What is the most attractive part of a trek? Is it the trail? Is it the natural and personal challenges that you overcome? Or is it the journey in its entirety that you experience? For me, it is always the last one – the journey and the story that comes with the trail. Brahmatal trek sits at the top of my favorite trek list for this one reason mainly – the mythological stories associated with the terrain.
The name itself indicates to the myth where it is said that Lord Brahma meditated near this “Tal”, which means lake in local language. And then there is Bekal Tal, which also has its fair share of myths. When you take the journey on this popular winter trek in Uttarakhand, be prepared to immerse yourself in the dreamy landscapes and the tales from the trail offering you cozy campsite evenings with hot soup, snacks and folklores.
A Terrain that has it all
Winter Brahmatal trek is becoming increasingly popular among the thrill seekers due to multitude of reasons. One of them being the trail of this trek that takes you through silver Oak and Rhododendron forests, meadows with sudden clearing that offers you panoramic views of the Garhwal Himalayas, enchanting alpine lakes and the cherry on the top – the summit! A total package, isn’t it!
On the first day, depending on whether you start from Dehradun or Kathgodam, you have to undertake a 10+-hour long journey to reach the quaint village of Lohajung, the basecamp. This is followed by rest, acclimatization and preparation for the coming thrilling days of this snow trek.
Enchanting trails & perfect campsites
Next day, the trek starts from Lohajung and the first campsite is near Bekal Tal. The 6-kilometer-long journey takes you through the winding trails, hamlets, streams and dense forest of Oak, Cedar, Fir and Rhododendron. You will also get to rest in the sudden clearings like Begum where clear weather will offer you the towering view of Mt. Nandaghunti. Continuing on the trail once you reach Bekal Tal, crossing Gujrani on the way, you can rest-up in the campsite. Once refreshed go to Bekal Tal, soak in the beauty and glory of this large alpine lake and enjoy a colorful sunset. Camping near this lake is prohibited and there is a folklore that will entice you. Ask your trek-lead or the trek staff and enjoy the tale over hot soup while the chilly winter evening settles down. Do not forget to layer yourself with warm clothes.
Day 2 offers you another enthralling journey through dense forest, glistening snow-covered meadows, amazing vantage points until you reach the famed lake of Brahmatal. After hot and yummy breakfast, set off to the trail that starts with a steep ascent with the receding view of Bekal Tal. The ascent gradually becomes less challenging, and you enter the fairytale setting of dense, snow-covered forest. The journey becomes endearing with the views of the Oak and Rhodendron trees clad in powdery white snow all around. A true winter trek in essence, Brahmatal offers it all. Next is your chance to get mesmerized with the expansive view of the Garhwal Himalayas range with awe-inspiring presence of Mt. Nanda Ghunti and Mt. Trishul. The clearings of Telindi top and Jhandi top are the two major vantage points and nature’s photo booth for the trekkers! The snow-clad mountains dominating the view, clear blue sky above and the expansive stretch of pristine white snow where you tread, a setting that every snow-trek lover will strive to reach to!
Crossing this winter wonderland when you reach the campsite, it calls for setting down and reflect on the trails and views you have just crossed. A visit to the famed lake is a must followed by rest and refreshment.
Summit Day
Being a summit trek, Brahmatal trail will take you to the Brahmatal pass and then you trek to Daldum, the day 4 campsite. Today is the highest point of the trek, Brahmatal pass, at around 11,570ft. You will get a panoramic 360-degree-view from this pass, another highlight of this magnificent winter trek. Enjoy the visual buffet of famous mountain peaks like Trishul, Chaukhamba, Nanda Ghunti, Hathi-Ghora amid other stalwarts.
Today’s trail will offer you a decent combination of ascent, ridge walk and then gradual descent into a valley. Rest at the Daldum campsite, and get ready to descend to Lohajung next day, the last day of the trek.
Beginner-friendly winter trek
Brahmatal trek is a round-the-year trek. The trail is as beautiful in the summer as in the winter seasons, sans the snow. But in winter, once the trail gets snow-clad, the view is something different; it’s almost unreal! To experience this ethereal beauty, one needs to undertake this journey, and I can promise, you will never regret! The trail is a delight for both the novice and the seasoned trekkers, bringing moderate amount of challenges and amazing views that will be forever etched in your memory.
August 30, 2024
Read more
September 10, 2024
Read more
August 16, 2024
Read more
August 16, 2024
Read more
July 22, 2024
Read more
July 22, 2024
Read more
May 10, 2024
Read more
March 28, 2024
A complete guide about the beautiful Himalayan village named Sankri. This article contains all the details that you need to know about Sankri. The best treks from Sankri, The best accommodation in...
Read moreMarch 20, 2024
A comprehensive guide for trekkers and adventure enthusiasts curious about the structure of a customized trekking program. This article outlines all the facilities provided within our customized trekking programs.
Read moreMarch 14, 2024
A complete guide about the best places to visit near Mussoorie, the famous picnic destinations in Mussoorie, best trekking places near Mussoorie
Read moreMarch 11, 2024
A complete guide about the best places to visit near Dehradun, the famous picnic destinations in Dehradun, best trekking places near Dehradun
Read moreFebruary 2, 2024
A complete guide to the most popular and famous National parks of Uttrakhand, India along with the trekking destinations associated with them.
Read moreSeptember 28, 2023
Trekking in the Himalayas offers a unique experience, combining imposing peaks, serene valleys, and diverse cultures. Preparation and safety are crucial.
Read moreSeptember 25, 2023
Explore the divine heights of the Indian Himalayas with our guide to the 14 Best Destinations for Spiritual Trekking.
Read moreSeptember 22, 2023
Explore the pros and cons of solo and group trekking in the majestic Himalayas to find out which suits your trekking style best.
Read moreSeptember 22, 2023
Discover stunning treks to do in Himalaya in October, November, and December in India.
Read moreSeptember 18, 2023
Explore our comprehensive guide to Himalayan Trekking Permits, designed for adventurers like you.
Read moreSeptember 18, 2023
Discover the top trekking places in Kashmir featuring stunning lakes and towering peaks.
Read moreAugust 23, 2023
Prepare well for beginner Himalayan treks: essentials, best routes, high altitudes, fees, and cultural immersion for a secure adventure.
Read moreAugust 18, 2023
Discover the causes, symptoms, prevention strategies, and effective treatments for Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).
Read moreAugust 16, 2023
Explore Himachal's stunning landscapes with thrilling Manali treks. Experience extraordinary walks amidst magnificent mountains and serene roads.
Read moreAugust 14, 2023
Explore Uttarakhand's stunning weekend getaways with short treks, immersing yourself in nature's beauty and adventure on these breathtaking trails.
Read moreAugust 9, 2023
Discover the toughest and most difficult treks in India and test your endurance in the breathtaking landscapes of the Himalayas.
Read moreAugust 2, 2023
Maintaining camp hygiene and sanitation safeguards health, environment, and water sources, ensuring an enjoyable, compliant, and safe camping experience.
Read moreJuly 25, 2023
Sonamarg, in India, captivates with its stunning landscapes. Nestled in Kashmir, it's a serene haven for nature and adventure enthusiasts.
Read moreJuly 24, 2023
Nanda Devi National Park, in Uttarakhand, India, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning Himalayan landscapes.
Read moreJuly 19, 2023
Discover beginner-friendly treks in India's Himalayas. Experience breathtaking mountain beauty, push limits, and connect with nature in stunning landscapes.
Read moreJuly 18, 2023
The state of Uttarakhand boasts of two of the top three mountains in India. Read the blog to find out about the famous peaks of Uttarakhand...
Read moreSeptember 10, 2021
Garhwal Himalaya offers thrilling treks. Hydration is crucial, and it's essential to drink water regularly, even in colder temperatures.
Read moreFebruary 28, 2023
Har Ki Dun: Popular Trek in Uttarakhand with Breathtaking Views of Himalayan Peaks, Meadows, and Rivers.
Read moreFebruary 1, 2024
Why Bali Pass Trek should be your very next trek? The complete guide. This artiucle has answer of almost all your questions.
Read more