Rani Sui Lake, situated west of Manali beneath Khanpari Tibba (4025m), offers breathtaking views of the Beas River valley. Westward, the Kalihani Pass (4830m) connects to the isolated Bara Bhangal village. This region, popular among shepherds in summer and autumn, boasts some of the best trekking routes in Manali. The trek provides stunning vistas of the Great Himalayan Range, including Indrasan (6220m) and Deo Tibba (6001m) to the east, and Maker Beh (6068m) and Shikar Beh (6200m) to the north. Starting from Hadimba, the trail leads through forests and meadows, culminating in panoramic views from Khanpari Tibba, with opportunities to spot wildlife like Monal and Fox.
Rani Sui Lake Trek at a glance
Day 1: Manali (2040 m) to Lamadugh (3050 m), 5 hrs
Day 2: Trek to Khanpari Tibba (4025 m) – Rani Sui Lake (3780 m), 6-7 hrs
Day 3: Trek to Saurkundi Pass (3840 m) – Mahili Thach (3300 m), 6-7 hrs
Day 4: Trek to Shangchar (2350 m) 5 hrs, Drive to Manali 2 Hrs.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Manali (2040m) to Lamadugh (3050m) [5 hrs]
Departing from near Hadimba, we ascend gradually through a dense forest of Cedar and Oak. As we continue climbing through the Manalsu River valley, the gentle slopes and verdant meadows of Lamadugh unfold before us. The campsite here offers stunning views of the surroundings. Keep an eye out for wildlife, as you may spot a Monal, a Fox, or even a Bear.
Day 2: Trek to Khanpari Tibba (4025m) to Rani Sui Lake (3780m) [6-7 hrs]
Leaving camp, we trek along a steep ridge beneath Khanpari Tibba (4,025m), arriving at a spot with breathtaking views of the Indrasan (6,220m) and Deo Tibba (6,001m) peaks. From here, the entire town of Manali and the upper Kullu valley are visible. We continue ascending through vibrant shrubs of Rhododendron, Birch, and wildflowers that line the path. Just below Khanpari, we follow the trail leading to the eastern summit of the mountain. By afternoon, we reach the dome of Khanpari, where a spectacular 360-degree view awaits—featuring the Great Himalayan Range to the east, the Dhauladhar Range to the west, and the Pir Panjal Range to the north. We then descend along the ridge to our campsite, a few hundred meters before Rani Sui Lake or Saurkundi Lake.
Day 3: Trek to Saurkundi Pass (3840m) – Mahili Thach (3300m) [6-7 hrs]
After breakfast, we trek through open meadows, following a path that leads to the small Ranisui Lake, also known as Saurkundi Lake. The trail briefly ascends to Saurkundi Pass and then descends along the ridge. On clear days, the eastern view is particularly breathtaking, with Mt. Indrasan and Deo Tibba peaks prominently visible. The trek continues through open meadows, crossing the pass and descending further to Maylee/Mahili Thach, where we will camp overnight.
Day 4: Trek to Shangchar (2350m) [5 hrs], Drive to Manali [2 hrs]
The trail descends towards Shangchar village, initially winding through a dense forest of Deodar, Spruce, and Cedar trees. Throughout the journey, you’ll have a continuous view of the Beas River valley to the south until you reach Shangchar village. Here, our jeep will be waiting to take us on a narrow road to Patlikuhl, and then onto the national highway leading back to Manali.
