Long before our busy schedules allowed it, the senior team eagerly set off to explore Himachal Pradesh’s Lahaul region, famous for its blue glacial lakes. When an opportunity presented itself, we eagerly set out on a Ghephan Lake trekking trip and were left speechless when returning home.
Ravi Ranjan was taken aback when his first glimpse of Ghepan Lake during a trek took him by its captivating blue hue. It took him by surprise, as this lake was unlike anything he had seen before: mountains all around, with an island filled with flowers in its center – offering breathtaking views along his journey of approximately 14,000 feet elevation.
As you gaze outward, snow clinging to mountain slopes feeds a lake below. A majestic glacier extends in front of you with its entire length visible – from source to terminus – before it abruptly calves off in ascending waterfalls that cascade down valleys, offering stunning contrast against lush, green mountains encircled by glaciers for an extraordinary panorama.
Trek Itinerary of Ghepan Ghat Lake Trek
Day 1: Drive from Manali to Sissu in 1 hour 10 minutes at an altitude range between 6765 ft to 10,235 ft; distance 40 km
Start your journey from Manali and head for Sissu in Lahaul region of Himachal Pradesh. Along the scenic route between them lies an exquisite shift from green Kullu valley to rugged Lahaul valley as wild mountain beauty comes into full view. As you travel towards Sissu take note of Chandra River joining Bhaga River near Tandi village – truly magical sights indeed.
Day 2: Travel from Sissu to Tori by car for 30 minutes before trekking for 2 km over 1 hour 30 minutes to Gorduk (distance/duration: 9 km; duration 30 min; altitude gain 10,235-12323).
As you drive nine kilometres from Sissu towards Tori village, enjoy breathtaking panoramas like Makar Beh (6069 m), Manali (5669 m) and Shikar Beh (6201 m) as the valley opens before you. When trekking begins, enjoy breathtaking sights like PLM Dhara waterfall which once towered high in Sissu; now its waters flow beneath your feet while traversing Tori Village; over it lies a feeding glacier from Makar Beh (6069m).
Day 3 of the Gorduk-Aliyas Trek (Day 3) was scheduled for five hours with an altitude gain from 12,323 to 12,912 feet.
Retrace your steps from yesterday and follow the same route that led to your campsite for an enjoyable journey that promises exciting events! Walking may initially be flat; then, after about an hour or so, there may be an exciting 10-minute trek taking visitors to an impressive spot with stunning views of Sissu village in the distance. From here, the terrain becomes more challenging with narrow pathways requiring extra caution; take your time and pay attention to where your steps take you! After about 30 minutes of leisurely strolling comes an eddying river crossing point when ropes may come into play for groups traveling during peak seasons – crucial!
Day 4: Aliyas to Ghepan Lake to Glacier View Point and Back Again – Trek Duration: 6 hours, Altitude Change from 12912ft to 13,447ft to 14,130ft (6.2 Miles in Total).
Make your way through a vast valley between campsite and new resting spot on foot, drinking from the water available in this specific resting place for the duration of the trek. Any new water encountered after this point is likely polluted by soil and debris, thus slowing your journey considerably. A gentle climb lasting half an hour should lead you to an apex of the path that takes 15 minutes to walk along, and be careful along its narrow paths at this junction with difficult sections and nearly dried-up sources of water.
Day 5: Aliyas to Tori. Drive to Manali
Today’s trek is moderately easy, covering an extended distance with a gentle down sloping. Return to Tori via the same valley you trekked up earlier; it’s a gradual drop in elevation that allows for maximum comfort without straining knees too much.
Trek Highlights of Ghepan Ghat Lake Trek
- Ghepan Ghat (4,140 meters) is an amazing glacial lake located high in Lahaul that stands out with its breathtaking blue-sealed turquoise waters and peaceful location.
- Lake Ischabel lies hidden away in an alpine valley that features snow-covered ridgelines and stark rock faces, all covered with snowfall.
- Himachal offers some of the most remote and unspoiled trekking routes available, making them perfect for photographers or anyone seeking solitude.
- An inspiring trek characterized by vibrant wildflower meadows, glacial rivers, rugged treks, panoramic mountain views, and panoramic mountain vistas.
- This short and moderately strenuous trek is ideal for anyone seeking an engaging three-day journey that offers breathtaking panoramic views.
How To Reach Ghepan Ghat Lake Trek
By air: Bhuntar Airport in Kullu is approximately 50km away.
By Road: Road Buses travel between Delhi, Chandigarh, and Manali.
By train: For those traveling by rail to Joginder Nagar (limited), Chandigarh should be selected as their closest railhead.
From Manali to Sissu (Base Camp):
For an easier crossing into the Lahaul valley, use the Atal Tunnel (9 km). Sissu lies approximately 40 km from Manali and is accessible by both shared taxis and private vehicles. Acclimatize for one day at Sissu (3,130 m).
Best Time to Visit Ghepan Ghat Lake Trek
Ghepan Ghat Lake should be explored between late June and mid-September when conditions are most conducive, such as no snow cover on the treks and stable weather allowing its stunning turquoise blue shape to become evident.