Brahmatal is a high ridge-and-lake trek in the Chamoli district of Garhwal. It starts at Lohajung, a small village at about 2,300 m, and climbs through oak and rhododendron forest to two lakes, Bekaltal and Brahmatal, before topping out on a snowy ridge of about 3,700 m (12,200 ft). From the top you look straight across at Trishul and Nanda Ghunti, with a long line of Garhwal peaks behind.
It is one of the few winter treks in Uttarakhand that gives you big mountain views every day, not just on summit day, which is why it has become a popular choice alongside Kedarkantha. Most groups take 6 days from Kathgodam or Rishikesh, with about four days on the trail.
The story of Brahmatal
Local belief holds that Lord Brahma meditated beside the lake, which is how it got its name: the lake (tal) of Brahma. The trail passes through the same region as the old route of the Nanda Devi Raj Jat, the great pilgrimage of the goddess Nanda, and shepherds from the villages below still graze their flocks on these slopes in summer.
Why do the Brahmatal trek
Views every day
Trishul and Nanda Ghunti stay in sight for most of the trek, not just from the top.
Two high lakes
Bekaltal sits in a forest clearing and Brahmatal on an open shoulder; both freeze in peak winter.
Real snow, gentle grade
From late December to February the upper trail is under snow, yet the climbs stay manageable for fit beginners.
The trail, step by step
Lohajung (≈ 2,300 m)
Long drive from Kathgodam or Rishikesh to the roadhead village. Homestays, operator base camps and the forest checkpost.
Bekaltal (≈ 2,800 m)
Through Bekal and oak forest to a small lake ringed by trees. First campsite.
Brahmatal (≈ 3,200 m)
Out of the forest onto open ridges with Trishul in front, down to the Brahmatal lake camp.
Brahmatal top (≈ 3,700 m)
Early climb to the ridge top for sunrise over the Garhwal range, then a long descent towards Tilbudi or Wan.
Back to Lohajung
Descend through forest and villages to Lohajung; drive out on day 6.
Distances to Lohajung
Brahmatal trek cost (rough)
| Item | Rough cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Standard group trek | ≈ ₹8,000-₹14,000 per person | Usually Lohajung to Lohajung with camps, meals, guide and permits |
| Transport to Lohajung | Extra or included | Shared pick-up from Kathgodam or Rishikesh is often offered for an extra fee |
| Gear on rent | ≈ ₹1,000-₹2,500 | Down jacket, boots, sleeping bag, microspikes |
| Porter for your backpack | ≈ ₹1,500-₹2,500 | For the full trek |
Rough ranges from operator prices for the 2026-27 season. Compare what is included before you book.
Before you go
- You should be able to walk 5-6 hours a day on hills with a day pack. Start jogging or stair-climbing a month before.
- Summit day starts in the dark and cold; carry a head torch and spare gloves.
- Nights at Brahmatal fall to about -8 to -10°C in January.
- Mobile signal is weak above Lohajung; tell your family your plan before you leave.
- Carry all your rubbish back down.
- Comparing winter treks? See Kedarkantha and Dayara Bugyal.
Brahmatal Trek FAQs
How difficult is the Brahmatal trek?
It is rated easy to moderate. The first two days are steady forest climbs; the ridge-top day is long and steep in snow. Fit beginners usually manage it with a guide.
What is the best time for the Brahmatal trek?
December to March. For snow, go between late December and February; March brings softer snow and the first rhododendrons.
What is the altitude of Brahmatal?
The high point on the ridge above the lake is about 3,700 m (12,200 ft). The lake itself is lower, at roughly 3,200 m.
Where does the Brahmatal trek start?
Lohajung in Chamoli district. Reach it by road from Kathgodam (about 210 km) or Rishikesh (about 260-270 km).
Brahmatal or Kedarkantha: which is better?
Both are good first winter treks. Brahmatal gives bigger mountain views on more days and two lakes; Kedarkantha has a more defined summit and is easier to reach from Dehradun.
How much does the Brahmatal trek cost?
Standard group treks cost roughly ₹8,000-₹14,000 per person from Lohajung, plus transport and any gear you rent.
