Brahmatal is Kedarkantha's quieter rival as the winter trek of Uttarakhand. It starts from the village of Lohajung, climbs through forest to two frozen lakes, and then follows an open ridge with Mount Trishul and Nanda Ghunti filling the skyline the whole way. The summit day is gentler than Kedarkantha's, the views are arguably bigger, and the trails are less crowded.
At a Glance
- Base: Lohajung, Chamoli district, about 2,300 m
- Highest point: Brahmatal top, roughly 3,700-3,850 m depending on the source
- Duration: 6 days from Kathgodam or Rishikesh and back
- Distance: roughly 22-30 km on foot, depending on the route
- Difficulty: easy to moderate
- Best season for snow: late December to February
Getting to Lohajung
Lohajung is a long day's drive from either Kathgodam (about 220 km, 8 to 10 hours) or Rishikesh (about 250 km, 10 to 11 hours), through Gwaldam and Dewal or via Karnaprayag. Most operators run shared vehicles from one of these railheads. The drive itself is spectacular but tiring; arrive at the railhead the night before.
A Typical Itinerary
Campsite names and day splits differ between operators. Some itineraries take in Jhandi Top for an even wider view of Trishul and Nanda Ghunti.
- Day 1: Drive to Lohajung
- Day 2: Lohajung to Bekaltal through oak and rhododendron forest
- Day 3: Bekaltal to Brahmatal, with views opening up on Telandi top
- Day 4: Brahmatal top and ridge walk, then back to camp
- Day 5: Descend to Lohajung
- Day 6: Drive back to Kathgodam or Rishikesh
Why Winter Is Special
From late December to February the upper trail and both lakes are usually under snow, the lakes often frozen solid, and the sky crisp and blue between storms. Temperatures at camp drop well below freezing at night. The ridge walk to Brahmatal top, with Trishul directly ahead, is the highlight: wide, mostly gentle, and spectacular.
Snow makes everything slower. Microspikes and gaiters make the steeper sections far safer, and a good team will adjust the summit day to the conditions.
Brahmatal or Kedarkantha?
- Kedarkantha: a classic summit with a steep final push; very popular and busier
- Brahmatal: a ridge walk with bigger views of Trishul and Nanda Ghunti; quieter
- Both: suitable for fit beginners, best in winter, around 6 days from the railhead
- Brahmatal's approach drive is longer; Kedarkantha's summit day is harder
Permits and Cost
Forest permits and camping charges apply, and operators normally include them in the package; foreign nationals usually pay a separate permit fee. Package prices vary with group size and inclusions, so compare what is included: transport, meals, tents, sleeping bags and the forest fee. Independent trekkers should confirm current rules with the forest office in the Chamoli district or with a licensed operator.
What to Pack
- A sleeping bag rated to about minus 10 degrees Celsius
- Down jacket, fleece and thermal layers
- Waterproof trekking shoes, microspikes and gaiters
- Sunglasses for snow glare, and sunscreen
- Warm gloves, a woollen cap and spare socks
Frequently Asked Questions
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