Brahmatal Trek Overview
The Brahmatal trek is an easy to moderate trek that is suitable for fit beginners, but you can expect some low temperatures in winter, so do come prepared. This is one of the few trails in the country at an elevation of 12,500 feet that offers stupendous views of peaks over 7000 meters at such close proximity.
The Brahmatal trek starts in the mountain town of Kathgodam, winding past quaint Himalayan villages and settlements. As you gain altitude, you’ll leave civilization behind. The mountains surround you, and offer some out-of-this-world views. Once you reach Brahmatal lake at 12,250 feet, you will be able to see the three magnificent pointed peaks of Mt. Trishul, shining white and gold, and Nandaghunti standing tall in the Nanda Devi Sanctuary.
A hidden gem in Uttarakhand
The Brahmatal trek is beautiful year-round, and takes you through rhododendron and oak forests, stopping by mountain streams along the way. In summer, it is peaceful, and listen to the sounds of the forests as you walk: birds singing and the scampering of little animals.
In the winter, it is considered a hidden gem, with almost no crowds to ruin the experience. You’ll spend time admiring the winter scenery; camping beside frozen lakes fringed with pine trees, and enjoying the snowy route. The great peaks in the Himalayas wear a beautiful white blanket during the winters, but when you reach the frozen lakes of Bekaltal and Brahmatal, you’ll gasp in awe.
General itinerary:
For this trek, you first arrive at Kathgodam where you meet the tour operator and the rest of the team. From there, you'll be driven to Lohajung which is the starting point of the trek where you'll spend the night. The next day, you begin your trek to Bekaltal and the trail cuts through dense forests. En route, you also cross the Mandoli Village and the confluence of Kali and Pindari river. After spending a night at Bekaltal, you then continue to the lake. En route, you'll enjoy gorgeous views of the Himalayan mountains. On the fourth day, you'll begin your trek to the Brahmatal Pass. From there, you'll descent back to Lohajung and spend the night there. The next day, you'll trek to Wan Village. After spending a night at Wan, you'll then be driven back to Kathgodam where your trip ends.
Best season
December to February is the best time for theTrek. The misty haze that envelops the mountain peaks in May-June and obstructs the view lifts, and you get cracking mountain views. From the top, you can see the Himalayan giants up-close and under blue skies that stretch across the horizon.
Some of the best memories of the trek will be the full winter trek experience: you’ll get to pull on those boots and head out into the snow. You’ll walk through peaceful pine forests and camp on the banks of frozen glacial lakes, and you’ll always have towering Himalayan peaks around to admire
Packing list:
The tour operator will provide all the technical and camping equipment required for the trek. So you only have to carry personal gear, starting from a strong bag, along with a personal med kit, toiletries, cap, sunglasses, gloves, balaclava, etc. Apart from this, you need to carry appropriate clothes which include quick-dry apparel, thermal inners, down and fleece jackets, and trek pants. You also need to wear well-broken in trekking shoes with good grip.Once you book the trek, the tour operator too will give you a packing list which you need to follow properly to ensure a comfortable trek to Brahmatal.
How to reach?
The meeting point for the Brahmatal trek is at Kahtgodam, a small town in Nainital of Uttarakhand. You can reach Kathgodam directly either via road or rail. There are many state and privately run buses that connect the town to most major north Indian cities and towns. The town can be reached by rail from most major cities of the country via express trails. However, the town does not have its own airport and the nearest airport is at Dehradun, at a distance of 184 km. If you can't find a flight from your city to Dehradun, then you can take a flight to Delhi and catch a bus/taxi to Kathgodam.
Looking for more adventures? Read our post about Top Adventures in Uttarakhand. If you’re a beginner looking for snow treks, check out Top Easy Snow Treks in India.
Brahmatal Trek Summary
- State: Uttarakhand
- Nearest city: Kathgodam
- Total days: 6 days
- Grade: Easy to moderate
- Max altitude: 12,250 feet
- Total trekking distance: 22-24 km
- Season: March and April for Brahmatal trek, and December to February for Brahmatal snow trek
- Avg temperature: -4 to 10 degree Celsius
Talk to an Expert
Need help?
