Dodital Trek

Dodital Trek is famous for a freshwater lake located in the Barahat Range of the western Garhwal Himalayas in Uttarakhand. The Trek is really popular among trekkers. Many of trekkers reach the Dodital from Hanuman Chatti as well as from Barsu via Dayara Bugyal. The serene and calm waters of the lake and the nearby Devi temple are a delight to photo enthusiasts and nature lovers.

History of Dodital Trek

Dodital once came under the influence of the Katyuri Dynasty (700 to 1200 CE), founded by King Vasu Dev Katyuri. The Katyuri Dynasty was also known as Kurmanchal, the land of Kurma (second avatar of Lord Vishnu). They ruled over the Kumaon region but after the decline of the Katyuris, the region came under the Garhwal Kingdom. Due to its rugged and remote terrain, it remained isolated for a long time but its religious significance has maintained its status as a sacred site.

Later in the 19th century, the British included this region in British territory after the Anglo-Gorkha War (1814-16).  Though the British enforced administration and economic and infrastructure development in the region like Dehradun and Mussoorie but they haven't much focused on the region like Dodital. It received the status of a revered and holy site by local people but the development of the region did not proceed.

After the independence of India in 1947, Dodital gradually started gaining recognition. People started visiting it as a scenic trekking destination. The area was handed over to the Forest Department to manage and promote a balancing eco-tourism. Since then the Dodital region has been maintained by the Uttarakhand Forest Department and requires a permit for trekking. Though it's not as famous as other trekking destinations of Uttarakhand, it attracts nature enthusiasts and spiritual seekers due to its blend of natural beauty and spirituality.

Highlights of Dodital Trek

The Beauty of Dodital Trek and Its Surroundings:

During the trek, the Himalayan trout or the Mahseer can be seen in the lake. Since this part of the Himalayas lies below the great Himalayan range, it is lush green with oak and rhodendron trees. The last 2-3 km approach to the lake is very exciting as the path traverses many mountain folds. There is a short hike to Darwa top from Dodital Lake. It then goes on to cross the range into the Yamunotri valley and meets at Hanuman Chatti. On Dodital Trek, the views of Draupadi ka Danda, Deonli, and Srikantha peaks are magnificent.

Spiritual Significance of The Trek:

Dodital Trek contains great religious association The spiritual importance of the lake can never be overemphasis. According to the legends in Hindu mythology, Lord Ganesha is believed to have been taken birth in Dodital. Some of the people who trek to the lake come for prayer and to seek blessings from the holy water and thereby receive requests from other people. There are beautiful surroundings which contribute to the beauty of the trek and there is a myth that connects to the entire environment.

Cultural Experience on the Dodital Trek:

This another advantage of the Dodital Trek is that there will be an opportunity to have a glimpse at the Garhwali culture. Besides, it is possible to have contacts with local mountain dwellers on the way, their hospitality and total enculturation of the area make the tour special. This way the trek adds to the overall hiking experience by providing an opportunity to familiarize with the basics in the strengthening cultural fabric of the Himalayan region.

Flora and Fauna During the Trek:

Of especial interest to Naturalist, the area of Dodital Trek is abound in vegetation and fauna. The area is teeming with wildlife; flora of the region is Oak, Deodar and Rhododendron mostly in forested zones. The Himalayan Monal, the Musk Deer and many types of birds which, once in a way may be sighted by the trekkers are some of the wildlife that bring joy to wildlife lovers.

Trekking Essentials for Dodital Trek:

Permits for the trekking can be obtained from the Single Window System of Uttarakhand Forest Department before leaving for the trek and there many trekking organizations of the neighborhood area. As for the lodging, there are guesthouses and tents; however, it is recommended to have your own camping equipment with you. Also, it is recommended to obtain services of native porters and guides who will make Dodital Trek enjoyable and safe.

A Journey of Spirituality, Scenery, and Adventure:

The Dodital Trek stands as a tour that is spiritual, scenic and thrilling all at once. This walk can be considered as a full and sensational journey for those who dare to start and get engaged in it, starting from the legends associated with Dodital Lake up to the views and local people’s performances meet on the path. The chance of getting close to the divine beauty of the place where Lord Ganesha was born, the beauty and the captures of the scene or anything like that. Dodital provides a nice and unique walk as it is surrounded by nature.

Difficulty Level of the Dodital Trek

Dodital Trek is considered an easy to moderate level trek. The trail starts from the basecamp Dehradun and goes to Dodital via Sangam Chatti, Agoda, Bhewra and Manjhi Villages. Trekkers have to ascend through dense forests of oak and rhododendron. The path includes uneven terrain, occasional steep and rocky sections. The terrain also includes green meadows and small mountain streams which are capable of removing your physical and mental tiredness.

Dodital's elevation point is around 3,024 m (9,921 ft) above sea level. Though, it can be considered as a high-altitude but not too difficult to climb like other trekking destinations of Himalaya. Acclimatization is not a big concern and experienced trekkers don't usually feel AMS here. However, for beginners and kids (above 8), it can be somewhat challenging. 

Trek duration is usually five days so carrying essentials like walking sticks, warm clothing and good shoes are very important especially if you're trekking around November. 

The path to Dodital is safe and you trekkers can do it solo. For kids and families, the trek is also manageable with proper preparation and slow pacing. Trek is slightly long and includes overnight stays so the trek preparation plays a key role in it.

Best Time To Visit Dodital Trek

For trekking in Dodital, the best time or months are from April to June and from September to November. 

April–June: During this time, sky is usually clear and trails come alive with the arrival of spring. You will get to see lots of blooming rhododendrons and wild flowers and lush green meadows. The sky is clear enough to reflect the Chaukhamba, Kedarnath and other Himalayan peaks in the crystal-clear water of the Dodital lake. The common daytime temperature remains around 12°C and at night time it goes around 5°C to 0°C depending on weather.

September–November: During this time, 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 same as spring, daytime it's 10°C-15°C and at night time it's around 3°C-0°C. However, while trekking in late November, you may have to face snowfall but for snowfall lovers, it's a delight.

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

How To Reach Dodital Trek?

By Road: Reach Dehradun. From Dehradun, travel to Uttarkashi via Mussoorie and Chinyalisour which covers approx 160 km (6-7 hrs). From here regular buses and shared taxis are available to Sangam Chatti.

By Air: For those travelling by air, Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is the nearest airport. From here, take a taxi or bus to Uttarkashi (approx 180 km). Uttarkashi also serves as a basecamp for Dodital trek. 

By Train: You can reach Dehradun by train as it's well connected with the major cities of India. From Dehradun Railway Station, you can take a taxi or bus to Uttarkashi (approx 145 km/5-6 hrs).

Trek to Dodital: From Uttarkashi, take a taxi/cab to Sangam Chatti (approx 20 km). Starting trek from here usually takes 2-3 days to complete with overnight stays at villages like Agoda, Bhewra and Manjhi. You can hire a local guide to help in navigation.