark blue, and sometimes light blue.

Mountains stand quietly around it. No trees grow near the water. A quiet feeling fills the air. Only the sound of the wind can be heard. People sit near the edge to enjoy the peace.

The History Around Dhankar

The area around Dhankar Lake has old stories. Dhankar Monastery has been standing there for hundreds of years. Monks have prayed there for a long time. People say the lake has been loved by locals for ages. A feeling of old times is felt near the water.

It is said that prayers were once held near the lake. The lake was thought to keep the village safe. People believe blessings are felt near it. The place feels holy and calm. It is respected by everyone who visits.

Best Time to Visit Dhankar Lake

The best time to visit Dhankar Lake is summer. The months from May to September are good for trekking. Snow covers the path in winter. Roads can get blocked during heavy snow. So, very few people go there in winter.

Even in summer, the air feels cool. Sunlight feels strong because the lake is so high. Warm clothes are carried even in summer. The wind can be very cold sometimes. The sky stays mostly clear in these months.

Weather Around the Lake

The weather near Dhankar Lake is cold. Even during the day, it feels chilly. Nights become freezing cold. Stars shine very bright because the sky is clear. The wind blows almost all the time.

People need to protect themselves from the sun. Sunburn happens easily at high places. A hat and sunscreen are used by many. Drinking water is important during the trek. Resting often is good to avoid getting tired.

Cost of the Dhankar Lake Trek

Dhankar Lake Trek does not cost much money. No ticket needs to be bought for the lake. A guide can be hired if someone wants help. Guides charge a fee for their service. The cost can be around 500 to 1000 rupees.

Water and snacks need to be carried by visitors. No shop is found near the lake. Transport to Dhankar village costs extra. Staying in Spiti Valley is not very expensive. But it takes time and effort to reach there.

Staying Near Dhankar Lake

No hotel is found near the lake itself. People stay in Dhankar village. Small homestays are run by families. Rooms feel simple but warm. Food is cooked fresh and tastes good. People in the village are friendly and helpful.

Stories are shared by villagers about the lake. They guide visitors about the trek. Hot tea is given after the cold trek. Blankets feel cozy at night. A feeling of being at home is felt in these small places.

Tips for Visiting Dhankar Lake

Visitors are advised to walk slowly. The air is thin and breathing feels heavy. Water should be drunk in small sips. Sun protection is important because of strong rays. Shoes with a good grip help on rocky paths.

It is better to start the trek early. The sun feels less harsh in the morning. Weather changes quickly in the mountains. Clouds can cover the sky fast. A raincoat or warm jacket is useful to carry.

A Place to Keep in Memory

Dhankar Lake leaves a memory in people’s hearts. The colour of the water stays in the mind. The silence feels like a gift. People take photos to remember the place. Smiles are seen on faces after visiting.

Many people say they want to visit again. The trek feels hard but special. The lake feels like it belongs to another world. A piece of peace is carried back by every visitor. Dhankar Lake is one of the true gems of Spiti Valley.