Guided Support
The trek leader has complete authority to change camps, alter the route, turn back or abandon the lake attempt.
Challenging
The Mountain of the Broken Lake Trek
Walk the path least travelled.
- Challenging
- Exploratory High-Altitude Trek
₹ 35,000per person
Next departure6 Nov 2026
02
Overview
The character of the journey.
• Follow a relatively little-used exploratory trail from Soil / Soyal into the Pir Panjal landscape.
• Walk through deodar forest, upper meadows and traditional Gaddi shepherd country.
• Discover the mountain's folklore, including stories associated with Jamdagni Rishi and Vasuki Nag.
• Learn about the Mountaineerz explorations of the route dating to 2011.
• Climb towards the high basin of Batarunaag Saur, Vasukinaag Saur, Futta Saur and Mata Kotli Saur when conditions permit.
• Camp in quieter mountain terrain, with expansive views towards Hanuman Tibba and the Dhauladhar on clear days.
• Experience a genuinely demanding route where navigation, weather and local knowledge matter.
For fit, experienced trekkers comfortable with sustained ascents, steep or slippery ground, rough boulder sections, camping and variable high-altitude weather. The route is not a beginner's forest walk: sections can be faint, overgrown or exposed, and lake visibility is never guaranteed. Participants should be prepared for multiple consecutive trekking days and the possibility of a shorter turnaround if conditions deteriorate. The trek is especially rewarding for people who appreciate mountain ecology, shepherd culture, local folklore and quiet, less-frequented routes. Guests with relevant medical concerns should seek professional advice before committing to altitude and exertion.
- Best season
- 35000
- Starting point
- 15 Mile Bridge / Patlikuhal transfer to Soil–Vanvaas
- Maximum altitude
- Approx. 14,290 ft / 4,356 m
03
The journey
A clear day-by-day view, with room for the mountains to shape the experience.
Day 1 of 6
Haripur / Soil to Mindua
- Route
- Soil / Soyal → Guhad → Mindua
- Distance
- Approx. 8–10 km
- Duration
- Approx. 5 hrs trek
- Start altitude
- Approx. 6,000 ft
- End altitude
- 8,410 ft
- Meals
- Breakfast, packed lunch & dinner
- Stay / camp
- Tented camp, Mindua
Meet the Mountaineerz team at the confirmed pickup point, transfer towards Soil / Soyal and begin the trek. Walk through the village and continue via Guhad into broad meadows and mixed Himalayan forest towards Mindua. This first trail day moves gradually away from roads and into the quieter mountain landscape. Settle into camp and prepare for the higher route ahead.
The trail begins close to one of the older village landscapes of the Kullu Valley, then leaves the settled area for Guhad and the forest above. The original YoloO route describes a gradual transition from village paths into meadows used by local cattle and then a richer forest of deodar and mixed Himalayan species. The quiet of this first day is deceptive: the mountain becomes progressively more remote as the group climbs. The current programme proceeds towards Mindua camp on day one; the separate Vanvaas arrival-and-overnight day in the older itinerary is not part of this six-day schedule. The older route account describes forests of kharshu, walnut, chestnut and bhojpatra at different elevations, with many Himalayan bird species in the wider landscape. These details enrich the walk without turning wildlife into a promised attraction. The group's first camp is a chance to notice how quickly the atmosphere changes after leaving the villages below.
Key experienceLeave the Kullu valley villages and climb into the forest.
Day 2 of 6
Mindua to Dhundha via Shodupathar
- Route
- Mindua → Shodupathar / Dhundha
- Distance
- Approx. 7–9 km
- Duration
- Approx. 5 hrs trek
- Start altitude
- 8,410 ft
- End altitude
- 10,850 ft
- Meals
- Breakfast, packed lunch & dinner
- Stay / camp
- Tented camp, Dhundha / Shodupathar
Climb through thick oak and mixed Himalayan forest, crossing the Chowkigarh nalla sector and moving towards Shodupathar / Dhundha. The trail can be wet, overgrown or less defined depending on the season, making local route knowledge important. Camp in the upper meadow landscape.
The old trail account describes thick vegetation, changing undergrowth and sections that can become difficult to follow, especially in wet weather. Moving towards Shodupathar/Dhundha, the group passes through oak and other mixed forest, with seasonal streams and the possibility of observing birds or signs of wildlife. The route has long been associated with local grazing paths rather than a heavily engineered trekking corridor. The guide sets a measured pace and chooses safe crossings before the camp in the upper meadow zone. In monsoon conditions the original explorer noted that grasses and shrubs can obscure sections of trail; this is one reason the route relies on guides familiar with the mountain. The group crosses the Chowkigarh nalla sector according to current water levels and terrain. Progress is measured by safe movement rather than an exact arrival hour.
Key experienceMove deeper into the upper forest and meadow system.
Day 3 of 6
Dhundha to Parkuni
- Route
- Dhundha / Shodupathar → Parkuni
- Distance
- Approx. 7–9 km
- Duration
- Approx. 7 hrs trek
- Start altitude
- 10,850 ft
- End altitude
- 12,580 ft
- Meals
- Breakfast, packed lunch & dinner
- Stay / camp
- Tented camp, Parkuni
Continue the ascent as the treeline begins to thin. Pass through terrain known locally for medicinal plants and herbs before climbing onto broad high meadows traditionally used by Gaddi shepherds. On a clear day the landscape opens towards Hanuman Tibba, the Dhauladhar range and surrounding Himalayan peaks. Reach Parkuni for the high camp.
As the treeline thins, the landscape opens into broad meadows traditionally used by Gaddi shepherds and their flocks. The historical source describes medicinal and aromatic plants in this zone and expansive views towards Hanuman Tibba, the Dhauladhar and surrounding ridges on clear days. Upper sections can involve steeper climbs and boulder-strewn ground, so the group should conserve energy rather than rush to camp. Parkuni is the high base for the lake exploration that follows. Local names for mountain plants in the older source include karu, chora, patish, gugal and wild garlic, reflecting the close knowledge of seasonal vegetation among people who use these hills. The high grazing landscape may be shared with shepherds and their animals, so guests should respect camp boundaries and local practices. The views are expansive, but weather can close them in within minutes.
Key experienceClimb from forest into Gaddi shepherd and medicinal-herb country.
Day 4 of 6
Parkuni to the Glacial Lakes & Back
- Route
- Parkuni → Batarunaag Saur / Vasukinaag Saur / Futta Saur / Mata Kotli Saur → Parkuni
- Distance
- Approx. 8–12 km
- Duration
- Up to approx. 8 hrs trek
- Start altitude
- 12,580 ft
- End altitude
- Approx. 14,290 ft / 4,356 m
- Meals
- Breakfast, packed lunch & dinner
- Stay / camp
- Tented camp, Parkuni
Start early and climb towards the high lake basin. Historic route material names Batarunaag Saur, Vasukinaag Saur, Futta Saur and Mata Kotli Saur. Additional seasonal water bodies may appear after rain or snowmelt. Mist, cloud and snow can hide the lakes completely even after reaching the correct basin, so visibility is never guaranteed. The upper basin is rocky and exposed, so return to Parkuni rather than camp beside the lakes.
This is the signature high day and the most weather-sensitive part of the journey. Local names recorded in the source include Batarunaag Saur, Vasukinaag Saur, Futta Saur and Mata Kotli Saur, with smaller seasonal water bodies sometimes appearing after rain or snowmelt. The lakes may be hidden by mist even when the group reaches the correct basin. The upper terrain is rocky and exposed, making a return to the established Parkuni camp more sensible than camping beside the water. The guide may shorten the circuit or turn back if visibility, snow or footing deteriorates. The local story of hidden lakes is part of the trek's identity: in the historical account, even experienced shepherds were reluctant to venture into the upper basin, and the expedition's 2011 exploration followed both oral accounts and maps. Treat those stories as living folklore and the terrain as a place deserving care. The objective is a safe exploration, not forcing every named lake into one day.
Key experienceThe signature high day among the remote lakes of the mountain.
Day 5 of 6
Parkuni to Shodupathar
- Route
- Parkuni → Shodupathar
- Distance
- Approx. 8–10 km
- Duration
- Approx. 6 hrs trek
- Start altitude
- 12,580 ft
- End altitude
- 9,900 ft
- Meals
- Breakfast, packed lunch & dinner
- Stay / camp
- Tented camp, Shodupathar
Descend from Parkuni through alpine meadow and upper forest towards Shodupathar. The most demanding altitude section is now behind the group, but the descent still requires care on loose, wet or uneven ground. Settle into the final mountain camp.
After the high lake day, descend from Parkuni through the open meadow country and towards the upper forest. The older YoloO account speaks of shepherd camps, streams and the broad alpine landscape; the return offers a different perspective on the same terrain. Descending can be demanding on knees and concentration, especially on wet grass, loose stones or steep forest sections. The group settles into the lower Shodupathar camp, leaving a final descent for the following day. The return route offers another chance to see the relationship between alpine grazing grounds and the forests below. In poor weather, descents can be more tiring than the climb, so the group should keep walking poles and rain protection accessible. The quieter pace also leaves room to revisit the mountain stories heard on the ascent.
Key experienceRetrace the high trail after the lake-basin day.
Day 6 of 6
Shodupathar to Soil / Haripur
- Route
- Shodupathar → Soil / Soyal → Haripur
- Distance
- Approx. 10–12 km
- Duration
- Approx. 6 hrs trek
- Start altitude
- 9,900 ft
- End altitude
- Valley floor
- Meals
- Breakfast & lunch
- Stay / camp
- Trek concludes; optional Vanvaas extension
Descend through the forest and traditional grazing terrain back towards Soil / Soyal and Haripur. Finish with a hot meal and transfer support according to the confirmed package. Guests may add a recovery stay at Vanvaas instead of immediately continuing their onward journey.
The final walk retraces the forest and grazing terrain towards Soil / Soyal and Haripur. Familiar village sounds gradually return after days in the upper mountain landscape. The historical source mentioned a transfer to the bus stand and the option of extending the stay at Vanvaas; both depend on the current booking arrangements. The trek finishes in the valley, carrying the stories of the hidden lakes, shepherd country and the exploratory trail back down with the group. The older account emphasised how different the settled valley feels after several nights on the mountain. Returning to Soil provides a natural close to the trek, with local food and conversations where arranged. Anyone choosing an additional night at Vanvaas should book that separately rather than assuming it is included in the trek price.
Key experienceReturn through the forest to the valley and complete the trek.
04
What is included
The practical details, kept clear.
Included
- Local pickup / transfer from the confirmed Manali–Kullu meeting point to the Soil / trek base.
- Experienced Mountaineerz trek leader / guide.
- Shared 2/3-person trekking tents during the mountain section.
- Group camping, sleeping and kitchen systems.
- Vegetarian trek meals according to the day-wise itinerary.
- Camp staff, cook / kitchen support and campsite operations.
- Basic first-aid support carried by the trek team.
- Route planning, local logistics and trek operations.
Not included
- Travel to the Manali / Kullu meeting point from your home city.
- Personal, baggage, medical and travel insurance.
- Rescue, evacuation, hospitalisation and medical-treatment costs.
- Personal trekking clothing, footwear and equipment.
- Porter / pony support for personal baggage.
- Personal expenses, beverages, tips, laundry and costs caused by itinerary changes or extra days.
- GST at 5% and anything not specifically listed under inclusions.
05
Prepare well
Thoughtful preparation makes more space for the experience.
Trekking clothing
Prepare for forest, alpine meadow, snow and rapidly changing mountain weather.
- Trekking trousers
- Thermal layers
- Fleece
- Insulated jacket
- Waterproof / windproof shell
- Warm cap
- Gloves
- Warm socks
- Spare dry layers
Footwear
Good ankle support is important on boulder, snow and uneven terrain.
- Waterproof trekking boots
- Gaiters when snow conditions require them
- Spare socks
Trek equipment
Carry practical trekking luggage rather than rigid suitcases.
- Rucksack
- Small daypack
- Headlamp
- Trekking poles
- Rain cover
- Reusable water bottle
- Dry bags
Health & sun protection
Carry all medication personally; no dedicated doctor is stated on the trek.
- Personal medication
- Basic medical kit
- Sunscreen
- Lip balm
- Sunglasses
- Water purification / filter if preferred
Documents & power
Keep essentials protected from rain and snow.
- Identification
- Photograph / ID copy where required
- Power bank
- Cash
06
Safety & Preparedness
Clear guidance, experienced support and decisions led by conditions on the mountain.
This is an exploratory, low-footfall trek rather than a heavily engineered tourist trail.
Mountain Readiness
Trekkers should be prepared for 5–8 hour walking days, steep ascent, boulders, snow, dense vegetation and long descents.
Emergency Preparedness
No dedicated doctor is stated in the source; trek leaders are described as trained in first aid and basic medical protocols. Rescue / evacuation can be difficult and slow.
Altitude & terrain+
The route moves from forest to remote alpine terrain and reaches approximately 14,290 ft at the lake basin.
Weather considerations+
Mist, rain, snow and rapidly changing mountain weather can obscure the lakes and make navigation difficult.
Required equipment+
Proper trekking boots, waterproof layers, warm clothing, rucksack, headlamp and trekking poles are strongly recommended.
Health declaration guidance+
Guests must carry personal medication, remain hydrated and disclose relevant health conditions before departure.
Age & experience suitability+
Suitable for fit trekkers; it should not be marketed as a beginner-easy trek.
Conditions & route changes+
Lake visibility is never guaranteed, and safety takes precedence over reaching every planned point.
07
Scenes from the trail
14 photographs from this journey
08
Questions, answered
How difficult is the trek?+
Challenging. Expect repeated 5–8 hour trekking days, sustained ascent and descent, remote camps, forest, snow, loose rock and high-altitude terrain. Technical climbing is not normally required, but previous multi-day trekking experience is strongly recommended.
How long is the trek?+
The standard itinerary is 6 days / 5 nights.
What is the maximum altitude?+
The high lake-basin day reaches approximately 14,290 ft / 4,356 m.
When is the best season?+
The final operating window is late May to September. Exact trail conditions vary with snow, monsoon and early-season melt.
Where does the trek start?+
The route begins around Soil / Soyal near Manali. Guests meet at the confirmed 15 Mile / Patlikuhal-area pickup point and transfer towards the trek base.
Which lakes are visited?+
Historic route material names Batarunaag Saur, Vasukinaag Saur, Futta Saur and Mata Kotli Saur. Mist, snow and cloud can hide individual lakes, so visibility is never guaranteed.
Can someone carry my bag?+
Personal baggage porter / pony support is not part of the standard price but can be arranged separately where available. Current rate and baggage allowance are confirmed before departure.
What is the current price and how do I book?+
The current fixed-departure price is ₹35,000 per person + 5% GST. Choose a listed departure and traveller count through the Mountaineerz booking flow, or request a private departure.
Want to explore this journey?Book Now →
09
At a Glance
The details that help you decide.
- Best season
- 35000
- Starting point
- 15 Mile Bridge / Patlikuhal transfer to Soil–Vanvaas
- Distance
- Late May to September
- Group size
- Up to 10
- Maximum altitude
- Approx. 14,290 ft / 4,356 m
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