Bekaltal
Bekaltal is a stunning high-altitude lake nestled amidst a dense forest of oak and cedar trees. It serves as the first major campsite for the world-famous Roopkund Trek and the Brahmatal Trek. The lake is unique because its waters remain dark and deep, often reflecting the green canopy above. Durin g the winter months, the lake completely freezes over, turning into a shimmering sheet of ice. The trek to Bekaltal starts from the village of Lohajung, which is a scenic drive from Gwaldam. The trail is a moderate climb of about 6 KM, offering glimpses of the Nanda Ghunti peak. The silence of the forest is therapeutic, and the area is rich in Himalayan biodiversity. Local legends say that the lake is protected by the mountain gods, and it is a place of great serenity. Camping by the lake under a starlit sky is a dream for every adventure enthusiast. The surrounding meadows, known as Bugyals, are vibrant with wildflowers during the monsoon and spring seasons. It is an offbeat destination that offers a raw connection with nature, away from the commercial tourist spots.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
1 to 2 DaysPlace Type:
Adventure & TrekkingEntry Fees:
Forest Department Permit: A permit fee of approximately INR 150 to 200 per day is required for trekking in this zone.
Guide Charges: Mandatory for safety, ranging from INR 1000 to 1500 per day. ...Forest Department Permit: A permit fee of approximately INR 150 to 200 per day is required for trekking in this zone.
Guide Charges: Mandatory for safety, ranging from INR 1000 to 1500 per day.Timing:
Open 24 Hours: The lake area is open, but trekking is only allowed between 6:00 AM and 5:00 PM for safety.
Ideal Visit Time: Arrive at the lake by 3:00 PM to set up camp and enjoy the sunset. ...Open 24 Hours: The lake area is open, but trekking is only allowed between 6:00 AM and 5:00 PM for safety.
Ideal Visit Time: Arrive at the lake by 3:00 PM to set up camp and enjoy the sunset.Special Events:
Winter Expedition: Guided winter treks are organized in December and January for those who want to see the frozen lake.
Local Puja: Small rituals are performed by guides and locals during the onset of the trekking season in May. ...Winter Expedition: Guided winter treks are organized in December and January for those who want to see the frozen lake.
Local Puja: Small rituals are performed by guides and locals during the onset of the trekking season in May.Best Photo Spots:
Lake Shore: For the perfect reflection shot.
Forest Trail: Capturing the sunbeams filtering through the thick oak leaves.
The Meadow: A wide-angle shot of the lake with the distant snow peaks. ...Lake Shore: For the perfect reflection shot.
Forest Trail: Capturing the sunbeams filtering through the thick oak leaves.
The Meadow: A wide-angle shot of the lake with the distant snow peaks.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Trekking: Embark on the 6 KM ascent from Lohajung.
Camping: Spend a night in a tent near the lake.
Stargazing: Watch the celestial show in the clear mountain air.
Photography: Capture the reflection of trees in the lake.
Bird Watching: Spot the Himalayan Woodpecker.
Nature Walks: Explore the surrounding oak groves.
Meditation: Rejuvenate your soul by the silent waters. ...Trekking: Embark on the 6 KM ascent from Lohajung.
Camping: Spend a night in a tent near the lake.
Stargazing: Watch the celestial show in the clear mountain air.
Photography: Capture the reflection of trees in the lake.
Bird Watching: Spot the Himalayan Woodpecker.
Nature Walks: Explore the surrounding oak groves.
Meditation: Rejuvenate your soul by the silent waters.
Information
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Why Famous:
Trekking Milestone: It is the primary stop for trekkers heading to Brahmatal or Roopkund.
Winter Freeze: Famous for its perfectly frozen surface in January, making it a photographer's paradise. ...Trekking Milestone: It is the primary stop for trekkers heading to Brahmatal or Roopkund.
Winter Freeze: Famous for its perfectly frozen surface in January, making it a photographer's paradise. -
Architecture:
Natural Landscape: There is no man-made architecture at the lake itself. The beauty lies in the natural formation of the lake bed and the surrounding stone ridges.
Campsite Shelters: Nearby Lohajung features traditional Pahadi Houses made ...Natural Landscape: There is no man-made architecture at the lake itself. The beauty lies in the natural formation of the lake bed and the surrounding stone ridges.
Campsite Shelters: Nearby Lohajung features traditional Pahadi Houses made of slate and wood.
Dimensions: The lake has a circumference of roughly 300 meters and is situated at an elevation of 3,000 meters. -
How To Reach:
By Air: Dehradun Airport (230 KM) is the best option.
By Train: Kathgodam (210 KM) is the nearest station.
By Road: Drive from Gwaldam to Lohajung via Tharali.
By Local Transpo...By Air: Dehradun Airport (230 KM) is the best option.
By Train: Kathgodam (210 KM) is the nearest station.
By Road: Drive from Gwaldam to Lohajung via Tharali.
By Local Transport: Shared jeeps are available from Gwaldam to Lohajung (takes about 2 hours). -
Weather and Best Time to Visit:
Spring: March to May for greenery and pleasant weather.
Autumn: September to November for clear peak views.
Winter: December to February for the snow and frozen lake experience. ...Spring: March to May for greenery and pleasant weather.
Autumn: September to November for clear peak views.
Winter: December to February for the snow and frozen lake experience. -
Near Tourist Places:
Lohajung (6 KM), Brahmatal (7 KM), Wan Village (15 KM), Roopkund (25 KM), Ali Bugyal (18 KM), Bedni Bugyal (20 KM), Didna Village (10 KM), Gwaldam (35 KM), Mundoli (5 KM), Ajan Top (8 KM).
Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety: Watch out for symptoms of Altitude Sickness (AMS).
Packing: High-quality trekking boots and a warm sleeping bag are essential.
Cash & Connectivity: No ATMs or mobile network at the lake; f...Health & Safety: Watch out for symptoms of Altitude Sickness (AMS).
Packing: High-quality trekking boots and a warm sleeping bag are essential.
Cash & Connectivity: No ATMs or mobile network at the lake; finish all calls at Lohajung.
Sustainability: Follow 'Leave No Trace' principles; carry all your plastic back.
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