Trek Grade
Easy - Moderate
Highest Altitude
12,557 ft
Base Camp
Lohajung
Best Time
April - June / Sept - Nov
Brahmatal Trek
Brahmatal Trek is a celestial lake located 3,444 meters above sea level, hidden in the Himalayan meadows. The summit of Brahmatal Trek is at 3,718 meters. During winter, from December to March, Brahmatal Lake is entirely frozen. All trekking routes to Brahmatal have snow-covered trails, and the summit crown of Brahmatal is snow-capped. Trekkers can easily reach the snow-covered peak of Brahmatal without difficulty.
During the trek, you may encounter a variety of wildlife, including Barasingha and Himalayan foxes, White bear, Himalayan wild goat (Black & white), Ibex/Thar, as well as Himalayan wild goat (Black & White), Ibex/Thar, which licks the mountain slopes to disperse medicinal juice of Shilajeet, Katukki… Monal, an effervescent Bird in Uttarakhand, welcomes you into the mountains with feathers in a rainbow palette. These encounters with nature’s wonders make the trek even more memorable.
Since the beginning of time, Lord Brahma has considered Brahmatal his abode for meditation. Brahmatal confirms the form of Brahmkamal, the primordial flower in the Himalayan region of Uttarakhand. Brahmatal is located in Chamoli Garhwal. The Brahmatal Lake is surrounded by Deodar, Rhododendron, Thuner (Taxus Baccata), Khorsu, etc., ensuring that there is always enough oxygen.
Summer is also a great time to stroll through this beautiful valley, with its lush green vegetation. At this time of year, animals venture to the plateau to graze on the Himalayan wet grassland. The elusive land of Brahmatal is a place where every traveller feels a close connection to other famous Himalayan summits throughout the year. Upper Kunji’s meadow is a great alternative grazing area for brave farmer travellers. Upper Kuji remains a hidden treasure trove of Himalayan serenity for trekkers and locals alike.
Brahmatal, a lake tucked away in the deepest parts of Brahmatal, is steeped in the mythos Uttarakhand Himalayas. Brahmatal is a rare Himalayan destination that can be reached by trekking in December, January and February. The landscapes change from dark and shadowy oak forests and rhododendrons to snow-covered meadows, lakeside camping near Bekaltal, and spectacular high peaks glimmering against a brilliant sky. What sets this trek apart is the rare opportunity to view colossal ice-capped peaks such as Mt. Nanda Ghunti, which are rarely found on other treks. Mt. Trishul, a low-lying trek, can also be viewed from here, adding to the trek’s unique appeal.
The gradual ascent of rolling hills, the steep slopes, and the thrill of the unknown are what make the Brahmatal Trek so exciting. This route is suitable for both beginners and experienced trekkers, offering a unique adventure in the heart of the Himalayas. The trek is mainly under forest cover, which reduces the risk of altitude sickness. It will provide you with a thrilling winter experience, with the sweet, mellow sound of falling snow, a fantastic trail, and the silence of the oaks and rhododendrons. This trek is a perfect choice for shutterbugs, as it offers diverse frames such as snow-laden forests, white-gold high peaks in Alpenglow, and an alpine mountainscape of a single tree perched on the icy shores of the Brahmatal Lake.
Brahmatal Trek offers breathtaking views of mountain ranges such as Chaukhambha, Deoriatal Chandrashila, Bandarpoonch, and Dayara Bugyal, making it one of the best treks in the Himalayas. The view of the white wall of the Trishul massif on the second day of the trek is unbeatable. As you climb the ridge towards Jhandi Top, these views are closer. From Jhandi Top, you get a central view of the mountain range, with Mt Trishul to your left and Mt Nanda Ghunti to your right. The Ronti Saddle, which connects Mt Trishul to Mt Nanda Ghunti, is also visible from here.
As you trek, the majestic Mt Trishul and Mt Nanda Ghunti guide your path, and their towering presence is a constant reminder of the awe-inspiring nature of the Himalayas. The trek’s highest point can be accessed from the side facing either of these giants, adding to the sense of adventure and wonder. This trek is truly a gem among the top treks, offering stunning mountain views that will leave you breathless.
Trek Cost
- Stay will be on a twin-sharing basis in tents
- + 210 Trek Insurance (Optional)
- Discount Policy
- Transport Optional ( INR - 1,600 extra )
Pickup from Arctic Hills By Opulence Hotels – Rishikesh at 6.30 A.M & will drop at same location by 7 P.M
Fix Diparture Dates
Brahmatal Trek Videos
Videos by experts watch these videos to prepare well for a Successful Trek
Want To Trek Like Pro?
Check out the following videos if you want to trek like a pro trekker and improve your skills. These videos contain helpful tips, tricks, and techniques to help you trek like a pro. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced trekker, these videos can provide valuable insights to enhance your trekking experience. So, watch the videos below by Trekup India experts to take your trekking skills to the next level.
Know Everything About Acute Mountain Sickness
Acute Mountain Sickness is a medical condition that can occur when individuals travel to high altitudes, typically above 8,000 feet. It is caused by the decrease in air pressure and oxygen levels in the air as altitude increases. Symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness may include headache, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and difficulty sleeping. To avoid Acute Mountain Sickness, it is important to gradually adjust to high altitudes and seek medical attention if symptoms worsen. To learn more about this condition, check out the videos by Trekup India.
Day Wise Detailed Itinerary of Brahmatal Trek
Day 1: Driving from Rishikesh to Lohajung 250 Kms
- Altitude: 2,300 m/ 7,662 ft
- Distance of drive 250km 10 hours
- Pickup Time and Location: Time 6:15 AM from ISBT Rishikesh
- Network available at Lohajung
- Stay will be in guesthouse
- Route: From Rishikesh to Devprayag to Srinagar to Rudraprayag to Karanprayag to Dewal to Lohajung
The journey will begin at Rishikesh. Our transport manager will meet you at ISBT Rishikesh at 6:15 AM and drive you to Lohajung, which is the village where we will start our hike. Lohajung is located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand and is about 250 kilometers away from Rishikesh. The journey to Lohajung takes between 10 and 11 hours and transportation is provided by Trekup India in either Bolero, Tata Sumo or traveller vehicles. Once you arrive at Lohajung, rooms will be allocated in the guesthouse.
The drive from Rishikesh will take you along mountain roads where, on clear days, you can glimpse the Garhwal Himalayas from a distance. Along the way, you will enjoy a peaceful landscape accompanied by the River Ganga. During the drive, you will come across the three main holy confluences in the country: Devprayag, Rudraprayag, and Karanprayag. Devprayag is the site where the Alakananda River merges with the Bhagirathi River, resulting in distinct teal and turquoise hues. Srinagar is another town you will pass through before reaching Rudraprayag, where the Mandakini River meets the Alakananda River. About 33 kilometers away from Rudraprayag is the third confluence, Karanprayag, where the Mandakini River meets the Pindar River.
Lohajung is situated close to the magnificent Nanda Ghunti peak. If we reach the peak before sunset, you will be able to catch stunning sunsets over the mountain’s peak and paint it with stunning shades. There’s an interesting folklore related to the name of the village. The locals claim that Goddess Parvati had a “jung” (war which means war in Hindi) with the demon Lohasur, which is where the village gets its name from. Lohajung is home to a small market, where you can purchase trekking gear and other essentials that may be helpful for your journey.
Lohajung is a town situated at the top of the mountain; therefore, you should expect the weather to get cold, particularly at night, and it could also be rainy and foggy depending on the season. Bring appropriate clothes to allow you to adjust to the changing weather.
Day 02: Trek from Lohajung to Bekaltal - The Brown Lake
- Bekaltal: 3,000 m/ 9,950 ft
- Distance to Trek 6 km of 4-5 hours
- Altitude Gain: 700m/ 2,150 ft
- Difficulty: Moderate ascent through the forest
- Hot lunch at the campsite
- Water Source: Water Sources: Springs and man-made water sources
- Bekaltal is a 15 minute walk from the campsite.
- Enjoy a walk in the evening to Bekalatal Lake and enjoy a Sunset views
- Tents Stay
On the first day of the trek, we will trek from Lohajung to the Bekaltal campsite. After a tasty breakfast, we will start our journey towards Bekalatal, where you will be mesmerized by the stunning views of Mount Nanda Ghunti. The trail will take you through a forest of Oak and Firs, and after 4 to 5 hours of walking, we will reach the Bekalatal Campsite, where we will stay overnight in a twin-sharing camp.
The trek towards the Bekaltal campsite is six kilometers long, with a gradual ascent. The path is well-defined, and after a brief walk, you will reach Mandoli, the first mountain settlement. Mandoli village will be on your left as you walk on the trail. As you continue, the trail will slowly climb up, winding through the mountain ranges, with curves and bends around each corner.
You will be able to see the Kali Valley, where the Kali and Pindari Rivers meet, and after Mandoli, you will walk through a dense forest of Oak, Fir, Cedar, and Rhododendron trees. In the spring and late winter, you can see the Rhododendron flowers bloom and add color to the mountains. The trail is covered with snow throughout the winter.
Two hours into your journey, you will come across a 10-meter-long wooden bridge that crosses a stream. You can ration water at this source. After crossing the bridge, you will reach Begum, a serene resting spot with stunning views of the mountains, including Nanda Ghunti, Navali, and Bagdi Bugyal. A further 20-minute walk will bring you to Gujreni, where you can see two streams and various Himalayan bird species such as the Asian Barred Owlet, Woodpeckers, Solitary Snipe, and Blue-fronted Redstarts.
Now, you are at the final part of today’s hike. A walk of an hour and a half will take you to the sandy beach of Bekaltal. The lake is just 15 minutes away from the campsite. After setting up your tents, you can refresh yourself and visit the lake in the evening. Bekaltal Lake is surrounded by Oak trees and has still water that is a captivating experience after the trek.
The lake’s water remains dark brown throughout the year due to the significant quantity of organic matter in it. A thin layer of ice may form in the waters when the weather gets colder. After watching the stunning sunset from Bekaltal, return to your camp for a delicious meal that awaits you in the evening. After dinner, you can rest comfortably in your camping tent.
Day 3: Trek From Bekaltal to Brahmatal
- Brahmatal 3.200 meters/ 10,450 feet
- Jhandi Top: 3,400 m/ 11,150 ft
- Distance of the Trek 7 km of 6-7 hrs
- Altitude Gain: 400 m/ 1,300 ft
- The ascent is steep for 1.3 hours via Bekaltal and then gradual ascent. The descent is steep in the next section. The final stretch includes a gradual descent to the campsite.
- Hot food is served at the campsite.
- Water Source: No water source is available on the way; therefore, carry at least two bottles of water from the campsite.
- A beautiful day can be seen in Shivalik and the Greater Himalayas.
- Enjoy a night walk along Brahmatal Lake, about 500m from the campsite.
- Tents Stay
Brahmatal is located at an elevation of 3,200 meters (10,450 feet) while Jhandi Top is situated at an even higher altitude of 3,400 meters (11,150 feet). The trek is 7 kilometers long and takes about 6-7 hours to complete. During the trek, you will gain an altitude of 400 meters (1,300 feet). The ascent is steep and takes about 1.3 hours via Bekaltal, followed by a gradual ascent. The descent is steep in the next section, but the final stretch includes a gradual descent to the campsite.
Hot food is served at the campsite, but there is no water source available on the way. Therefore, it is recommended to carry at least two bottles of water from the campsite. From the campsite, you can enjoy a beautiful view of the Shivalik and the Greater Himalayas. You can also go for a night walk along Brahmatal Lake, which is about 500 meters from the campsite.
Take advantage of the snow-covered paths that lead to Brahmatal. The hike takes about four hours. The trail is surrounded by dense forests, and once you reach the Telindi summit, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the majestic Himalayas. Continue on the path until you arrive at Brahmatal and Khabekhal Lake. Spend the night in tents and enjoy the serene surroundings.
Day 4: Brahmatal Lake to Brahmatal top point and return to Daldum Camp
- Daldum Altitude: 2,850 m/ 9,350 ft.
- Brahmatal Pass Altitude: 3,500 m/ 11,570 ft.
- The trek is 12 km long and takes 8 to 9 hours to complete.
- The trek is moderately difficult until you reach the top of Brahmatal, after which you will descend towards Daldum Campsite via Jhandi Top.
- You will pass through Rhododendron and Oak forests.
- You will have a packed lunch at the top with stunning 360-degree views of the mountains.
- The first 180 degrees of the view covers Chaukhamba, Mana, Mandir, Neelkanth, Nilgiri, Nanda Ghunti, Trishul, and Maitoli up towards the Panchachuli Ranges. The remaining 180 degrees cover the Shivalik Himalayan Mountains.
- There is no source of water on the way, so carry at least two litres of water with you.
- You will stay in tents.
After having breakfast, you can prepare yourself for the climb up to the top of Brahmatal. Take a stroll along the treacherous pathways across Chota Jhandidar and Bada Jhandidar. A mountain ridge encloses this trail with valleys on both sides. It will take approximately 2.5 hours to arrive at Brahmatal Top. While on this journey, delight in the breathtaking views of the Himalayan Ranges. Mt. Trishul is very close, and you can enjoy panoramic views from Nandhaghunti. From the top, you will be able to enjoy stunning views of the snow-covered Himalayan Ranges. After that, continue your journey to the following camp location in Daldum, which should take around 3 hours to complete. You would have covered a distance of 2.7 kilometers with this hike. The forests will also be your companions on these hiking trails.
Day 05: Return back to base camp Lohajung
- Lohajung Altitude: 2,350 m & 7,700 ft
- Trek Distance: 4 km
- Duration: 3 to 4 hrs
- Altitude Loss: 500 m/ 1,650 ft
- A steep and gradual ascent
- Guesthouse stay
To get to Lohajung, which is situated at an altitude of 2,350 meters (7,700 feet) and is 4 kilometers away, you need to go left from Daldum. The trek takes around 3 to 4 hours and requires you to climb steep and gradual paths, with an altitude loss of 500 meters (1,650 feet). The climb follows an easily-marked trail that crosses streams and goes through the forest of Oak and Rhododendron that you already travelled through. You’ll come across the shepherd’s huts that locals use to house their livestock, and from there, take the stone-paved path that connects the mountain communities to Lohajung.
Once you reach Lohajung, you can freshen up at the guesthouse and then wander around the town in the evening. The sunsets from Lohajung are spectacular, and you can also visit the town market to purchase souvenirs from the excursion. The guesthouse serves the most delicious meals, and you can enjoy a peaceful night’s rest. The next day, we’ll drive back to Rishikesh.
Day 06: Back to Rishikesh
- No Accommodation
- Meal Breakfast Only
Today marks the conclusion of a fantastic journey as we head to Rishikesh. After having your last morning tea and breakfast with the team TUI, we’ll depart towards Rishikesh, which is located 210km from Lohajung. The journey will take approximately 10 hours, and we should arrive in Rishikesh at 7:00 pm. However, the travel time may vary depending on the road and traffic conditions. We’ll be taking the same routes to Rishikesh as before.
We’ve prepared a comprehensive Trek Route Map for your upcoming adventure to Ali Bedni Bugyal Trek, which outlines the entire journey including all stops and trails. This map provides detailed information on the terrain, distance between points of interest, and estimated travel time to help ensure a safe and enjoyable trek. We’ve carefully curated the map to ensure that you have all the necessary information at your fingertips. Please take a moment to review it thoroughly, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or concerns.
The Trek Altitude Chart is a useful tool for Trekkers to monitor their altitude changes during their rides, allowing them to plan their routes more efficiently and track their progress over time. This Ali Bedni Bugyal Trek chart is beneficial for both casual and experienced Trekkers, helping them make the most out of their Trek experience.
Trek Cost Inclusions
- Stay: 2 Nights will be in a hotel or guest house on a multi-sharing basis, and 3 Nights of tented accommodation at individual campsites of Trekup India on twin sharing.
- Meals: Trekup India will provide freshly cooked meals during the trek starting with Dinner on Day 1 to tea, coffee on day 6 (Meals are simple, nutritious, and vegetarian)
- Transport Optional: Rishikesh to Rishikesh and return. ( 1600 extra )
- Trek Insurance Mandatory: (Trekup India recommends each trekker to get insurance) you can read more about What Is Trek Insurance, Why It Is Mandatory On Treks And What It Covers .
- Trek Equipment: Sleeping bag, Sleeping tents, Kitchen tent, Dining tent, Toilet Tent.
- Amenities: All utensils, sleeping mattresses (Black foam mats), Crampons, and Gaiters for snow.
- Health & Safety: First Aid Box, Oxygen Cylinders, Stretchers, Oxi meters, BP Machines, health.
- Permits: Forest Permits and Camping Permission Fee
- Trek Crew: High Altitude Chef, Helpers, Trek Leader & Guides, and other support teams.
- Potters & Mules: Potters and Mules are to carry all trekking equipment, ration, and vegetables.
Trek Cost Exclusions
- GST 5% (it is Mandatory)
- Any Meals/accommodation beside the itinerary or not mentioned in the program.
- Any Bus / Airfare to/from trek start/end point
- Personal Medical expenses do carry your medication.
- Any personal services such as Laundry, phone calls, liquors, mineral water, etc.
- Any still / video camera fee
- Any Entrance fee Monuments, Monasteries, Museums, Temples – Pay directly on the spot.
- Mules or porter charges to carry private baggage (Offload Charges for bag 400 per day, per bag if paid online (at base camp 2,000). Note: Bag weight should not be more than 10 kg.
- Any emergency evacuation charges
- Any services that are not mentioned in the cost inclusion section.
What should you pack for the Brahmatal Trek
Ali Brahmatal Trek is a high-altitude trek. The trekking gear you have to have for this particular trek differs from normal treks. Thus, read this whole segment. There is an important question that the trekker who is doing trek asks, like what all things to carry while trekking. Below, we have provided the details on everything you should take; an easy way to remember is by Head to foot or foot to head. We have prepared from Head to foot.
Head Gears
When trekking it's important to carry headgear to protect your head and face.
Heading out for Brahmatal Trek? Don’t forget to carry headgear to protect your beautiful face and head from the sun, wind, and dust! It’s an essential accessory that keeps you safe and comfortable throughout your adventurous journey. So, make sure you pack it before you step out into nature!
- Head Lamps are essential for the night, and most importantly, headtorchs keep your hands free while trekking.
- Hats or Cap– Cap will protect you from winds and sometimes freezing temperatures for the night. Hats protect you from the sun during the day and also ensure they have a strap so the hat doesn’t blow from the wind.
- Sunglasses– you will need specific sunglasses for trekking. The glasses should protect from UV rays, fit your face perfectly so it doesn’t fall while you climb, jump, or cross an obstacle, and be according to the weather conditions of the place; the glass should be made to fit different weather conditions.
- Buff / Balaclava– You must carry this to protect your mouth or neck from extreme temperatures and keep it warm.
Clothes
When trekking in high altitudes, prepare for cold weather by wearing layers. Layering traps heat, keeps you warm, and allows you to easily adjust your clothing as temperatures fluctuate.
Layering is important for different seasons when trekking to Brahmatal Trek. When planning a high-altitude trek, it is important to prepare for the cold weather. Wearing layers is the best approach as it provides both protection and flexibility when the weather changes frequently in the mountains. Layering helps to trap heat and keep your body warm, while at the same time allowing you to easily adjust your clothing as the temperature fluctuates. By wearing layers, you can enjoy your trek comfortably and stay safe in the unpredictable mountain weather
- For spring, summer, and monsoon treks, consider wearing three layers: a woollen sweater, a fleece, and a padded jacket.
- For autumn treks, add one more fleece layer to make it four layers.
- For winter treks, you may need five layers with thermals, a woollen sweater, two fleeces, and a padded jacket.
- T-shirt/sleeve shirt– Bring three T-shirts and two quick-dry trek pants, wearing one and carrying the others. Long sleeve shirts help to protect from sun UV rays. We recommend synthetic T-shirts as they get dry quickly when they get wet.
- Hiking / Trekking Jacket– down jackets (-5 to-10 C) or two-three-layer jackets.
- Thermals– at least two pairs of thermals help keep the body warm during cold weather.
- Undergarments– you can carry them according to your habitual and hygiene requirements.
- Gloves– 1 pair of gloves will keep your hand warm and nice.
- Trek Pants– Bring 2 to 3 comfortable trekking pants. Trekking pants play a significant role, as they are designed for comfort and mobility, making trekking easier. It should be Synthetic so that it gets dry quickly when wet.
- Rain Wear– you can carry a raincoat or Poncho. During long rains and snowfalls, the waterproof jackets start leaking. Still, the Poncho and raincoats keep you dry, so choose accordingly.
Tip: If you choose a raincoat on your trek, carry a small waterproof cover so things inside your backpack can’t get wet. If you carry a Poncho, you don’t need to worry. It protects both you and your backpack.
Foot Gears
When it comes to planning a trek, one of the most important aspects is to ensure that you have the right kind of foot gear.
- Trekking shoes whichare waterproof and have ankle support. Walking / Hiking sandals which can be used off the trek, i.e., in the morning and evening hours when you reach the campsite, basically to get your feet rest from heavy boots, sometimes used for crossing streams and rivers, it’s more comfortable and safer than crossing barefoot or wetting your shoes. Sneakers (Optional) can be worn for normal driving days or used around the camp.
- Socks– you should at least carry 3 to 4 pairs.
- Microspikes & Gaitorswill be provided by Trekup India when required. You don’t have to carry them.
Personal First Aid Kit
Don't forget to pack your personal first aid kit! It's always better to be safe. So, make sure you're prepared for any unforeseen circumstances.
Below are some common medicines generally required/used during your adventure trip; however, please consult your doctors prior.
- Antiseptic towel or water syringe (to clean the wound)
- Butterfly bandage for a small cut
- Cotton and elastic bandages and sterile gauze pad for larger wounds
- Latex gloves are used when the wound bleeds.
- Medicine for Diarrhea (Upset stomach)
- Medicine for cold, flue/fever, headache
- Some pain killers
- ORS pouches
- Quick pain relief spray (External use)
- Any personal medicine prescribed by your doctor
- Dimox / Similar for high altitude sickness
- Bug Repellent
- Carry some nutria/energy bars and drinks (non-alcoholic)
- Note: Kindly consult your doctor before purchasing or taking any medicine.
Gadgets and Other Items
You might also consider bringing a camera, binoculars, portable charger, and snacks. Be well-prepared and tackle any trail with confidence.
- Trekking Poles
- Mobile phone
- Camera
- Spare batteries for phone and camera, power bank
- Lightweight flashlight or headlight
- A waterproof bag made of plastic is used for the camera.
- Plug/converter for electrical items
- 1-litre water bottle
- A journal with a pen would be a good idea to keep your notes.
- Some book of your interest for the ideal time
- Get into the habit of maintaining a Map and guidebook of the region.