About Dodital Lake Trek
Blessed with elevated grassland that bedded with snow during the winters, gurgling streams, dense alpine forest and rich variety of flowers, the Dodital Lake Trek is one of the picturesque treks in the Garhwal Himalayan region. The trek also originates from the Bhagirathi valley, which nestled at an altitude of 1,350 meters, and passes through a mysterious forest and ascents gently to a lofty height of 4,150 meters to Darwa Top.
Dodital also often dubbed Ganesh-ka-Tal and considers as one of the sacred lakes in the Garhwal Himalayan region as it believes that it is the birthplace of Lord Ganesha, one of the Hindu deities. The captivating natural ambiance surrounding the serene lake is ideal for camping overnight. There is also an opportunity to explore the Asi Ganga valley. There are also subsidiary treks transporting one from Asi Ganga to Bhagirathi Ganga valley and to the Yamuna valley and vice versa.
The Dodital Trek, which is also one of the winter treks in the Indian Himalayan region starts from Sangamchatti and heads to Agoda village nestled at an altitude of 2,250 meters. The trail also passes through the river Asi Ganga and is followed by gentle ascends and descends and passes through a secluded village, Bhebra. From Agoda, a 16 kilometers journey that passes through the beautiful forest of Rhododendron leads to Manjhi, which is tucked at a mighty height. It also offers such an environment that forms a haven for trekkers to camp overnight.
The trek from Manjhi turns towards Dodital, which is approximately 6 kilometers away and is located at a height of 3,307 meters. The sprawling natural beauty, refreshing climate and tranquil water of the freshwater lake also make camping here an absolute bliss. Further, a walk of 5 kilometers to Darwa Top that passes through narrow gorges, birch forest, rocky colonies, and involves a series of rivulet takes you to the stunning Bandarpunch peak and Swargarohini range.
The Dodital Lake Trek, which is undertaken all throughout the year, is considered as one of the easy to moderate treks in the Garhwal Himalayan region that is located in Uttarakhand; the duration of the trail is approximately 7 – 8 days. During the winter season much of the trail has to be done over a thick bed of snow that expunges after crossing the village of Agoda.
Dodital Darwa Pass Trip Highlights
- Famous Temples at Haridwar and Rishikesh
- Crystal Clear Lake and Himalayan trout
- Verdant Valley: Asi Ganga Valley, Bhagirathi Valley and Yamuna Valley
- Snow capped Himalayan Peaks: Bandarpunch peak and Swargarohini Peak
- Low altitude trek with gorges, spectacular views, multiple hues
- Dazzling variation in scenery
- Lush green meadows and thick forests
- Rare glimpses of an ancient culture of local people.
Best Time to Visit
Best time to travel to Dodital Darwa Pass is in summers (April – June) and winters (Oct – Dec). Winter treks are also conducted in the months between January and March.
Summers:
The weather of Dodital Darwa Pass remains salubrious and pleasing during summers. The Himalayas are also distinctly visible and the cool breeze adds charm to the vacation. Carry light woolens with you.
Monsoon:
Dodital Darwa turns greener during the monsoon season. Although trekking becomes challenging and there are chances of getting roads blocked for a couple of hours due to landslides, the scenic beauty during monsoons is worth taking the risk for. Carrying raincoats is advised.
Winters:
The region gets blanketed in snow during the winter season and the accommodation options are also restricted to few. But Dodital Darwa looks the best during winters and indeed the trek becomes more difficult. Carrying heavy woolens is advised.
Where is the Dodital?
Dodital is located to the north of Uttarkashi. The trek for Dodital also begins from Uttarkashi or Kalyani, both approachable by road. Kalyani to Agoda is a gradual climb through woods, fields and villages along a mule track. The trek from Agoda to Dodital is also steep and through thick forests. The Yamunotri stretch of the trek is possible only during the summer.
Dodital Lake Trek (Detailed Itinerary)
Day 01
Delhi – Haridwar – Uttarkashi (225 kms/6 hrs)
Other Benfits (On Arrival)
- Breakfast
- Transfers
- Stay Included
In the morning, take an AC train for Haridwar from Delhi at 06:50 hrs. After arriving in Haridwar, meet our guide who will also assist you with reaching Uttarkashi via Rishikesh and checking in to your hotel. Evening time is also free for leisure activities. Overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 02
Uttarkashi – Sangamchatti – Manjhi (16 kms / 6-7 hrs)
After the breakfast, drive to Sangamchatti; from there, trek to Manjhi via Agoda Village and Bevra. Upon arrival at Manjhi, pitch the camp for overnight stay. Dinner and overnight stay in tents.
Day 03
Manjhi – Dodital (3307 mts / 10847 ft) (6 Kms / 3–4 hrs)
Today, begin your trek through thick forests and climb steep cliffs to reach Dodital. Dinner and overnight stay in the tent.
Day 04
Dodital – Darwa Top (5 kms / 3 hrs)
Early in the morning, trek up to Darwa Top with packed breakfasts. The walk to Darwa top is 5 kms (2-3 hrs) long. Darwa Top is at a height of 4150 mts and the entire trek is also uphill climb via thick birch forest opening into high meadows. Upon reaching Darwa Top, enjoy the breathtaking views and then start the downhill walk to reach the campsite for the hot lunch. One can also spend the rest of the day relaxing, catching up with the local tales, walking around the lake, sighting birds or just observing the clear waters of the lake and spotting trouts. Overnight stay in the tents.
Day 05
Dodital – Agoda (2250 mts / 7380 ft) (17 kms / 4-5 hrs)
After the breakfast we will trek down till Agoda, which is a 17 Kms Trek. Overnight stay in camps at Agoda.
Day 06
Agoda – Rishikesh (4 kms trek + 200 kms Drive)
In the morning, after the breakfast, trek down to Sangamchatti, which is a 4kms trek, and from Sangamchatti, drive down to Rishikesh. On arrival, check in at the hotel. Evening free for leisure activities. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 07
Rishikesh – Haridwar – Delhi
Early in the morning, transfer to Haridwar Railway Station to catch a train for Delhi. Arrival at Delhi by afternoon.
Inclusions
star hotel Accommodation
transport Transfer
Meals
Sightseeing