Brahmatal Trek
Trek to a high-altitude lake in Mt Trishul's shadow
Dates not suiting you? Check the new Ranthan Kharak TrekView details here.
This new discovery in Kumaon with terrific mountain views makes for a great alternative to Brahmatal.View details here.
TREK DIFFICULTY
Easy Moderate
TREK DURATION
6 days
HIGHEST ALTITUDE
12,250 ft
Trek to a high altitude lake in Mt Trishul's shadow
Some of our top treks are favourites because of the mountain views they offer. Think of Chaukhambha from Deoriatal Chandrashila or Bandarpoonch from Dayara Bugyal. It is difficult to find such magnified views of big mountains like these. However, Brahmatal is a trek that takes the cake. It has a view that beats all of these!
Here is why. Right on your second day, you climb out of the beautiful rhododendron and oak forest to see a white wall of the Trishul massif. And these views only come closer as you traverse the ridge towards Jhandi Top.
At Jhandi top, you are almost at the center of the mountain views. To your right rises the massive Mt Trishul and to your left stands Mt Nanda Ghunti. You even see the Ronti Saddle, the ridge that connects Mt Trishul and Mt Nanda Ghunti!
That is not all. At the highest point of the Brahmatal trek, Brahmatal Top, a new set of mountains open themselves up before you. You see Mt Neelkanth, and Mt Hathi Ghoda… while Trishul and Nanda Ghunti are to your right. Always there.
Did you know that Lohajung, the basecamp of Brahmatal, is the birthplace of Indiahikes? Click to watch the whole story.
Mt Trishul and Mt Nanda Ghunti, are your companions throughout the trek. Even the highest point of this trek is approached from the side that is exposed to Mt Trishul and Mt Nanda Ghunti. This trek deserves to be talked about among treks with the best mountain views.
To top it all, Brahmatal has lovely forests, two lakes to look forward to and a meadow to traverse through.
Some of our top treks are favourites because of the mountain views they offer. Think of Chaukhambha from Deoriatal Chandrashila or Bandarpoonch from Dayara Bugyal. It is difficult to find such magnified views of big mountains like these. However, Brahmatal is a trek that takes the cake. It has a view that beats all of these!
Here is why. Right on your second day, you climb out of the beautiful rhododendron and oak forest to see a white wall of the Trishul massif. And these views only come closer as you traverse the ridge towards Jhandi Top.
Brahmatal Trek - Complete Information
We have always wanted trekkers to be well-informed before they go on a Himalayan trek. Knowledge is the difference between a safe trek and a dangerous one. It’s also the difference between a wholesome experience and a superficial experience.
Use this section to learn about the Brahmatal trek. It has in-depth information about each day of the trek, what to expect, and how you need to prepare for it. Many years of expertise have gone into this content. Trekkers find that extremely useful.
A Route Map of the Brahmatal Trek
Day 1
Drive from Rishikesh to Lohajung
Drive distance: 260 km | Drive duration: 10-11 hr | Pick up point for Indiahikes trekkers: Live Free Hostel, Rishikesh | Pick up Time: 5 am | Location of Indiahikes basecamp: Lohajung
It is a 10-11 hour drive from Rishikesh. Transport will be arranged from Live Free Hostel, Rishikesh at 5.00 am. The cost of a cab is Rs 7,000 per vehicle and the cost of a Tempo Traveller is Rs 11,000. This has to be divided among trekkers and paid to the driver directly.
Day 2
Trek from Lohajung to Gujreni
Trek distance: 4.5 km | Trek Duration: 5 hours | Altitude gain: 7,550 ft to 9,180 ft
Day 3
Trek from Gujreni to Tilandi
Trek distance: 2.9 km | Trek Duration: 4-5 hours | Altitude gain: 9,180 ft to 10,495 ft
Day 4
Trek from Tilandi to Brahmatal via Brahmatal Top
Trek distance: 6 km | Trek Duration: 5-6 hours | Altitude loss: 10,495 ft to 10,190 ft via 12,250 ft
Day 5
Trek from Brahmatal to Lohajung
Trek distance: 8.45 km | Trek Duration: 7-8 hours | Altitude loss: 10,190 ft to 7,550 ft
Day 6
Drive from Lohajung to Rishikesh
Drive distance: 260 km | Drive duration: 10-11 hr | Drop off Time: 7 pm
You will reach Rishikesh by 6-7 pm. The cost of a cab – Is Rs 7,000 per vehicle and the cost of a Tempo Traveller is Rs 11,000. This has to be divided among trekkers and paid to the driver directly.
Please note: The distance between campsites may vary by 100 meters depending the weather conditions and the route you take. The altitude may also vary by 100 feet for similar reasons.
A Route Map of the Brahmatal Trek
IMPORTANT POINTS
➤Documents required: It is mandatory for trekkers to carry a copy of their photo id along with the mandatory documents of the Medical Certificate and Disclaimer form. These documents will be part of the Safety Check-in done by the trek leader when you arrive at the base camp.
➤Stay facility: The stay at Lohajung will be in a lodge. Do not bring any packaged food, tags from your new clothes or any waste with you. We follow a Dustbin Free Zone and No Wet Wipes Policy at our base camps in line with our spirit of Green Trails. On the trek, you will be staying 2 in a tent.
➤Cloakroom facility for excess luggage: We have a cloakroom facility available at the basecamp for extra luggage. Every trekker is permitted to leave behind one piece of luggage at no charge. Anything beyond one piece of luggage is chargeable at Rs 500 per luggage. (The luggage could be a backpack / suitcase / duffel bag or anything similar.).
Day 1
Drive from Rishikesh to Lohajung
Drive distance: 260 km | Drive duration: 10-11 hr | Pick up point for Indiahikes trekkers: Live Free Hostel, Rishikesh | Pick up Time: 5 am | Location of Indiahikes basecamp: Lohajung
It is a 10-11 hour drive from Rishikesh. Transport will be arranged from Live Free Hostel, Rishikesh at 5.00 am. The cost of a cab is Rs 7,000 per vehicle and the cost of a Tempo Traveller is Rs 11,000. This has to be divided among trekkers and paid to the driver directly.
Day 2
Trek from Lohajung to Gujreni
Trek distance: 4.5 km | Trek Duration: 5 hours | Altitude gain: 7,550 ft to 9,180 ft
Day 3
Trek from Gujreni to Tilandi
Trek distance: 2.9 km | Trek Duration: 4-5 hours | Altitude gain: 9,180 ft to 10,495 ft
Day 4
Trek from Tilandi to Brahmatal via Brahmatal Top
Trek distance: 6 km | Trek Duration: 5-6 hours | Altitude loss: 10,495 ft to 10,190 ft via 12,250 ft
Day 5
Trek from Brahmatal to Lohajung
Trek distance: 8.45 km | Trek Duration: 7-8 hours | Altitude loss: 10,190 ft to 7,550 ft
Day 6
Drive from Lohajung to Rishikesh
Drive distance: 260 km | Drive duration: 10-11 hr | Drop off Time: 7 pm
You will reach Rishikesh by 6-7 pm. The cost of a cab – Is Rs 7,000 per vehicle and the cost of a Tempo Traveller is Rs 11,000. This has to be divided among trekkers and paid to the driver directly.
Please note: The distance between campsites may vary by 100 meters depending the weather conditions and the route you take. The altitude may also vary by 100 feet for similar reasons.
IMPORTANT POINTS
➤Documents required: It is mandatory for trekkers to carry a copy of their photo id along with the mandatory documents of the Medical Certificate and Disclaimer form. These documents will be part of the Safety Check-in done by the trek leader when you arrive at the base camp.
➤Stay facility: The stay at Lohajung will be in a lodge. Do not bring any packaged food, tags from your new clothes or any waste with you. We follow a Dustbin Free Zone and No Wet Wipes Policy at our base camps in line with our spirit of Green Trails. On the trek, you will be staying 2 in a tent.
➤Cloakroom facility for excess luggage: We have a cloakroom facility available at the basecamp for extra luggage. Every trekker is permitted to leave behind one piece of luggage at no charge. Anything beyond one piece of luggage is chargeable at Rs 500 per luggage. (The luggage could be a backpack / suitcase / duffel bag or anything similar.).
Day 1 (Pick-up Day) : Reach Lohajung
Drive Duration: 10- 11 hours drive from Rishikesh | Drive Distance: 260 km
Altitude: 7,550 ft (2,316 m)
Lohajung is the base camp for the Brahmatal trek. A great way to reach here is from Rishikesh. The drive from Rishikesh to Lohajung is picturesque. You drive through Devprayag, Rudraprayag and Karnaprayag, the confluence of Alakananda with Bhagirathi, Madakini and Pindari rivers respectively. You drive along mountain roads, and through forests. You also get glimpses of the Garhwal mountains in the distance on a clear day.
Once you reach Lohajung, you find yourself face to face with the beautiful Nanda Ghunti peak. If you reach before sunset, the colours of the peak will enthral you.
Lohajung is at the centre of 12-15 nearby villages. There are a couple of local stores where you can buy jackets, hand gloves, caps, shoes etc. if need be. However, it is advised that you carry all the required things for the trek beforehand and not rely on these shops. You will have a mobile network in most parts of Lohajung.
Lohajung, as the locals say, is the place where Goddess Parvati had a war (Jung) with the demon, Lohasur. Hence, the name translates to ‘War with Lohasur.’
Lohajung is the base camp for the Brahmatal trek. A great way to reach here is from Rishikesh. The drive from Rishikesh to Lohajung is picturesque. You drive through Devprayag, Rudraprayag and Karnaprayag, the confluence of Alakananda with Bhagirathi, Madakini and Pindari rivers respectively. You drive along mountain roads, and through forests. You also get glimpses of the Garhwal mountains in the distance on a clear day.
Once you reach Lohajung, you find yourself face to face with the beautiful Nanda Ghunti peak. If you reach before sunset, the colours of the peak will enthral you.
Lohajung is at the centre of 12-15 nearby villages. There are a couple of local stores where you can buy jackets, hand gloves, caps, shoes etc. if need be. However, it is advised that you carry all the required things for the trek beforehand and not rely on these shops. You will have a mobile network in most parts of Lohajung.
Lohajung, as the locals say, is the place where Goddess Parvati had a war (Jung) with the demon, Lohasur. Hence, the name translates to ‘War with Lohasur.’
Day 2: Trek from Lohajung to Gujreni
Trek distance: 4.6 km | Trek Duration: 5 hours
Altitude gain: 7,600 ft to 9,180 ft
Moderate; gradually ascending through forests on well-defined trails
Water sources: The first point where you can refill your water bottles will be around 3 hours into the trek, followed by another at the place where you stop for lunch
The trek begins from Lohajung central market (chowk). Move upwards from Bisht General Stores (compass direction 3000 NW) on the well-marked, human-made trail. Walkthrough the upper region of Lohajung and then through the forest trail with a few more houses. After a short trek, spot Mandoli village on your left.
As you climb higher, on your left, you will be able to see the Kali Valley, where Kali and Pindari Rivers join. Follow the water pipes that supply water to Lohajung, as they lie along the trek trail. After some time, cross a small cluster of homes called Budla, on the left. Here, you will find rhododendron trees, which make this part of the trail very beautiful from February to March.
At approx 8,500 ft, you will find a 10-metre bridge (known as Link-gaad), which will help you cross the stream. After around two hours, you will reach Begum, where you can rest for some time. This place provides splendid views of Navali Bugyal (145o SSE) and Bagdi Bugyal (125o SE). After 10-15 minutes of walking from Begum, you will find another stream. From here, an hour’s walk will bring you to the Gujreni stream.
During winters, you camp at Gujreni.
“This campsite is surrounded by Green oak, brown oak, and rhododendrons. It’s inside a clearing and comparatively warmer as the sun rises around 8 and stays till 5 am. I liked this campsite because of the birds I saw. Namely Himalayan Woodpecker, Asian barred owlet, blue-fronted redstart, solitary snipe. I heard the barking dear too. I liked this campsite for its silence and seclusion, in between the forest, sun, and sound of the water stream next to the campsite,” says Ravi Ranjan Choudhary, Slope Manager at Indiahikes.
From here, the trail enters thick Oak forests and keeps climbing moderately. At sections where the mountainside is to your left and the valley to your right, catch the first views of Mt Trishul imposing itself on the horizon. An hour and a half through the forest climb you land at a flat with a small crater in the centre. At one end of the crater, the plateau is the valley of Deval. This place is called Khopdalia. It is a small dried lake. This is the campsite for Bekaltal which lies just above the campsite.
Bekaltal is a ten-minute trek up from Khopdalia. It lies surrounded by a thick cluster of Oak trees. The waters of Bekaltal are always brown. The brown water indicates a high amount of dissolved organic matter.
Typically, brown lakes are surrounded by forests or wetlands. Dense forests provide dark organic material that dissolves in lake water like a teabag. This dissolved organic material stains the water brown and shades the underwater world.
Overall, brown water lakes tend to be light-limited. The algae in these lakes survive through certain adaptations that allow them to adjust to low light levels. These lakes can also sometimes be acidic and contain few fish or other organisms.
The trek begins from Lohajung central market (chowk). Move upwards from Bisht General Stores (compass direction 3000 NW) on the well-marked, human-made trail. Walkthrough the upper region of Lohajung and then through the forest trail with a few more houses. After a short trek, spot Mandoli village on your left.
As you climb higher, on your left, you will be able to see the Kali Valley, where Kali and Pindari Rivers join. Follow the water pipes that supply water to Lohajung, as they lie along the trek trail. After some time, cross a small cluster of homes called Budla, on the left. Here, you will find rhododendron trees, which make this part of the trail very beautiful from February to March.
At approx 8,500 ft, you will find a 10-metre bridge (known as Link-gaad), which will help you cross the stream. After around two hours, you will reach Begum, where you can rest for some time. This place provides splendid views of Navali Bugyal (145o SSE) and Bagdi Bugyal (125o SE). After 10-15 minutes of walking from Begum, you will find another stream. From here, an hour’s walk will bring you to the Gujreni stream.
During winters, you camp at Gujreni.
“This campsite is surrounded by Green oak, brown oak, and rhododendrons. It’s inside a clearing and comparatively warmer as the sun rises around 8 and stays till 5 am. I liked this campsite because of the birds I saw. Namely Himalayan Woodpecker, Asian barred owlet, blue-fronted redstart, solitary snipe. I heard the barking dear too. I liked this campsite for its silence and seclusion, in between the forest, sun, and sound of the water stream next to the campsite,” says Ravi Ranjan Choudhary, Slope Manager at Indiahikes.
From here, the trail enters thick Oak forests and keeps climbing moderately. At sections where the mountainside is to your left and the valley to your right, catch the first views of Mt Trishul imposing itself on the horizon. An hour and a half through the forest climb you land at a flat with a small crater in the centre. At one end of the crater, the plateau is the valley of Deval. This place is called Khopdalia. It is a small dried lake. This is the campsite for Bekaltal which lies just above the campsite.
Bekaltal is a ten-minute trek up from Khopdalia. It lies surrounded by a thick cluster of Oak trees. The waters of Bekaltal are always brown. The brown water indicates a high amount of dissolved organic matter.
Typically, brown lakes are surrounded by forests or wetlands. Dense forests provide dark organic material that dissolves in lake water like a teabag. This dissolved organic material stains the water brown and shades the underwater world.
Overall, brown water lakes tend to be light-limited. The algae in these lakes survive through certain adaptations that allow them to adjust to low light levels. These lakes can also sometimes be acidic and contain few fish or other organisms.
Day 3: Gujreni to Tilandi
Trek Distance: 2.9 km | Trek Duration: 4-5 hours
Altitude gain: 9,180 ft to 10,495 ft
Moderate. Initial steep climb for an hour brings you to a meadow where you ascend gently, followed by a gradual descent to Brahmatal.
Water sources: None. Make sure that you fill 2 litres of water before starting the trek since this will be a long day
Today is a short day. The trail starts off the campsite in the south-west direction. Just a few metres into the climb, you come across a stream crossing. From here, the trail climbs steeply into the Oak and Rhododendron forest. Notice that to your left is the ridge which opens up to the valley below. Immediately to your right below is Bekaltal.
As you climb on further, half the trail is dominated by Rhododendron trees and somewhere midway the Oak trees take over. After about an hour of a trek in this lovely forest section, the tree line ends and you enter the meadows. Right in front of you is the spectacular panorama of Mt Trishul and Mt Nanda Ghunti with their associated ranges.
You are usually drawn to the edge of the meadows which is a ridge. This is your Tilandi campsite. Below you is the valley from Lohajung to Wan. Right opposite is the famous meadows of the Roopkund trail – Ali and Bedni Bugyals.
Today is a short day. The trail starts off the campsite in the south-west direction. Just a few metres into the climb, you come across a stream crossing. From here, the trail climbs steeply into the Oak and Rhododendron forest. Notice that to your left is the ridge which opens up to the valley below. Immediately to your right below is Bekaltal.
As you climb on further, half the trail is dominated by Rhododendron trees and somewhere midway the Oak trees take over. After about an hour of a trek in this lovely forest section, the tree line ends and you enter the meadows. Right in front of you is the spectacular panorama of Mt Trishul and Mt Nanda Ghunti with their associated ranges.
You are usually drawn to the edge of the meadows which is a ridge. This is your Tilandi campsite. Below you is the valley from Lohajung to Wan. Right opposite is the famous meadows of the Roopkund trail – Ali and Bedni Bugyals.
Day 4: Tilandi to Brahmatal
Trek Distance: 5.5 km | Trek Duration: 7-8 hours
Altitude loss: 10,495 ft to 10,190 ft via 12,250 ft
Moderate. It is a long descent all the way to Lohajung.
Water sources: You’ll get enough water sources on the trail. Carry at least 2 litres of water when you start from Brahmatal.
This day’s trail weaves along the ridge. You see the treeline sometimes below you, sometimes beside you as you gain and drop height. The trees are largely Rhododendron or Oak again. Overall you gain height when you head to Jhandi Top, the highest point on the ridge. It’s another vantage point for clear views of the mountain panorama. You get spectacular views of Mt Trishul and Mt Nanda Ghunti ranges from here. You can map the entire Roopkund trail here, right from Wan to Roopkund. Spend at least twenty minutes at Jhandi Top to soak in the place. It usually gives you goosebumps to comprehend what you see in front.
As you walk along the ridge, the majestic mountains and sweeping valleys greet you. You see at least 7 to 8 layers of mountain ranges, one behind another. The sense of openness is unmatchable to most trekking days anywhere.
From the Jhandi top, take the right trail, which is again a mountain ridge that gradually ascends to the Brahmatal Top at 12,250 ft, the highest point on this trek. The mountain views stay along with you as you walk on the ridge and reach the top. Spend some time and soak in the stunning views from the top.
The trail now gradually descends to Brahmatal.It’s a beautiful lake, the first view of which takes your breath away. There is a small Nag Devta Mandir next to it. If the lake is not frozen, you get a clear reflection of the night sky which is a stunning sight to witness.
The Brahmatal campsite at 12,250 ft is 500 meters away from the lake to the left on the edge of the slope. Do not miss to witness the sunset from the campsite.
This day’s trail weaves along the ridge. You see the treeline sometimes below you, sometimes beside you as you gain and drop height. The trees are largely Rhododendron or Oak again. Overall you gain height when you head to Jhandi Top, the highest point on the ridge. It’s another vantage point for clear views of the mountain panorama. You get spectacular views of Mt Trishul and Mt Nanda Ghunti ranges from here. You can map the entire Roopkund trail here, right from Wan to Roopkund. Spend at least twenty minutes at Jhandi Top to soak in the place. It usually gives you goosebumps to comprehend what you see in front.
As you walk along the ridge, the majestic mountains and sweeping valleys greet you. You see at least 7 to 8 layers of mountain ranges, one behind another. The sense of openness is unmatchable to most trekking days anywhere.
From the Jhandi top, take the right trail, which is again a mountain ridge that gradually ascends to the Brahmatal Top at 12,250 ft, the highest point on this trek. The mountain views stay along with you as you walk on the ridge and reach the top. Spend some time and soak in the stunning views from the top.
The trail now gradually descends to Brahmatal.It’s a beautiful lake, the first view of which takes your breath away. There is a small Nag Devta Mandir next to it. If the lake is not frozen, you get a clear reflection of the night sky which is a stunning sight to witness.
The Brahmatal campsite at 12,250 ft is 500 meters away from the lake to the left on the edge of the slope. Do not miss to witness the sunset from the campsite.
Day 5: Brahmatal to Lohajung
Trek distance: 8.45 km | Trek Duration: 7-8 hours
Altitude loss: 10,190 ft to 7,550 ft
Moderate.
Begin the descent to Lohajung right after breakfast. Take a trail that goes straight from the Brahmatal lake. Till Jhandi Top,the vegetation is sparse. The mountains play hide and seek with you as you gradually ascend to the Jhandi Top.
From the Jhandi top, take the trail that goes left. From here, you descend all the way to Lohajung. Initially you descend through an open space, with the mountain views now behind you.
About a kilometre of a descent, you enter the treeline again. This is all Oak trees now. Soon, you come across a clearing. This is called Khorurai as “Khoru” translates to oak. Take some rest here. It could also be a possible campsite if you wish to extend your trek for one more day.
About another 1.3 km of a descent, you join the main trail. Descend further through Rhodo forest. Later, continue on the man-made trail. This trail connects the mountain villages down to Lohajung.Begin the descent to Lohajung right after breakfast. Till Tilandi the vegetation is sparse.
It is well made all the way and crosses 2 streams in between.
After about an hour from starting, you will reach Shepherd huts. This place is the local language is also called ‘chawni’ and is used by villagers and shepherds to keep their livestock.
Continue on the man-made trail from here. This trail connects these mountain villages down to Lohajung.
Begin the descent to Lohajung right after breakfast. Take a trail that goes straight from the Brahmatal lake. Till Jhandi Top,the vegetation is sparse. The mountains play hide and seek with you as you gradually ascend to the Jhandi Top.
From the Jhandi top, take the trail that goes left. From here, you descend all the way to Lohajung. Initially you descend through an open space, with the mountain views now behind you.
About a kilometre of a descent, you enter the treeline again. This is all Oak trees now. Soon, you come across a clearing. This is called Khorurai as “Khoru” translates to oak. Take some rest here. It could also be a possible campsite if you wish to extend your trek for one more day.
About another 1.3 km of a descent, you join the main trail. Descend further through Rhodo forest. Later, continue on the man-made trail. This trail connects the mountain villages down to Lohajung.Begin the descent to Lohajung right after breakfast. Till Tilandi the vegetation is sparse.
It is well made all the way and crosses 2 streams in between.
After about an hour from starting, you will reach Shepherd huts. This place is the local language is also called ‘chawni’ and is used by villagers and shepherds to keep their livestock.
Continue on the man-made trail from here. This trail connects these mountain villages down to Lohajung.
Day 6 (Drive-back Day): Lohajung to Rishikesh
Drive Duration: 10- 11 hours | Drive Distance: 260 km
Drive back to Rishikesh. Check out "How to reach the basecamp" section for more details about planning your return journey.
Drive back to Rishikesh. Check out "How to reach the basecamp" section for more details about planning your return journey.
Easy-Moderate
Suitable for Fit Beginners
At Indiahikes, while rating a trek difficulty we consider a number of factors. These include altitude gained every day, length of trek everyday, highest altitude, nature of the terrain, weather etc. Based on this we rate a trek as easy or difficult or somewhere in between.
Brahmatal trek climbs to 12,250 feet and we rate it as Easy-Moderate. This rating refers to marginally longer trekking days with a few steep climbs in between. So, the Brahmatal trek is a notch more difficult than the easy-moderate treks like Kedarkantha and Dayara Bugyal. But it has easy exits and there are no technical sections.
Coming to the details, you will cover a total of around 23 km in four days during which you will gain approximately 4,650 feet. On average, you will trek 7 km every day, which will include ascents and descents.
| Note: Like any other Himalayan trek, the difficulty level on Brahmatal too increases when you are doing the trek in the snow.
In winters, you will climb this trail buried in knee-deep snow. Although it does not require the support of technical staff, you will need proper safety equipment to negotiate it.
So, when talking about safety, there are two things you need to keep in mind — endurance and trekking in snow. Like other high-altitude treks, being physically fit is a must otherwise you will miss out on the beauty of this trek due to fatigue. Click here to know how to get fit for the Brahmatal trek.
Safety on the Brahmatal Trek
While climbing to the peak through the thick snow, ensure you wear your microspikes. Hard snow is extremely prone to slips. A small slip can result in injuries like a ligament tear, a sprained ankle or even a fracture. Always put your foot on footholds made by earlier trekkers. Look out for deep footholds. Do not try to make new paths of your own.
| Note: If you are trekking with Indiahikes, your Trek Leader will tell you when to wear the microspikes. Indiahikes technical team will lead in this section to make the footholds required for trekkers to step on.
AMS: At altitudes above 10,000 ft, the chances of being hit by Acute Mountain Sickness are real. Altitude sickness does not distinguish between a first timer and an experienced trekker. Even experienced trekkers can get affected. Fitness helps in making your trek easier. But do not forget that even a fit person climbing too high too soon runs an equal risk of developing AMS.
Some symptoms to watch out for: (a) Persistent headache (b) Feeling fatigued or weak (c) Feel nauseous or vomiting (d) Feeling dizzy or lightheaded, often while sitting up or standing suddenly (e) You don’t feel like eating, you have a loss of appetite (f) You don’t sleep very well at night.
The itinerary of the Brahmatal trek allows you to acclimatize well. And yet, you must stay alert for any signs of AMS.
While climbing to the peak through the thick snow, ensure you wear your microspikes. Hard snow is extremely prone to slips. A small slip can result in injuries like a ligament tear, a sprained ankle or even a fracture. Always put your foot on footholds made by earlier trekkers. Look out for deep footholds. Do not try to make new paths of your own.
| Note: If you are trekking with Indiahikes, your Trek Leader will tell you when to wear the microspikes. Indiahikes technical team will lead in this section to make the footholds required for trekkers to step on.
When it comes to safety, there is one section you need to be careful about, especially if you are trekking to Brahmatal in winters.
It is the Steep snow section near the peak (in the winter season): Your final high altitude camp before you attempt the Brahmatal top is Brahmatal or Tilandi. As you step out of the campsite early in the morning, the snow is going to be hard, having frozen overnight. This snow section continues until you get to Brahmatal top, getting steeper as you approach the summit.
.
Here’s a Complete guide to Acute Mountains Sickness, HAPE and HACE:
Exit Points and Closest Hospital To Brahmatal Trek
Brahmatal Trek in Winter
Day time: Between 8 °C and 10 °C | Night time: Will drop to temperatures between 0 °C and -8 °C.
Presence of snow: You will find snow from the base camp towards the end of December. The entire landscape and valley will be in white
No. of warm layers required: 5 warm layers
When most treks in the Himalayas shut during peak winters – January and February, Brahmatal stays accessible. It remains open from December to February and then into spring.
And that’s a treat because winter snow is heavenly on the Brahmatal trek. Although it makes the trek a notch more difficult. But the experience is still worth it.
In winters, oak and rhododendron trees stoop under the weight of the snow lending a Narnia-like vibe to the trek. And this happens as soon as you set off from Lohajung.
Apart from the snow, the sight of the frozen Bekaltal lake is mesmerising. Standing by it gives the impression of being frozen in time. But be careful about stepping on this frozen lake. Depending on the month, the ice may or may not be hard enough to support your weight.
Another highlight of winters is camping on the snow at Tilandi with spectacular sunrises and sunsets. Unlike autumn, now the vibrant colours are reflected on the white, snowy landscape.
And last year, trekkers filled their Instagram feeds with images of this campsite covered in snow. (View Tilandi pics on Instagram)
On the flip side, Brahmatal lake or top may not be accessible in the peak winters due to snow. But regardless of that fact, you will be able to witness the beauty of this trek from the ridge and the Tilandi campsite. And that’s fulfilling in itself. Read this article to know why you must do the Brahmatal trek in winter.
Brahmatal Trek in Autumn
Day time: Between 10 °C and 15 °C | Night time: Will drop to temperatures between 0 °C and -5 °C
Presence of snow: You will not find any snow in the autumn season
No. of warm layers required: 4 warm layers
The flowers you witnessed in spring would have wilted and vanished in autumn, leaving a dark canopy of the rhododendron and oak trees. In this season, the trees start shedding leaves, offering a distinct crunch to your step as you walk over them.
With that setting in place, look up at the mountain views. They’re the highlight in autumn, at their clearest post-monsoon when the air is free from haze.
In this season, watch out for the ridge that Sandhya mentioned earlier in the trek guide. This ridge runs parallel to Ali Bugyal of the famed Roopkund trail. From here you can see the grand Trishul range rise over Asia’s largest meadow. It is a breathtaking experience.
Further up the trek, as you reach Jhandi top, brilliant mountain views of Mt Chaukhamba, Mt Neelkanth, and Mt Hathi Ghoda open up under the blue autumn sky.
There’s one more aspect of autumn that not many talks about, sunrises and sunsets. They are the most vibrant during autumn. Especially at the Tilandi campsite, simply because it is situated on the ridge.
Words fall short, but watch out for the sunset when you reach Tilandi. It is a dramatic affair. The sun splashes vibrant crimson hues across the sky. And the next morning, wake up early to watch the golden sunrise on the other side.
Lastly, autumn is also a great season if you like empty trails. But it’s not empty for the whole of autumn. For a quiet experience, aim for dates after Dusshera/Diwali vacation and before winter sets in. During this time the Brahmatal trail is at its emptiest.
Brahmatal Trek in Spring
Day time: Between 15 °C and 18 °C | Night time: Will drop to temperatures between 0 °C and 5 °C
Great time to experience the last of the winter snow. The snow starts to recede from the lower campsites when spring sets. The upper reaches of Brahmatal are still under snow
No. of warm layers required: 3 warm layers
While Deoriatal-Chandrashila pops up in discussions when we talk about rhododendrons, not many know that Brahmatal too is a charming trek to do in spring. Its slopes are lined with rhododendrons (Buransh). And in spring, the slopes look fiery with rhodos blooming dark pink and crimson. Imagine this in the backdrop of receding snow!
But you won’t see these flowers throughout the trek. Although, you may start spotting lonesome trees in bloom from Lohajung itself!
After that, as you begin your trek, watch out for the section between Bekaltal and Tilandi. Here, just as you step out of Bekaltal, you enter a rhodo forest and the blooming flowers form a canopy over your head as you trek.
Finally, watch out for rhodos towards the end of the trek, around Khorurai.
For a magical experience, trek to Brahmatal in early spring (March). So that you get to trek on snow even as you see the flowers in bloom. During this time, you will find snow in sections upwards of Tilandi. As the season goes by, snow recedes to the higher altitude, around the Brahmatal lake which lies at 12,250 ft.
By mid-April, most of the snow on the trail and around it has melted.
| Note: Although you can access Brahmatal in summers, it’s not a great season to experience the trek. During monsoons, the trek becomes inaccessible due to the rains. That brings us to the next season – autumn.
Planning your onward flight/train booking
If you are travelling from Bengaluru, Chennai, Pune, Mumbai or any other city, book your air tickets for Day Zero, which is the day before Day 1 on the itinerary. If your trek start day is 25 August, book your air tickets for 24 August to either Delhi/Dehradun.
There are two options for your flight booking.
1. Fly directly to Dehradun: We recommend taking a flight to Dehradun. It gives you an added rest day at Rishikesh. Most metros are directly connected to Dehradun. From Dehradun, it takes one hour by bus to Rishikesh.
2. Fly to Delhi: Reach Delhi before 09.00 PM, one day before your pick-up date, and take a bus from there.
Here are the options for your train booking.
1. Take the Dehradun Shatabdi (Train no: 12017): From New Delhi Railway Station at 6:45 am and reach Haridwar at 11:30 am. From Haridwar take a bus to reach Rishikesh. There are buses which ply at frequent 10-15 minute intervals to Rishikesh. It takes about 1 hour to get there. Note: Do not take a train to Dehradun, it longer to reach Rishikesh from Dehradun railway station. Take the train only up to Haridwar.
2. Take the Dehradun Jan Shatabdi (Train no: 12055): From Hazrath Nizamuddin station, which leaves at 3.20 pm and reaches Haridwar at 7:33 pm. Stay overnight in a hotel at Rishikesh and join the team vehicle the next morning. Note: Live Free Hostel is a good place to halt for the night. The place is decent and clean.
If you don’t get the train, there are regular overnight Volvo AC buses from Delhi.
1. Take an overnight bus from Delhi’s ISBT Kashmiri Gate to Rishikesh. Buses are frequent and not usually crowded. You can get a bus almost every half hour. It takes 8-9 hours to get to Rishikesh from Delhi. AC bus tickets cost about Rs.900. Take a bus that reaches 5:30 AM.
Note: The last metro from airport to New delhi is 23:15. Metro fare is Rs 60.
Whichever mode of transport you choose make sure you reach Rishikesh a day earlier, Day 0.
Planning your return flight/train booking
Booking your return tickets requires some thought. If your trek ends on day 6, do not book your flight/train tickets for day 6. Instead, book for day 7.
If you are booking your flight from Dehradun, then Day 7 can be considered as your booking date.
Next, if your onward flight departs from Delhi, then book flight tickets for an evening flight on Day 7 or Day 8 morning.
Sometimes trekkers worry if they can book an early morning flight out of Delhi on Day 9. Yes, you can. But book flights that depart only after 8 am. Do not book any flight between 6.00 and 8 am. You may not reach Delhi in time.
Planning your hotel/stay
Hotel options at Rishikesh
1. Hostel Live Free
Hostel Live Free is situated on the prominent Laxman Jhula Road in Rishikesh. It offers decent accommodation options in dorms and also in private rooms.
Contact number: 099990 20248
Book online: Book online through Booking.com or Trip Advisor
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/9H8Xakmt8p2TpYFS6
2. Zostel, Rishikesh
Zostel is a modern backpackers hostel, excellent for women travelling alone. It has basic amenities such as bunk beds, towels, good bathroom. The entire premises is quite hygienic. Bathrooms are shared. The average cost is Rs 400 – 800 per bed. Rooms start at about Rs 1,200
Book Online: https://www.zostel.com/
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/ugqLXUBcbgxnFt638
3. Joey's Hostel is another good option. The bunk beds cost Rs 550. The rooms cost Rs 2,800.
Location: https://g.page/joey-s-hostel-rishikesh?share
Phone : +91 - 7217482824
4. Shiv Shakti Hostel is another good, decent option at a similar price range to Zostel. This is a hostel like Zostel. They also have rooms.
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/qLs5wAThyyP8cmfR8
Hotel options near Jolly Grant Airport
1. Sun n Soil Backpackers hostel is a great option, if you want to stay near Jolly Grant airport. It's a great place for the backpackers and travellers as it has a different ambience. Bunk beds start at Rs 450, rooms start at Rs 1,000.
Location: https://g.page/sun-n-soil-backpacker-hostel?share
Phone: +91 - 9634570743
Hotel options at Haridwar
1. Hotel Famous is a good option for a stay at Haridwar. It's very close to the railway station. It's a descent hotel with good amneties.
Phone: +91-8273158441
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/8BFpDFz3asN5cMjUA
2. Hotel Rahi, a government-owned GMVN property is fairly decent. Spacious but old building. Almost opposite the Haridwar railway station, just past the bus stop. Prices start at around Rs 700 for a room.
Phone: +91-135-2431793
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/bH25Zp8Di9SE3p757
What if you miss the Indiahikes pickup? Getting to Lohajung on your own
If you miss the Indiahikes pick them up from Kathgodam. Here is how you can get to Lohajung base camp on your own.
Option 1: Delhi → Lohajung (24 hours)
There is a direct bus from Delhi to Mundoli/Lohajung. It leaves Delhi Anand Vihar terminal at 9.15 pm. You will reach Kathgodam at 4.00 am and Lohajung at 5.30 pm.
Note: This is an extremely long and tiring journey.
Option 2: Delhi → Rishikesh/ Dehradun→ Lohajung (cab)
From Delhi, get to Rishikesh/Haridwar and hire a shared cab to Lohajung. The route: Devprayag – Srinagar – Rudraprayag – Karnaprayag – turn right to Tharali – Debal – Mundoli – Lohajung. Usually the shared taxi goes till Debal and you would have to switch to another shared cab from Debal.
There are even shared cabs available from Dehradun, which goes via Rishikesh.
You can also hire a personal vehicle as well from Rishikesh, but this would be expensive.
Note: Most taxi operators may not have heard of Lohajung. So, you’ll have to show them the direction given above. (If you are booking a cab for yourself)
Option 3: Delhi → Rishikesh/Dehradun → Karanprayag → Tharali → Lohajung (bus)
From Rishikesh Bus Stand., take any bus on the Joshimath/Badrinath route and buy a ticket to Karanprayag. It is a 6-7 hour journey from Rishikesh to Karanprayag. Take a bus that leaves as early in the morning as possible, preferably around 6.00 am. From Karanprayag Bus Stand, take a shared Jeep to Tharali (47 km). The road to Tharali runs along the Pindar river.
From Tharali, take a shared taxi to Debal (14 km). Once you reach Debal, you can arrange onward transport to Lohajung (24 km).
Option 4: Kathgodam/Haldwani → Almora → Baijnath → Gwaldam (cab)
You can also travel from different parts of the Kumaon region to Lohajung by shared cab. The idea is that you have to reach Baijnath or Gwaldam. From there, you will get shared cabs to Debal. From there, in a similar way, you can head for Lohajung.
These are documents required for legal purposes by Indiahikes and the forest department. Without any of these, you will not be allowed to trek.
- Original and photocopy of government photo identity card. Anything such as a driver’s license, Aadhar Card, or passport will do. This is required by the forest department for your identification.
- Disclaimer certificate: There are two sections in this. The first part is a personal medical record. The second part is a legal requirement. Download the PDF, read carefully, fill in and sign it. This must be handed over to your Trek Leader during registration at the base camp. – Download disclaimer certificate
- Medical certificate: The medical certificate needs to be filled out by an MBBS doctor, without which the forest department will not issue permissions for your trek. It is also a requirement by Indiahikes – Download medical certificate
Note: Indiahikes has a panel of doctors who can help you with a medical certificate. They are available for online consultation. To get in touch with them, please write to trekmedicalcertificates@gmail.com. They will respond to you within 24 hours.
Consultation fee: Rs 300
PRO TIPS
Keep important documents in a clear plastic cover and slide them into the inner pocket at the back of your backpack. This keeps them from getting wet.
Before you purchase any gear, make sure you visit the Crosstrek Rental store, where you can get custom-made high quality gear at 5% of the buying cost.
You can rent trekking shoes, backpacks, padded jackets, trekking poles, rainwear and headlamps for less than Rs 1400 for the entire duration of your trek. Visit our Crosstrek Rentals store here.
Here is a list of everything you need for your trek.
Shoes and backpack
- Trekking shoes with ankle support (Available on rent)
- Backpack with rain cover (Available on rent)
Warm Layers and Clothes
- Warm layers (Padded jackets available on rent)
- 3 layers if you're trekking in spring, summer and monsoon (1 woollen sweater, 1 fleece, 1 padded jacket)
- 4 layers if you're trekking in autumn (1 woollen sweater, 2 fleece, 1 padded jacket)
- 5 layers if you're trekking in winter (1 pair of thermals, 1 woollen sweater, 2 fleece, 1 padded jacket) - 3 Collared T-shirts (Wear one, carry two)
- 2 quick-dry trek pants (Wear one, carry one)
Accessories
- Sunglasses (Available on rent)
- Sun cap, preferably with flaps (Available for purchase)
- Waterproof gloves (Available for purchase)
- Balaclava
- Woollen socks (2 pairs of Dry fit + 1 pair of Woollen)
- Headlamp (Available on rent)
- Trekking pole (Available on rent)
- Rain jacket + pants / poncho (Poncho is available on rent)
Toiletries:
- Sunscreen
- Moisturiser
- Light towel
- Lip balm or vaseline
- Toilet paper (Wet wipes are strictly not allowed on our treks)
- Toothbrush
- Toothpaste
- Reusable plastic covers (for used clothes)
Cutlery:
- Steel lunch box, spoon and a coffee mug (Lunch box is available on rent)
- Two water bottles or Hydration Pack (Water bottles are available on rent)
Once you run through this list, don't miss this ultimate guide on what gear to take on a trek. It contains tips on what gear to choose, where to get it from and how much to spend on it.
Our only tip: Keep your backpack light. Indiahikes practices low impact sustainable trekking in every aspect of the trek. Carrying your own personal backpack reduces your impact on the mountains by 20%. We expect all our trekkers to carry their own backpacks unless they have a justifiable reason not to.
Carry these medicines with you, easily accessible at all times. Do not take any medicine unless you have consulted your trek leader.
- Diamox (1 Strip): It is important to carry Diamox as part of the Live Saving Drugs. Read more about Diamox here on how it reduces the chances of Acute Mountain Sickness on the trek.
- Dolo 650 (5 tablets): This is a paracetamol. It helps to tackle fever, mild pain
- Avomine (4 tablets): Carry this especially if you are prone to motion sickness. Pop one-half hour before the start of your road journey.
- Combiflam (5 tablets): Take a combiflam if you get a sudden twist of the leg or a muscle strain. It is a pain reliever. It also contains paracetamol.
- Digene (4 tablets): Take it if you feel the food that you’ve taken is undigested. Alert your trek leader immediately. It could be a sign of AMS.
- ORS (6 packs): Consume a pack of ORS water at least once a day, usually mid-day when you are in the middle of your trek. It replenishes essential salts lost while trekking. Tip: It also makes cold water easier to drink.
- Knee Brace (optional): Carry this if you are prone to knee injury or have known issues of knee pain.
Our trek leaders carry a high altitude medical kit with them which also consist of Life Saving Drugs. If there is an emergency our trek leaders know how to tackle it. Meanwhile, contact your trek leader before consuming any of these medicines listed here.
Pro Tip: We find that these medicines by trekkers are rarely used. But you cannot do away with them. At the end of the trek please donate unused medicines to your trek leader. Some of these medicines get distributed to villages on the trek and some are added to the Indiahikes medical kit.
We recommend jogging as the best routine to get fit for a trek. It works on the same muscles that you use while trekking — your calves, glutes and hamstrings. It helps increase your stamina day by day. It is also an easy routine that does not require any equipment or tools.
Fitness target:
To do this trek comfortably, you must be able to cover 5 km in under 38 minutes. This is the minimum fitness required for this trek.
How to achieve this fitness?
- Start jogging at least 4 days a week
- If you cannot run 5 km immediately, start with 2 km and increase to 5 km over 2-3 weeks.
- Once you’re able to run 5 km, increase your pace day by day.
- Gradually increase your pace and bring it down to 5 km in less than 38 mins.
- You must be able to run 5 km in 38 mins consistently for at least 2 weeks before the trek.
This trek requires at least 6-8 weeks of preparation. The longer, the better. So plan your trek soon and start preparing.
Here's a complete guide to get you trek fit.
Strength training tips:
How to get Fitness Approval from the Indiahikes team:
Every trekker needs fitness approval from the Indiahikes team 20 days before the trek date. Without this, you will not be allowed on the trek.
What to upload?
- A minimum of 3 screenshots of your runs/jogs/walks/cycling
- Monthly summary of your routine
Why fitness matters:
Every high-altitude trek comes with a set of challenges. Steep ascents and descents, uneven terrain, snow walks, stream crossings, pass crossings, and summit climb. Even the easiest of treks have some of these challenges if not all of them. Without fitness, trekkers struggle, get injured easily, lag behind, or simply fail to complete the trek.
At Indiahikes, we take pride in the fact that our trekkers are among the fittest in the country. Those who do not meet the fitness requirements are often sent back. Our philosophy is that trekking and fitness go hand in hand. Without fitness, there’s no trekking.
Yes, the Brahmatal trek is safe and is regarded as a beginner-friendly trek with multiple exit points. The Indiahikes team is extensively trained and equipped to handle any medical emergencies that you might encounter on the trek. However, a lot depends upon your pre-trek preparations. Read this article to learn why you need to take safety on treks more seriously.
A Himalayan trek like Brahmatal requires a good fitness level. The trek has long climbs and walks daily. As a measure of your fitness, we need you to:
Run at least 5 km in 38 minutes before your trek. Consistency of your workout also matters, so aim to jog 20 km a week or 80 km in a month. It's a minimum mandatory requirement if you wish to trek with us
OR
Alternatively, cycle for at least 22 km in 60 minutes. Aim to cycle 110 km a week or 440 km in a month. However, running is better suited for your trek preparation.
Once you get confirmed for your trek, we will diligently follow up on your fitness routine. Our team will also assist in putting you through a fitness plan. It will ultimately help you have a safe trek experience.
Both treks offer very different experiences. In winter, Brahmatal is the only trek that takes you to an alpine lake, whereas Kedarkantha offers you an adventurous summit climb. Brahmatal has beautiful oak and rhododendron forest sections whereas Kedarkantha forests are dominated by coniferous trees. Brahmatal offers a close view of two of the most celebrated mountain peaks in India: Mt Trishul and Mt Nanda Ghunti. Kedarkantha offers 360-degree views of valleys and mountains including Mt Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch massif and Mt Kalanag.
Covering a total distance of 21.5 km, the Brahmatal trek is a 4-day long trek. It takes you from 7,550 ft to 12,250 ft and back.
Yes you can!
If you are above the age of 58 years, you’ll need to submit a Treadmill Test (not older than 12 months) within a week of completing your trek registration. Apart from this, you should also be able to jog 5 km in 45 minutes.
Brahmatal is a 6-day trek. The stay on Day 1 and Day 5, at Lohajung, will be in the Indiahikes Community Campus, where you will share rooms with fellow trekkers. Stay on all other days of the trek in tents. Each tent accommodates 2 trekkers. Sufficient number of toilet tents will be set up for the convenience of trekkers.
You are likely to find snow on this trail in December, January and February. Sometimes, you can get lucky and find snow well into March. By the start of April, most of the snow on the trail and around it has melted.
Brahmatal is an easy-moderate trek but requires trekkers to be physically fit. The minimum age for eligibility is 7 years. If your child meets this criterion and is physically fit, you can take her/him along.
The guest house at Lohajung will have concrete toilets.
During the trek, toilet tents will be set up along each campsite. There will be 2 to 4 of these toilet tents depending on the size of the group. A toilet tent will have a deep pit, where one can answer nature’s call. There will be a mound of soil and a shovel to cover it up. These are dry toilets, where you’ll have to use toilet paper. This is the most hygienic and convenient way to answer nature’s call in the wild.
Please use plain toilet paper and refrain from using wet wipes since these are not biodegradable.
What Happens To Your Poop in the Mountains? | Green Trails | Indiahikes
You will get mobile signals at Lohajung for most networks. Signals will be intermittent in the mountains. So finish all your important calls at Lohajung and inform anxious family members about limited phone connectivity.
As per electricity, The last charging point would be at our basecamp in Lohajung. However, come prepared for the possibility of power cuts at Lohajung.
Rishikesh is your best bet to make last-minute cash withdrawals.
We advise you to carry around Rs 4-5k in cash to pay for your transport to the basecamp, for rental gear deposit and personal expenses en route to the basecamp. If you are planning to visit other attractions after the trek, we advise you to carry more.
If you’re an Indiahikes trekker, there is no major need for cash as once you arrive at the base camp. All meals, accommodations, permits, and related expenses are taken care of by Indiahikes.
Since you will be starting and returning to the guest house at Lohajung, it is possible for you to leave some luggage behind, if required. However, make sure you do not leave any valuables - Indiahikes is not responsible for loss or damage to any belongings.
You can spend time exploring tourist attractions around Rishikesh, Bhimtal, or Kausani. Please note that these are suggestions and Indiahikes does not make any arrangements for visiting them.
Having more footprint through porters or mules on any trail isn’t good for the ecosystem. This is why, at Indiahikes, we do not encourage offloading. A trekker carries his/her own backpack in the true spirit of trekking.
But if — due to a medical condition — you are unable to carry your own backpack, you may offload your backpack.
The cost of offloading on the Brahmatal trek is Rs 1,680 for the trek.
Brahmatal Trek Photos
Expert Speak
Sandhya UC, Co-Founder, COO
Sandhya UC, Co-Founder, COO
Sandhya is a founding partner at Indiahikes. Over the past ten years, she has explored and put on the map a few of the greatest Himalayan treks in India, including Kashmir Great Lakes and Kedarkantha. She is a TedX Speaker and has been awarded the "Women of Worth" Award by Outlook Business in 2017. She believes in sustainable living just as she believes in sustainable trekking.
Here’s Sandhya talking about one of the well-known treks in our country.
What I Like About the Brahmatal Trek
What I Like About the Brahmatal Trek
Sandhya UC, Co-Founder, COO
Sandhya is a founding partner at Indiahikes. Over the past ten years, she has explored and put on the map a few of the greatest Himalayan treks in India, including Kashmir Great Lakes and Kedarkantha. She is a TedX Speaker and has been awarded the "Women of Worth" Award by Outlook Business in 2017. She believes in sustainable living just as she believes in sustainable trekking. Here’s Sandhya talking about one of the well-known treks in our country.
1. The Rhododendron forest from Lohajung to Bekaltal
Brahmatal has mesmerising forest walks. You get to walk through the centuries-old forests of Oaks and Rhododendrons. What particularly stays with me is the dedicated section on Rhododendrons! Just out of Bekaltal, you get a demarcated section of Rhododendron forests.
The Rhodo forests are a treat to the eyes. The trunks twist and turn in shapes and forms. The trunks are usually bare and smooth wooded. The trees are not too tall and form a nice canopy at the top. They are close enough to form a perfect green roof over your head.
This is what you see throughout the year. If you come here during March and April, you get a pink flowery roof. If you come here during winters, you get a white snowy carpet
A lone rhododendron tree in bloom at Lohajung, the base camp of the Brahmatal trek.
Picture by Jothiranjan.
2. The ridge meadow walk from Tilandi to Jhandi Top
On the second day, you climb out of Bekaltal trekking up through some of the most beautiful rhododendron and oak forests. As you near the top, you are curious and impatient to see what lies outside the tree line.
You enter the meadow on the mountain top and in front of you is a wall of white mountains. Having climbed all the way up to the ridge (which runs parallel to Ali Bugyal of the Roopkund trek), you see grand views of the Trishul range.
You know you are climbing to the top but the enormity of the mountain ranges so up close is something very special to Brahmatal.
Starting there, all the way to Jhandi top is one of the best ridges walks you will do in our mountains. On one side you have the mighty Trishul range fanning out and on the other side opens up to layers and layers of mountain ranges arranging themselves in height order going down all the way to Deval and Tharali.
These are the villages that you drove through to reach the base camp. To your right below the Trishul, the range spreads out the entire Roopkund trek. Every landmark, every campsite, and every climb on the Roopkund trek is seen from the Brahmatal ridge. I have never stood on one trek and gone through another trek, that too perhaps the most iconic trek in its entirety like this.
An adventurous ridge walk to the Jhandi top. Picture from Indiahikes Archive
3. The Gujreni Campsite
The Gujreni campsite enclosed by forest but in grassy clearings, with commanding views of mountain tops, I think I could fall in love with these camps.
They are secluded, with plenty of space to stretch your legs, walkabout, or take a peek in the forests, yet, you can just sit in one corner taking in the views. I have done lots of treks and have loved lots of camps, but if you ask me about Brahmatal, then I think it has some of the better campsites.
The picture-perfect Gujreni Campsite. Picture by Avijit Jamloki
Trek Trivia
Things Nobody Tells You About Brahmatal
The Arrowheads of Bekal Tal
In the neighbouring areas of Bekal Tal, people can be seen wearing or carrying arrowheads. These are used as lockets, some are displayed in homes, and some are attached to peoples’ walking sticks among other such ornamentations. These arrowheads have a couple of stories behind them.
Uttarakhand is known as dev bhumi (divine or holy land) as Mahabharat is said to have taken place in parts of it. It is said that the arrowheads are from the days of the grand epic when they were used in battles. These arrowheads can be found stuck on trees in the forests as well today too. However, most of them have been removed and are being used by the locals.
There's also another story related to Lord Curzon linked to the arrowheads. It's often hard to verify what is fact and what isn't, but they're good stories to listen to. Make sure you ask your guide or the locals about it.
Tale of the Bekal Naag Devta and the Pundit
There are stories of a local pundit who would come to pray to this Naag Devta regularly. Pleased with his steady devotion and service, the God once invited him down to his golden temple at the depths of the lake. The pundit is said to have seen a stunning sight. That of an underwater city of snakes, with the Naag Devta presiding over them in his temple.
The story takes a sad turn when the pundit defies the snake god. However, the myth brings forth interesting elements in the region. Not only is the Bekal Tal a sight of this myth, but the Ratgaon water source appears like the meandering body of a snake, as seen from Tilandi. Mythology tells us that Bekal Naag Devta left the lake through that route, leaving the Ratgaon water body in this snake-like figure.
Even the water from Bekal Tal is said to have seeped down along with him and appeared in the Ratgaon source.
Other Treks Like Brahmatal Trek
Sign up for our much loved Weekly Mailer
We have terrific trekking tips, trek updates and trek talks to look forward to
Treks by Categories
Contact Us
080 468 01269
Mon to Sat - 9.30 AM to 7.30 PM
Sun - 9.30 AM to 6.30 PM
Bengaluru Office
139, Defence Colony Road, Defence Layout, Sahakar Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560092
Dehradun Office
Mohabbewala, Titan Road, Near Titan Factory, Chandramani Khalsa Dehradun - 248002
© 2024 Indiahikes Private Limited
All images are copyrighted by their respective authors.