Trek Overview
Brahmatal Trek – The Winter Wonderland of Uttarakhand
Hidden deep in the Uttarakhand Himalayas, Brahmatal is a serene glacial lake wrapped in myth and natural beauty. This trek is one of the few Himalayan adventures open in winter, from December to March, offering trekkers snow-covered meadows, frozen lakes, and breathtaking mountain views.
The route passes through dense forests of oak and rhododendron, quiet alpine clearings, and the tranquil Bekaltal and Brahmatal lakes. From the top, trekkers are rewarded with spectacular views of Mt. Trishul, Mt. Nanda Ghunti, and even glimpses of the distant Roopkund trail.
With gentle ascents and well-sheltered trails, Brahmatal is ideal for beginners seeking a true Himalayan snow trek. The landscape, ever-changing with light and snow, is a photographer’s delight — from glowing peaks at sunrise to the calm reflection of the lake under a white winter sky.
Quick Itinerary
Day 1: Dehradun to Lohajung
- Drive Distance: 302 km (approx. 9–10 hrs)
- Route: Scenic drive via Rishikesh, Karnaprayag, and Tharali
- Stay: Guesthouse in Lohajung
Day 2: Lohajung to Bekaltal (9,680 ft)
- Trek Distance: 5.5–6 km (approx. 4.5–5 hrs)
- Highlights: Walk through oak and rhododendron forests, picturesque Bekaltal Lake
- Stay: Campsite at Bekaltal
Day 3: Bekaltal to Brahmatal (10,660 ft)
- Trek Distance: 6.5 km (approx. 6.5 hrs)
- Highlights: Gradual ascent through snow-covered trails and mountain vistas
- Stay: Campsite near Brahmatal
Day 4: Brahmatal Summit and Return to Lohajung
- Trek Distance: 11.5 km (approx. 7 hrs)
- Highlights: Panoramic summit views of Mt. Trishul and Nanda Ghunti, descent to Lohajung
- Stay: Guesthouse in Lohajung
Day 5: Lohajung to Dehradun
- Drive Distance: 302 km (approx. 9–10 hrs)
- Highlights: Return journey through scenic mountain valleys
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 – Dehradun to Lohajung
We will see you the first day at Dehradun Railway Station or Haridwar Bus Station. The pickup is from Dehradun early in the morning. An overnight train journey from Delhi is usually convenient.
The journey uphill from Dehradun to Lohajung will take you cruising through the mountain roads connecting the lower Himalayan belt of Kumaon to that of Garhwal. It’s a long drive of around 9–10 hours, but the changing vistas of the Himalayas will keep you captivated throughout. For the first few hours, we drive alongside the serene Ganga River before meeting the lively Pindar River later on.
On the way, you’ll pass through Rishikesh, Devprayag, and Karnaprayag — some of Uttarakhand’s most beautiful and spiritual hill towns. As we near Lohajung, the majestic Nanda Ghunti peak will appear in the distance, marking our arrival. We reach the guesthouse by evening, just in time for a cup of hot tea.
Note: If you need any last-minute gear or warm clothing, Lohajung’s small market can be quite handy.
Day 2 – Lohajung to Bekaltal (9,680 ft)
After a warm breakfast, we begin our first trekking day towards Bekaltal. The 5.5–6 km trail takes around 4–5 hours, winding through dense oak and rhododendron forests. In winter, these trails are often blanketed in snow, giving a truly magical start to your trek.
The route passes through Mandoli village and continues uphill through serene forest clearings. Along the way, the sound of chirping birds and rustling leaves makes it a peaceful experience.
By afternoon, we’ll reach our campsite near the tranquil Bekaltal Lake — surrounded by trees and often half-frozen in winter. Spend the evening by the campfire, soaking in the quiet beauty of the Himalayas.
Stay: Overnight camping at Bekaltal.
Day 3 – Bekaltal to Brahmatal (10,660 ft)
Today’s trek is about 6.5 km and takes 6–7 hours. The trail gradually ascends through dense oak and rhododendron forests, and as you climb higher, the tree line begins to open up to stunning views.
On clear days, the snow-covered path offers breathtaking sights of the surrounding Himalayan ranges. As we approach Brahmatal, the trail opens into alpine meadows and offers glimpses of Mt. Trishul and Nanda Ghunti.
We’ll camp near Brahmatal Lake, a serene high-altitude lake that glows with a surreal blue hue. The calm and isolation here make it a perfect Himalayan experience.
Stay: Overnight camping near Brahmatal.
Day 4 – Brahmatal Summit and Return to Lohajung
This is the most exciting day of the trek — summit day! After an early breakfast, we begin our ascent to the Brahmatal summit, located at around 12,150 ft. The total trek distance for the day is around 11.5 km, taking 7 hours round trip.
The climb to the summit offers mesmerizing views of Mt. Trishul and Mt. Nanda Ghunti — two of Uttarakhand’s most iconic peaks. On a clear day, you can even spot Mt. Chaukhamba, Neelkanth, and Hathi Ghoda peaks in the distance.
After spending some time at the top capturing memories and soaking in the vast Himalayan panorama, we descend back towards Lohajung by late afternoon. You’ll reach the guesthouse by evening for a well-deserved rest and a hot meal.
Stay: Overnight stay at guesthouse in Lohajung.
Day 5 – Lohajung to Dehradun
After breakfast, we’ll start our return journey from Lohajung to Dehradun, covering approximately 302 km in 9–10 hours. Retracing our route through Tharali, Karnaprayag, and Rishikesh, we’ll once again enjoy the scenic beauty of mountain rivers and lush valleys.
Expect to reach Dehradun by evening. You can plan your onward journey from here or stay overnight to rest after the trek.
End of Trek.
Inclusion / Exclusion
Inclusions:
- Accommodation (Guest house, Home stay, Camping).
- Meals while on trek (Veg. + Egg).
- Trek equipment (Sleeping bag, mattress, kitchen & dining tent, crampon, utensils, tent).
- All necessary permits and entry fees.
- First aid medical kits, stretcher, and oxygen cylinder.
- Mountaineering qualified & professional trek leader, guide, and support staff.
Exclusions:
- Any kind of personal expenses.
- Food during the transit.
- Insurance.
- Mules or porter to carry personal luggage.
- Anything not specifically mentioned under the inclusions.
Cancellation & Refund Policy
Change/Cancellation of Booking by the Participant
Process
The cancellation process is completely automated. Please log in to your Mountain Hike account and follow the instructions on your dashboard. You can choose between Instant Refund or Cash Refund as per the policy below.
Replacement of Participants
Participants can be replaced through the Mountain Hike dashboard if the booking status is “Paid” and at least 5 days remain before departure. If you face issues, email themountainhike@gmail.com with a screenshot of the error. The new participant must submit a signed undertaking form.
Note: Any Volvo/Train transport booked for the original participant will be automatically canceled and is non-transferable.
Cash Refund Policy
Cash refunds apply only for bookings made without promotional codes or vouchers. Refund amounts will be deducted as follows:
- 30+ days before departure: 5% deduction
- 15-30 days before departure: 50% deduction
- Less than 15 days before departure: No Refund
Refunds will be processed to the original payment method and are based on the Base Price of the trek, excluding transport, insurance, and portage fees.
Voucher Refund Policy
Voucher refunds are available for all types of bookings, including promotional offers. Refund amounts will be:
- 5+ days before departure: No deduction
- Less than 5 days: No Refund
Vouchers are valid for 10 months from the date of issue. The refunded voucher amount does not include service tax paid during the original booking.
Cancellation or Change Initiated by Mountain Hike
We reserve the right to modify or cancel an event due to unforeseen circumstances such as weather conditions, natural disasters, low participation, or any force majeure events. If this occurs, you will be given the choice of:
- A replacement event of equivalent value
- A full refund (processed as a voucher valid for 6 months)
If cancellation is due to low participation, participants can choose between a cash refund or a voucher.
Changes/Cancellation After Departure
Due to Force Majeure
No refund will be provided for cancellations due to force majeure after departure.
Other Reasons
If cancellations occur for reasons other than force majeure, we will attempt to arrange alternative services or provide a refund in the form of a 6-month voucher (or cash, if preferred).
Participant Dropout During the Event
No refund will be provided if a participant voluntarily drops out of the trek. Any additional costs incurred for return arrangements will be borne by the participant.
Early Return from an Event
If a participant returns early due to force majeure or an event ending sooner than planned, additional expenses (extra nights, transport) must be covered by the participant.
Emergency Evacuation
In case of a medical emergency, we will arrange evacuation to the nearest hospital. Any costs for porters, vehicles, ambulance services, or hospitalization must be covered by the participant.
Brahmatal Trek Gallery