There are a number of lakes in Kullu District namely Brighu Lake, Beas Kund, Serolsar, Dashaur Lake and Mantalai Lake. There is another very small lake in Manali region called the Rani Sui Lake. This hidden gem is located in the higher reaches of Manali, in Kullu District of Himachal Pradesh, India. Lush green forests and towering peaks surround it, breathtaking a breathtaking view of the surrounding area. If you want to escape from the hustle and bustle of city life and escape to a peaceful place, then this is where yu should come.
Rani Sui Lake Altitude
The Rani Sui Lake is situated at a height of 4,300 meters. The lake is fed from the waters of the melting snow from the surrounding mountains that is why the waters of this lake is crystal. The area around the lake is surrounded by dense forests, making it an ideal place for bird-watching or simply basking in the sun amidst the beautiful nature.
Legend and History
Rani Sui Lake also holds cultural importance for the locals of the region. According to legend, lake was named after a beautiful princess who was the daughter of the King of this area. The lake is considered to be a sacred site by the local people who believe that taking a dip in the lake can bring good luck and prosperity.
Rani Sui Lake Trek
The trek to this alpine lake is one of the most beautiful treks in Manali valley. The trail passes through dense forests of evergreen trees like Deodar, Kail, Horse chestnut, Walnut and Maple, with beautiful alpine meadows in between the trees every now and then. Those looking for more adventure can proceed from Rani Sui Lake to Kalihani pass and beyond to Bara Bhangal range.
Once we gain the maximum altitude, we will get some awesome views of the Manalsu glacier, Hanuman Tibba, Rohtang pass, Deo Tibba and the Dhauladhar and Pir Panjaal ranges.
The most striking feature of this trail is that it meanders through thick and lush green cedar and pine forests and is a never ending carpet of rich and fertile meadows. This makes it extremely picturesque and a camera’s delight when the flora is in full bloom.

Rani Sui Lake Trek : Itinerary
The trek can be covered in Two Days, though locals are able to cover it in one day. Here is a brief itinerary which is used by most of the trekkers and trekking operators
Day 1 : Manali to Lama Dugh
The starting point of the trek is Hadimba Temple also called Dongri Mata Mandir. One must fill up water bottles at Dongri as there is not water source till you reach Lama Dugh. As soon as you start your trek, the steep climb starts. The climb is a bit strenuous but enjoyable as with every few steps you gain height and get lovely views of the surrounding snow clad mountains. As you gain more height the magnificent peaks of Indrasen, Deo Tibba and Bara Shigri glacier can be seen and savoured. Finally, you reach an alpine meadows which is the Lama Dugh. Lama Dugh is a lovely camp site with trees of varied kinds surrounding it from all sides. One can enjoy the magnificent view that nature has spread all around. Total time taken 6 hours.
Day 2 : Lama Dugh to Rani Sui Lake
After breakfast the trek for Rani Sui Lake commences. The ascent is gradual but at one place the trekking begins to be steep at the ridge below Khanpari Tibba (4000m). However, from this vantage point, one can enjoy the magnificent view of the Manali Valley with Beas river meandering through it and the whole of the Kullu Valley. Finally one reaches the Rani Sui Lake which is a small beautiful oval shaped lake. Total time taken 7 hours to cover this trek.
Day 3 : Rani Sui to Manali
After breakfast one can start the decent back to Manali. The gradual climb down is through alpine meadows, forests and rock formations at some points. The first habitation is the village Parsha and from there down to the town of Kalath on the National Highway. Kalath is famous for hot sulphur water springs. One can enjoy hot water bath just like in Manikaran or in Vashisht. From Kalath one can reach take a local bus and reach Manali in half an hour.