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Bhirgu lake trek lies in Himachal Pradesh around 20km from Manali. It is believed that the lake has a mythology significance, as it is also believed that at this place the famous saint Maharishi Bhrigu sat in deep meditation. The trek is considered to be one of the most thrilling and adventurous treks in the country. Throughout the trek, one can witness the expense of alpine meadows and grasslands. The average altitude of the trek is around 11000ft above sea level. The trek route is nestled with snow-capped mountains of the Pir Panjal and Dhauladhar range dominating the skyline. The complete trek takes about 4 days to reach the summit. The trek offers views of meadows, glacial lakes, and gigantic mountain views. The lake is situated on the east side of the Rohtang pass close to Gulaba village.
Facts about Bhrigu lake trek
The average altitude of the trek is at 11000ft and gradually ascends to an altitude of 14000ft.
The complete trek takes about 4 days to cover the trek distance of 25km. The lake is also known as the pool of gods. The blue ring-shaped lake is said to change its color during the summer season. One can take a dip into the spring which is situated near to the lake.
How to reach
The trek starts from Manali. One can reach Manali either by overnight bus from Chandigarh or Delhi. One can also take a flight from Delhi to Bhuntar airport which is 25km from Manali. There are many state-run and private luxury buses that run every day to and fro from Manali. From Manali take a bus to Gulaba village which takes around 2 hours to reach there. Gulaba village is the starting point of the trek.
Best time to visit Bhrigu lake
The best season to do the Bhrigu lake trek is from mid-June to October. Pre and post this time the lake may be frozen but not entirely. During this season one can witness the real beauty of the trek with lush green meadows blooming and the sky would be clear too and one would be able to witness the beautiful snowline of the mountains. It is advised not to trek during the winter months as during this season the weather condition is harsh and cold coupled with landslides which will make it difficult to trek in such terrain and weather.
Level of difficulty
The Bhrigu lake trek of 25km can be challenging as it takes around 3-4 days to reach the lake. The difficulty level can be placed at a moderate level. As one needs to be fit and agile to complete the trek in such altitude and cold conditions. As the terrain is at an altitude of 14000ft, there are many factors which might affect like the altitude, weather, trekking length covered in a day, nature of the mountain, etc.
You may like to read: Chadar Trek – Zanskar Valley, Ladakh 2022
Things to carry
These are some of the essentials that must be carried while on a trek to Bhrigu lake:
- Backpack and raincoat
- Walking stick
- Head torch with extra batteries
- Hot water bottle
- Energy bar/dry fruits
- Personal medical kit
- Warm clothes
- Waterproof jacket and waterproof trek pants
- Sunscreen cream
- Sunglasses
- Toiletries
- Trekking shoes (water and snowproof)
- Valid Id card
Reasons to do Bhrigu lake trek
Bhrigu lake trek to the mysterious lake at an altitude of 14000ft offers a mesmerizing view of the Himalayan mountains. The trek route is enveloped with snow-capped mountains from all sides. One can witness the rolling, textured grasslands of Bhrigu lake, views from Rola kholi, one can see Mt. Hanuman tibba, Ladaki peak, Friendship peak, and many other peaks. The trek is not so much crowded as compared to other treks of Himachal Pradesh. The sunrise and its rays on the snow line of the mountains feel like bliss to the eyes. The lake offers a panoramic view of the green valley on the other side of the trek.
Places to visit
Bhirgu lake is located in the abode of snow in the Himalayan region of Himachal Pradesh. There are various other treks that one could embark on their journey upon like the Beas Kund trek, Chandrakhani pass trek, and many more. One could also visit Rohtang pass which is close to Gulaba village(starting point of Bhrigu lake trek). Before going for the trek one could spend time in old Manali, visit Jogini waterfalls, Paragliding, or river rafting in Manali. Hadimba temple is one of the most visited places in Manali and its beautiful architecture and religious significance attract many tourists every year. One must also visit Vashisht Baths which provides a hot spring and is considered to have medical properties which can cure toxic diseases.
About the locals
The locals are mostly from the villages of Manali or from Vasisht village. These people are friendly and very helpful in nature. They even provide homestay to tourists at a very cheap price. The local area is very safe and has a minimal criminal record. Though the locals are superstitious because of the mystical Bhrigu lake. All in all the locals make it very easy and comfortable for tourists to explore these places.