About This Trek
Brahmatal is one of Uttarakhand's finest winter treks — a high-altitude frozen lake surrounded by snow-covered oak and rhododendron forests, with direct views of Trishul (7,120m) and Nanda Ghunti (6,309m) from the summit ridge. In December–March, the entire trail above Lohajung is blanketed in snow, the lake freezes solid, and the mountain panorama from Brahmatal is extraordinary.
This is a trek that works on multiple levels: it's accessible enough for anyone with moderate fitness and winter clothing, but the scenery and the altitude make it feel genuinely significant. Camp under deep winter skies, wake to frozen ground and clear mountain views, and make the summit push to a ridge that looks directly onto the heart of the Kumaon Himalaya.
Who Is This For
- Anyone wanting their first proper winter Himalayan trek in a shorter timeframe
- Trekkers who have done Dayara or Ali Bedni and want a snow experience
- Groups comfortable in cold conditions — temperatures at camp reach -10°C to -15°C in peak winter
- Anyone who wants to stand at 3,862m with Trishul filling the horizon
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Drive from Kathgodam (the nearest railhead from Delhi) through Almora and Kausani to Lohajung — the base for both Brahmatal and Roopkund routes. Snow may be visible from the road approaching Lohajung in winter. ~8 hrs drive. Briefing and gear check.
Trek begins through forest that becomes increasingly snow-laden as altitude increases. Bekaltal is a small frozen lake surrounded by oak trees — an atmospheric winter camp. First views of the Trishul group. Walk: ~5 hrs.
Gradual ascent through progressively deeper snow as the forest thins and the landscape opens. The Brahmatal lake is frozen solid in winter — a surreal, beautiful campsite with expanding mountain views. Walk: ~5 hrs.
Early start for the summit ridge walk — the highest point at 3,862m gives direct views of Trishul and Nanda Ghunti, with the full Kumaon panorama stretching in every direction. Descend to Daldum camp through snow. Walk: ~8 hrs total.
Long descent through forest back to Lohajung. The body and legs feel the previous days, but the return through the winter forest has its own quiet beauty. Walk: ~5 hrs.
Drive back to Kathgodam. Trek ends. ~8 hrs drive.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Included
- Trek leadership by Karan throughout
- Support staff & porters
- All camping accommodation & meals
- Forest permits
- First aid kit
- Kathgodam–Lohajung–Kathgodam transport
- Group microspikes (if required)
Excluded
- Train/transport to Kathgodam
- Travel insurance (recommended)
- Personal winter gear (warm layers mandatory — list provided)
- Personal snacks, tips
What to Expect — Winter Conditions
- Night temperatures at camp: -10°C to -15°C in December–January. Proper sleeping bag essential (rated -15°C or below)
- Daytime temperatures on trail: -2°C to +5°C
- Snow depth: ankle to knee-deep above Bekaltal in peak winter
- A comprehensive cold-weather gear list will be shared on booking