Bhrigu Lake
The Prettiest Grassland Trek in Himachal
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TREK DIFFICULTY
Moderate
TREK DURATION
4 days
HIGHEST ALTITUDE
14,009 ft
TOTAL TREK DISTANCE
21.5 kms
BASECAMP
Gulaba
ACCOMMODATION TYPE
Tents
PICKUP POINT
PICKUP TIME
10 AM
DROPOFF TIME
4 PM
The Prettiest Grassland Trek in Himachal
A lot of trekkers do the Bhrigu Lake trek for the lake is steeped in mythology. This trek lies in Himachal Pradesh, around 20 km north of Manali and can be accessed from Gulaba.
It is known as the place where the famous saint Maharishi Bhrigu sat in deep meditation. However, we believe the lake is not the only thing the trek has to offer. You must do the Bhrigu Lake trek for its grasslands.
To enter an alpine meadow in our country, one has to often spend at least a day or two trekking within the tree line. We are talking about two or three days of hard ascent. This is because most alpine meadows start at around 11,000 ft above the treeline.
Bhrigu Lake - Complete Trek Information
We have always wanted trekkers to be well-informed before they go on a Himalayan trek. Knowledge is the difference between a safe trek and a dangerous one. It’s also the difference between a wholesome experience and a superficial experience.
Use this section to learn about the Bhrigu Lake trek. It has in-depth information about each day of the trek, what to expect, and how you need to prepare for it. Many years of expertise have gone into this content. Trekkers find that extremely useful.
Study this map to learn about Bhrigu Lake trek route, itinerary, campsites, terrain and more.
Day 1
Arrive at Manali. Drive from Manali to Gulaba Roadhead via Palchan. Trek to Jonker Thatch
Drive Distance: 24 km | Drive Duration: 1 hour |Trek Distance: 1.5 km | Trek Duration: 1.5 hrs
Altitude Gain: 6,725 ft to 10,285 ft
Leave from Beas Bridge, Manali, Manali at 10.00 AM for Gulaba. En route, at Palchan, drop your cloakroom bag and collect your rentals. You will meet your trek leader here where he will brief you about the trek. Make sure that you complete your lunch before reaching Gulaba.
Indiahikes will arrange transport for the transfer from Manali to Gulaba. This pickup costs ₹ 700 (additional 5% GST) per trekker one way from Manali to Gulaba (₹1400 for onward and return journeys). These are non-AC vehicles. Please pre-book your transport through the dashboard before your trek.
Your trek starts from Gulaba. From there, you reach the first campsite at Jonker Thatch around 3.30 PM.
Day 2
Trek from Jonker Thatch to Rola Kholi
Trek Distance: 5 km | Trek Duration: 3-4 hours | Altitude Gain: 10,285 ft to 12,590 ft
Moderate. Steep ascent throughout followed by an undulating walk for the last 30 minutes.
Day 3
Trek from Rola Kholi to Bhrigu Lake, and back to Rola Kholi
Trek Distance: 10 km | Trek Duration: 7-8 hours | Altitude Gain and Loss: 12,590 ft to 14,009 ft and back
Moderate. Starts on a stony trail. Initial ascent for 2 hours followed by 10 minutes descent. Level walk for 15 minutes followed by an hour’s steep ascent to the lake.
Day 4
Trek from Rola Kholi to Gulaba. Drive back to Manali
Trek Distance: 5 km | Trek Duration: 3-4 hours
Altitude Loss: 12,590 ft to 9,875 ft
Easy. Mostly descending all the way to Gulaba.
Indiahikes will arrange transport for the drop-off to Manali from Gulaba. This drop-off costs ₹700 (additional 5% GST) per trekker one way from Gulaba to Manali (₹1400 for onward and return journeys). These are non-AC vehicles. Please pre-book your transport through the dashboard before your trek.
On the way back, stop at Palchan, collect your cloakroom and return rentals.
You are expected to reach Manali by 4 PM.
Please note: The distance between campsites may vary by 100 meters depending the weather conditions and the route you take. The altitude may also vary by 100 feet for similar reasons.
IMPORTANT POINTS
- It is mandatory for trekkers to carry a copy of their photo ID for entry at forest check posts on the trek.
- On the trek, you will be staying 2 in a tent on all days.
- We have a cloakroom facility available at the basecamp for extra luggage. Every trekker is permitted to leave behind one piece of luggage at no charge. Anything beyond one piece of luggage is chargeable at Rs 500 per luggage. (The luggage could be a backpack/suitcase/duffel bag or anything similar.).
Day 1: Arrive at Manali. Drive from Manali to Gulaba Roadhead, and Trek to Jonker Thatch
Drive Duration: 1 hour | Trek Duration: 1.5 hours
Drive Distance: 24 km | Trek Distance: 1.5 km
Altitude Gain: 6,725 ft to 10,285 ft
Difficulty: Moderate ascent. Well-marked road followed by forest trails.
The Bhrigu Lake trek begins at Gulaba. The 24 km route to Gulaba takes you on the Manali-Rohtang Pass road, past Kolang, Palchan and Kothi. You get fabulous views of pine forests and mountains as soon as you cross Kothi.
Once a quiet hamlet, Gulaba is now buzzing with tourists in transit to Rohtang Pass.
Vehicles drop you off at the road and head near the Gulaba check post.
The Bhrigu Lake trek begins at Gulaba. The 24 km route to Gulaba takes you on the Manali-Rohtang Pass road, past Kolang, Palchan and Kothi. You get fabulous views of pine forests and mountains as soon as you cross Kothi.
Once a quiet hamlet, Gulaba is now buzzing with tourists in transit to Rohtang Pass.
Vehicles drop you off at the road and head near the Gulaba check post.
Trek steadily underneath forest cover, passing through open grasslands now and then. You will reach the Jonker Thatch campsite in about an hour and fifteen minutes.
Day 2: Trek from Jonker Thatch to Rola Kholi
Trek Duration: 3-4 hours | Trek Distance: 5 km
Altitude Gain: ⇗ 10,285 ft to 12,590 ft
Difficulty: Moderate. Steep ascent throughout followed by an undulating walk for the last 30 minutes.
The trail begins with a steep ascent. Make note of brown oak, cedar and birch trees on the trail here. These are a few of the most prominent trees in the Himalayas. After around 20 minutes, the trail enters an open meadow where shepherds camp.
Observe Mt Hanuman Tibba towering over the meadow in the background. Below Hanuman Tibba are the Seven Sister peaks seated in the Beas Kund Valley. Turn right from the upper ridge of the meadow and head south. The second forested cover begins here.
Rola Kholi is a scenic grazing ground used by local shepherds. Located at the base of Bhrigu Lake, it makes for an ideal camping spot. The water source here is Chor Nallah, which flows across the camping ground.
The trail begins with a steep ascent. Make note of brown oak, cedar and birch trees on the trail here. These are a few of the most prominent trees in the Himalayas. After around 20 minutes, the trail enters an open meadow where shepherds camp.
Observe Mt Hanuman Tibba towering over the meadow in the background. Below Hanuman Tibba are the Seven Sister peaks seated in the Beas Kund Valley. Turn right from the upper ridge of the meadow and head south. The second forested cover begins here.
Rola Kholi is a scenic grazing ground used by local shepherds. Located at the base of Bhrigu Lake, it makes for an ideal camping spot. The water source here is Chor Nallah, which flows across the camping ground.
"The clouds are so dramatic on this trek. They keep popping like cotton candy in the valley. When you reach the Rola Kholi campsite, you see these floating clouds below you. Especially early in the morning, with sun rays dancing on the clouds. To see this is very rare. After Sandakphu, I think this is the next trek which offers such a spectacular cloud experience," says Senior Trek Leader, Nitesh Kumar.
Day 3: Trek from Rola Kholi to Bhrigu Lake, and back to Rola Kholi
Duration: 7-8 hours | Trek Distance: 10 km
Altitude Gain and Loss: 12,590 ft to 14,009 ft and back
Difficulty: Moderate. Starts on a stony trail. Initial steep ascent for 2 hours followed by a 10 minutes descent. Level walk for 15 minutes followed by an hour's steep ascent to the lake.
Start early as you have a lot of distance to cover today. You have to trek a height of around 1,348 ft to reach Bhrigu Lake.
Bhrigu Lake rests between two high-altitude ridges. You begin with hiking to the first ridge, which is an hour away. In June, the trail is usually covered in snow. In July, as the snow melts on the lower reaches, you see the trail slowly turning from green to brown and white. As you reach the ridge, look for an oval glacial lake in the distance. Depending on the season, the lake is either surrounded by snow or fresh grass, along with alpine flowers.
"If you climb over the ridge on the side of Bhrigu Lake and look down, you see the three campsites of Hampta Pass trek - Chikha, Jwara, and Balu ka Ghera - laid out in front of you. But be careful as you climb over the ridge. From the edge, it is a nerve-wracking steep drop into the valley," says Arjun Majumdar, Founder and CEO.
Start early as you have a lot of distance to cover today. You have to trek a height of around 1,348 ft to reach Bhrigu Lake.
Bhrigu Lake rests between two high-altitude ridges. You begin with hiking to the first ridge, which is an hour away. In June, the trail is usually covered in snow. In July, as the snow melts on the lower reaches, you see the trail slowly turning from green to brown and white. As you reach the ridge, look for an oval glacial lake in the distance. Depending on the season, the lake is either surrounded by snow or fresh grass, along with alpine flowers.
"If you climb over the ridge on the side of Bhrigu Lake and look down, you see the three campsites of Hampta Pass trek - Chikha, Jwara, and Balu ka Ghera - laid out in front of you. But be careful as you climb over the ridge. From the edge, it is a nerve-wracking steep drop into the valley," says Arjun Majumdar, Founder and CEO.
On a clear day, you can catch a stunning panoramic view of the Pir Pinjal and Dhauladhar ranges. Also, major peaks such as Indrasen, Deo Tibba and Hanuman Tibba stand majestically before you. The lake is normally enveloped in fog which can make finding the route tricky. It is always advisable to hire a local guide.
After spending time at the lake, retrace your way to Rola Kholi.
Day 4: Trek from Rola Kholi to Gulaba. Drive back to Manali
Trek Duration: 3-4 hours | Trek Distance: 5 km
Altitude Loss: ⇘ 12,590 ft to 9,875 ft
Difficulty: Easy. Mostly descending.
Today’s trek is an easy one. You get back to Gulaba through the meadows you came up from. The descent can be a bit steep but is good on your legs given you are always in the meadows.
It takes 3-4 hours to reach Gulaba. Gulaba at around 9,875 ft is a better exit for your knees and feet as compared to Vasisht at 7,000 ft.
Today’s trek is an easy one. You get back to Gulaba through the meadows you came up from. The descent can be a bit steep but is good on your legs given you are always in the meadows.
It takes 3-4 hours to reach Gulaba. Gulaba at around 9,875 ft is a better exit for your knees and feet as compared to Vasisht at 7,000 ft.
Moderate
Suitable for Fit Beginners
You will cover a total of around 21.5 km in four trekking days during which you will gain approximately 7,284 ft (6,725 ft to 14,009 ft). Every day will include ascents and descents on uneven trails.
Terrain:
- The climb from Gulaba to Jonker Thatch is extremely steep. You gain almost 3500 ft in elevation over just 2 km of trekking.
- On the last day of the trek, you descend continuously to Gulaba all the way from Rola Kholi. While this makes the trek a little easier than the usual 4000 ft descent to Vashisht, it is still hard on your knows.
- The trail fades in meadows. It is easy to get lost, making solo trekking risky.
Please note: If you are trekking with Indiahikes, our Trek Leaders and Technical Guides will provide you with all necessary guidance, support, and technical gear such as micro spikes, gaiters, helmets, ropes, etc. wherever required.
Weather:
- Rainfall or snowfall, lasting for hours, can change the entire trek dynamic.
- Rain can flood the trails or make them too slushy to walk safely on. The forest trail ahead of Gulaba gets especially mushy and difficult to climb.
- Snowfall in early weeks of June can obstruct previously made paths, requiring fresh tracks to be cut on the snow.
- In Monsoon, the trail becomes slippery. Wear shoes with good grip to avoid falls, especially on narrow sections above deep valleys.
Please note: The safety of our trekkers is paramount. Our technical team, in conjunction with the Trek Leader, constantly monitors the weather conditions and makes informed decisions about proceeding with or aborting the trek. If the weather deteriorates, the team may need to turn back from any campsite to ensure the safety of all trekkers.
Altitude:
- You climb more than 3500 ft from Gulaba to Jonker Thatch on the very first day of the trek. This rapid elevation gain, coupled with exertion, makes you very susceptible to Acute Mountain Sickness.
- Bhrigu Lake is situated 14,009 ft above sea level. At altitudes above 10,000 ft, the chances of being hit by Acute Mountain Sickness are real. Altitude sickness can happen to anybody - first-time trekkers as well as experienced trekkers. Fitness helps in making your trek easier. But do not forget that even a fit person climbing too high too soon runs an equal risk of developing AMS. Here’s a Complete guide to Acute Mountains Sickness, HAPE and HACE
Please Note: The Indiahikes team is equipped with high-altitude medical kits, oxygen cylinders, and stretchers to handle any altitude-related emergencies.
Emergency Exits:
- In case of an AMS emergency before or after reaching Bhrigu Lake, you will need to return to Gulaba. If a medical emergency occurs before or after the lake, then Manali is where you would need to go to get to a hospital. Manali is an hour’s drive from Gulaba
Closest Hospital to the Bhrigu Lake Trek:
The medical facilities at Manali, just 15 km from the Gulaba roadhead, are your best bet in case of sudden medical emergencies on the Bhrigu Lake Trek. In case of a more serious medical issue, the best option is to access medical facilities at Chandigarh, a 6-hr drive from Manali.
The Indiahikes team will ensure your safety throughout the journey. However, we believe that safety is a shared responsibility. We need your active participation and attention to safety protocols to ensure a safe and successful trek.
On the Bhrigu Lake Trek, you navigate a steep climb through forests. This can test your endurance. Photo by Jothiranjan. The Bhrigu Lake trek has several stream crossings, which can be challenging, especially in heavy rain. The trails also turn slushy, adding to the difficulty of the trek. Photo by Jothiranjan. While Bhrigu Lake trek is known for its meadows, it also involves strenuous climbs over boulder sections. Prepare well to tackle this. Photo by Jothiranjan. Once you reach the meadows, there are no marked trails. It is easy to get lost here. Photo by Jothiranjan. In the early weeks of June, you may find a lot of snow on the Bhrigu Lake Trek. The trek can get tricky when the snow gets hard and slippery. Photo by Jothiranjan.
Please inform your Trek Leader about any pre-existing medical conditions or health concerns, no matter how minor they may seem. This will enable us to take the necessary precautions and ensure your safety throughout the trek.
Bhrigu Lake is a high-altitude trek and it can be done for almost four months in a year. The very best time would be between June and September. You can extend it to the end of October.
Senior Trek Leader, Nitesh Kumar says, "Early in the season when I was there, the lake was completely frozen. The lake was surrounded by snow. Slowly as the season progressed I saw the lake melting. Later into the season, in August you see the deep blue water in Bhrigu Lake. During this time, flowers are blooming all around the lake."
In May you will find a lot of snow during your final ascent to Bhrigu lake. This makes it difficult to reach the lake. So, it’s advisable to trek to Bhrigu Lake between June and September.
The terrain changes colours and texture even during this window which ideally begins from mid-June.
Bhrigu Lake from mid-June to mid-July
Day time: Between 15 °C and 20 °C | Night time: Will drop to temperatures between 1 °C and 5 °C.
Presence of snow: Despite it being summer, expect snow patches on the ground.
No. of warm layers required: 4 warm layers
At the beginning of the season, around mid-June, you will find a lot of snow at Rola Kholi. The trek is just starting to emerge from the snow. During this time, you will find many traces of winter lingering on the trek.
The most prominent being a frozen Bhrigu Lake, surrounded by snow. The ice begins to thaw only as July descends.
Even though the meadows are a highlight of this trek, they emerge only as the monsoon season deepens.
Bhrigu Lake from mid-July to mid-August
Day time: Between 15 °C and 20 °C | Night time: Will drop to temperatures between 1 °C and 5 °C.
Presence of snow: Snow starts melting away as we move into August. You will still find snow closer to Bhrigu Lake.
No. of warm layers required: 3 warm layers
As the season progresses into July, the blanket of snow starts lifting. You still find some snow on your final ascend to Bhrigu Lake, especially in early July, but most snow on the trek has melted.
The frozen Bhrigu Lake has also started melting in small concentric circles. Parts of it are still icy, but the ice is thinning. Meadows around the lake also start emerging as you pass mid-July.
Now, the monsoon is also at its peak. Rains become frequent and clouds usually glide in unannounced shrouding the lake and the trail. You get to see a beautiful dance of clouds when at Rola Kholi.
Bhrigu Lake from mid-August to September
Day time: Between 12 °C and 15 °C | Night time: Will drop to temperatures between 0 °C and 3 °C.
Presence of snow: The snow is gone, and the terrain is replaced with lush greenery.
No. of warm layers required: 4 warm layers
Like a climax, the last leg of the season is set up on a grand stage with lush meadows.
The snow is gone. Bhrigu Lake flaunts a deep royal blue colour with green grass and flowers blooming around it. It is a sight to behold.
Monsoon is receding now and blue skies have started peeping out. It’s a great time to catch the arresting views of the underrated mountains of Himachal Pradesh.
When you camp at Rola Kholi, you see the Dhauladhar range rising tall with the seven sisters, Hanuman Tibba, Mt Manali, and Shitidhar among many others. These views sparkle under the brilliant blue sky as autumn emerges in September.
Your trek to Bhrigu Lake begins right from the heart of Manali. The most prominent town in the Kullu District of Himachal Pradesh, Manali needs no introduction for a trekker.
On Day 1, our Indiahikes team will pick you up at 10.00 am from Beas Bridge in Manali.
We recommend that you reach Manali by Day Zero, which is one day before Day 1 on the itinerary. For example, if the Day 1 of your trek is 25th August, book your tickets to reach Manali by 24th August. This gives you a buffer to account for unexpected delays and also allows you to rest well before starting your trek.
Here is a detailed guide to help you plan your travel to Manali:
Manali is easily accessible by road from Delhi and Chandigarh. However, the stretch beyond Mandi on NH-3 is prone to frequent landslides, often leading to delays. Keep this in mind while planning your journey.
The easiest way to reach the Manali is to:
- Fly to Delhi, take a direct bus from ISBT Kashmere Gate to Manali
- Fly to Chandigarh, take a direct bus from Chandigarh to Manali.
Flight options to reach Manali:
Pro Tip: If the flights to Chandigarh are too costly, fly to Delhi and take the overnight bus to Manali. Flying to Delhi may be a lot cheaper than getting to Chandigarh. However, If you notice the difference in air ticket prices between Delhi and Chandigarh is less than Rs 1000, then book for Chandigarh. The rest and shorter travel time are worth the difference.
Trekkers often ask us for hotel recommendations before or after their treks. Finding a good place using online listings can be tedious and tricky. So, through our network of trekkers and trek leaders, we have put together the best hotel recommendations in the major cities near our treks.
These are tried-and-tested recommendations—places we trust for comfort, cleanliness, and convenience. They’re also located near town centers and your pick-up points. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly stay or something a little more premium, you’ll find an option that suits your needs below.
Given below is a list of all the gear you need for the Bhrigu Lake trek:
If you don’t have certain items, you can rent high-quality gear like trekking shoes, backpacks, and jackets from the Crosstrek Rental Store by Indiahikes. It costs less than Rs 2000 for the entire trek. We highly recommend renting gear since it is both more affordable and environmentally friendly.
Additionally, you’ll notice a small medical kit in the list. While our trek leaders carry medical kits with 17 medicines including life-saving drugs, you must bring your personal medical kit as well. We are already equipped with BP machines, oximeters and canned oxygen, but your medical kit is for quick access to you, especially while travelling.
Most importantly, you must digitally upload and carry mandatory documents to get government permits for the trek - your ID card, and medical certificate. Keep them in a plastic bag to keep them safe in your backpack. There are no printing or photocopy facilities at the basecamp.
Here is a list of everything you need for your trek.
Shoes and backpack
- Trekking shoes with ankle support (Available on rent)
- Backpack with rain cover (Available on rent)
Warm Layers and Clothes
- Warm layers (Padded jackets available on rent)
- 3 layers if you're trekking in spring, summer and monsoon (1 woollen sweater, 1 fleece, 1 padded jacket)
- 4 layers if you're trekking in autumn (1 woollen sweater, 2 fleece, 1 padded jacket)
- 5 layers if you're trekking in winter (1 pair of thermals, 1 woollen sweater, 2 fleece, 1 padded jacket) - 3 Collared T-shirts (Wear one, carry two)
- 2 quick-dry trek pants (Wear one, carry one)
Accessories
- Sunglasses
- Sun cap, preferably with flaps (Available for purchase)
- Waterproof gloves (Available for purchase)
- Balaclava
- Woollen socks (2 pairs of Dry fit + 1 pair of Woollen)
- Headlamp (Available on rent)
- Trekking pole (Available on rent)
- Rain jacket + pants / poncho (Rain-jacket is available on rent)
Toiletries:
- Sunscreen
- Moisturiser
- Light towel
- Lip balm or vaseline
- Toilet paper (Wet wipes are strictly not allowed on our treks)
- Toothbrush
- Toothpaste
- Reusable plastic covers (for used clothes)
Cutlery:
- Steel lunch box, spoon and a coffee mug (Lunch box is available on rent)
- Two water bottles or Hydration Pack (Water bottles are available on rent)
Once you run through this list, don't miss this ultimate guide on what gear to take on a trek. It contains tips on what gear to choose, where to get it from and how much to spend on it.
Our only tip: Keep your backpack light. Indiahikes practices low impact sustainable trekking in every aspect of the trek. Carrying your own personal backpack reduces your impact on the mountains by 20%. We expect all our trekkers to carry their own backpacks unless they have a justifiable reason not to.
PRO TIPS
Keep important documents in a clear plastic cover and slide them into the inner pocket at the back of your backpack. This keeps them from getting wet.
These are documents required for legal purposes by Indiahikes and the forest department. Without any of these, you will not be allowed to trek.
- Original and photocopy of government photo identity card. Anything such as a driver’s license, Aadhar Card, or passport will do. This is required by the forest department for your identification.
- Disclaimer certificate: You don't need to print or carry the disclaimer form. Your Trek Leader will give it to you at the base. Just sign and hand it over then and there. However, if you are a minor unaccompanied by your parents, please download this disclaimer, print it, get it signed by your parents/guardian and carry it to the basecamp. – Download disclaimer certificate
- Medical certificate: The medical certificate needs to be filled out by an MBBS doctor, without which the forest department will not issue permissions for your trek. It is also a requirement by Indiahikes – Download medical certificate
Note: Indiahikes has a panel of doctors who can help you with a medical certificate. They are available for online consultation. To get in touch with them, please write to trekmedicalcertificates@gmail.com. They will respond to you within 24 hours.
Consultation fee: Rs 300
Carry these medicines with you, easily accessible at all times. Do not take any medicine unless you have consulted your trek leader.
- Diamox (1 Strip): Be on a course of a half tablet of Diamox starting from Delhi every 12 hours (125 mg). Carry on the medication until you descend to Gulaba. Being on a preventive course of Diamox greatly reduces the chances of Acute Mountain Sickness on the Bhrigu Lake trek.
- Dolo 650 (4 tablets): This is a paracetamol. It helps to tackle fever, mild pain
- Avomine (4 tablets): Carry this especially if you are prone to motion sickness. Pop one-half hour before the start of your road journey.
- Combiflam (3 tablets): Take a combiflam if you get a sudden twist of the leg or a muscle strain. It is a pain reliever. It also contains paracetamol.
- Digene (4 tablets): Take it if you feel the food that you’ve taken is undigested. Alert your trek leader immediately. It could be a sign of AMS.
- ORS (5 packs): Consume a pack of ORS water at least once a day, usually mid-day when you are in the middle of your trek. It replenishes essential salts lost while trekking. Tip: It also makes cold water easier to drink.
- Knee Brace (optional): Carry this if you are prone to knee injury or have known issues of knee pain.
Our trek leaders carry a high altitude medical kit with them which also consist of Life Saving Drugs. If there is an emergency our trek leaders know how to tackle it. Meanwhile, contact your trek leader before consuming any of these medicines listed here.
Pro Tip: We find that these medicines by trekkers are rarely used. But you cannot do away with them. At the end of the trek please donate unused medicines to your trek leader. Some of these medicines get distributed to villages on the trek and some are added to the Indiahikes medical kit.
We recommend walking/jogging/running as the best routine to get fit for any trek. It works on the same muscles you use while trekking—your calves, glutes, quads and hamstrings. It also mimics your foot movement so you are better prepared for sudden twists and turns they may go through on uneven terrain.
It helps increase your stamina gradually if done consistently. It is also an easy routine that does not require any equipment or tools.
Fitness Target
To do the Bhrigu Lake Trek comfortably, you must be able to walk, jog or run 5 km in under 35 minutes. This is the minimum recommended fitness level that you must aim for.
Trekking is a sport that primarily uses your lungs, core, calves, glutes, quads and hamstrings. Being fit will help you enjoy the trek and will keep you safe.
To reach any fitness target, there are two things you must work on:
- Cardiovascular endurance
- Muscle strength
If you are not currently active, follow the below schedule to get trek fit in 6 weeks!
A 6-Week Plan to Help You Get Trek-Fit for the Bhrigu Lake Trek
Pro Tip: Warming up and cooling down before and after your workout is important. Do not miss that.
| Note: If you are not a regular runner, do not start running all of a sudden.
Strength Training Schedule:
Note:
- Alternatives to 30 Standard Pushups = (3 x 20 = 60 knee pushups) = (3 x 45 = 135 wall pushups)
- Alternative to 48 full squats = (4 x 24 = 96 half squats)
- Alternative to jumping lunges = forward lunges (same count)
- If you are not able to complete 1 full set of any plank, divide it into 2 halves and complete it with a rest break in between. For example: If you are not able to complete 1 minute of a standard plank, divide it into 2 sets of 30 seconds each.
- After completing a few weeks of training, if you can progress, you may increase the number of sets or reps for desired results.
Important note: We accept only running, jogging, or walking workout screenshots as fitness proof. Screenshots of cross-training workouts will not be considered valid. We've suggested cross-training options to help keep your fitness journey engaging and fun, allowing you to explore activities you enjoy and avoid inconsistency.
Note: Use apps like Nike and Strava to record your runs.
What happens if you are not fit:
- You do not enjoy the trek
- You struggle to be a part of the team because you’re slow.
- You miss out on a deep, transformative experience that Indiahikes specially designs for you.
The good part is it is not difficult. All you need to do is start following the fitness routine 6 to 8 weeks before your trek begins.
We are here to help you in this fitness journey. Just start slow and as long as you are committed and consistent with your routine, you are in for an unforgettable trek experience.
How to Get Fitness Approval from the Indiahikes Team:
Every trekker needs fitness approval from the Indiahikes team 20 days before the trek date. Without this, you will not be allowed on the trek.
Note: Use apps like Nike and Strava to record your runs.
What to upload?
- A minimum of 3 screenshots of your runs/jogs/walks/cycling
- Monthly summary of your routine
The Bhrigu Lake trek starts from Gulaba, which is 24 km from Manali. Indiahikes organizes transport for trekkers from Manali to Gulaba on Day 1 of the trek. Manali is well connected to Delhi.
If you take an overnight bus from Delhi, it will take you 12-14 hours to reach Manali. Tickets can be booked online at www. redbus.in We recommend travelling by bus with Lakshmi Holidays. They are clean, affordable and usually run on time.
Note: Since Delhi-Manali is a long journey, most private buses leave Delhi between 5.00 pm and 6.00 pm. The last government bus leaves at 8.30 pm from ISBT Kashmere Gate.
Starting from Gulaba (24 km from Manali), the Bhrigu Lake treks is approximately 22 km which you may cover over 4 days.
Here’s a quick itinerary to give you an idea:
Day 1: Drive from Manali to Gulaba. Then an hour trek to the campsite (Jonker Thatch).
Day 2: Jonker Thatch (10,285 ft) to Rola Kholi (12,950 ft); 3-4 hours, 5 km
Day 3: Rola Kholi (12,950 ft) to Bhrigu Lake (14,009 ft) and back to Rola Kholi; 5-6 hours, 10 km
Day 4: Rola Kholi (12,950 ft) to Gulaba (9,875 ft); 3-4 hours, 5 km. Drive to Manali. You are expected to reach Manali by 3:30 PM.
The Bhrigu Lake trek is classified as a trek of moderate difficulty. You start from an altitude of 8,530 ft at Gulaba and you reach the highest point of the trek at 14,009 ft.
This means you gain around 5,480 ft over just two days of trekking. This can make the trek quite demanding. So, it is necessary to train well for the trek. Focus on cardiovascular and strength training if you are planning to go for the Bhrigu Lake trek.
You won’t find any electricity after you set off from Manali. Even the network starts getting sketchy. But you may find Vodafone and Jio network at Rola Kholi campsite. And, 100 metres from Rola Kholi sometimes you even find Airtel. But all these are subjective to the weather. The network gets affected when clouds roll into the valley.
Manali is your last stop for an ATM. You won’t come across any ATM after Manali. So, if you need cash, withdraw it from Manali and only then set off for Gulaba.
Yes, Manali is a safe hill station to be in because it is a popular tourist destination, buzzing with people from various nationalities almost throughout the year. You will find a range of hotels (for all budgets), cafes, and eateries popping up at every turn.
Yes you can!
If you are above the age of 58 years, you’ll need to submit a Treadmill Test (not older than 12 months) within a week of completing your trek registration. Apart from this, you should also be able to jog 5 km in 45 minutes.
Having too many mules on a trail isn’t good for the ecosystem. This is why, at Indiahikes, we do not encourage offloading. A trekker carries his/her own backpack in the true spirit of trekking.
But if — due to a medical condition — you are unable to carry your own backpack, you may offload your backpack.
The total cost of offloading on the Bhrigu Lake trek is Rs 1,680 including tax.
Bhrigu Lake Photos
Expert Speak
Arjun Majumdar, Founder, CEO
Arjun Majumdar, Founder, CEO
Here is Arjun Majumdar, Founder and CEO of Indiahikes talking about the Bhrigu Lake trek. Arjun is an entrepreneur by profession and a trekker by passion, Arjun started Indiahikes in 2008 with a vision to explore and document new trails, solve problems in the mountains and implement sustainable ways of trekking.
What I Like and Don't Like About the Bhrigu Lake Trek
What I Like About the Bhirgu Lake Trek
Arjun Majumdar, Founder, CEO
Here is Arjun Majumdar, Founder and CEO of Indiahikes talking about the Bhrigu Lake trek. Arjun is an entrepreneur by profession and a trekker by passion, Arjun started Indiahikes in 2008 with a vision to explore and document new trails, solve problems in the mountains and implement sustainable ways of trekking.
1. The rolling, textured grasslands of Bhrigu Lake
Here, the grasslands stretched in lovely undulating green dunes as far as the eye could see; perhaps even beyond. It was special.
I hadn’t seen something like this: the meadows changed texture and colour with every altitude gained. What started as a short, bright, but coarse carpet turned a rich, succulent green as we climbed.
At one point we stopped for a short snack break. I took off my shoes and felt the velvet touch of the immaculate lushness under my feet. The moist softness and the deeply aromatic smell still stay with me.
Vast open grasslands on the Bhrigu Lake trek. Photo by Avinash
2. The commanding views from Rola Kholi
I loved walking through the cauldron that is called Rola Kholi. We did not stop there and pitched our tent on a ledge jutting out from the walls of the cauldron. I could not have asked for a more commanding view of the mountains of the Pir Panjal range.
Early in the morning, I walked up the gently sloping banks around Rola Kholi. The sun lit up the grassland in bright yellowish streaks and cotton wool clouds hung in the air below me.
In front of Mt Hanuman Tibba, Ladaki Peak, and Friendship Peak, the summits of Lahaul stretched out. It was just us and the abundance of a teeming, flourishing grassland. I had underrated the trek.
View of Mt Hanuman Tibba, Ladaki Peak and Friendship Peak from Rola Kholi campsite. Picture by Jothiranjan
3. Reflection of mountains in Bhrigu Lake from a high point
When I climbed a bit higher over the banks of the Bhrigu lake, I saw the mountain ranges reflected on the waters of the lake. Clouds hung below us and we were almost looking at the lake as it hung out of the air. We were at 14,000 feet. I couldn’t believe we were that high!
Bhrigu Lake reflecting the scenic beauty around it. Photo by Subhashis Pal
4. Stunning green valley on the other side
We were early to the lake, so we went beyond, towards Pandurupa. It is not too far, perhaps half an hour on the other side.
I had fallen in love with the trek, but I should have waited.
The other side was equally stunning. A wide green valley stretched below us. Green grassy mountainsides rise out of the valley and a line of forest way down below. I wish we could trek this side too. But I knew the trail was long and winding. We couldn’t camp in between. Reluctantly, we made our way back to the lake.
I had not expected much out of the Bhrigu lake trek. I didn’t think a trek right out of Manali could be so grand. I wish I was not so full of my image set. Bhrigu Lake is one of the best grassland treks that I have done in my life.
Lush green meadows on the Bhrigu Lake trek. Picture by the Indiahikes Team
What I Don't Like About the Bhirgu Lake Trek
1. Bhrigu Lake is less appealing
The lake didn’t appeal to me much. It was a bit of a downer after the exhilaration of the climb and the stunning scenery around.
I expected the lake to be larger, with a grassy bank around it. There wasn’t. It had a muddy bank. A few local folks were even taking a dip in its water. That killed the setting. Perhaps my overfed imagination expected too much.
Trek Trivia
Things Nobody Tells You About Bhrigu Lake
The Story of Bhrigu Lake
Maharishi Bhrigu, who was one of the famous Saptarishis, sat and meditated beside the Bhrigu Lake.
The setting of the lake, resting between two high-altitude ridges, does seem perfect for silence and inward reflection. Moreover, from here you can see the grand Himalayan ranges too. Right in front of you, there are Pir Pinjal and Dhauladhar ranges. Also, major peaks such as Indrasen, Deo Tibba, and Hanuman Tibba stand majestically before you.
It is believed that the sacred meditations of Maharishi Bhrigu have purified the lake and the space around it. This is a holy lake for the locals, and to protect its sanctity, camping close to the lake is prohibited.
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