Dodital: Frozen Lake Trek
Off Beat
Garhwal, Uttarakhand
-SWIFT-
November/ 6 Days
This itinerary takes you on a captivating trek to Dodital, a serene high-altitude lake nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas. Starting with a drive from Dehradun, you'll journey through lush forests and traditional villages to reach the sacred lake. The trek culminates in a challenging ascent to Darwa Top, rewarding you with spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, before a final drive back to civilization.
At A Glance
ITINERARY
Day 1
Start your journey from Dehradun early in the morning for the long drive to Agoda, the base village for your trek. The initial part of the journey is on a national highway, but it soon gives way to winding mountain roads as you enter the scenic Garhwal region. The final stretch to Agoda is on narrow, bumpy terrain. You'll arrive in the village by evening, where you can settle into your guesthouse and rest after the day's travel.
Day 2
After an early breakfast, you will begin the first day of your trek. The trail from Agoda to Manji is a moderate climb, leading you through lush forests of oak, rhododendron, and deodar. You'll be following the Assi Ganga river, crossing it at several points, and passing through quaint Garhwali villages. The trek provides a good warm-up for the days ahead. You will camp at Manji, a beautiful meadow surrounded by dense greenery.
Day 3
Today's trek is relatively shorter and less strenuous. The trail from Manji to Dodital is mostly a gradual ascent through serene forests, with the Assi Ganga river flowing alongside. As you near the lake, the scenery opens up to reveal the stunning, emerald-green waters of Dodital. This lake is considered the birthplace of Lord Ganesha, and a small temple dedicated to him stands on its banks. You will set up camp by the lake and have the afternoon to explore and relax.
Day 4
This is the most challenging and rewarding day of your trek. You'll start early in the morning for the steep climb to Darwa Top. The trail is rocky and demanding, but the effort is well worth it. From the summit, you are rewarded with a breathtaking 360-degree panoramic view of prominent Himalayan peaks, including Bandarpunch and Swargarohini. After spending time at the top, you will descend back to Dodital for your final night of camping by the lake.
Day 5
Today is a long and continuous downhill trek, as you retrace your steps from the previous two days to get back to Agoda. The descent, while less tiring on your lungs, can be hard on your knees, so it is important to take your time and use trekking poles. You'll arrive at the base village of Agoda by late afternoon, where you can rest, reflect on your journey, and enjoy a comfortable stay in a guesthouse.
Day 6
After a final breakfast in the mountains, you will begin the long drive back to Dehradun. The journey takes you through the same winding roads and scenic landscapes. You'll have plenty of time to stop for lunch and enjoy the last views of the Himalayas before reaching Dehradun by late afternoon, concluding your memorable trek.
Inclusions and Exclusions
- Transport: Airport pick-up and drop . Transport for sightseeing as per program and for trekking point drop and pickup in comfortable vehicle.
- Accommodation: Hotel on double occupancy, and alpine tents/ campsite on trekking trails.
- Meals: All meals on the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) and breakfast and dinner for the remaining itinerary
- Permits & Fees: Trek permit and other local permits.
- Staff: English-speaking tour leader, experienced local mountain guides and camping staff.
- Offloading: Porter and mule charges for ferrying all luggage except personal day pack.
- Insurance: Mandatory travel insurance.
- Personal Gear: Personal equipment (thermal wear, hiking poles, etc).
- Meals: Any meals not mentioned in the program.
- Beverages: Any drinks including soft drinks, bottled water, or alcoholic beverages.
- Extra Tours: Any activities outside the planned itinerary.
- Tips: Gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff.
- Taxes: All applicable taxes and transactional fees.
- Contingency Fee: Any additional expenses arising due to unforeseen circumstances such as bad weather, road blocks or unrest, that result in an extension or change in the program, or emergency evacuation for medical reasons.