Maldaru Tal Trek

Maldaru Tal Trek

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Quick Information

Trek Duration

7 Days

Trek Difficulty

Moderate - Difficult

Trek Group Size

6-12 max

Trek Distance

37 km

Trek Max Altitude

14,350 Feet

Trek Region

Uttarakhand | India

Trek Pickup

Dehradun (Prince Chowk)

Best Season

Summer | Autumn

Best Time

May, June, September, October, November

Trek Basecamp

Uttarakhand

GST Fee

5%

Maldaru Tal Trek Overview

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.

Campsite On The Way To Maldaru Tal
Campsite On The Way To Maldaru Tal

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 โ€œMalโ€ in Maldaru means โ€œwealthโ€ and โ€œDaruโ€ means โ€œdivine beingโ€. 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 wonโ€™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.ย 

  • 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 5โ„ƒ to 20โ„ƒ. 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 canโ€™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 wonโ€™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 canโ€™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.

More Information

Maldaru Tal Trek Short Itinerary

Day 1: Dehradun to Sankri | Drive: 190 km, 8-9 hrs

Day 2: Drive to Dharkot and Trek to Batgoera | Drive: 20km, 1hr ; Trek: 5.5 km, 5-6 hrs

Day 3: Batgoera to Rashi | Trek: 6 km, 5-6 hrs

Day 4: Rashi to Maldaru Lake | Trek: 12-14 km, 7-8 hrs

Day 5: Maldaru Lake to Seema | Trek: 7 km, 5-6 hrs

Day 6: Seema to Dharkot and Drive to Sankri | Trek: 6 km, 3-4 hrs ; Drive: 20 km, 1 hr

Day 7: Sankri to Dehradun | Drive: 190km, 8-9 hrs

Maldaru Tal Trek Itinerary

Drive:ย 190 km, 8-9 hrs

Altitude Gain: 2,100 ft โ€“ 6,500 ft

Today is going to be the first day of the adventurous Maldaru Trek. Early in the morning, you will depart for Sankri; a small village in Uttarakhand. Dehradun to Sankri is a beautiful road trip passing through curvy Himalayan mountain roads. Sankri village is considered to be the base camp for many famous and offbeat treks like the Kedarkantha Trek,ย Har ki Dun Trek,ย Barradsar Lake Trekย andย Bali Pass Trek

Letโ€™s know some interesting facts about todayโ€™s road trip to Sankri. You will witness spectacular views and some ancient heritage sights on the way that represents our countryโ€™s rich culture. One such place is Lakhamandal. We will talk about it later though.
Kemptyโ€ฆYou must have heard this word right? On the way to Sankri when you leave Mussoorie, you will pass through beautiful Kempty waterfalls also known as Kempty Falls. You will get a chance to witness the beauty of this famous Himalayan waterfall.

When you start riding on the Mussoorie โ€“ Yamunotri road, you will come across another beautiful place named Lakhamandal. It is not exactly on our way but If the time allows, you can pay a visit to this temple. While passing the town you will realize why Uttarakhand is called Devbhumi. Lakhamandal is mentioned in the ancient Indian scripture, the epic Mahabharata. This temple is famous not only because it is mentioned in Mahabharat, but also because of its significant architecture. The temple is dedicated to lord Shiva.

Letโ€™s move a little further, and you will reach Ganganani, famous for its natural hot springs. Ganganani is a small village in Uttarakhand near Harshil Village. Here, you will take a break by the riverbank. All Indian rivers are considered sacred as they sustain countless lives. Sit down, dip your legs in the water, and listen to the soothing music of the river. You will reach Sankri by the evening and check into the beautiful cosy guest house.

Drive:ย 20 km, 1 hr

Trek: 5.5 km, 5-6 hrs

Altitude Gain: 6,500 ft โ€“ 8,380 ft โ€“ 10,722 ft

After enjoying a healthy and wholesome breakfast at the Sankri Guest House, we will board a local vehicle and drive to Dharkot. Previously, the trek had to commence from Taluka, but thanks to the newly constructed road, the initial walking distance has been significantly reduced. After a short hike from Dharkot, just before entering the forest trails, turn around to behold the panoramic view of Dharkot village. Entering the dense pine forests, youโ€™ll have the chance to embrace Mother Nature for the first time. Take a moment to hug a pine tree and feel the serenity it holds within its heart.

Throughout the trek, youโ€™ll encounter many shepherd huts used as shelter while grazing their flocks of sheep and goats. Todayโ€™s trek will involve crossing several streams, often barefoot. However, there is a wooden bridge constructed over one of the mountain streams. After trekking for 4-5 hours, we will reach Batgoera, where we will pitch our camps and spend the night

Trek:ย 6 km, 5-6 hrs

Altitude Gain: 10,722 ft โ€“ 12,250 ft

Today, try to wake up early in the morning to witness the spectacular beauty of the sun rising from behind the Hata Peak. We will start our trek from the meadows and enter into the forest line. The Batgoera meadow gets covered with a variety of wild alpine flowers after the monsoons. From these alpine meadows, you will enter into the treeline. The forest here is so dense that there are chances that an inexperienced trekker or guide may lose his way, but you donโ€™t have to worry about it. Our experienced and certified trek leaders will guide your way and safely bring you to the Rashi Campsite.

During the end phase of todayโ€™s trek, you will have to cross a river, which you will easily be able to do. However, the climb after the river crossing is steep. At the end of this climb lies your todayโ€™s campsite, which is Rashi. From the Rashi campsite, you can see Manju Kanta Pass, Bhitri Gadi, and the mountains of Himachal Pradesh. Get a good rest today since tomorrow is going to be a long walk.

Trek:ย 12-14 km, 8-9 hrs

Altitude Gain: 12,250 ft โ€“ 14,350 ft

Todayโ€™s trek will begin with a walk through the tree line, and subsequently, weโ€™ll need to cross a moraine to reach our destination. Itโ€™s important to note that todayโ€™s trek is going to be challenging, but the first sight of Maldaru Lake will make the effort worthwhile, alleviating any exhaustion.

Every glacial lake trek demands crossing moraines, and all moraines are challenging. While walking through boulders, you have to take utmost care with every step. Many times, during todayโ€™s trek, you will ascend and descend through boulders. Some ascents are as steep as 60-70 degrees. If the Himalayan trek doesnโ€™t make you push your limits, what is the use of trekking? The last ascent offers a great view of mountain peaks and valleys like Swargarohini Peaks I, II, and III, Bandarpooch, and Blackpeak, Har Ki Dun, Hata, Kedarkantha Peak, along with views of Chanshal and Rupin ranges of Himachal Pradesh. 1 km before the lake, the challenging climb will turn into a flat trail. Relieving, isnโ€™t it?

The divine Maldaru lake keeps its magnificent beauty hidden until you get really close to it. On getting the first glance of this lake, you will realize that whoever said that โ€œThe best views come after the hardest climbโ€ was absolutely right. You will find plenty of Brahma Kamal plants surrounding the lake, and if you are lucky enough, you may spot a blue poppy flower.

Sit there with the Brahmakamal flowers and enjoy the mesmerizing beauty of Mother Nature. Those moments will undoubtedly be serene and revitalizing. Simply be present and feel the divine essence within you, surrounding you!

Night camping at the campsite of Maldaru Tal is going to be a lifetime memory for you.

Trek:ย 7 km, 5-6 hrs

Altitude Loss: 13,188 ft โ€“ 8,500 ft

Today, in the morning, we will greet the rising sun and have breakfast sitting on the bank of the lake. We will bid goodbye to the lake and alpine flowers and start descending to Seema. On the way, we will take a halt at Devsu Bugyal. Devsu Bugyal is considered to be one of the best meadows of Uttarakhand . Walking through lush green pine forests, you will come across beautiful Rhododendron, Silver Birches, Maple, and Oak trees.

If you want to see the rhododendron flowers blooming, you should embark on this trek in spring, and if you want to enjoy the beautiful hues, you should go in autumn.

Moreover, on the way from Devsu Bugyal to Seema, you will come across a bridge from where you will be able to see the beautiful Osla Village. Seema village lies beneath the Osla village. Upon reaching there, get ample rest and rejuvenate yourself.

Trek:ย 6 km, 3-4 hrs

Altitude Loss:ย  8,500 ft โ€“ 8,380 ft โ€“ 6,500 ft

Drive: 20 km, 1 hr

After so many days of knee-tearing ascent, it feels good to have a day with a gradual descent. You can afford to wake up a little later today. After a short trek, you will reach Dharkot Village, from where we began our trek. We will board the vehicle and reach Sankri, then check into the guest house.

Drive:ย 190 km, 8-9 hr

Altitude Loss: 6,500 ft โ€“ 2,100 ft

The Maldaru tal trek concludes today as we depart from Sankri. We anticipate reaching Dehradun by late afternoon or early evening. En route, our journey will take us through lesser-explored and exceptionally scenic areas, particularly as we drive up to Mori, which stands out as one of the most picturesque stretches along the entire route.

Going back home is always a bittersweet moment, but the journey is made easier by taking the picturesque road to your next destination. As we leave behind the dense pine forests and descend towards the city, the landscape slowly changes and opens up into wider roads. Hold onto as many beautiful memories as you can in your heart and bid farewell to the Himalayan trails with gratitude and fondness.

Customize Your Maldaru Tal Trek With Himalaya Shelter (HS)

Maldaru Tal Trek is a journey through dense forests, valleys, and big meadows. This trek can be a good escape from the boring city life. Maldaru Tal is a hidden gem located in the Garhwal region. This is a beautiful yet challenging trek. Plan your Maldaru Tal Trek with us, and our expert guides will help you throughout the trek. Our team ensures the safety and comfort of the trekkers. Maldaru Tal Trek is a high-altitude lake trek that can offer you lots of unforgettable moments. With us, you can wholly enjoy the trek without worrying about other things.

Himalaya Shelter offers customized trekking facilities to the trekkers. We can plan the itineraries as per your needs and comfort. From camp setups to healthy meals, you take care of everything. You can cherish every moment of the trek with the Himalaya Shelter team. Join us and create lifetime memories of the beauty of Maldaru Tal Trek.

Inclusions & Exclusions

 

Our treks are specially designed by the experienced team at Himalaya Shelter, taking you on an adventure of a lifetime all while making you connect not only with the bountiful nature but also with yourself and with others on the trek with you creating wonderful memories which will last you a lifetime. All Himalaya Shelter treks are guided by experienced Trekkers having vast knowledge and experience of the region, providing with insightful information and stories pertaining to the region’s flora and fauna and the history of the region whilst the trek. It is safe to say that on successfully completing the trek, one will gain tremendous insight and experience along with lifetime memories.

Maldaru Tal Trek Inclusions

  • Transport support from Dehradun to Dehradun (Pick-up location: Prince Chowk, near Dehradun Railway Station Pick-up Time: Around 7:30 am).
  • Accommodation – At Base Camp, stay at a local homestay or guest house for one night each, which will give you an insight into the authentic lifestyle of the locals.( INR 5000 per person extra for single sharing throughout the trek )
    On Trek stay in a 2-person Vango Halo Pro/A-Shape tent, which is to be shared by two trekkers, built to withstand extreme weather conditions and at the same time making you comfortable after a hard day’s trek.
  • Camping Equipment – specially designed sleeping bags that can withstand harsh weather conditions, foam mattresses. Other safety gear like microspikes, gaiters, an ice axe, and helmets will be provided.
  • Medical Kit – our team will be equipped with an extensive medical kit, which our team is trained and experienced to use. Oxygen cylinders are used after they are thoroughly inspected throughout the Trek. Even campsites have large oxygen cylinders as backups.
  • Permission  -  Forest entry charges for Indian nationals (Additional charges will be applicable for international tourists)
  • Meals – Breakfast, packed lunch (on trek days), evening snacks, and dinner will be served. A hearty, delicious, and nutrition-filled Veg meals with egg preparation will be provided throughout the trek. (Jain and Vegan Food can also be arranged on prior notification). There will be a dedicated Kitchen Tent along with a dining tent, which will have a dining table too.
  • Our Team – A highly experienced and AMC-certified Trek Leader who will help ensure that the entire trek goes smoothly and safely while navigating the challenging conditions during the trek, and is skilled enough to navigate any medical emergency that can arise during the trek. Local and route guides who are well-versed with the region and provide an in-depth insight into the local customs and knowledge of the flora and fauna endemic to the region. A dedicated Kitchen staff, which includes a Cook, a helper, and other support staff. There will also be porters and mules to carry common equipment.
  • Cloakroom - We have a cloakroom facility available for extra luggage. Every trekker is permitted to leave their luggage behind at no charge.

Maldaru Tal Trek Exclusions

  • Personal expenses like tips, personal medicines, phone calls etc.
  • Travel Expenses -  Travel expenses from your hometown to the mentioned Pick-Up Point are not included in the trek fee.
    From the scheduled pick-up spot to the base camp, we have our own fleet of vehicles like Bolero, Innova, Dezire, or Tempo Traveler (12-seater). This is be shared by trekkers for a pre-decided amount. All vehicles are non-AC.
  • Personal Equipment - Any personal gear like jackets, shoes, cutlery, or backpacks are not included in the trek fee. We recommend renting them from our Rental Store for an affordable fee. This can be pre-arranged to avoid last-minute hang-ups. 
  • Offloading - We encourage carrying your backpack to get into the true spirit of trekking. However, if needed, you can opt to offload your personal luggage of up to 12 kgs for an additional cost of INR 500 per bag per day.
  • Trek Insurance - A mandatory trek insurance fee is charged in addition to your trek fee. Since most medical insurance doesn’t cover adventure activities, trek insurance offers essential coverage, enhancing your safety without a significant financial burden.
  • Buffer day on the trek - We have kept a buffer day on the trek to account for any weather-related delay. If this is utilized, you will need to pay an extra amount to your trek leader. 
  • Anything apart from inclusions
  • Please carry a lunch box for a packed lunch/breakfast to avoid using polythene and Aluminium foil.

 Keeping the Himalayas clean is our own responsibility. Reduce the use of Plastic when you are in the abode of the Sacred Himalaya. ๐ŸŒฑ

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