Calling all adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts to the heart-pounding expedition to the ethereal Bhrigu Lake, cradled within the mighty Himalayas. This meticulously curated 4-day adventure by Salam Travellers guarantees an indelible experience, beckoning both seasoned explorers and trekking beginners.
As you hike to the sacred Bhrigu Lake, a glacial marvel perched at a dizzying altitude of 14,000 feet, experience jaw-dropping panoramic views of the mountains and the forests. Don’t let this golden chance to immerse yourself in the magic of the Himalayas slip away!
The Lake of the Gods
The Bhrigu Lake Trek is one of the most popular treks in Himachal Pradesh. Located at an altitude of 4,300 meters above sea level, Bhrigu Lake lies in the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh.
The Bhrigu Lake trek offers breathtaking views of the Pir Panjal ranges and the Dhauladhar ranges. The trek starts from the village of Gulaba and takes you through dense forests, alpine meadows, mountain streams, and moraine ridges before finally arriving at the sacred Bhrigu Lake after a steep ascent.
The total Bhrigu Lake trek distance is around 14 km which can be completed over 2-3 days. The moderate-level trek takes you to a maximum altitude of 4,300 meters, making it an ideal beginner’s trek as well. The best time to go for the Bhrigu Lake trek is during the summer and spring seasons between May to October.
Also read: 8 Most Beautiful Trekking Places in Himachal Pradesh
History and Mythology of Bhrigu Lake
Bhrigu Lake gets its name from the legend of Rishi Bhrigu, one of the seven great sages in Hindu mythology. Rishi Bhrigu is said to have meditated at this lake for many years, impressing the gods with his devotion.
According to local folklore, Rishi Bhrigu decided to find a suitable location away from civilization to continue his meditation and penance. He chose this high-altitude glacial lake, which was uninhabited at the time. Here he practiced deep meditation and is believed to have attained spiritual powers.
The region where Bhrigu Lake is located has a long history. For centuries, it was crossed by shepherds taking their livestock to greener pastures during the summer. During the colonial era, European explorers started mapping the Pir Panjal and Dhauladhar ranges.
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Best Time to Visit Bhrigu Lake
The ideal time to visit Bhrigu Lake largely depends on the kind of experience you want to have. Here are the pros and cons of visiting during the summer vs. monsoon season:
Summer (May-June)
- The weather is pleasant and ideal for trekking, with average temperatures around 15-20°C during the day.
- You’ll get to see Bhrigu Lake in its full glory, with crystal clear blue waters and excellent views of the mountains. The lake is not flooded during the summer.
- There are higher chances of spotting the Brahmakamal flower blooming around the lake.
- The trek will be quite crowded during peak summer months. You may have to deal with long lines if visiting on weekends or holidays.
Also read: From Kolkata to Shimla: A Journey of a Lifetime
Monsoon (July-September)
- The greenery around the lake and valleys is at its peak due to rain. You’ll get to see lush green meadows and forests.
- There are fewer crowds during the monsoon, so you can enjoy some solitude. No long queues or waiting times.
- The lake overflowing with glacier meltwater creates a different charm. But the water won’t be as clear to reflect the mountains.
- Landslides and rain can make the trek riskier.
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How to Reach Bhrigu Lake
The nearest airport to Bhrigu Lake is Kullu Manali Airport in Bhuntar, which is located at a distance of 50 km from Manali. From the airport, you can easily find taxis to reach Manali.
The closest major railway station is Jogindernagar railway station, which is about 144 km away from Manali. From here, you can take a taxi or bus to reach Manali.
The most convenient way to reach Bhrigu Lake is to first arrive at Manali by flight, train, or bus. From Manali, you have to travel to the trailhead at Gulaba village by road. Gulaba village is located 22 km from Manali at an altitude of 2,550 m.
To reach Gulaba village from Manali, you can hire a private taxi, which takes around 40 minutes. Another option is to take a public HRTC bus from the Manali bus stand to Gulaba village, which takes about an hour. Local taxis charge around INR 800-1000 for a drop-off to Gulaba village, whereas the bus costs around INR 50 per person one way.
Also read: Top Trekking Destinations in India for Adventure Lovers
Bhrigu Lake Trek Itinerary
The Bhrigu Lake trek typically takes 4 days to complete. Here’s a suggested itinerary:
Day 1: Manali to Gulaba
- Drive from Manali to Gulaba, which takes around 2 hours.
- The trek starts from Gulaba, which is around 8,000 ft. above sea level.
- Walk through scenic meadows and forests for 4 km to reach Rola Kholi campsite.
- Set up camp here for the night.
Day 2: Rola Kholi to Pandu Ropa
- Start early and trek a steep 2 km uphill to reach Pandu Ropa campsite.
- This section takes around 4-5 hours.
- Enjoy spectacular views of the mountains and valleys below.
- Overnight at Pandu Ropa campsite at 12,000 ft.
Day 3: Pandu Ropa to Bhrigu Lake and back
- Hike uphill for 3 km and reach Bhrigu Lake in about 3 hours.
- This glacial lake is situated at an altitude of 14,100 feet.
- Spend 1-2 hours at Bhrigu Lake to enjoy the views and admire its pristine blue waters.
- Begin the descent back to Pandu Ropa for the night halt.
Day 4: Pandu Ropa to Gulaba and drive to Manali
- Descend from Pandu Ropa to Gulaba, which takes around 5-6 hours.
- From Gulaba, drive back to Manali.
- Reach Manali by evening, ending the 4-day trek.
Also read: 7 Adventurous Things to Do in Malana This Summer
Bhrigu Lake Trek Difficulty
The Bhrigu Lake trek is considered moderately difficult. It requires a decent level of fitness and some hiking experience. Here are some key aspects of the trek’s difficulty:
Level of Difficulty
- The Bhrigu Lake trek is graded moderate to difficult. It involves steep ascents and descents, as well as some tricky sections. Proper acclimatization to altitude is required.
- The trail is uneven at places with loose gravel, rocky patches, and slippery snow. Ankle support is a must for hiking boots that fit well. Trekking poles can provide stability.
- No technical mountaineering skills are required. But fitness, endurance, and familiarity with mountain terrain are necessary. Prior hiking experience would be an advantage.
Physical Fitness Required
- The trek requires cardiovascular fitness and endurance since you will be trekking 6-7 hours daily while gaining 1000m elevation. Being physically fit is key.
- Leg strength is needed to trek uphill and downhill on steep gradients. Core body strength provides stability on uneven terrain. Upper body strength helps with using trekking poles.
- As the trek reaches an altitude of 4250m, respiratory fitness is a must to acclimatize and prevent altitude sickness.
- Carrying a backpack weighing 8-10 kg adds to the workout. Good muscle strength and stamina go a long way.
Also read: Nag Tibba Trek: Journey onto the Enchanting Trails of Uttarakhand
Bhrigu Lake Trek Cost
The cost for the Bhrigu Lake trek varies depending on factors like the number of days, group size, inclusions in the package, and the travel agency you choose. However, on average, the cost per person for a 4-5 day Bhrigu Lake trek is around INR 8,000 to INR 10,000. Here is a breakdown of the commonplace expenses:
Trek Fee
The trek fee itself is usually INR 1,500 to INR 2,000 per person. This covers guide fees, porter charges, camping charges, forest permits, and basic meals during the trek.
Tents and sleeping bags may be provided by the trek operator, or you may need to carry your own, which will affect the cost.
Transport
The trek starts from the village of Gulaba in Manali. Shared taxis from Manali to Gulaba cost around INR 200 per person one way.
Some trek packages include transport from Manali to Gulaba and back in the trek fee.
Food
Meals on the trek are basic, usually simple vegetarian fare like Maggi, pasta, sandwiches, etc. You can pay around INR 300-500 per day extra for more lavish meals.
Many trekkers carry snacks like energy bars, dry fruits, chocolates, etc. to supplement their basic meals.
Accommodation
Accommodation in Manali before and after the trek will cost Rs. 500 to Rs. 2,000 per night, depending on the hotel category.
Camping costs are included in the trek fee if organized by the operator.
Other Expenses
Other costs may include inner-line permits, equipment rental, porter tips, and medical or insurance fees if not already included in the package.
Also read: The Perfect Dalhousie Local Sightseeing Itinerary 3-Day Plan: A Complete Guide
Book your seat today!
Experience the majesty of the Himalayas on the ultimate adventure to Bhrigu Lake! Join us on a 4-day trek through breathtaking landscapes, where every step brings you closer to the sacred waters cradled at 14,000 feet. Don’t miss this chance to immerse yourself in nature’s grandeur and create memories to last a lifetime. Book your spot now with Salam Travellers and set-off on an unforgettable journey into the heart of the mountains!
