Brahmatal Trek Overview

Out of many mesmerizing experiences of the Himalayas, the Brahmatal Trek is sure amongst the few on the list of favorites for all trekkers. “Tal” means lake and “Brahma “means the god of creation. This lake has been named after Brahma the supreme in the triad of great Hindu gods which includes Shiva and Vishnu.

The trek to Brahmatal is particularly popular during the winter season from December to March. The Summit of Brahmatal trek offers some breathtaking views of Silvery snow-dressed mountains and clear blue skies to enjoy the 360 views surrounding you. The lake gets frozen during this season and its beauty multiplies multifold. Most of the trek during this season is in snow and the white snowy meadows and terrain are exciting to explore.

The Starting point of the trek is Lohajung which can be accessed via Kathgodam. This is the base camp for the Brahmatal trek. To reach Lohajung we cross Nainital and the winding mountain roads passing through forest-laden areas are particularly interesting. As per the Legend Goddess Parvati and a demon named Lohasur had a war and hence this place is named Lohajung. “ Jung” means “war”.

Another interesting destination of this trek is Bekaltal, another beautiful lake en route to Brahmatal summit. The trail crossed through some snow-covered forest during the winter season and since this trail is comparatively unexplored it adds to the thrill of the entire experience. Some breathtaking views of gorgeous meadows offering views of Majestic Mt. Trishul and Mt. Nanda Ghunti are a part of this expedition.

Highlights of Brahmatal Trek

1. Snow-covered landscape in winter-

Snow-covered forests, meadows, and the frozen lake of Bekal Lake are sure to captivate you as you journey through the winter wonderland. The pristine white landscapes create a breathtaking atmosphere on the Brahmatal trek.

2. High-altitude lake-

This trek takes you to the beautiful Brahmatal Lake which is situated at an altitude of 12,200 feet above sea level. Situated at a high altitude, this lake remains frozen during the winter months. Witness the crystal-clear snow scene and have a wonderful view of a frozen lake amidst the Himalayas. Also, one the way you will you will see Bekaltal which is one of the best attractions of the Brahmatal Trek.

3. Rhododendron arboreum

Wander through forests that burst with colors, especially during spring. The vibrant foliage adds to the trekking experience. Trek through dense forests of oak and rhododendrons and get a chance to spot wildlife species like the Himalayan monal, musk deer, and even the elusive snow leopard.

The Rhododenron Tree (Rhododenron Arboreum), with its outstanding beauty, is a rich adornment to contributes to the biodiversity of nature found during the Brahmatal trek.

The journey of the trekkers into the wilderness gets a beautiful, unreal touch in vibrant colors delivered by the Rhododendron Arboreum. These trees known as Burans or Laligurans are a treat to the eyes, particularly in spring when they explode with reds and pink petals.

In the months of spring season, from March to May typically, Brahmatal trek blooms like a canvas colored with these rhododendron flowers. The trail is flanked along these ways by magnificent trees, perfect scenery truly connotating the image of wilderness in this part.

4. Easy to moderate trek

Brahmatal trek is suitable for both beginners and experienced trekkers. Its well-defined trails make it an exciting adventure for everyone.

5. Views of Mount Trishul and Mount Nanda Ghunti-

Throughout the trek, view and enjoy the breathtaking views of Mount Nanda Ghunti, Mount Trishul, and Mount Neelkanth. These majestic peaks are among the highest mountains in the world. Their snow-covered peaks add to the attraction of the visit.

Best Time to Visit the Brahmatal Trek-

Brahmatal Trek in Winter (December, January and February)-

While most of the treks remain closed during the peak winter season until the following summer, Brahmatal is one of the treks that can be accessed during the peak. The best time to visit Brahmatal trek is from mid December to early February in the eastern season.

Brahatal is an altitude of 12,200 feet, and despite winter being at its peak in the month of December, the Brahmatal trek is generally safe. The trek remains active during this time and you get white snow cover in most part of the trek. The snow looks amazing on the Brahmatal trek and it feels like you are in heaven.

As you step towards the Brahmatal trek from Lohajung, you see the majestic oak and luscious rhododendron trees bending under the weight of snow, giving off a mesmerizing aura along the trekking trail. Bekaltal Lake freezes in peak winter and you can enjoy by stepping on this frozen lake. The rays of sunrise falling over the snow on the Brahmatal trek look vibrant.

Brahmatal Trek is one of the most popular Himalayan treks for its stunning mountain peak views. It offers a spectacular view of some of the most beautiful hills like Mount Nada Ghunti, Mount Trishul, Hathi Goda, Kamet, Chaukhamba, Neelkanth which is one of the highest mountain peaks in the world. The view of mountains in snow creates a feeling of awe and wonder.

Temperature and Weather on Brahmatal Trek in Winter (December, January and February)-

During the day, the temperature usually ranges between 8 to 12 °C, and at night, it can drop to between 0 to -8 °C. Given the possibility of temperatures dropping below zero, it is essential to have at least five layers of clothing, including thermals, warm T-shirts, fleece sweaters, padded jackets and wind-cheaters.

Since snowfall can occur at any time during the Brahmatal trek in winter, it is advised that you carry a poncho or rain cover with you. Additionally, don't forget to wear crampons and gaiters on your feet to ensure safe and comfortable hiking on the trail.

Brahmatal Trek in Autumn (September, October and November)-

In this season, trees start shedding leaves, giving a distinct crunch in your footsteps when you walk on them. The view of the mountains is especially attractive in autumn, because after the monsoon the air is free from haze and the environment is clear. You will see all the majestic mountains like Neelkanth, Mt Trishul, Mt Nanda Ghunti, etc, under the clear and blue sky.

If you like crowd-free trails then autumn is also a great season as the Brahmatal trek is generally crowd-free during this time.

There's another aspect of autumn that few people talk about, sunrise and sunset. They are most vibrant during autumn. At sunset, the sun spreads vibrant red colors across the sky and the next morning, don't forget to wake up early to see the golden sunrise on the other side.

The temperature on the Brahmatal Trek in autumn ranges between 10°C and 15°C during the day and drops to between 0°C and -5°C at night.

Brahmatal Trek in Spring (March to Mid-April) and Summer (Mid-April to June)-

Brahmatal is a fascinating trip to do in the spring season. As we proceed further towards its base camp Lohajung, the surrounding landscape is seen covered with rhododendrons (Buransh). The slopes look attractive with rhododendrons blooming in deep pink and red in spring. Moving further towards Brahmatal, when the snow of last winter has not yet melted, its beauty increases even more in the background of this frozen snow. However, if you move much higher, these rhododendron trees will not be visible.

For a magical experience, visit Brahmatal in early spring (March to April). This spring season provides you a chance to see the flowers in bloom as well as go trekking in the snow. By mid-April, much of the route and its surroundings remained covered with snow. During the month of March to April, the trek remains chilly in the morning and evening, while the temperature ranges between 15 °C and 20 °C in the daytime and 5 °C and 12 °C at night.

This trek can be done in summer in the months of May and June but this time is not favorable due to high temperatures. Similarly, it is not suitable in monsoon from July to August due to heavy rains, continuous rain in monsoon causes risk factors of the trek.

Brahmatal Route Map-

Lohajung is the starting point of the Trek and this hilly station serves as the base camp of the Brahmatal Trek in Chamoli, a district in Uttarakhand, India.

• Day 1- Drive from Dehradun to Lohajung Distance: 393 km Altitude Gain: 1466 ft to 7,600 ft
• Day 2- Trek from Lohajung to Gujreni Distance: 4.5 km Altitude: 7,600 ft to 9,200 ft

• Day 3- Gujreni to Tilandi Distance: 3 km Altitude: 9,200 ft to 10,495 ft

• Day 4- Tilandi to Brahmatal via Brahmatal top Distance: 5.5 km Altitude: 10,495 ft to 10,190 ft via 12,250 ft

• Day 5- Brahmatal to Lohajung Distance: 8.5 km Altitude: 10,190 ft to 7,600 ft

• Day 6- Drive from Lohajung to Dehradun Distance: 393 km Altitude Gain: 1466 ft to 7,600 ft

The hike traces routes over snow-carpeted forests, meadows, and lakes - as if you are in a true winter fairy tale.

The Brahmatal Lake is one of the top attractions of the trek where you can marvel at the magnificence of frost as the lake is frozen up during winter months and offers fantastic scenery.

As you journey through this exuberance of nature, you will meet rich flora and fauna as thick oak and rhododendron forest will appease your eyes, and you may spot Himalayan Monals, Musk deer, and Snow leopards, a few of them scattered.

The walk is spread over five nights and six days, culminating in an elevation of five thousand four hundred and seventy-eight feet, from Lohajung to Brahmatal Top. You will reach an altitude of 12,250 feet at the Brahamtal Top, from where you can enjoy mesmerizing views of Mt Trishul, Mt Nanda Ghunti, Mt Chowkhamba, and Mt Neelkanth. Next to the Brahmatal, there is a place called Bekaltal, a hidden glacier lake.

Brahmatal Trek Difficulty Level-

The Brahmatal trek is a notch less difficult than easy-moderate treks like Kedarkantha and Dayara Bugyal. Therefore, It is considered easy to moderate level in terms of difficulty. During the Brahmatal trek, you will cover a distance of approximately 23 km in four days and summit an altitude of approximately 4,650 feet. On average, you will travel 7 km every day, which will include ascents and descents.

It is very important to remain physically fit; otherwise, you will miss the beauty of this trek due to fatigue. Although the level of difficulty goes up when you are trekking in snow, similarly at Brahmatal, the level of difficulty increases when you are trekking in snow.

In winter, you will hike this trail buried in knee-deep snow. However, it does not require the support of technical staff. Safety on the Brahmatal TrekThe itinerary of the Brahmatal Trek allows you to acclimatize well. When climbing a peak through thick snow, make sure you wear microspikes. Hard snow has a high probability of slipping. A small mistake can result in injuries like ligament tears, ankle sprains, or even fractures. Always place your feet on the footings made by earlier trekkers. Look for deep bottoms. Don't try to create new paths for yourself.

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