Bhrigu Lake Trek

The trail takes off at the 14th Mor to the right (east) from the road and starts climbing through forest and pasture. Horse chestnuts, spruce, fir and a few birch trees alternate with pastureland through the route, which climbs steeply. After a climb of nearly an hour one reaches a shepherd campsite on the crest of a ridge from where the track turns right and heads up south through a thick forest. Kolang Nallah can be seen from here and the path lies along the nallah through the narrow Kolang Valley.

The path then descends right (south) to cross the Kolang Nallah over a temporary log bridge. (in case the bridge is washed away, the nallah can be forded easily). After crossing the nallah there is a steep ascent south-east to a ridge ( to the right of the Kolang Valley ) that takes nearly 2 hours. Beyond the ridge is a camping ground where it is possible to find Gaddi shepherds with their large flocks of sheep.

A little ahead to the east is the easily crossed Chor Nallah followed by a climb in an easterly direction to reach Bhrigu Lake. The climb is strenous as it gains altitude quickly resulting in a drop in the temperature and levels of oxygen. So take your time, climbing slowly and steadily.

Located almost at the top of the mountain, the lake is in the recess of two ridges and can only be seen when actually reached. It’s oval shaped and not very large.

The ridges around the lake offer 360-degree view of the ranges around. Peaks of the Pir Panjal and Dhauladhar, the Lahaul triangle between the Chandra and the Bhaga rivers and even the more distant mountains in Spiti can be seen from here. After the sun sets, it can get pretty cold and windy, so carry your woollens. On the other hand, the star-lit sky on a clear night is worth the stay. And with the vista of snow peaks shining in the moonlight, the day’s strenuos climb becomes a distant memory.

Local tradition forbids camping near the lake but there is enough space to pitch tents a short distance from the lake. Choose a place with good view.

On day 2 of the Bhrigu Lake trek, trace your steps back on this adventurous & mesmerising Himalayan trail.

Return on the same route and board a bus at Gulaba.

Getting There And Out

FROM MANALI to 14th Mor (near Gulaba), on the Manali-Rohtang road, it is 22 km / 1/2 hr by car (Rs 300) or 45 mins by bus (Rs 20). Buses available from 5 am – 8 pm. The Border Roads Organisation has a small camp at Gulaba.

The trek starts from the camp but it’s not a clearly identifiable track. Many trails lead up the slopes and it is best to have a local guide / professional trek guide to identify the proper path. One may lose precious time in locating the lake without a guide and possibly miss it altogether.

RETURN the same route to Gulaba.