Baraadsar Lake Trek

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Overview

Baraadsar Lake Trek – The Sacred Wish-Fulfilling Lake

Discover the untouched beauty of Baraadsar Lake, a mystical high-altitude lake nestled amidst towering ridges at 4,300 meters. Revered by locals as a wish-fulfilling lake, Baraadsar remains one of the lesser-known, virgin treks in the Indian Himalayas, offering a unique blend of adventure and spirituality.

This stunning trek lies within the Govind Wildlife Sanctuary in Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand. Surrounded by the enchanting Himalayan landscapes, tranquil meadows, and a bracing mountain climate, the trail offers trekkers an unforgettable experience in nature’s serene embrace.

A Trek of Spiritual Belief and Natural Beauty

Locals hold a deep belief that wishes made at Baraadsar Lake never go unanswered. Hidden between the Rupin and Supin Valleys, close to the Himachal Pradesh border, the lake’s supernatural aura and untouched beauty attract trekkers looking for both adventure and divine connection.

The campsites along the trail are breathtaking, set against a backdrop of dense forests, vibrant alpine meadows, and dramatic ridgelines. Though the trail is challenging—with steep ascents and rocky paths—the panoramic views of snow-clad peaks from the top make every step worth it.

Highlights of Baraadsar Lake Trek

  • Altitude: 4,300 meters (14,107 feet)

  • Trek Grade: Moderate to Difficult – Not recommended for beginners

  • Trekking Region: Govind National Park, Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand

  • Total Distance: Approx. 59 km on foot + 454 km by vehicle (round trip)

  • Duration: 8 days

Trek Route Overview

  • Start Point: Dehradun

  • Via Mussoorie to Khanyasni Camp

  • Ascend to Vijay Top, Dhaldhar, and Devbasa

  • Trek to Baraadsar Lake, followed by descent to Fhitari, Jakhol, and return via Sankri

Why Choose Baraadsar Lake Trek?

  • Experience one of the most secluded and spiritually significant treks in the Himalayas.

  • Witness the pristine beauty of unexplored meadows, forests, and dramatic ridges.

  • Trek through remote villages and experience local culture and folklore.

  • Enjoy breathtaking summit views of snow-capped Himalayan peaks.

  • Be part of a sacred journey where nature and belief merge to create a truly special adventure.

Baraadsar Lake Trek – Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Drive from Dehradun to Khanyasni Camp

  • Distance: 235 km | Duration: 9–10 hours

  • Mode: By Taxi

  • Altitude: 1,878 meters

  • Stay: Campsite (twin sharing)

Pickup from Dehradun Railway Station in the morning (between 6:00 am and 7:00 am). The drive takes you through scenic hill stations, passing via Mussoorie, with picturesque views of forests, rivers, and mountains, finally reaching Khanyasni Camp by evening.

Day 2: Trek from Khanyasni Camp to Sarutal Camp

  • Distance: 5 km | Duration: 3–4 hours

  • Mode: On Foot

  • Altitude: 2,000 meters

  • Stay: Campsite (twin sharing)

After breakfast, start your trek along the Rupin River. The trail leads through Pujali and Bitri villages, known for their apple orchards and terraced fields. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings before reaching Sarutal Camp.

Day 3: Trek from Sarutal Camp to Badang Camp

  • Distance: 8 km | Duration: 5–6 hours

  • Mode: On Foot

  • Altitude: 2,600 meters

  • Stay: Campsite (twin sharing)

Begin your trek through thick forest trails and gradually ascend to Badang Camp. A high ridge between the Rupin and Supin valleys offers panoramic mountain views, making this stretch truly memorable.

Day 4: Trek from Badang Camp via Vijay Top to Dhaldhar Camp

  • Distance: 13 km | Duration: 6–7 hours

  • Mode: On Foot

  • Altitude: 3,200 meters (Dhaldhar Camp), 3,800 meters (Vijay Top)

  • Stay: Campsite (twin sharing)

Today’s trek includes a steep climb to Vijay Top (3,800 m), offering breathtaking views of snow-clad peaks, including Vishkhopri, Obra Valley, and Khimloga Pass. After soaking in the views, descend to Dhaldhar Camp for an overnight stay.

Day 5: Trek from Dhaldhar Camp to Devbasa Camp

  • Distance: 6 km | Duration: 2–3 hours

  • Mode: On Foot

  • Altitude: 3,650 meters

  • Stay: Campsite (twin sharing)

Start your day early to witness a mesmerizing sunrise as the peaks glow orange with the first light. After breakfast, trek towards Devbasa Camp, allowing your body to acclimatize to higher altitudes.

Day 6: Trek from Devbasa Camp to Baraadsar Lake and Return

  • Distance: 14 km (round trip) | Duration: 8–9 hours

  • Mode: On Foot

  • Altitude: 4,300 meters

  • Stay: Campsite (twin sharing)

This is the longest and most rewarding day. The trail from Devbasa to Baraadsar Lake is rough and challenging. Two routes are available:

  • A shorter but steep path, crossing a high pass

  • A longer, scenic route, circling the mountain (an extra 3 hours)

Upon reaching the sacred lake, take in the tranquil beauty of the high-altitude landscape before returning to Devbasa Camp.

Day 7: Trek from Devbasa Camp to Kasla via Lower Sural, Drive to Sankri

  • Distance: 15 km trek + 29 km drive | Duration: 8–9 hours

  • Mode: On Foot & By Taxi

  • Altitude: Sankri – 1,920 meters

  • Stay: Hotel (twin sharing)

Begin your descent through Lower Sural, followed by a steep trail through alpine meadows and dense pine forests. After reaching Kasla, take a drive to Sankri for a comfortable night stay in a hotel.

Day 8: Drive from Sankri to Dehradun

  • Distance: 210 km | Duration: 8–9 hours

  • Mode: By Taxi

Enjoy your final breakfast of the trek, capture some last group photos, and begin the return drive to Dehradun, marking the end of a remarkable journey.

  • Footwear: The trekking boots which must be waterproof and snow proof, normal boots, floaters, and woolen socks.
  • Backpack: (50 ltr), Daypack (20-30 ltr), Duffel bag.
  • Clothes: Jacket and trousers that are both waterproof and breathable. Jacket (synthetic or down feather fleece), synthetic insulated trousers, poncho, sweatshirt, inner thermal (upper & lower), fleece, t-shirts, cotton trekking pants, shorts
  • Season wise Clothes:
  • Hand and head protection includes liner gloves, bandannas, sun hats, woollen caps, and face masks, among other things.
  • Accessories: Sunglasses/goggles, anti-glare lenses, water bottle, hydra bag, and headlamp with spare bulb and extra batteries are all recommended.
  • Trekking Gears: Toolkit for an emergency. Sunscreen, a toiletry pack, water purification pills, Ziploc packs, ear plugs, first-aid kit, and the necessary medications are all recommended.
  •  Camping Equipment: Sleeping bags of lining (extreme -5 to +5 Celsius if you have one), trekking sticks, and so on.      
  • Warm top/light micro fleece pullover/full sleeve T shirt – 2/3
  •  Water resistant/repellent trekking pants with an inner lining for added warmth- 2 High-quality windproof/water-resistant outer shell (jacket) with a proper hood
  •  Thick Fleece / Full-sleeve Woollen Jumper, Down Jacket with at least 600 fill capacity Innerwear with a thermal component (upper and lower)
  •  Woolen hat, inner fleece gloves, and outer water-resistant gloves
  •  4–5 pairs of thick woollen socks and standard socks, scarf/muffler (optional)
  •  Waterproof Trekking/Hiking shoes with a thick heel and high ankles that are comfortable to wear. Sneakers/sport shoes are ideal for camp.
  • Poncho or raincoat.  A small, light-weight towel
  • A hydration pack and an insulated water bottle (optional)
  • Sunglasses with UV cover and the potential to cut light, as well as a cap or floppy hat to shield the strong sun off your skin (important when traversing through snow)
  • Trekking pole or sturdy walking stick Lip Balm, Sunscreen Lotion
  • Flashlight / torch (with extra batteries) Medications, if any special prescription is needed Toiletries for personal use
  • Carry a rain cover over your luggage • Day pack/small bag that you can carry on your back all day to keep your essentials in
  • Keep a few poly bags or plastic containers in your bag to place your things in if you need to in case of heavy weather.

 

Must Read Articles

Best time for the trek

🗓️ Best Time to Trek — A Guide by Octatrav

One of the key advantages of many Himalayan treks is that they remain accessible for a large part of the year. Most trekking routes open up in March, welcoming trekkers with springtime freshness and moderate temperatures. This season continues through late June, offering pleasant weather and clear views—ideal for a memorable trekking experience.

🍁 Trekking resumes in mid-September and continues until late November, when the landscape transforms with golden leaves and crisp air. This autumn window is perfect for those who prefer scenic beauty combined with clear skies.

❄️ Winter trekking, although breathtaking, comes with challenges. From December to mid-March, most high-altitude trails get buried under heavy snow, making them inaccessible or risky. Government authorities usually restrict entry during this time to avoid mishaps due to extreme cold, snowfall, and avalanches.

✅ Summary:

  • Spring & Summer (March–June): Best time for pleasant weather and blooming landscapes.

  • Monsoon (July–Early September): Most trails are closed due to safety concerns.

  • Autumn (Mid-September–November): Ideal time with great weather and views.

  • Winter (December–Mid-March): High snow levels; many treks remain closed.

With Octatrav, you’ll always be informed about the best seasons for your chosen trek. Our expert guidance ensures that you trek during the safest and most scenic times of the year, making your adventure both memorable and secure.

This trek is generally considered to be of moderate difficulty, with a rating that can vary from easy to challenging depending on your experience and fitness level.

The journey begins at a base village situated around 6,000 ft, gradually ascending to a maximum altitude of nearly 11,500 ft over the course of a few days.

While the route mostly involves a pleasant hike through scenic landscapes, here are two main reasons why it falls under the moderate category:

– Long daily distances: On average, you may be covering 10 km per day, which demands good stamina and consistent pacing.
– Limited exit points: Most treks of this nature have only one route in and out, making emergency exits or quick returns difficult in case of unforeseen situations.

How to Prepare for a High-Altitude Trek

Fitness Guide by Octatrav

Preparing for a trek requires building both stamina and strength. One of the best ways to get started is by jogging, which targets the same muscles used during trekking—calves, glutes, and hamstrings. It’s a simple and effective way to improve endurance without the need for any equipment.

Minimum Fitness Target

To trek comfortably, you should be able to run 5 km in under 60 minutes. This ensures that you can maintain a steady pace and handle long walking hours at altitude.

How to Achieve This?

Here’s a structured plan you can follow:

🏃‍♂️ Cardio Training:

  • Jog at least 4 times a week – consistency is key.

  • Start small – begin with 2 km runs and gradually increase the distance.

  • Pace improvement – once you’re running 5 km, aim to bring your timing down to under 35 minutes.

  • Maintain for 2 weeks – consistently hitting this goal helps build real endurance.

⏳ Training Duration:

Prepare for at least 4–6 weeks based on your current fitness level. The earlier you begin, the better your trek experience will be.

💪 Strength Training Routine

Combine cardio with strength workouts to build muscular endurance:

  • Squats – builds quads, glutes, and hamstrings.

  • Lunges – mimics trekking motion; strengthens the entire lower body.

  • Step-ups – improves climbing strength for steep trails.

  • Core exercises – planks, Russian twists, leg raises for balance and stability.

  • Back workouts – deadlifts, bent-over rows, and shoulder presses to carry your backpack with ease.

🧘‍♂️ Flexibility & Recovery

  • Stretch daily – especially your calves, hamstrings, quads, and lower back.

  • Incorporate yoga or Pilates – enhances flexibility and mental focus.

  • Take rest days – they are essential for muscle recovery and injury prevention.

🔁 Trek-Ready Summary

  • 🏃‍♂️ Cardio: Build stamina through jogging.

  • 💪 Strength: Focus on legs, back, and core.

  • 🤸‍♂️ Flexibility: Stretch regularly and stay injury-free.

  • ⏳ Consistency: Stick to a 6–8 week routine for best results.

Why Choose Octatrav for Your Trekking Adventure?

Trekking in the Himalayas is a thrilling and unforgettable experience. Whether you’re walking through snow-covered paths, lush forests, or peaceful riversides, choosing the right trekking operator is crucial for a safe and comfortable journey.
Octatrav stands out as a trusted name in the trekking world. Here are 10 strong reasons to choose Octatrav for your next high-altitude adventure:

1. Experienced Professionals

Octatrav’s team includes highly trained professionals who know the terrain, weather, and routes in depth. Their insights and support will elevate your trekking experience.

2. Focused on Safety

Trekking at altitude can be unpredictable. Octatrav ensures your safety by equipping the team with first-aid kits, oxygen, and emergency protocols for any situation.

3. Small Group Sizes

To give you personal attention and a relaxed experience, Octatrav keeps group sizes small. This also reduces environmental impact and makes for smoother trekking.

4. Eco-Friendly Trekking

Octatrav encourages responsible travel. From minimizing plastic use to proper waste disposal at campsites, they help you leave no trace.

5. Comfortable Camping

After a long day of trekking, good rest matters. Octatrav sets up cozy camps with quality tents, warm sleeping bags, and hot meals so you sleep well and stay energized.

6. Nutritious Meals

Fueling your body right is essential. Octatrav serves fresh, nutritious meals for both vegetarians and non-vegetarians to keep your energy levels high throughout the trek.

7. Affordable Packages

You don’t have to overspend for a great experience. Octatrav offers budget-friendly packages that include accommodation, meals, guidance, and permits—everything you need.

8. Relaxed & Scenic Pace

Octatrav designs treks that balance exploration and rest. You’ll get ample time to absorb the beauty around you without rushing through the journey.

9. Customizable Itineraries

Want a special experience? Octatrav helps you tailor the trek to your preference—be it a solo hike, photography-focused trail, or a slower pace.

10. Trusted by Trekkers

Octatrav is praised by many happy trekkers for its hospitality, safety, and professionalism. The positive reviews speak for themselves.

Why Choose This Himalayan Trek for Your Next Adventure? – by Octatrav

Exploring the Himalayas is a dream for many, and every trail has its own magic. Whether you’re a first-time trekker or a seasoned explorer, here are ten reasons why your next trek with Octatrav can be an unforgettable experience:

1. 🏔️ Breathtaking Scenery

Enjoy mesmerizing views of snow-covered peaks, lush green valleys, sparkling rivers, and alpine forests. Each turn on the trail feels like walking through a postcard.

2. 🏡 Rich Cultural Experience

Pass through remote villages where you can interact with warm-hearted locals, witness age-old traditions, and taste authentic mountain hospitality.

3. 🌿 Diverse Flora and Fauna

From rare Himalayan birds to elusive animals like musk deer or black bears, the region is rich in biodiversity. Nature lovers and wildlife photographers will find every step rewarding.

4. 🥾 Moderate Difficulty Level

Most Himalayan treks are rated as moderate, which makes them suitable for beginners with preparation, and still exciting for experienced trekkers looking for beauty and challenge.

5. 📖 Mythological & Historical Depth

Many Himalayan regions are steeped in legend and ancient lore. Walking these trails often feels like stepping into a living story from Indian epics or ancient folklore.

6. 🤫 Peaceful & Untouched

Less commercialized treks offer serene trails where you can disconnect from city chaos and truly reconnect with nature and yourself.

7. ⛺ Unique Campsites

Camp under a sky full of stars, beside rivers or deep in pine forests. The silence, the chill, the camaraderie — it’s an experience that stays with you forever.

8. 🎒 Adventure Add-ons

Beyond trekking, enjoy photography, bird watching, star-gazing, or even meditative moments in nature. It’s not just a trek — it’s a full adventure retreat.

9. 🌅 Magical Sunrises & Sunsets

Witness golden hours like never before — with Himalayan peaks glowing pink, orange, and gold. These views are pure magic and make every effort worthwhile.

10. 💪 Personal Growth

Trekking challenges your body and mind, pushing you beyond limits. By the end, you’ll not only have beautiful memories but also a stronger, more confident version of yourself.