Baraadsar Lake Trek

Himalayas are known for their incomparable divine beauty. The peace of mind these mountains offer cannot be found anywhere else. Whether they are the high mountain peaks of Trans-Himalayas or the lush green forests of the Shivalik Himalayas, they all have something unique to offer to mankind. The state of Uttarakhand is a well-known destination for trekking in the Himalayas. The spiritually inclined adventure lovers, trekkers, mountaineers and birdwatchers come here looking for spiritual treks where they can feel the serenity of Mother Nature, the tranquility of the mighty Himalayas, and the divinity of the sacred land. One such spiritual trek located in Uttarakhand is the Baraadsar Lake Trek. Baraadsar Tal, also called Bharadsar Tal, is a high altitude glacial lake located at the height of 4300 m. Baraadsar Tal is quite a challenging trek and is suitable only for experienced trekkers who have done at least one Himalayan trek before.

The Baraadsar Lake Trek starts from Sankri, Uttarakhand. Yes, the same Sankri village which is also the starting point for the Kedarkantha Trek, Har ki Dun Trek, Maldaru Lake Trek, Bali Pass Trek, and many other adventurous treks. Located in the Govind National Park, between Rupin and Supin valleys, this glacial lake trek offers spectacular views of high mountain peaks like Bandarpunch, Swargarohini, and Kala Nag (Black Peak). On this adventurous journey, you will be trekking through alpine meadows, lush green pine forests, ridges, and ancient Himalayan villages like Bitri, where you will be able to witness the beautiful old wooden homes of local villagers. Don't forget to pay homage to Mahasu Devta Temple, which is built in Kinnaur architecture. You will be amazed to see the beauty of this temple. When you embark on the Barradsar Lake Trek, you realise that every day this trek has something unique to offer you. Join us on this adventurous spiritual trek in the lap of Mother Nature in Uttrakhand Himalayas.

History of Baraadsar Lake Trek

Baraadsar Lake has a deep spiritual and mythological significance. Though there's no particular historical records available regarding the lake, locals believe that Baraadsar Lake received divine blessings and it can fulfill wishes and cure ailments and misfortune if one prays with full devotion.

As per local folklore, the lake was once the divine meeting place of god and the water of the lake was guarded by Naag Devta (serpent deity). Locals also claim that if anyone tries to pollute its water, he/she would face divine wrath. This is the reason that camping near the lake’s shore and boating in the lake are strictly restricted. Somehow, it helped the lake to maintain its pristinity.

Baraadsar Lake and its surrounding high passes were once part of the pastoral routes used by the Jaunsari and Himachali communities. Shepherds moved their flocks across Rupin and Supin valleys and used the lake as a halting point. In recent decades, Baraadsar Lake has gained attention due to its offbeat and less-explored trails in contrast to commercial trails.

Highlights of the Baraadsar Lake Trek

• Meadows of Devbasa: Devbasa is a beautiful campsite that offers majestic views of famous Himalayan peaks like Swargarohini and Bandarpunch and lush green grass meadows with blooming multicoloured flowers in summer. The endless skies and mesmerizing sunrise makes it one of the most picturesque destinations.
• Dhaldhar Ridge: Dhaldhar is a ridge-top campsite that provides a 360° panorama of towering peaks and valleys below. This is a dream place for photography lovers. The sunset here paints the sky in crimson hue and slowly turns the snow-clad mountains into golden. Clouds seem too close and make you feel like you're living among them.
• Baraadsar Base: It is located close to the Baraadsar Lake. You can feel an aura of peace and serenity here. Though the surrounding is stark with rocky slopes but looks beautiful and lively with alpine flowers. Trekkers camp here in starlit night before heading to Baraadsar Lake. 
• Maldaru Tal: Maldaru Tal is a pristine lake which is often included in extended itineraries. Its turquoise-blue water magically reflects the surrounding peaks. Fringed with alpine wildflowers, this campsite offers trekkers nothing but a peaceful escape away from their daily life affairs. 
• Masunda Dhar: Masunda Dhar is a ridge campsite used while descending. With distant charming Himalayan views, it provides a space to rest and rejuvenate under a serene atmosphere.

Difficulty Level of Baraadsar Lake Trek

The Baraadsar Lake trek reaches an altitude of approx 4,300 m and is considered one of the most difficult treks in Uttarakhand. It starts from Himri or Sankri and passes through Govind Wildlife Sanctuary and slowly ascends through Garhwal Himalayas.

The trek is not suitable for kids and elderly people. Beginners with good fitness can attempt it with proper guidance and preparation. The terrain includes forested trails, rocky paths, boulder-filled ridges and glacial zones. Even in early summer, patches of snow are here which make the route slippery.

The most challenging section is crossing the Baraadsar Pass which requires technical help like ropes, ice axe and sometimes crampons if snow is available. Hiring a professional guide or joining a team is highly recommended for safety. 

The total duration of the trek is around one week (including travel days) and covers 55-60 km. On average, trekkers have to walk 6 to 8 hrs daily, depending on pace and stamina. 

Weather can be unpredictable, proper acclimatization is important. Chilly winds, sudden rain and sub-zero temperatures are common at higher altitudes. Proper packing of warm clothes and rain protection are essential.

Overall, Baraadsar Lake trek is not a casual trek but a strenuous adventure meant for seasoned trekkers who are prepared to face harsh conditions and technical challenges.

Best Time to Visit the Baraadsar Lake Trek

For trekking to Baraadsar Lake, the best time or months are from May-June and September-October. 

• Mid-May to June: 

During this time, trails come alive with the arrival of summer. On lower camps, you will get to see lots of blooming rhododendrons and wild flowers and lush green meadows. The sky is clear enough to view peaks like Bandarpoonch and Swargarohini. The common daytime temperature remains around 12°C and at night time it usually goes around -2°C, depending on lower or higher camps and weather conditions.

• September–October: 

During this time, the monsoon is over and views become sharper and vibrant. The trail remains dry and trees' leaves turn golden-brown which give a warm and cozy feeling. The sky is clear and the wind feels crisp. Temperature remains almost the same as summer, daytime it's 0°C to 10°C and at night time around 0°C. Trekking in late October, you may face snowfall so better complete it by early October.

• Avoid Monsoon (July–August): This time due to heavy rainfall, trails become slippery and inaccessible. The risk of leeches is also there. Clouds can reduce or block the visibility of mountain peaks.

How to Reach the Baraadsar Lake Trek

To reach the starting point of the Baraadsar Lake trek, first you have to travel to Dehradun, which is well connected by train, bus and flights from Delhi and other major cities. From Dehradun, the journey continues by road towards Mori in Uttarkashi district.

The drive takes around 7–8 hrs and passes through beautiful pine forests, apple orchards and small villages. 

Mori serves as the last big settlement where trekkers can stock up on basic supplies. From Mori, the road goes further to Sankri and then towards Dhaula or Sankri side villages, which are used as the base camps for Baraadsar trek. Depending on the route chosen, the trek usually starts either from Dhaula village or from Sankri side via Rupin valley. Local jeeps are available from Mori to these villages. 

Once at the base camp, the actual trek begins, taking you deep into dense forests of oak and pine, alpine meadows and high ridges. Reaching Baraadsar Lake requires crossing remote trails and high-altitude passes, which is why it is less crowded compared to other treks. The lake itself is situated at an altitude of around 4,300 m. 

To make the journey smoother, it is best to travel through a well-organized trekking agency as the route is long and not well-marked.