Have you ever wondered what it would be like to walk on a frozen lake in the middle of the Himalayas? Or to witness the changing colors of a lake that is said to be blessed by a sage? If yes, then the Bhrigu Lake Trek is the perfect adventure for you.
Bhrigu Lake Trek is one of the most scenic and rewarding treks in Himachal Pradesh. It takes you to a high-altitude glacial lake that is surrounded by snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows, and pine forests. The lake is named after the sage Bhrigu, who meditated there and is believed to have the power to change its colors with the seasons.
The trek is suitable for beginners as well as experienced trekkers, as it offers a moderate level of difficulty and a short duration of 3-4 days. The trek starts from Manali, a popular hill station and tourist destination, and ends at Vashisht, a quaint village known for its hot springs and temples.
In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide to the Bhrigu Lake Trek, covering everything from the itinerary, logistics, best time to visit, what to carry, and what to expect. Whether you are a solo traveler, a couple, a family, or a group of friends, this trek will surely leave you with unforgettable memories and experiences.
Itinerary
The Bhrigu Lake Trek can be completed in 3-4 days, depending on your pace and preference.
Day 1: Manali to Gulaba
The first day of the trek is a drive from Manali to Gulaba, which is the starting point of the trek. The drive takes about 1.5 hours and covers a distance of 22 km. You will pass through the scenic Kullu Valley and the Rohtang Pass, which is a high mountain pass that connects Manali to Lahaul and Spiti. The drive offers stunning views of the Pir Panjal and Dhauladhar ranges, as well as the Beas River.
Gulaba is a small hamlet that lies at an altitude of 3000 m. It is surrounded by green meadows, pine forests, and snow-clad mountains. It is also a popular spot for skiing and snow activities in winter. You will camp at Gulaba for the night and enjoy the serene and peaceful atmosphere.
Day 2: Gulaba to Rola Kholi
The second day of the trek is a gradual ascent from Gulaba to Rola Kholi, which is the second campsite of the trek. The trek takes about 4-5 hours and covers a distance of 7 km. You will start by crossing a small stream and then follow a well-marked trail that leads to the alpine meadows of Gulaba. The meadows are full of colorful flowers, herbs, and grasses, and offer panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, such as Hanuman Tibba, Makar Beh, and Shikhar Beh.
As you continue the trek, you will enter a dense forest of oak, deodar, and birch trees. The forest is home to various birds and animals, such as monal, khaleej, fox, and bear. You will also come across a few shepherd huts and grazing lands, where you can interact with the locals and learn about their culture and lifestyle.
After crossing the forest, you will reach Rola Kholi, which is a small clearing that lies at an altitude of 3900 m. It is a beautiful campsite that overlooks the valley and the mountains. You will pitch your tents here and enjoy the sunset and the starry night.
Day 3: Rola Kholi to Bhrigu Lake to Pandu Ropa
The third day of the trek is the most challenging and rewarding one, as it takes you to the Bhrigu Lake and then to Pandu Ropa, which is the final campsite of the trek. The trek takes about 8-9 hours and covers a distance of 14 km. You will start early in the morning and climb a steep slope that leads to the Bhrigu Lake. The slope is covered with snow and ice, and requires a good level of fitness and stamina.
Bhrigu Lake is a high-altitude glacial lake that lies at an altitude of 4270 m. It is one of the most sacred and mystical lakes in the Himalayas, as it is associated with the sage Bhrigu, who meditated there and blessed the lake with divine powers. The lake is also known for its changing colors, which range from blue to green to red, depending on the season and the weather. The lake is surrounded by snow-capped peaks, such as Indrasan, Deo Tibba, and Hanuman Tibba, and offers a breathtaking view of the landscape.
You will spend some time at the lake, admiring its beauty and tranquility. You can also perform a puja or offer prayers at the lake, as it is considered auspicious and holy. You will then descend from the lake and follow a different trail that leads to Pandu Ropa, which is the final campsite of the trek.
Pandu Ropa is a large meadow that lies at an altitude of 3700 m. It is named after the Pandavas, who are said to have cultivated rice here during their exile. The meadow is dotted with wildflowers, berries, and mushrooms, and offers a splendid view of the valley and the peaks. You will camp here for the night and enjoy the bonfire and the music.
Day 4: Pandu Ropa to Vashisht to Manali
The fourth and last day of the trek is a descent from Pandu Ropa to Vashisht, which is the end point of the trek. The trek takes about 4-5 hours and covers a distance of 8 km. You will start by crossing a stream and then follow a downhill trail that leads to the village of Vashisht. The trail passes through apple orchards, wheat fields, and pine forests, and offers a glimpse of the rural life and culture of Himachal Pradesh.
Vashisht is a quaint village that lies at an altitude of 2400 m. It is famous for its hot springs and temples, which are dedicated to the sage Vashisht and Lord Rama. The hot springs are believed to have medicinal and healing properties, and are a great way to relax and rejuvenate after the trek. The temples are built in a traditional style and have intricate carvings and paintings.
You will spend some time at Vashisht, exploring its attractions and enjoying its atmosphere. You will then board a vehicle and drive back to Manali, which takes about an hour and covers a distance of 14 km. You will reach Manali by evening and bid farewell to your fellow trekkers and guides.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the Bhrigu Lake Trek is from May to October, as this is the time when the weather is pleasant and the trail is accessible. However, each season has its own charm and challenges, and you can choose the one that suits your preference and interest. Here are the pros and cons of visiting the Bhrigu Lake Trek during different seasons.
Summer (May to June)
Pros: The summer season is the ideal time to visit the Bhrigu Lake Trek, as the weather is warm and sunny, and the trail is clear and dry. The meadows are lush and green, and the flowers are in full bloom. The lake is blue and clear, and reflects the sky and the mountains. The views are spectacular and the visibility is high.
Cons: The summer season is also the peak season for the Bhrigu Lake Trek, as it attracts a lot of tourists and trekkers. The trail can be crowded and noisy, and the campsites can be full and expensive. The weather can also be unpredictable and changeable, and there can be sudden showers or storms.
Monsoon (July to August)
Pros: The monsoon season is the time when the Bhrigu Lake Trek becomes a paradise for nature lovers and photographers, as the rain enhances the beauty and freshness of the landscape.
The meadows are lush and green, and the flowers are in full bloom. The lake is blue and clear, and reflects the sky and the mountains. The views are spectacular and the visibility is high.
Cons: The monsoon season is also the time when the Bhrigu Lake Trek becomes a challenge for the trekkers, as the rain makes the trail slippery and muddy. The lake can be cloudy and murky, and lose its charm. The views can be obscured and the visibility can be low. There can also be landslides, floods, and leeches on the trail.
Autumn (September to October)
Pros: The autumn season is the time when the Bhrigu Lake Trek becomes a delight for the eyes, as the colors of the landscape change from green to yellow to orange to red. The meadows are dry and crisp, and the flowers are fading. The lake is green and calm, and contrasts with the brown and white mountains. The views are clear and the visibility is high.
Cons: The autumn season is also the time when the Bhrigu Lake Trek becomes a test for the trekkers, as the weather becomes cold and windy. The lake can be frozen and inaccessible, and lose its magic. The views can be harsh and the visibility can be low. There can also be snowfall, frost, and hail on the trail.
How to Reach
The Bhrigu Lake Trek can be reached from different parts of India and the world, depending on your mode of transport and preference. Here are the details of how to reach the Bhrigu Lake Trek from various modes of transport.
By Air
The nearest airport to the Bhrigu Lake Trek is the Bhuntar Airport, which is located about 50 km from Manali. The airport is connected to Delhi and Chandigarh by regular flights, operated by Air India and SpiceJet. The flight duration is about 1-2 hours, and the flight cost is about Rs. 3000-5000 per person, depending on the season and availability.
From the airport, you can take a taxi or a bus to Manali, which takes about 2-3 hours and costs about Rs. 1000-1500 per person. You can also book a private cab or a shared jeep to Gulaba, which is the starting point of the trek. This takes about 1.5 hours and costs about Rs. 500-1000 per person.
Pros: Traveling by air is the fastest and most convenient way to reach the Bhrigu Lake Trek, as it saves you time and hassle. You can also enjoy the aerial view of the Himalayas and the valleys from the flight.
Cons: Traveling by air is the most expensive and least eco-friendly way to reach the Bhrigu Lake Trek, as it costs you money and carbon footprint. You can also face issues such as flight delays, cancellations, or baggage loss.
By Train
The nearest railway station to the Bhrigu Lake Trek is the Joginder Nagar Railway Station, which is located about 165 km from Manali. The station is connected to Pathankot by a narrow-gauge train, which runs twice a day. The train duration is about 6-7 hours, and the train cost is about Rs. 100-200 per person, depending on the class and availability.
From the station, you can take a taxi or a bus to Manali, which takes about 4-5 hours and costs about Rs. 500-1000 per person. You can also book a private cab or a shared jeep to Gulaba, which is the starting point of the trek. This takes about 1.5 hours and costs about Rs. 500-1000 per person.
Pros: Traveling by train is the cheapest and most eco-friendly way to reach the Bhrigu Lake Trek, as it costs you less and emits less. You can also enjoy the scenic view of the hills and the fields from the train.
Cons: Traveling by train is the slowest and least comfortable way to reach the Bhrigu Lake Trek, as it takes you more time and trouble. You can also face issues such as train delays, cancellations, or overcrowding.
By Road
The most common and convenient way to reach the Bhrigu Lake Trek is by road, as there are many buses, taxis, and cabs available from different cities and towns to Manali. You can also drive your own car or bike to Manali, if you have one.
From Manali, you can take a taxi or a bus to Gulaba, which is the starting point of the trek. This takes about 1.5 hours and costs about Rs. 500-1000 per person. You can also book a private cab or a shared jeep to Gulaba, which takes about 1.5 hours and costs about Rs. 500-1000 per person.
Pros: Traveling by road is the most flexible and accessible way to reach the Bhrigu Lake Trek, as it gives you the option to choose your mode of transport, route, and timing. You can also enjoy the scenic view of the hills, valleys, and rivers from the road.
Cons: Traveling by road is the most tiring and time-consuming way to reach the Bhrigu Lake Trek, as it takes you more time and hassle. You can also face issues such as traffic jams, roadblocks, or breakdowns.
What to Carry
The Bhrigu Lake Trek is a high-altitude trek that requires proper preparation and equipment. You need to carry the following items for the trek, depending on the season and your personal preference.
Clothing
A pair of comfortable trekking shoes that are waterproof, breathable, and have good grip and ankle support.
A pair of woolen socks that are warm, cushioned, and moisture-wicking.
A pair of thermal innerwear that are lightweight, snug, and insulating.
A pair of trekking pants that are stretchable, durable, and quick-drying.
A pair of fleece or down jackets that are warm, windproof, and water-resistant.
A pair of gloves that are warm, waterproof, and touchscreen-friendly.
A pair of sunglasses that are polarized, UV-protected, and anti-glare.
A woolen cap or a balaclava that covers your head, ears, and neck.
A scarf or a buff that protects your face and neck from the sun, wind, and dust.
Accessories
A backpack that is spacious, sturdy, and comfortable. It should have multiple compartments, adjustable straps, and a rain cover.
A sleeping bag that is warm, cozy, and compact. It should have a hood, a zipper, and a drawstring.
A sleeping mat or a mattress that is soft, cushioned, and insulating. It should be easy to inflate and deflate.
A trekking pole that is lightweight, foldable, and ergonomic. It should have a rubber tip, a wrist strap, and a shock absorber.
A headlamp or a torch that is bright, rechargeable, and long-lasting. It should have different modes, a battery indicator, and a strap.
A water bottle or a hydration bladder that is leak-proof, BPA-free, and easy to fill and clean. It should have a capacity of at least 2 liters.
A lunch box or a tiffin that is airtight, microwave-safe, and easy to open and close. It should have a capacity of at least 1 liter.
A spoon or a spork that is stainless steel, durable, and multipurpose. It should be easy to wash and store.
A Swiss knife or a multitool that is sharp, handy, and versatile. It should have different blades, scissors, a can opener, a corkscrew, and a screwdriver.
Equipment
A tent that is spacious, sturdy, and easy to pitch and pack. It should have a flysheet, a groundsheet, and a vestibule.
A stove that is portable, efficient, and safe. It should have a fuel, a burner, and a regulator.
A cookware set that is lightweight, non-stick, and easy to clean. It should have a pot, a pan, a kettle, and a lid.
A first-aid kit that is well-stocked, organized, and accessible. It should have bandages, gauze, antiseptic, painkillers, antibiotics, and altitude sickness medicine.
A toiletry kit that is eco-friendly, biodegradable, and minimal. It should have a toothbrush, a toothpaste, a soap, a shampoo, a sunscreen, a lip balm, and a sanitizer.
Essentials
A valid ID proof that is original, clear, and government-issued. It should have your name, photo, and address.
A trekking permit that is issued by the forest department or the local authorities. It should have your name, photo, and trek details.
A map or a guidebook that is detailed, accurate, and up-to-date. It should have the route, the landmarks, and the emergency contacts.
A camera or a phone that is charged, waterproof, and has a good memory and resolution. It should have a tripod, a selfie stick, and a power bank.
A diary or a journal that is personal, creative, and expressive. It should have a pen, a pencil, and a sketchbook.
What to Expect
The Bhrigu Lake Trek is a unique and memorable trek that offers a variety of experiences and surprises. Here are some of the things that you can expect from the trek, along with some tips and advice.
Scenery
The Bhrigu Lake Trek is a feast for the eyes, as it takes you through diverse and stunning scenery, such as meadows, forests, lakes, and mountains. You will witness the changing colors and moods of the landscape, as well as the flora and fauna that inhabit it. You will also get to see some of the most majestic and iconic peaks of the Himalayas, such as Indrasan, Deo Tibba, Hanuman Tibba, and Rohtang Pass.
Tips: Carry a camera or a phone to capture the beauty and splendor of the scenery. You can also carry a binocular or a telescope to get a closer look at the peaks and the wildlife. Be respectful and responsible towards the environment and do not litter or harm the nature.
Culture
The Bhrigu Lake Trek is a chance to explore and experience the rich and diverse culture of Himachal Pradesh, especially the Kullu Valley. You will come across various villages, temples, and huts, where you can interact with the locals and learn about their history, traditions, and lifestyle. You will also get to taste some of the local delicacies and specialties, such as siddu, thukpa, and chhaang.
Tips: Carry some gifts or souvenirs to exchange with the locals and show your appreciation and gratitude. You can also carry some books or games to entertain yourself and the children. Be polite and respectful towards the locals and their beliefs and customs.
People
The Bhrigu Lake Trek is a great opportunity to meet and bond with new and like-minded people, who share your passion and enthusiasm for trekking and adventure. You will be accompanied by a team of professional and friendly guides, porters, and cooks, who will ensure your safety and comfort throughout the trek. You will also be joined by a group of fellow trekkers, who will become your friends and companions for the trek.
Tips: Carry some snacks or chocolates to share with your team and group and create a friendly and fun atmosphere. You can also carry some cards or music to enjoy some games and songs in the evening. Be supportive and cooperative with your team and group and help each other in times of need.
The Bhrigu Lake Trek is one of the most amazing and rewarding treks in Himachal Pradesh, as it offers a unique and diverse experience of the Himalayas. You will get to see the mystical and magical Bhrigu Lake, which changes its colors with the seasons and is blessed by a sage. You will also get to explore the scenic and cultural beauty of the Kullu Valley, which is full of meadows, forests, villages, and temples. You will also get to meet and bond with new and like-minded people, who share your passion and enthusiasm for trekking and adventure.
In this article, we have provided you with a comprehensive guide to the Bhrigu Lake Trek, covering everything from the itinerary, logistics, best time to visit, what to carry, and what to expect. We hope that this article has inspired you and motivated you to take the next step and book your trek to the Bhrigu Lake.
If you are looking for a reliable and professional service to arrange your trek to the Bhrigu Lake, you can contact Tripoto, which is one of the leading online platforms for travel and adventure. Tripoto will take care of all your needs and requirements, such as the booking, transportation, accommodation, food, guide, permit, and equipment. Tripoto will also ensure your safety and comfort throughout the trek, and provide you with the best possible experience and satisfaction.
To book your trek to the Bhrigu Lake with Tripoto, you can visit their website or app, and choose the package that suits your budget and preference. You can also read the reviews and ratings of the previous trekkers, who have shared their stories and feedback about the trek and the service. You can also contact Tripoto’s customer care team, who will answer all your queries and doubts, and help you plan and prepare for your trek.
So, what are you waiting for? The Bhrigu Lake Trek is waiting for you. Pack your bags, grab your shoes, and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime. The Bhrigu Lake Trek will surely leave you with unforgettable memories and experiences, and make you fall in love with the Himalayas.
