Hey fellow wanderers! Fresh off an enchanting trip to the serene valley of Shangarh in Himachal Pradesh, I’m bursting to share an experience that truly touched my soul. Beyond the charming villages and lush landscapes, lies a hike that unveils a hidden gem: the breathtaking Pundrik Rishi Lake, a place where nature whispers and time feels paused. My recent hike from the beautiful village of Shangarh to this sacred lake was nothing short of magical. If you’re seeking peace, beauty, and a deeper connection with nature, this trail is a must.
The Hike: Silence, Solitude, and Stunning Views
The journey begins in Shangarh, a quaint village in the Great Himalayan National Park (GHNP), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Known for its open meadows, ancient temples, and untouched beauty, Shangarh itself feels like a place out of a fairytale. But the real magic begins when you step onto the trail to Pundrik Rishi Lake.
Right from the first step, I was enveloped in a sense of calm. The trail felt unbelievably peaceful. No honks, no chatter—just the soft sound of wind through the deodar trees and the rhythmic crunch of your own footsteps. It was the kind of silence that isn’t empty, but full—full of presence, full of life. The further I walked, the more I felt like the forest was letting me in on a secret.
The trail winds gently upward, but it’s not too difficult. Along the way, you’re greeted by thick forests, small wooden bridges, birdsong, and that unmistakable mountain breeze that clears your head and calms your heart. Every now and then, you’ll catch glimpses of the valley below, bathed in light. With every turn, a new vista unfolded, each more captivating than the last. I found myself stopping frequently, not just to catch my breath, but to simply soak in the sheer beauty and tranquility that surrounded me. It was the kind of quiet that allows your thoughts to settle and your spirit to feel truly connected to nature.
And just as I was walking, soaking in the serenity of the trail, all of a sudden, the silence was filled with barks. I found myself in the middle of an all-out street brawl between 6–7 mountain dogs. They came charging across the trail like a furry cyclone—barking, tumbling, pulling each other down. While my friends stayed calm and were more worried for the dogs, I—someone with a deep fear of dogs—stood frozen, hoping they wouldn’t decide to redirect their energy toward me. Thankfully, they were way too busy sorting out their own canine politics to notice me standing there in absolute terror. I’ll admit, my heart nearly leapt out of my chest. And if that wasn’t enough, two of them decided to accompany us further!
Pundrik Rishi Lake: A Carpet of Green Mystery
After a delightful hike of a few hours, the trees parted to reveal a sight that left me utterly speechless – the Pundrik Rishi Lake. Now, forget your typical image of a glistening blue water body. This lake is something truly unique.
What makes Pundrik Rishi Lake so special is that it’s almost entirely covered in a thick layer of lush grass, so much so that at first glance, you might not even realise it’s a water body! It’s like stumbling upon a hidden meadow that inexplicably floats on water! But if you look closely, you can see the gentle movement of water under the surface.
History and Religious Significance
This unique lake holds deep religious significance. According to legend, it is named after Pundrik Rishi, a revered sage who meditated here. It is believed that the lake is so sacred that even the gods respect its sanctity—no one is allowed to bathe or touch its waters. Locals say that the lake is protected by divine energy, and standing near it, surrounded by ancient trees and complete silence, it’s easy to believe.
There’s a small temple nearby, and the whole area is beautifully untouched—no commercial stalls, no crowds, just a sacred stillness that feels rare and precious.
Beyond the Lake: A Quiet Village and a Carved Wooden Temple
After spending a few moments by Pundrik Rishi Lake, we continued along the trail. The path stayed within the forest, winding gently for another 30 minutes until we reached the traditional Himalayan village of Sarahan, tucked deep within Sainj Valley.
The homes here are unlike any I’ve seen before—a beautiful example of functional mountain architecture. Animals are kept on the ground floor for warmth and safety, while families live on the first floor. There was a quiet rhythm to the village, a kind of slow, grounded life that felt worlds away from everything.
Just ahead, the forest opened up into a small clearing where two striking structures stood side by side—a carved wooden temple dedicated to Pundrik Rishi and a modest government school. The temple, made entirely of deodar wood, had intricate carvings on its door and pillars that spoke of local craftsmanship and devotion. The school serves children from nearby villages and goes up to class 8—a simple but essential hub for education in this remote area.
We sat in the grassy meadow beside the temple and school, letting the sun warm our backs. This moment—quiet, still, surrounded by beauty and simplicity—was easily the best part of the day. No rush, no noise. Just a shared silence, and the kind of peace you carry back with you.
An Unforgettable Encounter with Nature’s Wonder
My hike to Pundrik Rishi Lake was more than just a hike; it was an immersive experience in tranquility and natural wonder. The quiet trail offered a much-needed escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, and the sight of the grassy lake was simply mesmerising. It’s a place that stays with you long after you’ve left, a reminder of the hidden gems our world holds and the profound peace that nature can offer.
If you ever find yourself in Shangarh, take this trail. It’s a journey for the soul, a feast for the eyes, and an encounter with a truly unique natural marvel.
How to reach Shangarh
If you are coming from Delhi or Chandigarh, take any bus towards Manali. Get down on the way before Aut Tunnel (40km after Mandi. Exact Location). From here there are three options:
- Take direct cab from Aut to Shangarh (approximately 2-2.5 hrs). This is a convenient option but a bit expensive.
- Take another local bus from Aut to Sainj, then cab from Sainj to Shangarh.
- Take another local bus from Aut to Sainj. Wait for another bus that takes you to Shangarh from Sainj. (Do note: There’s just one bus from Sainj in the evening, around 4:00 PM).
