We often wonder what's hiding in the Himalayas. We often wonder how much there is still to find. The sheer scale of the landscape and the force of the region has the power to hold so much within its folds. While we cannot uncover all its secrets, we did find one that’s every bit worth the trouble to get to – the turquoise blue beauty that goes by the name of Ghepan Ghat. Take it from us when we say you cannot prepare yourself for the beauty that will receive you at the end of the trail for this magical trek. The view is physically captivating - the first glimpse of the lake is sure to arrest your step. Some places have a very pleasing personality and Ghepan Ghat is definitely one of them.
Because we cannot wait for you to witness this marvel of a lake hidden in this marvel of a landscape, here are a few glimpses of sheer beauty as witnessed by us on this trail.
1) The Landscape of Lahaul:
A land of contrasts, Lahaul is a gift in the form of spectacular terrain, unique mountain culture, Buddhist colours and peace in the air. One of the meanings of Lahaul translates to ‘Country of the Gods’ and on visiting here, there is no way anyone could disagree. Until sometime ago, reaching Lahaul was more perilous than the trek itself. But, the Atal Tunnel has opened up a world of possibilities for trekking in the region, making Ghepan Ghat more accessible than ever before. The trek takes you bang in the middle of Lahaul and gives you a taste of all its raw, untouched beauty.
2) Terrain:
Originating from the remote village of Sissu which lies a couple of hours drive away from Manali, the lake rests at an altitude of 4,140M. This moderately difficult trek takes you through exposed terrain with high ascents, steep descents and extremely rugged and untouched trails hidden even from most of the local guides in the area. Blessed with diverse flora, the trail is rich in colour and texture and remains fresh to the eye all throughout as you cross meadows, rivers, makeshift shepherd homes and abandoned stone huts on a grassy trail.
3) Campsites:
The trail is blessed with gorgeous campsites with the most spectacular view that remains pleasing to the eye not only during the day but is a feast even during the nights. The drama in the sky remains strong all throughout. Smoky clouds gently rise up and roll down mountain tops like they are tucking the high mountains in for the night. The golden glow which stays hanging through the night in the night sky adds a layer of beauty to this love affair. Remember to take some time to admire the giant peaks against this night sky as they lie there like ghost mountains in all shades of black and gray, layered one behind the other. If it is a clear night, you might not want to miss heading out of your tent to witness the Milky Way suspended in all its glory held gently by the night sky.
4) The Mighty Ghat:
This turquoise blue lake is what we spend tiring ourselves over to get to, for five days. On getting your first glimpse of this placid beauty, you will realize its every bit worth the effort you put to get here. The trek to this mystical lake which has only been heard of, is breezy and a literal walk in the park from the last campsite. You will cover the 2 kms to the lake in close to an hour and the view waiting for you in silence is breathtaking multiplied by all possible hyperboles. After crossing a wide stretch of meadows, you are welcomed by this expansive view of mesmerizing colours. Chunks of ice blocks hang casually in the middle of the neon blue glacial lake in the backdrop of massive meadows littered with all sorts of colours. The light mist in the air does its share to add to the mystical beauty of this fold in the mighty high mountains. There is so much to explore across the border of the lake.
Ghepan Ghat is a moderately difficult trek waiting in eagerness to unfold all its beauty to you. A burst of colours, Ghepan Ghat is sure to leave you feeling fresh and content by the end of its trail.