The Bhrigu Lake Trek is a 4 day moderate difficulty level trek located in the Kullu region of Himachal Pradesh. It is one of the best summer treks in Himachal Pradesh. The Bhrigu Lake Trek is located on the eastern side of the famous Rohtang Pass.
The Bhrigu Lake trek offers easy access to high altitudes in a short period of time, making it one of the best climbing experiences in Himachal Pradesh. The trek begins from Manali and then leads you through alpine meadows during the first day of the trek itself. Located 4300 meters above sea level this trek is seeped into mythology. It is here near the lake that Maharishi Bhrigu underwent meditation. What sets this trek apart is that here the trekkers are greeted with lush green meadows on day 1 itself as compared to other treks where one has to hike for quite sometime, sometimes for 3-4 days too before reaching grasslands.
As you go through these vast grasslands, you’ll find horses galloping around while the sheep look up in curiosity. The spectacular views of Pir Panjal and the Dhauladhar mountain ranges will motivate you to move forward in your journey. The best time to go for this thrilling adventure is from July to September, when you’ll find wildflowers all around you. This trek thus becomes a nature lovers paradise.
History Of Bhrigu Lake Trek
Bhrigu Lake has a strong mythological significance as it here where Maharishi Bhrigu meditated for extended period of time. He is considered to be one of the seven great sages, the Saptarshis and one of the many Prajapatis created by Bhrahma. He was also the first compiler of predictive astrology and also the author of Bhrigu Samhita an astrological (jyotisha ) classic. Locals also believe that all Gods from Kullu region come to take a dip in the holy lake. Another local legend states that the Bhrigu Lake never freezes even in the harshest of winters and some part of the water in the lake is always visible due to rishis blessings. Due to its mythological significance visitors take a dip in this holy lake to free them from their sins.
Highlights Of Bhrigu Lake Trek
- Meadows Around Bhrigu Lake: Unlike any other trek the grasslands begin on day 1 of trek itself and it appears like a lush green carpet which stretches so far out. As you start the trek first the grasslands appear to be coarse and patchy which as you ascend further up it becomes absolutely gorgeous lush green velvety smooth making one want to walk barefoot. This combined with the breathtaking and mezmerizing mountain views make it a experience of a lifetime.
- Flowering Blooms: The Bhrigu Lake trek is known its flowering blooms and is an absolute delight for nature lovers. In the monsoon season one can see the abundance of vibrant blooming wildflowers. Apart from wildflowers a variety of other flowering plants are also observed like Brahma Kamal, Blue Poppy and Cobra Lily. for its vibrant display of wildflowers, particularly during the monsoon season (July-September). Trekkers can expect to see a variety of blooms, including the Brahma Kamal, Cobra Lily, Marsh Marigold, Bistora, Lilium many types of Germaniums and Blue Poppy, among others. On the carpeted green meadows, one will find another common type of flower Fuchsia Himalayan Balsam creating a beautiful visual of pink on green.
- Rola Kholi: Rola Kholi is a campsite location situated at the base of Bhrigu Lake at altitude of 3800 mts. It offers stunning views of the Pir Panjal and Dhaulandhar ranges. One can also see the Peaks like Hanuman Tibba, Friendship Peak, and Ladaki Peak enroute the trek. Since it’s a rest stop during the trek on rising after a break one can take in the peace and natural beauty of the surrounding majestic mountains and lush green meadows. Even looking at the stars in the clear night sky will be magical experience.
- Ridge Walk To Bhrigu Lake: From Rola Kholi the trek till Bhrigu Lake can be a little rugged as the ascend becomes steep esp the final ascend to the Bhrigu Lake itself. If the snow hasn’t melted esp in the months of May and June then the walk becomes slightly tricky. The walk till the lake offers breathtaking views of surrounding Himalayan peaks od Deo Tibba, Indrasen, Pir Panjal and Dhauladhar ranges.
Difficulty Level Of Bhrigu Trek
Bhrigu Lake trek is Categorised as a moderate level trek. The maximum altitude reached during the trek is approx 4,300 m (14010 ft). It's not extremely high for experienced trekkers but beginners can find it challenging. Thus the trek is best suitable for the trekkers with some prior experience or beginners with good fitness levels. Though its not a technically challenging trek the steep ascend and descend at that altitude can be a bother for some inexperienced trekkers or those with not so great fitness.
The trek typically takes 4 to complete and covers about 20 kms in total. Trekkers have to walk 5 to 7 hrs daily. The route passes through forest trails, alpine meadows, rocky paths, moraines and glacial streams which can be a bit challenging during weather uncertainties.
The trek is not suitable for families with young kids due to its uneven terrain and long walking hours. Acclimatization is also crucial as nights at high-altitude can be colder than expectations. During summer time, temperatures are normal but unpredictable weather can add difficulties.
For climbing technicalities, there are no technical sections, so no particular mountaineering skills are required. However, the guidance of a professional mountaineer or experienced guide is important. Solo trekking is not advisable. Trekkers should make the preparations after seeing all perspectives.
Best Time To Visit Bhrigu Lake Trek
The best time to trek to Bhrigu Lake Camp is from June to September-October. These windows offer relatively stable weather, clear sky and picturesque views.
May to Mid-June (Spring–Early Summer): During this time, snow starts melting and trails become accessible. Meadows are full of flowers and the sky remains clear. Daytime temperature is normal but night can be chilly. But do note that sometimes in May the snow esp in the final ascend hasn’t completely melted and traversing can be a little tricky.
- Day Temperature: 12°C to 18°C
- Night Temperature: 0°C to 5°C
September to October (Post-Monsoon–Autumn): This window offers clear mountain views after the monsoon. Landscapes look fresher and greener. Meadows get a golden hue due to the arrival of autumn. Temperatures are almost similar to spring but there might be fewer chances of rain.
- Day Temperature: 10°C to 16°C
- Night Temperature: -2°C to 4°C
Mid-June to August (Monsoon): Not suitable in case of heavy rainfall, risk of landslides and slippery trails. But with light rains the meadows are lush green and the clouds above the lake give it a mesmerizing view.
November to April: Too cold, heavy snowfall and campsites remain inaccessible.
How To Reach Bhrigu Lake Trek
To reach Bhrigu Lake Trek, the journey starts from Manali. Manali is well connected by road from Delhi and Chandigarh; you can take an overnight bus. The nearest airport is Bhuntar (Kullu) Airport, about 50 km from Manali.
From Manali trekkers drive to Gulaba road approximately 25 kms away and takes about 45 mins to 1 hr . This acts as a starting point for the Bhrigu Lake Trek.
After arriving at Gulaba one has to trek a short distance of 1.5 kms which takes about an hour to reach Jonkar Thatch.
The route passes through the campsites like Jonkar Thatch, Rola Kholi and takes about 4 days to fully complete the trek. The trek starts off slow in order for the body to get acclimatized to the weather.
Route: Manali → Gulaba → Jonkar Thatch → Rola Kholi→ Bhrigu Lake → Rola Kholi and back via Gulaba to Manali
Things To Carry For Bhrigu Lake Trek
As with all treks one should pack all the trek essentials like a study backpack, good quality trekking shoes, comfortable yet warm clothing including waterproof jacket, thermals which can be easily layered according to your needs. Apart from this one should also carry a headlamp, torch, sunglasses and sunscreen. Some provisions of food and water must also be taken care of before beginning the trek. A first aid kit should definitely be included in your backpack which should include all your basic medicines and even specific medicines if you take it on regular basis. A government Id proof like Aadhar Card must also be carried whilst trekking.
