The Brahmatal Trek in Uttarakhand is a beautiful winter trek known for its snow-covered trails, peaceful forests, alpine lakes, and spectacular Himalayan views. Set in the Garhwal Himalayas, the trek offers impressive views of Mt. Trishul and other surrounding peaks. With a moderate difficulty level and a rewarding summit, it is also a good choice for beginners looking to experience Himalayan trekking in winter.
Brahmatal Lake
One of the main highlights of the Brahmatal Trek is the scenic Brahmatal Lake, located at an altitude of around 3,400 m. The lake lies in a peaceful meadow surrounded by snow during winter, with a lone tree adding to its distinctive landscape. It is located slightly away from the main trail and requires a short hike to reach. The lake remains unfrozen during spring and autumn, when trekkers can see its clear blue waters.
Brahmatal is also associated with local mythology and is named after Lord Brahma. According to the legend, Lord Brahma meditated near the lake, adding a spiritual element to this beautiful Himalayan destination.
Panoramic Himalayan Views
The mountain views are another major attraction of the Brahmatal Trek. The trail begins through rhododendron forests before opening up to expansive views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks. One of the most striking sights is Mt. Trishul, whose three peaks resemble a trident. As you gain altitude, you can also see Mt. Nanda Ghunti, while the views from Brahmatal Top include Mt. Neelkanth and Mt. Hathi Ghoda.
These close-up views of the Himalayan giants make the summit experience one of the most memorable parts of the trek.
A Perfect Winter Trek
Winter is the best time to experience the Brahmatal winter trek, especially for those who enjoy snow-covered landscapes. The route passes through rhododendron and oak forests and takes you to two beautiful lakes, Brahmatal and Bekaltal. During peak winter, snow covers much of the trail, transforming the forests, meadows, and campsites into a picturesque winter landscape.
The Brahmatal Trek temperature during winter may range from around -8°C to 5°C. With snow-covered trails, frozen landscapes, and picturesque campsites, Brahmatal offers a rewarding winter trekking experience in Uttarakhand.
Brahmatal Trek Distance, Altitude and Difficulty
The Brahmatal Trek distance is around 30 km and takes five days to complete. The highest point of the trek is Brahmatal Top, which stands at approximately 3,733 m (12,250 ft). The Brahmatal Trek difficulty is moderate, with a relatively gradual gradient compared with some other winter treks, although the daily trekking distances can be longer.
During winter, trekkers may encounter knee-deep snow and occasional snowfall along the route. Microspikes may be required depending on trail conditions, but the trek does not involve any technical climbing. Although Brahmatal is considered suitable for beginners, good physical fitness is important for trekking at high altitude.
Overall, the Brahmatal Trek combines snowy trails, alpine lakes, forested landscapes, spectacular mountain views, and a rewarding summit, making it a memorable introduction to winter trekking in the Himalayas.
Secure your registration with just a 20% deposit today and pay the remainder 30 days before the departure date. Your journey awaits! ✈️
Itinerary in brief:
- Day 1: Arrive at Rishikesh
- Day 2: Travel to Lohajung from Rishikesh
- Day 3: Trek to Bekaltal from Lohajung
- Day 4: Trek to Brahmatal from Bekaltal
- Day 5: Trek to Brahmatal Top from Bhrahmtal then to Daldum
- Day 6: Trek to Lohajung from Daldum
- Day 7: Travel from Lohajung to Rishikesh
- Day 8: Travel back home.
Detailed Itinerary:
Day 1: Rishikesh
- Altitude: 1,030 ft (312 m)
The total Brahmatal trek distance is of around 30km. On day 1, arrive in Rishikesh and check in to the hotel. Meet your fellow trekkers in a meet and greet session where you will also be prepped for the upcoming Brahmatal lake trek. In the evening, head out to witness the magnificent Ganga Arati and explore the authentic local cultures of India. Stay the night at Rishikesh.
Day 2: Lohajung
- Altitude: 7,600 ft (2,316 m)
- Travel Duration: 8-9 hours
On Day 2, you start traveling towards Lohajung from Rishikesh. This is an extremely scenic drive and will also see picturesque pine trees on the route today. When you arrive in Lohajung you will be greeted by the majestic Mt. Nanda Ghunti Peak. Lohajung is basically a small town located in Chamoli District of Uttarakhand. It is also the base for various popular treks like Roopkund, Brahmatal, and Bedni Bugyal. A good evening stroll around the village is perfect to fill up your Instagram feed & to get yourself warmed up for the trek the next morning. Stay the night at the hotel in Lohajung.
Day 3: Bekaltal
- Altitude: 7,600 ft (2,316 m) to 9,689 ft (2,953 m)
- Trek Duration & Distance Covered: 5 hours, 5.8 km
- Gradient: Moderate; Mostly ascending through forests
On day 3 you start trekking from Lohajung to the Bekaltal campsite. The trek distance is approx 5.8 Km. The winding trail takes you through beautiful Oak and Rhododendron forests. You will come across the Mandoli village as you cover a short distance post starting the trek. The trail is well laid out and as you go higher up, you will start seeing the Kali Valley where the rivers Kali and Pindari meet. You need to keep trekking from here and after a certain point, when you reach approx 2,590 m (8,500 ft), you will come across a beautiful wooden bridge of about 10 meters right above a stream. You can stop to fill up your bottles at this stream. When you cross the bridge and trek a little further, you will reach Begum a resting point with views of the magical meadows seen in the distance. As you start trekking again you come across two more streams, the last one being Gujrani Stream. It takes about an hour from Gujrani Stream to reach the beautiful Bekaltal campsite. This last distance takes you through an Oak forest which is a moderate climb. As you reach Bekaltal you will start seeing views of the giant Mt. Trishul on the horizon.
Bekaltal is your campsite for the day and a 10-minute hike from Bekaltal will take you to the Bekaltal lake while lies amidst Oak trees. The water of this lake is brown unlike that of Brahmatal lake. In winters you will notice a thin sheet of ice formed over the lake. You will notice how quickly time flies when you sit by the Bekaltal lake and just reminisce your journey through the day.
Dinner will be served in the main tent post which you can go to sleep in your allotted tents.
Day 4: Brahmatal
- Altitude: 9,689 ft (2,953 m) to 10,440 ft (3,182 m)
- Trek Duration & Distance Covered: 5-6 hours, 7 km
- Gradient: Moderate with a steep climb + gradual ascent and descent towards Brahmatal
On day 4 you start your day early with a scrumptious breakfast at the Bekaltal campsite. Post this, you start packing the essentials for the day. Once everyone is ready you start trekking towards the next stop which is the Brahmatal Campsite. The climb will take you through Oak and Rhododendron trees and then a winding ascending trail as you make your way to the next campsite. If you start early enough you can get good sights of the mountains around before the clouds set in. If the skies are clear, you'll have breathtaking views of the mountains all through the trail with views of Mt. Trishul and Mt. Nanda Ghunti specifically. You will constantly gain and drop height as you traverse through the trail today. You will sometimes walk right beside the treeline and sometimes right above it. The treeline will mostly have Rhododendron or Oak trees. You start ascending steep when you climb towards Jhandi Top which becomes the highest point of the ridge. You can see the mountains in a panorama here and the Roopkund trail is visible from here as well.
The view at Jhandi Top will leave you awestruck. You spend some time here before you start your descent towards Brahmatal which is about 1.5 km from Jhandi Top.
You can unwind at the campsite and relax for the day.
Day 5: Brahmatal Top
- Altitude: 10,440 ft (3,182 m) to 12,250 ft (3,734 m) and on to 9,640 ft (2,938 m)
- Trek Duration & Distance Covered: 8 hours, 7.5 km
- Trek gradient: Moderate
Day 5 is your summit day so you start trekking early post your breakfast. The brahmatal trek height is of 12,250 ft (3,734 m). From the campsite, it takes about 15 minutes to reach the Brahmatal Lake which is the first stop along the trail to the summit. The lake sits right in the midst of a meadow and the trail leading up to the lake is a gradual ascent. The lake in winters remain frozen and when visited in spring and autumn shows off it's crystal clear beautiful blue waters. The break at the lake also presents a good photo opportunity while we discourage and do not allow nomads to walk on the lake at any given point in time. The lake is accompanied by a lone tree that has snow all over during winters.
The next step to keep trekking until you find a ridge and from here you get a good view of the entire lake. Again, a great photo opportunity. The first ridge climb is a gentle ascent leading up to the final ridge to the summit. The ridge then opens up to the marvelous views of the mountains you saw at Jhandi Top. This is where you will be resting for lunch. After a 20 minute break you start trekking again but this time it's a descent with mountains to your right and the entire valley to your left. You will now come across closer views of Mt. Trishul, Mt. Nanda Ghunti, and 180 degree views of the entire mountain range with Chaukambha, Mt. Neelkanth, Mt. Mandi, Mt. Nilgiri and many more peaks. This is Brahmatal Top. This is the highest brahmatal trek altitude of 12,250 ft (3,734 m).
Your campsite for the night Daldum is about 3 hours from the Brahmatal Top and you start descending into a forest after spending some time at Brahmatal Top.
Your tents will be ready to welcome you upon reaching Daldum. You will stay the night here and relax after the long trek.
Day 6: Lohajung
- Altitude: 7,600 ft (2,316 m)
- Trek Duration & Distance: 4 hours, 2-3 Km
- Gradient: Easy
Day 6 begins with a good hearty breakfast post which you pack your things up and get ready to trek back to Lohajung. This descend is again through a forest and the trees will define leave you energized for the climb down. Once you cross the forest you will reach Malling. This is where the forest ends and it takes about 30-40 minutes to reach Malling from your Daldum campsite.
From here getting back to Lohajung is easy. You'll find houses on the slopes and then trail made of stones which is frequented by visitors. This trail will lead you to Lohajung directly. Upon reaching Lohajung you will check into your hotel and rest there for the day.
Day 7: Rishikesh
- Altitude: 6,170 ft (1880 m)
- Travel Duration: 7-8 hours
On day 7 you start travelling from Lohajung to Rishikesh. You can expect to arrive Rishikesh late in the afternoon. Check in to your hotel and rest for the day.
Day 8: Your City
Travel back to your city.
Trek Insurance
Trekking in the Himalayas comes with its own set of risks. While adventure is fun and can be extremely thrilling, nature can be unpredictable, and to help secure you during your trek, it is of utmost importance that you are covered with insurance.
We've gone a step ahead and made sure that you don't have to worry about scouting for the best insurance option out there. When you trek with us, your insurance comes as a part of your inclusions. To know more about the benefits covered and sum insured, click here.
Risk and Liability
We will endeavor to make your program smooth and as pleasant as possible. However, the entire course of trekking depends on the ranges of the mighty mountains, physical health, and environmental conditions. Therefore, TrekNomads shall not be responsible for any changes in the itineraries due to unavoidable circumstances and natural disasters such as landslide, road blockage, flood, snowing, cancellation of flight and delay, any type of sickness including altitude sickness.
Fitness Criteria
This trek requires a good level of fitness.
If you're not already following a fitness regime, you would need to follow the regime that will be shared with you. The training routine is spread over four months and you would be expected to work out at least 4 times a day. The regime is designed to help you climb smarter even in higher altitudes. The regime consists of a good combination of exercises that works on all parts of your body including - Upper Body, Core, Endurance, Lower Body, Shoulder strength, and streamlining your breathing pattern. When followed religiously, you can rest assured that you will be ready for the trek. Not only does this regime help you with the trek, but it will also help you inculcate a sense of fitness in your day-to-day life.
Not Sure If You’re Fit Enough for the Trek?
If you’re unsure about your fitness or trekking readiness, TrekNomads offers a FREE Mountain Fit Assessment Program (MFAP). The assessment helps you understand your current fitness level, identify areas that need improvement, and get a personalised fitness plan to help you prepare confidently for your trek.
Do’s and Don’ts:
- We believe in leaving the mountains in better condition, which is why we follow a no-litter policy on our treks. Each trekker will have to bring back the waste that is created during the trek.
- Trekking is best enjoyed when you’ve worn comfortable clothes. Try and avoid wearing Jeans, bright colors and heavy apparel as much as possible.
- A lighter backpack always helps you have a better trek, try and carry just as much as needed.
- Always be in sight of your trek lead, if you feel the need to stop for any reason at all, please keep the trek lead informed.
- If you do come across any reptiles, animals or even insects during the trek, please keep your calm and let it patiently pass by. Any kind of noise and panic will scare them as well.
- Do not venture out into the forest/waterfalls on your own as it may be dangerous.
- Trekking is a good adventure, having said that, it is our primary responsibility to take good care of ourselves and be compassionate towards fellow trekkers
- If, at any point, during the trek, you feel uneasy or unwell, please inform the trek lead immediately
- Tune in to the sounds of nature while on a trek and avoid carrying speakers or playing music during the course of the trek
- To help you enjoy the trek to the fullest, we avoid smoking and consumption of alcohol, and other intoxicants during the course of the trek
You need more information?
- Stay for 2 nights at a 3-star hotel in Rishikesh, giving you a comfortable start and finish to the journey.
- Get 2 nights at a hotel/resort in Lohajung, rather than moving directly from road travel into the trek.
- Have extra luggage storage at Rishikesh, so you don't need to carry unnecessary belongings into the mountains.
- Trek with an experienced Trek Leader, supported by local guides and a dedicated high-altitude chef.
- Get a dedicated support team and porters for common equipment, keeping the trekking operation smooth and organised.
- Enjoy proper kitchen, dining and toilet tents at the campsites.
- Get personal accident insurance included in the package.
- Receive a personalised Dri-Fit T-shirt and TrekNomads goodies.
- Get exclusive Fast&Up benefits as part of your trek package.
What is included in the tour
- Transportation to & fro from Rishikesh to Lohajung
- 2 nights 3-star hotel stay at Rishikesh
- 2 nights hotel/resort stay at Lohajung
- 3 nights tented accommodation during the trek
- Trek equipment: Sleeping bags, Mattresses, Utensils, Ropes
- Tents: Trekkers tent (twin/triple sharing), Kitchen & Dining tent, Toilet tent
- Entry Permit Fee, Guide Fee & Driver Bata
- Standard vegetarian food for breakfast, lunch, snacks, and dinner during trek days
- 1 Mountaineering qualified & professional trek Leader
- Local Guide (Number of guides depending on the group size)
- 1 High Altitude chef & support staff
- Porters for carrying common equipments (like rations/tents/utensils/groceries)
- The facility of keeping extra luggage at Rishikesh when leaving for the trek
- Personal accident insurance
- Insurance, meals, transportations daily salary of guide & porter
- Nomads are allowed to carry only 10 kg personal luggage on trek
- Basic First aid Kit
- Trek Insurance
- All government, local taxes and service charges
- TrekNomads Fee, Trek Captain support and expertise
- 10% discount on Fast&Up products
- Personalized Dri-Fit T-Shirt
- TrekNomads goodies
What is NOT included in the tour
- The cost to reach Rishikesh and back
- Airport Pick up and Drop Off
- Personal trekking gear
- Tips for guide, chef, porter, etc (calculated per person)
- Excess baggage charges, if it exceeds 10 kg
- Local sightseeing and entrance fee, camera fee, etc
- Mineral water or any type of soft drinks
- Hot water for shower, etc, during the trek
- Extra meals apart from inclusions
- Food during travel days
- Lunch and dinner at Rishikesh 3-star hotel stay
- Any other expenses incurred apart from inclusions
- Any other tickets like cable chair, cable car, etc.
- All personal, medical, evacuation and emergency expenses like extra day stay or vehicle charges due to delays, landslides, evacuation
Other Details:
- Trek Gradient: Easy-Moderate
- Trek Distance: 30+ Km
- Assembling Point: Rishikesh
- Highest Altitude: 12,250 ft (3,734 m)
- Travel Distance: 250+ Km
- Best Months to trek: January, February, March, April, September, October, November, December
How difficult is Brahmatal Trek?
The Brahmatal Trek is an easy-moderate trek and is suitable for beginners with good physical fitness. The trail has a moderate gradient, but winter conditions can make the trek more challenging as snow may cover the route and slow down your progress. During winter, temperatures may range from around -8°C to 5°C. Although the trek does not involve technical climbing, trekkers should be prepared for cold weather, snow, and high-altitude conditions.
Which is better, the Kedarkantha trek or the Brahmatal trek?
Both Kedarkantha trek and Brahmatal trek are equally beautiful treks. Brahmatal Trek can be enjoyed best during winters, whereas Kedarkantha is an all-season trek (except monsoon).
How safe is Brahmatal Trek?
The Brahmatal Trek is an easy-moderate Himalayan trek and is suitable for beginners who are physically fit. The trail does not involve any technical climbing, but winter conditions can bring snowfall and temperatures as low as around -8°C. Trekkers should be prepared for cold weather, snow-covered trails, and high-altitude trekking conditions. Following proper guidance and carrying suitable winter trekking gear can help make the experience more comfortable and enjoyable.
What is the best time to do the Brahmatal Trek?
Winter is the best time to do the Brahmatal Trek, especially from December to March, if you want to experience snow-covered trails and a true winter trekking experience. The trek can also be done during the remaining months, when the landscape offers a different experience. In spring and autumn, Brahmatal Lake remains unfrozen, allowing you to enjoy its clear blue waters. Each season brings its own charm to the trail, making Brahmatal a good trekking option beyond winter as well.
Is Brahmatal Trek fit for beginners?
Yes, Brahmatal Trek is very well suited for beginners. However, we recommend carrying appropriate gear for the trek and doing basic fitness exercises at least 4-8 weeks before the trek.
How should I prepare for Brahmatal Trek?
For the Brahmatal Trek, start with a brisk walk for 1 hour per day and gradually increase it. Simple running and cardio exercises will help to improve your physique. Add light weights and bodyweight exercises to your regimen. Follow this regimen for 1 to 2 months, and you'll be able to cover more considerable distances with ease when on a trek.
What peaks are visible from Brahmatal Trek?
The outer wall of Nanda Devi Sanctuary is continuously visible from Brahmatal Trek. The peaks you'll be close to are Nanda Ghunti (6,390m), Bethartoli Himal (6,352m), Bethartoli South (6,318m) as well as Trishul (7,120m).
How is Brahmatal in Summer?
The meadows are lush green, and occasional glimpses of Nanda Ghunti and Trishul playing hide and seek as clouds come and go. April and May are the best to go on the Brahmatal Trek.
When does it snow at Brahmatal?
Brahmatal receives the season's first snowfall in December, and the snow lasts on the slopes of Brahmatal until March's end.
Where is Brahmatal located?
This trek is in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. The base camp is at Lohajung. The assembly point for this trek is in Rishikesh. You may take a flight or train to Dehradun. Rishikesh is 44 km away from Dehradun and can easily reach by road.
How many days are needed to complete the Brahmatal trek?
The Brahmatal Trek is an 8-day, 7-night trek with TrekNomads. The itinerary is designed to give trekkers enough time to complete the trail comfortably while experiencing the scenic forests, Brahmatal and Bekaltal Lakes, snowy landscapes, and Himalayan mountain views along the route.
Can I opt for single-sharing accommodation?
Yes, you can opt for single-sharing accommodation at an additional cost. You can customize your trek at your convenience. If you are a solo trekker looking for single accommodation, the same can be conveyed to us at the time of booking, and the revised cost as per your new accommodation will be shared with you.
I want to extend/decrease the number of days of the trek. Can I do that?
Customization shall be done only if the group is five people or more. We create customized trekcation experiences which means that while we have set departures, we keep your time in mind too. If you wish to reduce/increase the number of days in your departure, the same can be discussed and done upon request and at an additional cost.
What should I carry on the trek?
We will share a detailed checklist of all equipment and essential items that you would need to carry on this trek once you register for the trek. If you need assistance in buying/understanding what to buy for the trek, our team will be happy to help you.
What is the Nearest railway/train station for Brahmatal Trek?
Kathgodam and Dehradun are the Nearest railway stations for Brahmatal Trek.
What is the Nearest airport for Brahmatal Trek?
Jolly Grant airport is the nearest airport for Brahmatal Trek.
What types of stays/accommodations will be available on Brahmatal Trek?
Hotel stays at Rishikesh and Lohajung. Camp stay available at Bekaltal and Brahmatal campsites.
Is a proper cellular network available on Brahmatal Trek?
Mobile network connectivity is generally available around Lohajung, the starting point of the Brahmatal Trek, but it can become weak or unavailable as you move deeper into the trekking route. Network coverage may vary depending on your location and the service provider.
What type of toilets/restrooms will be available on Brahmatal Trek?
Hotel rooms in Rishikesh and Lohajung will have proper washrooms available. On the other days, bio-toilets will be set up along each campsite. A bio-toilet has a pit where one can answer nature's call.
Will there be A.T.M.s available on the Brahmatal Trek?
The last available A.T.M. will be available at Rishikesh. After that, no A.T.M.s will be available. Not even in Lohajung.



