Brahmatal

Brahmatal! It gets its name as Taal means lake, a lake where Lord Brahma meditated, and so it's called Brahmatal. As the legend says, Lord Brahma wrote the Vedas sitting by the side of this majestic lake. The trek is also famous for another lake called Bekaltal, bekal meaning frog and tal meaning lake, which as per the locals was created by the snake deity they worship as their protector. The snake deity has a frog servant who was very loyal and humble, for whom the snake created this lake as a reward. These lakes are often frozen during winters and provide a magical reflection of the oak trees and the Himalayan peaks.

Apart from these, Brahmatal Trek provides a panoramic view of the Himalayas with Mt. Trishul and Nanda Ghunti, a bird’s eye view of the majestic Roopkund Trek (that is another story and another trek!) and ample opportunities to capture the majestic snow-covered peaks of the Himalayas. Brahmatal is a trek of moderate difficulty, fit for both beginners and experienced trekkers. Most of the trek involves walking through the forests and camping on the lakeside, therefore reducing the chances of altitude sickness.

Whether it is white, mystic snow-covered mountains during the winters giving you a full ‘Frozen’ movie feel, or the golden mountains giving their most precious shine during the springs, this trek offers the most beautiful lakes – Bekaltal and the Brahmatal, frozen during winters. If timed perfectly, you will also encounter snowfalls during winters starting from Lohajung – the base summit of the trek. Lohajung, as the locals say, is a place where Goddess Parvati had a war (jung) with the demon Lohasur, hence the name Lohajung translates to a war with Lohasur. The drive to Lohajung takes about 9-10 hours from Rishikesh/Kathgodam with stunning views of high-altitude peaks like Trishul, Maiktoli, Nanda Devi, Ghori Parvat, Nanda Khat, Hathi Parvat, and Ghori Parvat. You will also get to explore the local Lohajung market.

The actual trek begins from Lohajung (7,600 ft) to Bekaltal (9,689 ft). Experience the beauty of oak forests and the confluence of Kail and Pindari Rivers. As we reach Bekaltal, encircling it lie thick oak forests that add to the beauty and serenity of the region. It makes for the perfect camping spot. One can definitely not imagine coming across the whole galaxy of stars seen right after the golden sunset amidst the valleys with a mild cool breeze tranquillizing your mind and soul. The trek from Bekaltal to Brahmatal includes traversing from oak and rhododendron forests to Telandi meadows. Telandi meadows, a green land in summer, turns into a snow-scape in winters. Camping on the lakeside with the spectacular view of the night sky in the frozen lake during winters is a sight to behold.

The summit! A steep walk to the summit from the lake early in the morning. The scenery appears to be just out of a painting. Reach the top and you are greeted with Mt. Trishul's and Mt. Nanda Ghunti's iconic panoramic view. Spending some time at the top experiencing true bliss. The descent from Brahmatal summit also has a lot to offer. You get to witness many other peaks of the Himalayas such as Chaukhamba, Mandi, Mana, Nilgiri, Neelkanth, Maitoli, among a few to name. As we descend to Lohajung, our trek ends with a visit to the local villages and the markets, spending some time in the traditional way.

Brahmatal is one of the treks best experienced during winters but also open during autumn and spring seasons. It is a great trek for fit beginners with an easy to moderate difficulty level. Experienced trekkers love to explore this winter trek as well.