The short answer
Bekaltal Lake: what visitors should know first
For fit walkers only. Bekaltal sits several hundred metres above Lohajung through forest, so it is a full day or an overnight camp rather than a stroll. Go with a local guide and check the trail if there has been snow.
History and context
The story behind Bekaltal Lake
Bekaltal is a small forest lake on the ridge above Lohajung. It is the first lake on the Brahmatal trail and is also visited as a shorter outing.
Useful facts
Bekaltal Lake facts at a glance
- Location
- Forest ridge above Lohajung
- Altitude
- Roughly 2,900 to 3,000 m; sources vary
- Experience type
- Forest lake walk
- Known for
- First lake on the Brahmatal trek; rhododendron forest
- Time or schedule
- Long day or one night; snow late December to early March
Why it matters
Why Bekaltal Lake is worth your time
Bekaltal is the gentlest way into the high forest above Lohajung. It shows the oak, rhododendron and lake landscape of the Brahmatal route without committing to four days and a 3,800 m summit, which makes it a sensible choice for families with mixed fitness.
It also matters to the trekking economy of the village: the lower camps around Gujreni and Bekaltal are where many local porters, cooks and mule handlers work through the winter season. A careful visit that leaves no litter by the water helps keep a small lake clean that sees a lot of footfall in winter.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
Rhododendron forest
The path climbs through oak and rhododendron, in flower in spring.
- 02
The lake
A small, tree-ringed lake that often freezes in midwinter.
- 03
Gujreni camp
The forest clearing below the lake used as the first Brahmatal camp.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
The trail leaves Lohajung and climbs through mixed oak and rhododendron forest to the Gujreni camp, about 6 km away at roughly 2,750 m, and then on to Bekaltal. Operators give the lake's height as roughly 2,900 to 3,000 m, so figures vary.
The lake is small and ringed by trees, with a small shrine nearby. In spring the rhododendrons flower along the route; in winter the lake can freeze and the path is under snow. Brahmatal trekkers usually pass it on their second day, on the way to the higher Tilandi and Jhandi Top slopes.
If you want only the lake, go with a local guide from Lohajung and start early, or camp one night with an operator and return the next morning. Carry water, snacks and a warm layer, and turn back in good time if the weather closes in.
Plan with confidence
Small decisions that make the visit easier.
- Go with a local guide from Lohajung
- Start early and allow a full day
- Carry water and warm layers
- Check for snow between late December and March
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Forest ridge above Lohajung, on the Brahmatal trail
- Time needed
- A long day with a guide, or one night at the Gujreni or Bekaltal camp
- Best time
- April to June and October to November; snow often lies here from late December to early March
- Walking level
- Demanding
- Senior comfort
- The trail climbs steadily through forest from Lohajung, at about 2,300 m, to roughly 2,900 to 3,000 m. Older travellers who are not used to hill walking should not attempt it; a short walk on the lower forest path from Lohajung gives a taste of the same woods.
- Tickets and access
- The lake is on forest land, and camping needs a forest permit, usually arranged by an operator. For a day walk, ask locally whether a permit is needed. Confirm current rules and fees locally.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Bekaltal Lake
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
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Travelling with parents?
The trail climbs steadily through forest from Lohajung, at about 2,300 m, to roughly 2,900 to 3,000 m. Older travellers who are not used to hill walking should not attempt it; a short walk on the lower forest path from Lohajung gives a taste of the same woods.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
How far is Bekaltal from Lohajung?
The first camp at Gujreni is about 6 km from Lohajung, and the lake is a little beyond it. Expect a full day's walk.
Is Bekaltal part of the Brahmatal trek?
Yes. Brahmatal trekkers pass the lake on their second day.
Does Bekaltal freeze?
It often freezes in midwinter, when the trail is also under snow.
Sources and further reading
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.
