Maldaru Tal Trek

Maldaru tal is very sacred to the villagers of Osla. The locals consider it auspicious and worship its waters. However its location and lovely approach translates it into a beautiful trek for youngsters and seasoned trekkers alike. The approach can be from the Supin valley or from the Tons river valley. The lake water feeds into the Tons river. The final climb to reach the lake is a bit strenuous but the views are rewarding. Along with Ruinsara Tal and Baraadsaar Tal this lake makes up the trio of easily accessible lakes in this region.

Adult hiking has grown in popularity in recent years. Some of the most well-known Himalayan treks are said to originate in Uttarakhand. Maldaru Tal Trek is one of these treks' lesser-known but stunning routes. This lake is incredibly beautiful and situated at a high elevation. The glacier lake Maldaru Tal boasts crystal-clear blue-green water. Trekkers can view the reflection of the stunning Himalayan peaks in the lake.

Trekkers start the trek from a small village called Dharkot. The trek to Maldaru is very beautiful. You will walk in dense forests of Oak and Pine trees. The big meadows will steal your heart. In summertime, you can also see shepherds with their flock. They follow the same route to the alpine meadows. The herd of goats and sheep are the only traffic you will face in the trek.

While walking, you can feel the beauty inside you. It is a lesser-known trek and not many people know about this location. You will complete your trek in better peace. The meadows covered with greenery and all the campsites on this trek are very beautiful. This trek is also known for stargazing. One relatively unexplored trekking destination is the Maldaru Tal Trek. This hike definitely combines adventure and peace.

History of Maldaru Tal Trek

Maldaru Tal has a huge spiritual value for the locals. This lake is situated in the Govind Wildlife Sanctuary of Uttarkashi district. Maldaru Lake is a beautiful high-altitude lake that has been secured by the locals for centuries. There are lots of small villages near Maldaru Lake like Osla, Seem, Gangad, etc. Locals believe that Maldaru Lake is sacred. According to some stories, the Maldaru Lake has divine powers. The word “Mal” in Maldaru means “wealth” and “Daru” means “divine being”. Locals believe that Maldaru Lake is a gift from the celestial. Some stories also relate Maldaru Lake to the Pandavas' journey to heaven. They believe that this lake is protected by God and any kind of disturbance in the lake can invite a big misfortune.

Maldaru Lake has long served as a seasonal grazing area. The shepherds begin walking with their flocks to the high-altitude grazing pastures in the early summer. Shepherds frequently implore God to keep them and their cattle safe in their prayers to the lake.

Maldaru trek is near to many popular trekking locations but still it remains unexplored. Because of its difficult terrain and isolated position, this journey is isolated from popular tourist destinations. Trekkers who enjoy a good challenge will adore the Maldaru Tal Trek.

Highlights Of The Maldaru Tal Trek

• Pristine High-Altitude Lake

Maldaru Tal is a stunning lake at a high elevation with pristine water. The lake is surrounded by rocky sections and ridges. The remoteness of the lake makes it more beautiful. The lake has blue-green water and looks very classic. Beautiful alpine meadows and rocky mountains encircle this lake. The remoteness of this lake makes the trek an untouched beauty, which is still very far from commercial trekking.

• Beautiful Local Villages

Sankri and Taluka are beautiful villages. You can walk around the village and talk to the people. The locals are warm-hearted and simple. You can witness the beauty of simple living. The villages do not have fancy malls but will fancy you with the natural beauty.

• Culturally Rich Trek

Maldaru Tal has a spiritual significance for the locals. Locals believe that the waters of this lake are blessed by celestial beings. This can be the reason behind the purity of the lake.

Locals often offer prayers and ask God for their blessings. This offers a cultural sight to the trek, making it more beautiful.

• Hidden Gem Of Garhwal

People love trekking in the Garhwal hills. The trek to Maldaru Tal starts from Sankri, which is a famous spot among trekkers. But not many people know about the Maldaru Tal Trek. This is an ideal trek for people who seek raw beauty. The trek passes through high-altitude meadows, big valleys and has a wilderness charm.

Difficulty Level Of Maldaru Tal Trek

Maldaru Tal Trek is rated as a moderate to difficult trek. This is a high-altitude lake that is suitable for people with prior trekking experience. This is a remote trek and has some difficult sections.

This trek is suitable for experienced trekkers. Fit beginners can also plan this trek under proper guidance.

• High-Altitude Trek

The Maldaru Lake is located at an altitude of 4500 m. This much height can lead to AMS symptoms. The trekkers must prepare themselves before ascending to the height. Proper acclimatization is necessary for this trek. The thin air and low-level of oxygen can make your trek challenging.

• Isolated Trail and Remoteness

The trial passes through certain zones where you won’t find any villages or shops. Areas with no habitation mean you need to prepare all by yourself. The trekkers need to carry supplies with them throughout the trek. Due to this, trekkers should be mentally and physically prepared for the Maldaru Tal Trek.

• Difficult Trail Sections

Maldaru Tal Trek has some difficult sections like the steep ridges. The trekkers walk for about 8 hours everyday.

Most of the section is easy to moderate, but the trekkers have to walk for about 6 to 8 hours daily. Some of the sections are difficult, like the final ascent to the Maldaru Tal. 

• Weather Dependency

The weather conditions are necessary for all high-altitude treks. The weather in those areas can change rapidly. Snowfall and sudden rain can make the trek more challenging. The sudden temperature change can lead to unfavorable conditions.

Best Time To Visit The Maldaru Tal Trek

Maldaru Tal is located at an altitude of 4500 m. At this altitude, you should only trek in favorable weather conditions. The pre-moonsoon is a good time to plan the trek to Maldaru Lake. Autumn is also a suitable season for this trek. Meanwhile, trekkers should avoid the Monsoon as the trek can be very challenging.

• Maldaru Tal Trek From May To June

The pre-monsoon is the best time to plan the Maldaru Tal Trek. The weather will be favorable as there will be less snow in the higher areas. The temperature ranges between 5℃ to 20℃. The nights can be colder, usually in the higher campsites. The routes will be dry and the skies will be clear. You will be walking in dense forests and beautiful valleys.

• Maldaru Tal Trek From July To August

You should not trek to Maldaru Tal Trek in monsoon. People may face difficulty even getting the forest permit. The valley looks beautiful but the visibility is very less. Trekking to Maldaru Tal in the monsoon can be highly risky.

• Maldaru Tal Trek From September To October

Autumn is also a suitable time to plan the Maldaru Tal Trek. After the monsoon, the sky becomes clear and the views become crystal-clear. The Himalayan peaks look very clear, and the temperature starts getting colder. The trail becomes dry, making it comfortable for trekking.

• Maldaru Tal Trek from November To March

You can’t trek to Maldaru Tal in the winter. This region of Uttarakhand receives a high amount of snowfall. Trekking to Maldaru Tal in winters is not possible as you won’t get the permit. The authorities do not recommend trekking in winter due to inaccessibility and safety issues.

How To Reach The Maldaru Tal Trek

To start the trek to Maldaru Tal, trekkers need to reach the starting point, which is Taluka or Dharkot. Earlier, the trekkers used to start the trek from Taluka. But now, you can drive till Dharkot. Dharkot is a small village near Sankri. You should reach Sankri a day before the trek and have a good rest.

• Sankri Via Road

Sankri is a famous location as it acts as a basecamp for many famous treks in Garhwal. You can easily find buses to Sankri from Dehradun. Take a direct bus to Dehradun from Delhi. After reaching Dehradun, you can look for buses to Sankri. You can also go to Rishikesh for more bus or cab options. After reaching Sankri, you can look for a shared taxi to Taluka or Dharkot.

• Sankri Via Railways

You can also travel via Train to reach Sankri. Look for the trains to Dehradun. This is the nearest Railway station to the trek. Many big cities have direct train services to Dehradun. Reach Dehradun and take a direct bus to Sankri. Few cab services to Sankri are also available.

• Sankri Via Air

The flight service is only available till Dehradun. It is a domestic airport and has good connectivity. The airport is located at the outskirts of the city and you have to take a cab to the bus station. Now look for the direct buses to Sankri.

Things To Carry In The Maldaru Tal Trek

Packing right means reducing half of the challenges. Trekkers need certain gear while trekking in the Himalayan region. Maldaru Tal Trek is a remote trek, and the trekkers need to pack all the essentials to make the trek comfortable.

• Clothing and Backpack

Start looking for the right-sized backpack. Get a backpack (55L- 60L) with proper back support and a rain jacket. You can also carry a small day backpack (20L) for sightseeing near the camp. For clothing, start with base layers. Pack 3 quick-dry t-shirts and 2 trekking pants. Now pack 1 fleece and 1 lightweight down jacket. Get a pair of thermal (top and bottom) for night. Carry a sun cap to protect yourself from the sun. You will also need a woolen cap and gloves. Pack a good windcheater rain jacket for the trek.

• Footware

Pack good trekking shoes with the correct size. You cannot share your shoes with other people. So, always buy comfortable shoes.

Pack trekking shoes that provide good ankle support. You should also pack a pair of sandals. Now pack 2 pairs of cotton socks and 4 pairs of woolen socks to keep your feet warm.

• Personal Care

Your personal care items are important in the trek. If you are trekking with friends and family then you can also share it. It will reduce the extra weight. You should start with the packing which you can’t share like a toothbrush. Now look for other items like soap, toilet paper, hand sanitizer, etc. Sunscreen is very important on sunny days. You will also need moisturizer to protect the skin from dryness. Keep a thermal water bottle to carry warm water. Trekkers require good hydration in the trek. Make a small first-aid kit with essential medicines. Carry a government issued ID for forest permit. Meals and sleeping gear will be provided by the trekking team.