About Dodital Darwa Pass Trek
Blessed with elevated grassland that is bedded with snow during the
winters, gurgling streams, dense alpine forest and rich variety of
flowers, the Dodital Trek is one of the picturesque treks in the
Garhwal Himalayan region. The trek originates from the Bhagirathi
valley, which is 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 is often dubbed Ganesh-ka-Tal and is
considered as one of the sacred lakes in the Garhwal Himalayan region as
it is believed 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 an opportunity to explore
the Asi Ganga valley. There are 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 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 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
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.
Area : Garhwal Himalayas
Duration : 7 Days (5 days trekking and 2 day travel)
Best Season : Round the year except July and August
Grade :Easy to Moderate
Altitude : 4150 mts/13612 ft
Total Trekking : 54 K.M
The Dodital 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 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
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 steep and through thick
forests. The Yamunotri stretch of the trek is possible only during the
summer.
How to Reach Dodital?
By Air: Jolly Grant Airport is the nearest airport
to Uttarkashi, which is situated at a distance of 215kms. Dodital can be
reached easily from Uttarkashi by a motorable road. Taxis are available
from Jolly Grant Airport to Uttarkashi.
By Rail: The nearest railway station to Uttarkashi
is at Rishikesh, which is situated 225kms away. Rishikesh is well
connected with major destinations of India. Uttarkashi is well connected
by motorable roads with Rishikesh. Taxis and buses are available from
Rishikesh, Tehri Garhwal and many other destinations to Uttarkashi.
By Road: Uttarkashi is well connected by motorable
roads with major destinations of Uttarakhand. Buses and Taxis to
Uttarkashi are easily available from major destinations of Uttarakhand
state like Rishikesh, Dehradun, Tehri, Barkot, Chamba etc.
Dodital Lake Trek (Detailed Itinerary)
Day 01: Delhi – Haridwar – Uttarkashi (225 kms/6 hrs)
In the morning, take an AC train for Haridwar from Delhi at 06:50 hrs. After arriving in Haridwar, meet our guide who will assist you with reaching Uttarkashi via Rishikesh and checking in to your hotel. Evening time is 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 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 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.Tour & Services End.
Things to Carry for Dodital Trek
- Windproof jacket
- Warm and thick Fleece / Full-sleeve
- Woolen sweater
- Thermal inner wear (upper & lower)
- Woolen cap, Woolen gloves
- Woolen socks and regular socks (3-4 pairs)
- Scarf/muffler (optional)
- Comfortable Trekking/Hiking shoes
- Lightweight floaters/sandals/slippers
- Raincoat / Poncho
- Small light weight towel
- Sturdy Water bottle
- Cap / Hat
- Sun glasses
- Walking stick / Trekking pole
- Sunscreen Lotion
- Lip Balm
- Torch / Flashlight (with extra batteries)
- Personal medications
- Personal toiletries
Fixed Departure Dates 2018
| 23 March, 2018 | 06 April, 2018 | 20 April, 2018 |
| 11 May, 2018 | 25 May, 2018 | 01 June, 2018 |
| 15 June, 2018 | 14 September, 2018 | 28 September, 2018 |
| 05 October, 2018 | 19 October, 2018 | 02 November, 2018 |
| 16 November, 2018 | 30 November, 2018 | 07 December, 2018 |
| 14 December, 2018 | 21 December, 2018 | 28 December, 2018 |
