Expected Snow Depth on Trail
December to February — the trail is fully blanketed. Expect 2–4 feet of snow at Brahmatal summit, creating the most magical winter landscape in Uttarakhand.
The Brahmatal Trek is widely considered India's finest winter trek — and with good reason. Unlike summer treks that share trails with heavy tourist traffic, Brahmatal in December–February transforms into a pristine white wilderness where frozen oak forests, snow-covered meadows, and two frozen alpine lakes create an otherworldly landscape.
The summit at 3,612m offers one of the most dramatic panoramas in the Garhwal Himalayas — a 180° view of Trishul (7,120m), Nanda Ghunti (6,309m), and Maitoli. Despite the dramatic setting, the trek is rated Moderate and is perfect for first-time winter trekkers.
Two Frozen Alpine Lakes
Brahmatal and Bekaltal — both completely frozen and snow-covered in winter. Utterly surreal.
Trishul & Nanda Ghunti Views
360° panorama from the summit includes Trishul (7,120m) and Nanda Ghunti (6,309m) at sunrise.
Frozen Oak Forest Trail
Walk through ancient oak and rhododendron forests completely draped in snow — like a fairytale.
Snow Camping Experience
Sleep in high-quality winter tents on snow — an experience most trekkers remember for a lifetime.
Beginner-Friendly Winter Trek
One of the safest and most accessible winter treks in India — perfect for first-time snow trekkers.
Lohajung Base Village
The charming Garhwali base village with stunning Himalayan views even before the trek begins.
Arrive Kathgodam — Drive to Lohajung
Arrive Kathgodam railway station (nearest railhead). Drive 7–8 hours through the beautiful Kumaon hills to Lohajung (2,350m) — your trek base. Winter views of snow-clad peaks all along the drive.
Lohajung → Bekaltal
Begin the trek through thick oak and rhododendron forests. Snow begins to appear from the first hour. Reach Bekaltal (2,934m) — a beautiful frozen lake surrounded by dense forest and snow. First snow camping night!
- 7:00 AM: Breakfast at Lohajung guesthouse
- 8:00 AM: Trek briefing and equipment check
- 8:30 AM: Trek begins — Lohajung to Bekaltal
- Snow starts within first 1–2km of trail
- 12:30 PM: Lunch break with mountain views
- 3:00 PM: Arrive Bekaltal — frozen lake exploration
- 5:00 PM: Snow games, photography at lake
- 7:00 PM: Hot dinner in camp, bonfire
Bekaltal → Brahmatal Campsite
Trek through the most dramatic section — deep snow through dense oak forests. The trail opens into wide snow meadows with unobstructed mountain views. Reach Brahmatal campsite (3,250m). Views of Trishul appear clearly.
Brahmatal Lake + Summit (3,612m)
The crown day! Early start to Brahmatal Lake — completely frozen, surrounded by snow peaks. Then summit push to 3,612m for the legendary 180° sunrise panorama: Trishul, Nanda Ghunti, Maitoli. Descend to camp.
- 5:00 AM: Wake up for summit push
- 5:30 AM: Light breakfast, gear up with crampons
- 6:00 AM: Trek to Brahmatal Lake in darkness
- 7:00 AM: Reach frozen Brahmatal Lake (sunrise!)
- 8:00 AM: Summit push begins from lake
- 9:30 AM: Reach 3,612m summit — 360° panorama
- 11:00 AM: Begin descent back to camp
- 2:00 PM: Lunch, rest and celebrate!
Brahmatal Campsite → Lohajung
Full descent back to Lohajung, retracing the beautiful snowy trail. Arrive by evening for a celebratory dinner, trek certificate ceremony, and overnight in a warm guesthouse.
Lohajung → Kathgodam Departure
After breakfast, drive back to Kathgodam (7–8 hrs). Drop at railway station. Depart with snow in your heart and memories that last a lifetime.
Included
Not Included
Standing at Brahmatal Lake in January — completely frozen, snow all around, Trishul and Nanda Ghunti glowing in sunrise gold — was the most visually overwhelming experience of my life. This trek is a masterpiece. MilesNPeople's team was exceptional — always warm, safe, and encouraging.
It was my first ever snow trek and I was nervous. But the team made everything so comfortable — crampons, proper training before tricky sections, warm food even in the cold. Sleeping in tents with snow outside is something I will talk about for years. 100% doing Kedarkantha next winter!
Yes! Brahmatal is specifically rated Moderate and Beginner-Friendly for winter conditions. Our guides are certified winter trek specialists. We provide crampons, snow gaiters, briefings on snow walking, and -20°C sleeping bags. No prior snow trekking experience is needed — just basic fitness.
January and February offer the most dramatic snow conditions — 3–4 feet of snow on the trail with the most stunning frozen lake views. December is also excellent with 2 feet of snow and clearer skies. The trek is only operational December–February when the valley is fully snow-covered.