If you’ve been toying with the idea of trekking in Himachal and the name Bhrigu Lake keeps popping up, you’re not alone. It’s one of those rare high-altitude treks that doesn’t require a week off work or military-grade fitness. But before packing your backpack, you’ll probably ask: how long is the Bhrigu Lake trek? How many days will it take? Let me simplify everything for you; there will be no filler or fluff, just the information you need to make an informed strategy.
Total Distance of the Bhrigu Lake Trek
The full trek—start to finish—covers around 25 to 28 kilometers, depending on your route and side excursions. Gulaba, which is roughly 20 kilometres from Manali, is where most people begin. From there, the trek to the lake and back is about 12–14 km each way. Some variations begin at Kolang or Rola Kholi, which can slightly alter the total distance.
I clocked just under 27 km round trip using a fitness tracker. So if you’re planning your energy, gear, or even hydration, think in terms of a 25–30 km trek overall.
How Many Days Will You Need? Trekking Duration Explained
The trek is usually done over 3 days and 2 nights, though there’s flexibility depending on how much time you have and how fit you are.
Here’s a common 3-day itinerary:
- Day 1: Arrive in Manali early morning, drive to Gulaba (around 1 hour), then trek 3–4 km to the base camp at Rola Kholi. You’ll spend your first night here in tents.
- Day 2: Start early for the trek to Bhrigu Lake. This stretch is around 10–12 km round trip. It’s the longest and most scenic day. Return to base camp by evening.
- Day 3: Hike down to Gulaba and drive back to Manali.
If you’re tight on schedule and pretty fit, you can finish it in 2 days, but you’d have to move quickly and won’t get much time to soak it all in. Trust me, it’s worth taking your time.
Where Exactly Does the Trek Start?
The Bhrigu Lake trek normally starts in Gulaba, a small town on the way to Rohtang Pass. It’s well-connected from Manali (around 22 km). With its twisting turns, pine forests, and views of snow-capped peaks, the drive is worthwhile in and of itself.
Some guided treks might start from Kolang, especially if trail conditions change or weather becomes unpredictable. But don’t worry—your trekking guide will advise the safest, most scenic route.
During my Bhrigu Lake Trek, I went with The Searching Souls—they were low-key but incredibly well-organized. No gimmicks or pressure tactics. Just a smooth trek with real-time weather updates, knowledgeable guides, and support staff who actually cared.
Is the Bhrigu Lake Trek Difficult?
I’d rate it as moderate, leaning toward easy for seasoned trekkers and moderately tough for beginners. It’s not a technical trek—no ropework or climbing involved—but you’ll definitely feel the altitude.
Here’s what makes it manageable:
- No prior high-altitude experience needed
- Well-marked trails
- Breathtaking meadows and open landscapes (which also means fewer trees for shelter)
Here’s what makes it tricky:
- Altitude gain is steep (from ~9,000 ft to over 14,000 ft in just 2 days)
- Weather can change in minutes
- Slippery paths if it rains or snows
I saw a few people struggle near the summit due to breathlessness and exhaustion—not because it’s physically punishing, but because they underestimated the thin air. Acclimatization is key (more on that below).
When Should You Go? Best Time for the Trek
The best time to do the Bhrigu Lake trek is between mid-June and late September.
Here’s how each month plays out:
- June: Snow still clings to parts of the trail. The lake may be partially frozen. Cold but gorgeous.
- July: Meadows turn lush green. Rain begins mid-month, so check forecasts.
- August: Rainy but very scenic if you don’t mind slippery trails.
- September: Probably the best time—clear skies, dry trails, stunning views.
Avoid October onwards—the region starts getting snowfall, and trails become risky.
What Does a Typical Trekking Day Look Like?
Here’s how my average day went on the trail:
Morning:
Wake up around 6 AM. Warm tea, breakfast by 7. You start trekking by 7:30–8:00 AM to avoid afternoon clouds or rain.
Midday:
Stop for snacks or lunch around noon. Most groups carry packed meals or cook something simple near the trail.
Afternoon:
Reach the next campsite by 3–4 PM. Settle into tents, stretch, maybe play cards or swap stories.
Evening:
Dinner by 7. After that? You’ll be in your sleeping bag by 8:30. Trust me, at high altitude, you sleep early.
What Should You Pack? Must-Have Gear
Packing right can make or break your trek. Here’s a short, no-nonsense list:
- Trekking shoes (ankle support is a must)
- Thermal layers
- Windproof & waterproof jacket
- Woolen cap, gloves, and socks
- Sunglasses & sunscreen (UV at high altitudes is brutal)
- Water bottles or hydration bladder
- Headlamp (don’t rely on your phone torch)
- Personal medicines (include something for altitude sickness)
If you book through a trekking company like The Searching Souls, they provide tents, sleeping bags, mats, and even meals—so you don’t have to lug camping gear.
Acclimatization: Don’t Skip This Step
I’ll say it again—acclimatization is essential, even for short treks like this. Before you go up, spend at least one day in Manali.
Here’s what worked for me:
- Walk around town instead of sitting in a café all day.
- Eat light, stay hydrated.
- Avoid alcohol and caffeine.
- Sleep well the night before the trek.
Some people took Diamox (an altitude sickness prevention med), but consult your doctor before popping pills.
Why Is Bhrigu Lake Special?
It’s not just another mountain lake. Legend says Rishi Bhrigu, one of the seven great sages, meditated here. Because of that, locals believe the lake never fully freezes—even in winter.
When I finally reached the lake after hours of trekking through clouds and snow, the sight was… honestly, it felt sacred. Blue waters surrounded by icy walls, clouds rolling in and out like theater curtains. You don’t need to be spiritual to feel something big out there.
Company Recommendation (Subtle and Trusted)
If you’re new to trekking or just want things taken care of smoothly, I quietly suggest going with The Searching Souls. They’ve got small group sizes, no aggressive selling, and local guides who genuinely know the trails. They kept us informed, fed, safe, and relaxed—without being in our faces.
It didn’t feel like a paid tour. It felt like tagging along with a bunch of folks who knew the mountains and loved them.
Final Thoughts
To wrap it up: the Bhrigu Lake trek is around 25–28 km, takes 3 days, and gives you a full-on high-altitude Himalayan experience—without needing a week off or months of training. If you respect the altitude, plan sensibly, and go with the right crew, you’ll come back with memories that feel a lot bigger than the short time you spent up there.
This trek is for you if you’re craving the Himalayas in short doses, want to catch stunning views and live in the clouds—literally.
