11% Off
Route Length
Max Altitude
Trek Duration
Trek Difficulty
Base Camp Area
Pickup Point
10+ Years Age
First timer can apply, previous trekking experience is more appreciated.
Cover 5 km of distance in 30 minutes without a stress.
+917055048487, +917055048488
trekkingcompass@gmail.com
Questions about what’s there and what’s not there in the trek appear immensely unnecessary for the Bhrigu Lake trek. For a weekend trek, this trek has so much to offer in return for 3 days and 4 nights. You have forests (cedar, brown oak, and birch trees), meadows, mountain views, and the believed main attraction: The Bhrigu Lake.
As much as you should do this trek for Bhrigu lake, this trek should also be opted for its endlessly rolling meadows. They offer tough competition to the alpine meadows in treks like Dayara Bugyal, Ali-Bedni, etc. The best part of these meadows is that they start right after a 500 m distance from the Gulaba (3,002 m) roadhead, and you do not see an end till the Rola Kholi campsite (3,840 m).
The meadows change colour with the changing seasons, and you get to see different shades depending on the season of your visit. From May to June, snow covers this trek, and white is all you see. Sometimes, patches of snow make way for the meadows below.
If you prefer monsoon, this trek is a haven for you as it is not on the riskier side and is open during monsoons too. The meadows are the brightest shade of green, and the variety of wildflowers growing in the meadows makes for the perfect contrast in the monsoon. Then comes autumn, where the meadows turn brownish, yellow, and red. The colours depend on where the leaves fall and where there’s only grass turning to a shade of brown.
If meadows aren’t your kind of attraction, the Bhrigu lake trek also offers scenic views of the Kullu and Solang Valley, Manali, and the Hampta pass trek route. The peaks that make this trek memorable are Hanuman Tibba (5,982 m), Ladaki Peak (5,345 m), and Friendship Peak (5289 m) in the Dhauladhar and Pir Panjal ranges.
This trek is beginner-friendly, and, with proper guidance, gives you the feeling that you have conquered something important. The main attraction, Bhrigu Lake (13,850 ft), from up close, serves as a reminder that you won this weekend, and you won big. Like Rishi Bhrigu (one of the Saptarishis from Hindu mythology), who’s believed to have meditated here, this glacial lake serves as the perfect meditation spot for you too.
Manali Altitude: 6,730 ft (2,051 m)
Gulaba Altitude: 9,850 ft (3,002 m)
Gulaba Meadows Altitude: 10,450 ft (3,185 m)
Altitude Gain: 3,720 ft (1,134 m)
Travel Distance: 23 km (drive) + 550 m (trek) = 25.5 km (approx.)
Travel Hours: 1-2 hrs (drive) + 25 mins (trek) = 2 hrs (approx.)
Your day begins in Manali, a hill station in Himachal Pradesh, revered by many for the right reasons. Manali offers you all mountain affinities along with some modern facilities, which makes life easier too, unlike some beautiful, remote villages (Kothi, Naggar, Chichoga, Vashisht, etc.). These include the Mallroad, Old Manali, Atal Tunnel, Himalayan Igloo, Shooting Point, Van Vihar National Park, and many more.
But today is not about Manali, as it is more about you reaching the base village, a small hamlet called Gulaba, where the trek to Bhrigu Lake starts. Located approximately 23 km from Manali, reaching Gulaba is a 1 to 2-hour drive at most. At Gulaba, a wealth of experiences awaits your audience, including the beautiful Beas River at its side, the towering peaks of the Himalayas, and activities such as paragliding, skiing, snow biking, and horse or yak riding. You can enjoy one or more of them upon returning from the trek, which goes uphill from here to the Gulaba Meadows.
The trek distance is 550 m from the roadhead. It is a good ascent from the very start of the trek, and it never disappoints later, either. So, be prepared, especially train your legs to endure the constant climb, unlike other treks. The Bhrigu Lake trek lacks the en-route ups and downs. It's only up from here, up, until you reach the lake. You set up your tents in the meadows as you soon leave behind the forest, which is mostly cedar, brown oak, and birch trees.
Rola Kholi Altitude: 12,600 ft (3,840 m)
Altitude Gain: 2,150 ft (655 m)
Travel Distance: 6 km
Travel Hours: 4-5 hrs (max.)
You can have a lazy morning, as a 6 km trek, possibly under 4-5 hrs, awaits. The meadows at Gulaba will be white, brown, colourful, or green depending on the season of your choice. The trek is usually snow-covered in May, which lasts till the end of June.
You wake up to towering mountains, some covered in snow patches, and others flaunting their greenery. This trek features a considerable ascent from Day 1, and unlike other treks with ups and downs that come one after the other, there are rarely any descents in this trek.
Losing the path while on this trek in the Monsoon is common, as misty whiteouts make difficult navigation. If towering trees are your thing, then the trek has banj (local oak), cedar, and deodar trees awaiting your arrival. Get closer to them, and you see cushiony leaf-like structures hugging the tree trunks and branches. These are lichens, better known as pollution indicators. Seeing them, rest assured that the surroundings are far from the thick & polluted air of the cities.
Descending to Rola Kholi, en route, you'll encounter wonders like grazing mountain horses and chirping birds, making your journey pleasant. Soon, you will reach a dhaba called Tot Ram Dhaba, which is open during the season, but even when closed, it serves as a great location marker. Hereinafter, the Rola Kholi campsite isn't that far away.
At Rola Kholi, we set up camps in the plane area beside the gurgling stream called Chor Nallah. It is also the only water source on the trek; the next water body you see is the Bhrigu Lake. Rola Kholi is otherwise known for a beautiful sunset, whose beauty increases in the absence of a cloudy sky, excluding a scarcely clouded sky. While at Rola Kholi, you can also look forward to stargazing at night; it's like the auditorium, only this one is real-time.
Note: The flowers adorning the entirety of this trek till Rola Kholi are white, lavender, yellow, purple, etc. The meadows keep rolling in, failing the meadows of Dayara
Bhrigu Lake Altitude: 13,850 ft (4,221 m)
Altitude Gain/Loss: 1,250 ft (381 m)
Travel Distance: 5 km + 5 km = 10 km (approx.)
Travel Hours: 7-8 hrs (approx.)
The day starts zoning in on the gurgling of the water stream beside your campsite. It's a long day involving a steep ascent to the Bhrigu Lake and a descent back to the Rola Kholi campsite. Straining as it is, this 10 km trek day is much more rewarding in the end. Start by filling up your water bottles; the trek is long and there’s only one water source, which you leave behind at the campsite.
The trek’s start is when you cross the stream and begin today’s ascent, much steeper than yesterday's. After the first ascent, in the meadows, you will come across a minor descent, followed by a plane. Once past this, you start ascending on a low boulder zone, scarcely recognizable in snow, but fresh green grass gives away the rocks in the absence of snow. The final leg of this trek, which takes you on the ridge that guards the glacial lake, is a high boulder zone and an ascent steeper than any in the Bhrigu Lake trek. When trekking through this zone, especially when snow covers the area, be extra careful and follow the trek leader’s instructions to the letter.
The final stretch also gets tougher due to the scarcity of oxygen at that altitude, so don’t make it a race; trek gradually and reach the Bhrigu Lake. Once at the lake, your hard work comes to fruition, and the majestic lake, which is believed to be the meditation place for Bhrigu Rishi (sage), spellbinds you. It never freezes, regardless of the seasons (summer or winter). This unnatural trait of the lake is attributed to Sage Bhrigu.
Other than the lake itself, the trek’s highest point, on a clear day, gives you views of the Dhauladhar (The White Mountain Range) and Pir Panjal mountain ranges. The Dhauladhar range has various peaks with altitudes over 4,500 m, but it especially flaunts Mt. Hanuman Tibba (5,982 m), its highest peak, Manimahesh Kailash (5,653 m), and Mun (4,610 m). The Pir Panjal range, which stretches from POK in Pakistan to Himachal Pradesh in India, shows peaks like Deo Tibba (God’s Chariot) at 6,001 m and Indrasen at 6,221 m. Indrasen, named after Indra, is also called the King of the Pir Panjal Valley. Other attractions there are a bird’s eye view of the Solang Valley and a look at the Hampta Pass Trek trail from the ridge on the other side of the lake.
Gulaba Altitude: 9,850 ft (3,002 m)
Manali Altitude: 6,730 ft (2,051 m)
Altitude Loss: 5,870 ft (1,789 m)
Travel Distance: 6.5 km (trek) + 23 km (drive) = 29.5 km (approx.)
Travel Hours: 3 hrs (trek) + 1-2 hrs (drive) = 4.5 hrs (approx.)
Today is about reminiscing and living the entirety of the Bhrigu Lake trek in one go. You are reminded of a weekend or holiday well spent in the lap of nature, amongst vast and beautiful meadows. These bugyals are coloured green, white, colorful, and brown, depending on the season you choose. For some, May to June proves to be the best season, as you get snow-covered or snow-patched meadows. Others choose monsoon for the greenery and wildflowers that adorn the landscape.
This day holds significance as you take time to rewind and fully soak in the surreal experience of the trek. It all comes back to you. You can see the forests, the meadows, the wildflowers, the steep ascent in the last leg, and the magnificent Bhrigu Lake. At Gulaba, you have the Beas River (which originates from Rohtang Pass) and its gurgling, which will remind you of the only stream of the trek at Rola Kholi campsite.
At Gulaba, you can return to Manali and choose to spend your day there or leave for home. The second option is to stay at Gulaba and enjoy the hamlet. Gulaba is no Manali, but its charm shines brighter in the valley it's nestled in. The winding roads to Manali can wait till tomorrow or even more. The choice is yours to make.
Accommodation
Meals (Vegetarian only with eggs option available)
Nutritious meals from Day 1's dinner to last day's breakfast, following the itinerary schedule.
Expert Support
First Aid Preparedness
Fully equipped medical kit including a stretcher, oxygen cylinder, blood pressure monitor, oximeter, and stethoscope to ensure safety throughout the journey.
Storage Facilities :- A secure room at the base camp to store additional luggage not needed during the trek.
Permits and Entry Fees :- Coverage of all necessary permits and entry fees, in line with standard charges for Indian nationals.
Transportation :- A round-trip transport from the pick-up point and back at the same point as a part of the itinerary.
Trek Equipment
Insurance :- Personal insurance is mandatory and not included in the package.
Personal Expenses :- Any expenses of a personal nature, including shopping, snacks, hiring a mule or porter for carrying your belongings, or acquiring personal equipment.
Emergency Costs :- Expenses arising from emergency evacuations, hospitalization, or any medical treatments required.
Unspecified Services :- Any services or items not explicitly mentioned under the "INCLUSIONS" section.
Food Costs :- We will not cover any food costs during your transit to and from the base village.
Trekking is not only about enjoying the change of scenery but also about being responsible. Our (Trekking Compass) responsibility is to provide you with an opportunity for a safe trek. But, how do we do that? We do that when you fulfill your end of the responsibility and are honest with us. To keep you safe we need to be sure there isn’t any inherent threat to your being.
Treks are at higher altitudes and it becomes difficult, almost impossible to provide you with immediate medical assistance. Therefore, we cannot help you if you don’t help us. Trekking is only one of the things you can do, but there are plenty of other things to do too. Don’t risk your life for the thrill.
To approach a trek with utmost safety, we want you to submit the following documents:
Personal Confirmation Statement (Compulsory for anyone over 18 years)
You are participating in a trek at high altitudes and it comes with its own sets of risks. This Personal Confirmation Statement will make sure that you understand all the risks you're buying into. Trekking Compass wants you to confirm your complete understanding of these risks so that you come prepared for any mental or physical challenges ahead.
This statement is also a declaration from you that, "All the information I have provided, including medical conditions, is true. If found false under any circumstances, I will be held accountable and it has nothing to do with Trekking Compass."
We have the utmost empathy for you and will do our best to help wherever possible, but only after assessing your readiness and safety for the trek. This is how our team will adequately prepare for whatever risks we might face during the journey. Concerning individuals are requested to thoroughly cross-check the requirements and only then sign the document.
Parent/Guardian Approval Statement (Compulsory for anyone below 18 years)
For participants under 18 years of age, the Parent/Guardian Approval Statement is essential to confirm that a legal guardian understands and consents to the participation in the trek. Once we have this document, we are affirmed that the parent or guardian is fully aware of the risks involved in trekking at high altitudes and is consenting to their child's participation.
No underage (below 18+) children are welcome on the trek without their parent's consent. Submission of this document reassures us that parents are approving that their child meets the health and fitness requirements for the trek, after a thorough examination.
This legal confirmation holds the parent liable for any discrepancies, freeing Trekking Compass from any liabilities for the same. Parents are requested to thoroughly cross-check the requirements and only then sign the document.
Medical Liability Waiver
The Medical Liability Waiver makes sure participants acknowledge the health risks associated with trekking at high altitudes. Common ailments during treks include altitude sickness, dehydration, muscle cramps, hypothermia, and fatigue, all of which can significantly affect your trekking experience. Additionally, weather changes and the physical demands of the terrain may exacerbate pre-existing conditions.
If you have pre-existing medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes, or heart issues, it’s vital to inform us and carry your necessary medications. Trekking Compass cannot provide immediate medical assistance in remote areas, so having the essential medications, such as inhalers, insulin, or any other prescriptions, is crucial for your safety during the trek.
By signing this waiver, you confirm that you are in good health and have taken the necessary precautions. You acknowledge these risks and agree not to hold Trekking Compass liable for any medical issues or accidents that may arise during the trek.
For any further doubts about anything mentioned above, below is our contact information:
OFFICE ADDRESS: Lane No. 4 Krishna Vihar Mohkampur, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, 248005
PHONE NUMBER: +91 7055048487, 7055048488
EMAIL ADDRESS: info@trekkingcompass.com
The Bhrigu Lake trek requires reaching Manali, where you meet the Trekking Compass team. Manali (530 km from Delhi), is picturesque, giving you the perfect excuse for utilising your must-have buffer day. Given the potential for landslides, rain, and occasional political unrest in mountainous regions, it's prudent to include a buffer day in your itinerary. It's a 4 days and 3 nights long trek, so you need to have a day 6.
Reaching Manali from Delhi:
Get to Delhi from your place, if you're not from Punjab, Chandigarh, Uttarakhand, Himachal, Jammu & Kashmir. Things are a little bit different for them, they'll have to take their specific buses to Manali, or make stops wherever necessary. But, here's how to reach Manali from Delhi:
Medium: BUS
Delhi to Manali (AC Volvo Buses):
Several state-run and private operators provide comfortable AC Volvo bus services. Opting for government-operated buses is advisable. They steer clear of delays and adhere to schedules, thus being more reliable than private operators.
Medium: TRAIN
Delhi to Chandigarh Railway Station:
Train Options: Multiple trains are available from New Delhi Railway Station to Chandigarh.
Duration: Approximately 3 to 5 hours.
From Chandigarh, Manali is about 315 kilometers away. You can hire a taxi or board a bus to Manali, which takes around 8 to 9 hours. This route offers a break in the journey, and you get to explore Chandigarh.
Medium: FLIGHT
Fly Directly to Bhuntar Airport:
From Kullu-Manali Airport, taxis and buses are available to reach Manali. Due to weather conditions, flights can be unpredictable, so it's essential to check schedules and availability in advance.
Note: Ensure that your chosen mode of transport brings you to Manali a day before the trek commences (Day 0). This allows acclimatization and preparation.
Flights to Delhi are available from major cities like Mumbai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Chennai, and Hyderabad. From Delhi, you can proceed to Manali using the options mentioned above.
What happens on the drop-off day?
While scheduling your onward travel from Manali, do consider potential delays due to weather or road conditions. Therefore, either schedule it,
starting late in the evening or the following day.
Special Case: What if you miss our pick-up?
If you miss the scheduled pick-up, here are alternative ways to reach the trek starting point:
1:Delhi to Manali (cab/bus):
2: Delhi to Chandigarh to Manali to Gulaba (train/bus/cab):
3:Delhi to Kullu (flight) to Manali to Gulaba (cab/bus):
| Backpack with rain cover / Trolley Bag | Main bag for gear. |
| Day pack with rain cover (20 - 30 L) | For day essentials, if the main pack is off-loaded. |
| Walking stick | Recommended (at least one). |
| Water bottle/ Hydration pack | 2 bottles (1L each) or 1 hydration pack and 1 bottle. |
| Snacks | Energy bars, dry fruits, ORS/electrolytes. |
| Personal Medical Kit | As prescribed by your doctor. |
| T-shirts (Synthetic, quick-dry) | 2 full-sleeve, 2 half-sleeve. |
| Fleece T-shirts | 2 pieces. |
| Wind-stopper / Fleece jacket (upper) | 1 piece. |
| Windproof jacket | 1 piece |
| Down feather / Hollow jacket | 1 piece |
| Thermal innerwear (Upper & Lower) | 1 set. |
| Trekking pants (Synthetic, quick-dry) | 3 pairs. |
| Wind-stopper / Fleece pants (lower) | 1 pair. |
| Waterproof gloves | Not required. |
| Fleece / Woolen gloves | 1 pair. |
| Poncho / Waterproof jacket and pants | 1 set. |
| Head torch / Hand torch | 1 piece. |
| Sun cap | Required. |
| Woolen cap | 1 piece. |
| Balaclava | 1 piece. |
| Buff/ Neck gaiters | 1 synthetic, 1 woolen. |
| Sunglasses | UV protection with side covers (for spectacle users: contacts or photochromatic lenses). |
| Trekking shoes (waterproof, high ankle, good grip) | 1 pair. |
| Floaters / Flip-flops | 1 pair. |
| Cotton socks | 4 pairs. |
| Woolen socks | 2 pair. |
| Sunscreen | 1 piece. |
| Moisturizer | 1 piece. |
| Lip balm/ Chap-stick | 1 piece. |
| Toothbrush and toothbrush | 1 set. |
| Toilet paper and wipes | 1 pack each. |
| Soap/ Hand sanitizer | 1 piece. |
| Quick-dry towel | 1 piece. |
The Bhrigu Lake Trek is a short yet breathtaking high-altitude trek located near Manali, Himachal Pradesh. It takes trekkers to the sacred Bhrigu Lake (4,300 m / 14,100 ft), a glacial alpine lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks and rolling meadows. The lake is named after Maharishi Bhrigu, a revered sage who meditated here. What makes this trek truly special is that within just two days of trekking, you reach alpine meadows that rival those in Kashmir — a rarity in the Himalayas. The trek offers 360° views of Pir Panjal, Dhauladhar, and the Kullu Valley, making it one of the most scenic short treks in India.
The trek is accessible from May to October.
It is considered easy to moderate. The trail involves steep ascents in parts but is short and well-defined. The main challenge is the altitude gain — you climb to 4,300 m in just two trekking days, which can cause breathlessness if not paced properly. Otherwise, it’s ideal for beginners and families seeking a high-altitude Himalayan experience.
The trek covers approximately 23 km and takes 3–4 days, depending on the itinerary.
Typical route:
The highest point is the Bhrigu Lake at 4,300 m (14,100 ft). At this altitude, you get panoramic views of Hanuman Tibba, Deo Tibba, Seven Sisters Peak, and Pir Panjal Range. On clear days, you can even see Rohtang Pass and the Beas River Valley below.
No. The Bhrigu Lake Trek is beginner-friendly, and first-time trekkers can easily complete it with basic preparation. It’s often recommended as a “first high-altitude trek” because it offers grand Himalayan scenery without requiring extensive trekking days or technical skills.
You need basic to moderate fitness. Being able to walk 6–8 km daily with a small backpack is sufficient. Pre-trek fitness routines should include jogging, brisk walking, or cycling 4–5 times a week, along with leg-strengthening exercises like squats and lunges. Since altitude gain is quick, stamina and breathing control are important.
According to Hindu mythology, Maharishi Bhrigu, one of the seven great sages (Saptarishis), meditated here, and the lake is considered sacred. Locals believe that the water of Bhrigu Lake never completely freezes, even in harsh winters, due to the sage’s divine presence. For villagers around Manali and Gulaba, this lake holds deep spiritual reverence, and they avoid camping too close to it out of respect.
In Manali, trekkers can find hotels, hostels, or guesthouses. During the trek, accommodation is in tented campsites at locations like Rola Kholi or Pandu Ropa. Tents are shared between 2–3 trekkers with sleeping bags and mats provided. Campsites are set in stunning open meadows with views of valleys and peaks.
Yes. Forest entry and camping permits are required since the trail passes through forested and alpine protected areas. These are usually arranged by the trek organizers. Independent trekkers can obtain permits from the Manali forest office or Gulaba checkpoint. Carrying ID proof is mandatory.
The trek starts from Gulaba village (22 km from Manali).
Since the trek climbs rapidly from 2,000 m to over 4,000 m, mild altitude symptoms like fatigue or shortness of breath can occur. Proper acclimatization and hydration help prevent AMS. Trekkers are advised to ascend gradually, avoid overexertion, and take short breaks during steep climbs. Guides usually carry basic first aid and oxygen support for emergencies.
Yes, it’s one of the safest treks near Manali. The trail is well-trodden and frequently used by local shepherds and trekking groups. The main concerns are weather changes and slippery patches after rainfall. With proper gear and guidance, the trek is safe even for solo travelers and first-timers.
Because it’s one of the few treks in India that offers alpine meadows and a high-altitude glacial lake within just a few days. The trek combines spirituality, natural beauty, and accessibility. Whether it’s the legend of Sage Bhrigu, the breathtaking campsites, or the surreal reflections on the lake’s surface — this trek delivers a Himalayan experience that feels grand yet achievable. For travelers short on time but high on wanderlust, the Bhrigu Lake Trek is the perfect escape into Himachal’s magical mountains.
Yes. The trek is suitable for beginners and even families. Generally, participants between 8–60 years can join, provided they are medically fit and prepared for 6–7 days of trekking in the mountains.
And there are different rules for different sets of children. They are:
For both sets, Medical and Disclaimer forms are compulsory on the trek.
Handpicked routes with strong scenery, reliable pacing, and a premium featured block that still stands apart from the rest of the archive page.
Crafted routes, reliable execution, and a trekking experience that feels premium from planning to summit.
Safety
Route checks, first-aid readiness, and trained leaders to keep every step confident.
Routes
Better pacing, better camps, and real acclimatization designed for experience, not speed.
Groups
Less crowd, more care so you enjoy the trek, not just finish it.
Trust
Clear inclusions, no hidden surprises, and real human support on WhatsApp.