Brahmatal Trek 2023 – Best Winter Trek in Uttarakhand – A Trail of Lord Brahma

The Perfect Indian Himalayan only Alpine Winter Trek

One of the very few Himalayan Treks which goes to an alpine lake. Best winter trek in Uttarakhand which is untouched by trekkers around the world is the Brahmatal trek, which is devoted to Lord Brahma. It is beautifully positioned amidst the Himalayas and covered with blankets of snow. The trail allows you to see the centuries-old forest of Oak and Rhododendron. Brahmatal provides a panoramic view of the Himalayas with Mt. Trishul and Nanda Ghunti, walking in meadows besides Brahmatal Ridge you can see many sites of Roopkund Trek. A glance at the Garhwal Mountains in the distance on a clear day will totally melt your heart.

When you stand beside the frozen lake at Brahmatal, you are already at around 12,000 feet. The setting is magnificent. The lake is in a crater, the water’s crystal clear, a shrine sits beside the lake, and a lone tree stands on the far bank. And just beyond the rim of the lake, you are looking at two of the most beautiful mountains in our country — Mt Trishul and Mt Nanda Ghunti.

While all the attention is on Brahmatal, let’s not forget Bekaltal, another lake, trekkers fell in love with. Lower down, surrounded by thick forests and enchanting folklore, Bekaltal, too, is a wondrous sight. On treks, we do not find such big lakes inside forests. One of the best thing Brahmatal Trek has to offer are the magical colours during sunset. Both Bekaltal and Brahmatal set a standard for sunset, especially in winters, October to March.

Brahmatal is a relatively new trek in India. Yet, within a few years, it has become very popular. There is a good reason for it — the trek has almost perfect setting for a winter snow trek.

How Difficult is Brahmatal Trek?

Brahmatal Trek is considered to be a moderate to difficult trek. It requires a good level of fitness and endurance. The trek involves steep ascents and descents, and the total distance covered is around 22 km. The highest point of the trek is at an altitude of 12,200 ft. The trek is usually completed in 3-4 days, depending on the pace of the trekkers.

Is Brahmatal Trek for Beginners? Fitness for Brahmatal

Brahmatal trek is much easier than some of the treks in same region like Ali Bedni or Roop Kund. For beginners, it is a very good trek, but you need to have good amount of fitness to complete the trek. At the same time Brahmatal Trek is not suggested for a complete beginner with no preparation to do this high-altitude trek.

During preparation for this trek, your aim should be to comfortably finish 5 km within 40 minutes. You should start your preparation from at least a month in advance, by running or by doing some cardio you can achieve your fitness for Brahmatal Trek.

Best Time to do Brahmatal Trek & How to do Brahmatal Trek in Winter Season

The best time to do the Brahmatal trek is from mid-October to mid-March. Brahmatal is round the year trek, there are three seasons during Brahmatal trek: Winter, Spring & Autumn which sparkles different colors in each season.

During Winter time, the weather is pleasant and the snow-covered trails make the trek even more beautiful. When most of the treks are closed in Himalayan region because of heavy snow, Brahmatal is still open for trekkers. Trekking season in winter open from December to February and that’s the gift because winter season is very impressive on the trail Brahmatal.

During Spring time, the weather is pleasant and the snow has melted away. Many not know that Brahmatal is also astonishing in the spring. It is lined with Rhododendrons (Buransh). And in spring the terrain is covered with blooming deep red to pink colour. You will also get to witness some of the most stunning views of the Himalayas.

During Autumn time, the trees start to shed their leaves. The weather become clearest and because of post-monsoon, the fresh cold air with the smell of rain & soil make it more exciting for the trekkers. The main highlights in autumn season are, sunrises and sunsets which make autumn more vibrant than other treks.

To do the Brahmatal trek in winters, you will need to be well-prepared with the right gear and clothing. You should wear layers of warm clothing, including a waterproof jacket, gloves, and a hat. You should also carry a sleeping bag, a tent, and a stove for cooking. Additionally, you should bring along a first-aid kit, a map, and a compass. It is also important to carry enough food and water for the duration of the trek.

How to Reach Brahmatal Trek?

When & What to do?

Day 1 – Kathgodam to Lohajung (225km / 8-9 hours)

• Start from Kathgodam early morning.
• Travel for around 9 hours to reach Lohajung which is 225 KM away from Kathgodam.
• By late afternoon, you will reach Lohajung where you can find Homestays & Hotels easily or you can camp in Lohajung like we did.

Day 2 – Lohajung to Bekaltal (6 km)

• Second day involves trekking from Lohajung to Bekaltal.
• En-route, let your eyes enjoy some awe-inspiring views of Nanda Ghunti Peak.
• Trek through the forests of oaks and Rhododendrons. Conclude the 4-5 hours long trek after you reach Bekaltal. The total distance you would be covering is 6 km.
• Pitch your tent near the lake & stay overnight in tents.

Day 3 – Bekaltal to Brahmatal (8 km)

• Enjoy the snow-covered pathways leading you to Brahmatal. It would take you around 4 hours to complete the trek.
• The trails go through a forest and when you reach Telindi top, behold the enchanting views of the mighty Himalayas.
• Continue walking to finally arrive at Brahmatal.
• Stay overnight in tents.

Day 4 – Brahmatal to Daldum via Brahmatal Peak (5 km)

• Today, get ready to summit to the top of Brahmatal.
• Tread along the tricky pathways which go through Chota Jhandi Dar and Bada Jhandi Dar.
• This trail is encircled by a mountain ridge with valleys on both sides.
• It will take around 2.5 hours to reach Brahmatal Top.
• On this journey, revel in the glimpses of magnificent Himalayan Ranges. Mt. Trishul is very close along with the views of Nandha Ghunti.
• From the top, you can revel in the exotic views of snow-covered Himalayan Ranges.
• Then you can Proceed to the next camp site in Daldum and the trek will take up to 3 hours to finish. 2.7 KM will be the distance you would be covering in this trek.
• Again, forests will be accompanying you through these trekking trails.
• Stay overnight in tents.

Day 5 – Daldum to Lohajung (4 km)

• Today, you will trail back to Lohajung along the same path you took to reach Brahmatal.
• Once you reach here, have dinner & rest overnight.

Day 6 – Lohajung to Kathgodam

• Finally, the sixth day is to drive back to Kathgodam..
• But you can plan how to spend the day fruitfully on your own, be it

sightseeing or shopping, Kathgodam will not disappoint you.

• From Kathgodam, famous Uttarakhand hill station Nainital is only 28km, you can also visit there.

Short Itinerary

Day 1 – Drive from Dehradun/Kathgodam to Lohajung – (220 Km) (9/10 Hours) (2316 Meter) – overnight stay hotel

Day 2 – Trek from Lohajung to Bekaltal – (06 km) (4/5 Hours) (3012 meters) – overnight stay camp

Day 3 – Trek from Bekaltal to Brahmatal – (07 km) (5/6 Hours) (3182 Meters) – overnight stay camp

Day 4 – Exploration day from Brahmatal to Brahmatal-top-summit (3774 Meters) – trek to Daldum camp (06 Km) (6/7 Hours) – overnight stay camp

Day 5 – Trek from Daldum camp to Lohajung – (3.5 km) (3 Hours) (2316 Meters) – overnight stay camp

Day 6 – Drive from Lohajung to Kathgodam/Dehradun – (210 km) (9/10 Hours)

Brahmatal Trek Quick Facts (Key Points)

• Duration: 6D/5N
• Brahmatal Trek Distance: 22km
• Brahmatal Trek Height: 12,250 ft
• Brahmatal Trek Difficulty Level: Moderate
• Temperature: Day (8°C to 15°C) and Night (0°C to -7°C)
• Best Time for Brahmatal Trek: December – March
• Nearest Railway Station: Kathgodam is the nearest railway station
• Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport
• Nearest ATM: Dewal has the last ATM point before your trek begins (It’s advisable to withdraw money in Kathgodam itself).
• Start/End Point: Kathgodam

Brahmatal Trek Highlights & Helpful Tips:

Highlights:

1.Enjoy the mesmerizing views of the Himalayan peaks like Trishul, Nanda Ghunti, and Chaukhamba.

2.Winter trek with 2 glacial lakes at an altitude of 3180 meters.

3.Trek through the dense forests of oak and rhododendron.

4.Brahmatal base camp Lohajung is only trail which offers 2 more great treks, Roopkund- The Skeleton Lake & Ali Bedni Bugyal.

5.Will come to know about the Mythology of Lord Brahma and Visit the ancient temple of Lord Shiva at Brahmatal.

Helpful Tips:

1.Make sure to carry enough warm clothes and rain gear as the weather here is very unpredictable.

2.Wear comfortable trekking shoes and carry a pair of extra socks.

3.Carry a first-aid kit and some basic medicines.

4.Stay hydrated and carry enough water and snacks.

5.Do not litter and respect the local culture and traditions.

6.Carry sunglasses & sunscreen above SPF 30.

Note: If you have decided to do this trek, then, here is the contact number of main owners of hut in Bekaltal & Jhandi top (there is only 1 hut in Bekaltal & Jhandi top which can provide you food & accommodation).

Contact Details:

Prakash Bisht (Jhandi Top): +91 81719 03662

Surendra Singh (Bekaltal): +91 95202 45253

Things to Carry

History Behind the Name of Brahmatal

The name Brahmatal is derived from the Sanskrit words “Brahma” and “Tal”, which mean “God’s Lake – A trail of Lord Brahma”. The lake is believed to have been named after the Hindu Lord Brahma, who is said to have created the lake. According to Hindu mythology, Brahma created the lake to provide a place for the gods to bathe and relax. The lake is also believed to be the source of the Ganges River.