Deo Tibba base camp trek, also known as the Chota Chandertal trek is one of the most beautiful treks in the Manali region. A favorite trekking route to the base of Deo Tibba peak goes through Duhangan valley. It takes 3 days to reach the base camp located near a glaciated lake called Mini Chandertal. The emerald blue water of Chota Chandertal lake is located close to the glaciers that fall on the southeast face of Deo Tibba. The North-East Ridge is clearly visible from crossing the Hamta pass. Deo Tibba (6001m) and Indrasan (6200m) peak dominate the entire region. The other clearly visible peaks are the Norbu peak (5226 m) and the Jagatsukh peak ( 5050 m).
Overview
Deo Tibba base camp trek, also known as the Chota Chandertal trek is one of the most beautiful treks in the Manali region. A favorite trekking route to the base of Deo Tibba peak goes through Duhangan valley. It takes 3 days to reach the base camp located near a glaciated lake called Mini Chandertal. The emerald blue water of Chota Chandertal lake is located close to the glaciers that fall on the southeast face of Deo Tibba. The North-East Ridge is clearly visible from crossing the Hamta pass. Deo Tibba (6001m) and Indrasan (6200m) peak dominate the entire region. The other clearly visible peaks are the Norbu peak (5226 m) and the Jagatsukh peak ( 5050 m).
Setting off from Manali we drive to the ancient village of Jagatsukh located 6 km south of Manali, once it was an old capital of Kullu valley. Leaving Jagatsukh the road winds up to Allain Duhangan power project point from where the actual trekking starts. First climb through an alpine forest filled with pine, spruce, oak, fir, and silver birch trees and along with the crystal clear Duhangan stream. We climb up to Chikka which is famous for its Takshak nag temple and natural stone carving. Continue along with the steam we pass the beautiful high pasture of Seri and climb to Tenta, which is beautifully located, surroundings with hanging glaciers, crystal clear streams, and waterfalls. Finally exploring In around Chota Chandertal situated at 4480m and the domains of Deo Tibba itself makes this trip one of the best trekking experiences in the Manali region. The best time to do this trek is from Mid-May to Mid-October.
Itinerary
Day 1
Manali to Jagatsukh – Khanol (2700 m) by car 2 hours, Trek to Chikka (3215 m / 10, 547 ft). Trek 2-3 Hours.
Leaving Manali, Drive through the left bank of Beas River up to Jagatsukh. Which was once the old capital of Kullu valley or Kuluta. From Jagatsukh new road up to Allain Duhangan hydro project which will take us 1:30 to 2 hours. Setting to trek from this point at first the trail ascends gradually through thick pine forests along the narrow Duhangan Nala. Continue to trail we reach the campsite 2-3 hours. Chikka is significant for Jagatsukh people for its temple and there are few huts for devotees to stay. With its spectacular sights all around. A wonderful campsite.
Day 2
Chikka (3215 m) to Seri (3935 m / 12, 910 ft). Trek 6 km, 5-6 Hours.
Today leaving Chikka behind we gradually climb along the Duhangan Nala through the birch forest. We pass shepherd’s encampment en route and hear the sound of Duhangan Nala gushing down the valley. After passing the Panduropa and Dudu Patthar until we reach the Seri, where the valley opens a little. Seri was once a glaciated lake, but now it has been totally converted to an alpine meadow carpeted with an astounding variety of herbs and alpine flowers. On the extreme left of Seri the huge waterfalls gush down from Tenta cliffs. Overnight camp at the flat and vast alpine pasture.
Day 3
Seri (3935 m) to Tainta ( 4150 m / 13615 ft)), Visit Chota Chandertal (4480 m / 14,698 ft). Trek 13 km, 8-9 Hours.
An early departure today. Leaving Seri at first on its flat carpeted meadow and soon after the crossing of stream awaits us. The stream can be cold depending on the time we are trekking. Early spring and late autumn bring water temperature to its 0-5 C. Soon after crossing the stream we climb to Tenta. The trail passes through numerous rock boulders and crossing of the stream again awaits just before the campsite. Wonderful campsite at Tenta presenting spectacular scenery hanging glaciers and high peaks of Deo Tibba and Jagatsukh peak. Leaving Tenta we hike to visit Chota Chandertal or the base camp of Deo Tibba. At first, the trail is through moraine, Deo Tibba and its hanging glacier remain in the sight throughout the day. continue to climb straight uphill to Chota Chandertal which is situated above within rocky mountain. Arriving at the lake the spectacular scenery all around. We are at the maximum altitude of our trek. Visiting Chota Chandertal, we retrace our foot back toTainta.
Day 4
Tainta (4150 m) to Chikka (3215 m), Trek 9 km, 6-7 Hours.
Retrace back to Seri and continue to descend to the Chikka campsite.
Day 5
Chikka (3215 m) to Road head, Trek 2-3 hours, Drive to Manali 2 hours.
Today after breakfast an early departure from camp, we descend all the way down to road head. We drive to Jagatsukh – Manali.
Trip Highlights
- The Hanging Glaciers of Deo Tibba Massif
- Chota Chandertal Lake
- Deo Tibba & Norbu peak