Memoirs in the Mountains and Meadows: Kumaresh Saha's Brahmatal Trek with Thrillophilia
“When everything feels like an uphill struggle, think about the view from the top.”, my friend remarked while we were pacing ahead through the rhododendron forests on the 3rd day of Brahmatal Trek.
This was one of the steepest stretches which tested our endurance as we crossed through the colourful meadows and gurgling water streams. However, my friend was right. The moment we crossed the vibrant forests, we were greeted by the mesmerising views of Mt. Trishul and Mt. Nanda Ghunti.
It was my best friend’s idea to go together on a Himalayan trek. During our college days, we loved hiking to small hills around Darjeeling.
However, our lives took a backseat and the drama of the workplace got us glued to our computer screens.
‘Let’s recreate these amazing memories and go on a Himalayan trek this time’, he said one evening.
He suggested the Brahmatal Trek which seemed like an ideal trek for us being of moderate difficulty. It remains open throughout the year and felt like a great option with stunning views and altitude gain which makes it all worth it in the end.
A daring journey through dense forests
Our trek began with a scenic drive from Dehradun to Lohagunj. While winding through the well-maintained roads, we could see the picturesque views of the Garhwal mountains.
‘This is the place where it is believed that Goddess Parvati had a war (Jung) with the demon, Lohasur. It is also one of the esteemed campsites for many Himalayan treks like Brahmatal and Roop Kund.’, our driver told us when we had stopped for a cup of tea in the local stores along the way.
We got acquainted with all the members of the group who were going to be our mates on this journey and a briefing from our trek leader during the night. We started sharing our previous trekking experiences while our porters served us a delicious meal along with a crackling bonfire.
The adventure began on the second day when we had to ascend through forests of oak and firs to Bekaltal. Waking up to the sound of birds and being welcomed by the chilly mountain air while I sipped on a cup of black coffee made me realise what I have been missing in my mundane life in Kolkata.
After climbing on a well-marked trail which boasted serene views of water streams and mesmerising valleys, we reached Bekaltal, our next campsite. Bekaltal is a pristine lake which is surrounded by thick forests of oak trees and boasts brown water due to a higher amount of organic matter.
Where meadows meet mountains
While trekking from Bekaltal to Brahmatal, we knew it was going to be a challenge as it was the steepest climb during the trek. After crossing the meadows, the beauty of Himalayan peaks like Mt Trishul and Mt. Nanda Ghunti revealed themselves to us in the most spectacular way.
We clicked many pictures of the astounding views, we conquered Brahmatal. At an altitude of 12,250 ft, we reached the highest point of the trek. We celebrated this feat with a cup of tea and Maggi prepared by our brilliant porters.
Savouring the last bits of serenity
After revelling in the surreal views of the snowcapped peaks, we started our descent from Brahmatal. awe-inspiring views of this tranquil lake were the most beautiful glimpses of nature that I had seen in my life.
We joined the main trail to Lohangunj after another kilometre of descent and then entered the rhododendron forests. We reached the ‘chawni’, a place used by the local shepherd to keep their livestock. On the 6th day filled with adventure and tranquillity, we concluded the trek.
After we reached Dehradun we decided to commemorate this experience with a cup of Hazelnut cappuccino at Starbucks. Feeling exuberated with the success of accomplishing our first Himalayan trek, we both felt a kick of joy. My friend already started looking at trek itineraries which we can do next year.
Thrillophilia has given me profound memories of my first Himalayan trek. I could not have wished for anything better as all the arrangements were done perfectly even in the harshest conditions.
With this amazing trek, I gained another memorable experience with my best friend.
I will be grateful to Thrillophilia and its staff who organised the trek beautifully and helped us cherish every glimpse of nature.
Read more: Thrillophilia Uttarakhand Trek Reviews