Overview
The Brahmatal does have a hidden treasure in its notch and glade at the height of 3,444 m above sea level, the Ghande Bhotia. It also takes you to the tranquil Brahmatal Lake, which remains completely snowbound during winter (December to March). Standing in the world’s mountains capped at 3,718m, you will relish the scenes where some snow-maintained pathways are not complex to use, even by novice trekkers.
Why You'll Love This Trek
Trail Highlights
- Views of Mt. Trishul & Mt. Nanda Ghunti
- Snowbound Brahmatal Lake at 12,250 ft
- Frozen Bekaltal Lake in winter
- Wildlife: Himalayan Monal, Musk Deer, Himalayan fox
- Ridge views of the Roopkund trail
- Dense oak & rhododendron forests
What Makes This Trek Special
A magical winter trek to a legendary Himalayan lake, framed by snow-laden oak and rhododendron forests, sweeping views of Mt. Trishul and Mt. Nanda Ghunti, and a summit ridge that rivals treks twice its difficulty.
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The Brahmatal trek is located in the fantastic state of Uttarakhand in India. More specifically, it is based in the Chamoli district of Garhwal region. This trek provides a great chance to walk in the heart of the Himalayas range with its splendid nature, plants and animals, and incredible views.
For most people, the trek usually starts from Lohajung, a relatively small but very colorful village, and acts as the base for the trekkers. Lohajung has an excellent tradition and hospitality of the locals, thus exposing one to the real Garhwali culture.
The Brahmatal trek is one of the finest in India and goes at an altitude of about 12,250 feet. This trek falls under the Easy-Moderate category. The certificate indicates that though the trek has longer days and few steep ascents, it is still within the grasp of average fit and moderately experienced trekkers. Some other treks, like Kedarkantha and Dayara Bugyal, are simple, but Brahmatal is a bit tougher.
However, easy escapes and no climbing required gear feel quite satisfactory. In this trek, participants will walk about 23 km over 4 days and gain around 4,650 feet in altitude. On average, those engaged in the trek will have walking activities for around seven kilometers every night, consisting of going up and coming down.
Route Map
Trailhead Weather
7-day forecastLive conditions at the trailhead. Plan around the forecast — mountain weather shifts fast.
Itinerary 6 Days
Day 1Arrival at Lohajung
A scenic drive from Rishikesh through Devprayag, Rudraprayag, and Karnaprayag to Lohajung, the trek's base camp at 7,550 ft. Known for its Garhwali hospitality and local folklore about a battle between Goddess Parvati and the demon Lohasur, Lohajung offers a good spot to rest and prepare before the trek begins.
Day 2Lohajung to Gujreni
A moderate ascent from 7,600 ft to 9,180 ft through forested trails, passing Mandoli village, the Kali Valley viewpoint, and a stream crossing at Link-gaad. The Gujreni campsite sits in a sunlit forest clearing known for its birdlife and quiet stream.
Day 3Gujreni to Tilandi
A short but steep climb from 9,180 ft to 10,495 ft through oak and rhododendron forest, crossing the snow line into open meadows. Tilandi campsite sits on a ridge with views across to the Roopkund trail's Ali and Bedni Bugyal meadows.
Day 4Day 4 — Tilandi to Brahmatal
Today’s excursion is an up-and-down trek whereby the trail is besieged by a tree line off and on. The Rhododendron and the Oak trees dominate the trees. As you head towards Jhandi Top, the highest point on the ridge, you will see all the trekking exercises and climbing.
From here, you can take in the stunning sight of the Mt. Trishul and Mt. Nanda Ghunti ranges and trace the entire Roopkund trail from Wan to Roopkund. Spend at least twenty minutes at Jhandi Top to fully absorb the beauty around you—it’s a moment that often gives trekkers goosebumps.
Day 5Brahmatal to Lohajung
A long descent from 10,190 ft to 7,550 ft via Jhandi Top and the Khorurai clearing, passing through oak and rhododendron forest and shepherd huts before reaching Lohajung.
Day 6Lohajung to Rishikesh
The return journey retraces the initial drive, arriving back in Rishikesh by evening.
Best Time to Visit
Things to Carry
- Ankle-support trekking shoes (rentable)
- Backpack with detachable rain cover (rentable)
- Layered clothing: woolen sweater, fleece jacket(s), padded jacket, thermals (winter)
- 3 collared T-shirts, 2 quick-dry trek pants
- Sunglasses and sun cap with flaps
- Waterproof gloves and balaclava
- Woolen socks (2 dry-fit, 1 woolen pair)
- Headlamp and trekking poles (rentable)
- Rain jacket/pants or poncho (rentable)
- Sunscreen, moisturizer, lip balm/Vaseline
- Light quick-dry towel, toilet paper, toothbrush & toothpaste
- Steel lunch box, spoon, coffee mug, water bottles (rentable)
- Essential medicines: Diamox, Dolo 650, Avomine, Combiflam, Digene, ORS, optional knee brace
Permits & Fees
Safety Tips
- Ascend gradually, avoid gaining more than 300–500 meters of altitude per day
- Stay hydrated and watch for AMS symptoms (headache, nausea, dizziness); alert your trek leader immediately
- Keep emergency contact numbers handy and never trek alone (buddy system)
- Carry a basic first-aid kit with band-aids, antiseptics, and personal medication
- Check weather forecasts before setting out and dress in layers
- Use gaiters, microspikes, and trekking poles on snow-covered or slippery sections
- Wear waterproof, supportive trekking shoes suited for wet and muddy conditions
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