Trek Overview
Trekking to high-altitude glacial lakes in itself is quite adventurous and manages to catch the interest of every hiker. Usually, these high-altitude lakes are difficult to reach and require days of hiking and crossing difficult terrains before the sight of the lake can be cherished. But all these tough complications can be kept at bay with the beautiful Bhrigu Lake Trek in the upper Kullu Valley, based in the eastern side of the famous Rohtang Pass in Himachal Pradesh. This is an ideal weekend hiking trip promising loads of entertainment for both beginners as well as experienced hikers. Nestled at an altitude of 14,000 ft, the Bhrigu Lake Trek offers fascinating natural vistas and breathtaking views of snow-clad mountains, lush meadows, and verdant rich forests.
One of the popular trekking expeditions, the Bhrigu Lake Trek has gained preference due to its unconditional display of natural extravaganza and being one of the easier treks in the Himalayas. People with competent physical fitness can easily enjoy the privilege of hiking to the exclusive lake region even without previous hiking experience.
The scenic Bhrigu Lake has significant historical and religious implications. As per information provided by the locals, there is an association of the lake with Sage Bhrigu since the pious soul is known to have performed strong meditation and rituals on the banks of the lake hundreds and hundreds of years ago. Even the locals believe that many gods of the Kullu valley have dipped in the holy waters of the lake, making it sacred for devotees. The location of Bhrigu Lake is about 6 km from Gulaba, a pictorial village about 22 km from Manali.
Be it the unparalleled breathtaking views of Seven Sister Peaks, Deo Tibba, and Hanuman Tibba, the outstretched Pir Panjal ranges, the rich line of oak and cedar forests, fascinating green lush meadows, enthralling carpeted alpine flooring, or the gushing streams along the meandering trails, the scenic vistas of the region are absolutely captivating, which also makes the trekking experience overwhelming. With good luck, one can also rejoice in the sight of the Himalayan Monal, Snow Cocks, and the beautiful pheasants.
Trek Highlights
- Trek to an altitude of 14,100 ft and bless your eyes with the stunning views of Seven Sister Peaks and lush green meadows.
- Grasp the breathtaking views of Bhrigu Lake - a high-altitude glacial lake with a panoramic view of the snow-capped mountains.
- Sit around a warm bonfire session in the evening and enjoy a fun chat session amidst the bountiful nature.
- Share the comfortable tents with your squad and grab scrumptious meals during the Bhrigu Lake Trek.
Quick Itinerary
Day 1: Manali to Gulaba & Trek to Gulaba Meadows
- Drive from Manali to Gulaba.
- Trek for 1.5 hours to Gulaba Meadows Camp.
- Camp in the meadows surrounded by forests.
Day 2: Gulaba to Rola Kholi
- Trek to Rola Kholi (6 km, 3-4 hours).
- Enjoy views of peaks like Hanuman Tibba and the Seven Sisters.
- Camp at Rola Kholi under a starry sky.
Day 3: Rola Kholi to Bhrigu Lake & Back
- Trek to Bhrigu Lake (10 km, 7-8 hours).
- Enjoy views of the Solang Valley and surrounding peaks.
- Return to Rola Kholi and camp.
Day 4: Rola Kholi to Gulaba & Drive Back to Manali
- Trek back to Gulaba (2-3 hours).
- Drive back to Manali (arrive by 2-3 pm).
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Manali to Gulaba & Trek to Gulaba Meadows Camp
The journey commences from Manali, on the Rohtang Pass Road toward the little hill nook hamlet of Gulaba. Three hill towns—Kolang, Palchan, and Kothi mark the way, with the beauty increasing as you go through pine forests.
After lunch at the village, we begin a short trek (about 1.5 hours) to our first camp in the grasslands, nearing a forest line. The trek is a complete pleasure with no hardships, navigating through deep coniferous shades and eventually coming to an open clearing.
Day 2: Gulaba to Rola Kholi
On Day 2, we start for an altitude of 12,500 ft, spanning 6 km in 3-4 hours. The walk will be steep, so it's important to be prepared with 2 liters of water and snacks.
For the first few miles, we are still under forest cover, walking in the shade of rustling conifers. You’ll spot oaks, cedar, and birches along the way.
Next, you’ll pass through another patch of jungle, and as the path steepens, you’ll enter the rugged meadows of Rola Kholi. Our camp is set near Chor Nallah at the Rola Kholi campsite. This night will be filled with wonder under a sky full of stars.
Day 3: Rola Kholi to Bhrigu Lake & Back to Rola Kholi
Day 3 brings a complete landscape change. We start early in the morning, covering a distance of 10 km in approximately 7-8 hours on a steep, stony path.
The alpine lake of Bhrigu Lake will eventually come into view between two ridges at the end of the rocky trail.
Day 4: Rola Kholi to Gulaba & Drive Back to Manali
On Day 4, we trek back along the same path through the lush green meadows in one long sweep to Gulaba (approximately 2-3 hours). From there, we drive back to Manali, arriving between 2-3 pm.
Note: There is an alternate return route to Manali via Vashisht and Pandu Ropa from the Bhrigu Lake site, but we find the path through the meadows more relaxing.
Inclusion / Exclusion
Inclusions:
- Accommodation (Guest house, Home stay, Camping).
- Meals while on trek (Veg. + Egg).
- Trek equipment (Sleeping bag, mattress, kitchen & dining tent, crampon, utensils, tent).
- All necessary permits and entry fees.
- First aid medical kits, stretcher, and oxygen cylinder.
- Mountaineering qualified & professional trek leader, guide, and support staff.
Exclusions:
- Any kind of personal expenses.
- Food during the transit.
- Insurance.
- Mules or porter to carry personal luggage.
- Anything not specifically mentioned under the inclusions.
Cancellation & Refund Policy
Change/Cancellation of Booking by the Participant
Process
The cancellation process is completely automated. Please log in to your Mountain Hike account and follow the instructions on your dashboard. You can choose between Instant Refund or Cash Refund as per the policy below.
Replacement of Participants
Participants can be replaced through the Mountain Hike dashboard if the booking status is “Paid” and at least 5 days remain before departure. If you face issues, email themountainhike@gmail.com with a screenshot of the error. The new participant must submit a signed undertaking form.
Note: Any Volvo/Train transport booked for the original participant will be automatically canceled and is non-transferable.
Cash Refund Policy
Cash refunds apply only for bookings made without promotional codes or vouchers. Refund amounts will be deducted as follows:
- 30+ days before departure: 5% deduction
- 15-30 days before departure: 50% deduction
- Less than 15 days before departure: No Refund
Refunds will be processed to the original payment method and are based on the Base Price of the trek, excluding transport, insurance, and portage fees.
Voucher Refund Policy
Voucher refunds are available for all types of bookings, including promotional offers. Refund amounts will be:
- 5+ days before departure: No deduction
- Less than 5 days: No Refund
Vouchers are valid for 10 months from the date of issue. The refunded voucher amount does not include service tax paid during the original booking.
Cancellation or Change Initiated by Mountain Hike
We reserve the right to modify or cancel an event due to unforeseen circumstances such as weather conditions, natural disasters, low participation, or any force majeure events. If this occurs, you will be given the choice of:
- A replacement event of equivalent value
- A full refund (processed as a voucher valid for 6 months)
If cancellation is due to low participation, participants can choose between a cash refund or a voucher.
Changes/Cancellation After Departure
Due to Force Majeure
No refund will be provided for cancellations due to force majeure after departure.
Other Reasons
If cancellations occur for reasons other than force majeure, we will attempt to arrange alternative services or provide a refund in the form of a 6-month voucher (or cash, if preferred).
Participant Dropout During the Event
No refund will be provided if a participant voluntarily drops out of the trek. Any additional costs incurred for return arrangements will be borne by the participant.
Early Return from an Event
If a participant returns early due to force majeure or an event ending sooner than planned, additional expenses (extra nights, transport) must be covered by the participant.
Emergency Evacuation
In case of a medical emergency, we will arrange evacuation to the nearest hospital. Any costs for porters, vehicles, ambulance services, or hospitalization must be covered by the participant.