We discuss more on how to tackle this efficiently in the section titled Skills Required for Brahmatal Trek in the section below.
Fitness level required
Although Brahmatal is an easy trek, you will need good lung capacity and leg strength to reach the summit safely and back. If you are struggling most of the time, you won't be able to enjoy the trek. With the end goal being enjoying the trek thoroughly and not just completing it, the following is the fitness level we recommend.
Practice jogging/running four to five days a week and see if you can cover 5 km in 30-40 minutes. In addition to this, you can also add some resistance workouts for legs (like squats and lunges) and core workouts into your training schedule.
If you are completely new to the world of trekking and are unsure of your fitness levels, we recommend starting with a level 2 trek from our portfolio. Treks like the Beas Kund or Bhrigu valley, which are of lower altitude and lesser duration, are excellent choices.
These will give you an idea of the terrain you are likely to encounter at Brahmatal while equipping you with the knowledge of layering on Himalayan Treks, the kind of gear you will need, fitness levels required, etc.
Gear Required for Brahmatal
While we will be providing most of the equipment needed for trekking (tents, sleeping bags, crampons, snow boots, etc.), there is some basic gear you will need from your end to get through your hike comfortably.
These are sturdy, a lightweight backpack and comfortable trekking shoes. In case you plan on purchasing them, please refer to the articles below for some helpful tips on how to go about choosing the right gear for your trek.
How to choose your backpack – Choosing the right backpack is one of the important steps for a comfortable trek. Even a slight discomfort or imbalance can be a pain. Refer to the article linked above to get some helpful tips on how to choose your backpack.
How to choose a good pair of trekking shoes – Normal sports shoes are not well suited for trekking trails. We recommend wearing high ankle shoes, which provide better support and are likely to minimize the possibility of injury. Please refer to the article linked above for some helpful tips to keep in mind when choosing trekking shoes.
How to use a Trekking pole – Some people feel comfortable with trekking poles, and some don't. But it cannot be denied that trekking poles greatly reduce the stress on your legs and knees while hiking, especially during downhill descents and river crossings. To know more, please refer to the article linked for some helpful tips on how to use a trekking pole.
Skills required for Brahmatal
Bikat Adventures is primarily an adventure learning organization. This means our key objective is not just to help our trekkers complete treks but also to help them pick up some valuable skills in trekking and camping along the way.
To achieve this, we have built learning modules that are paired to each level on the Bikat Rating Scale. These modules are then taught in real-time on the trails by our trek leaders.
The following are some skills that are likely to come in handy on a trail like the Brahmatal Trek. While you will have all the assistance you need on the trek from our capable trek leaders, we suggest browsing through the articles below to get an idea of what is involved.
Ascending and Descending on Trails – Every trail is different. Ascents and descents can directly impact your knee and ankles. Maintaining the right rhythm and body position is critical and will help you to go long and go easy.
How to pack your rucksack – At Brahmatal, you will be covering more than 5 km every day. So, a compact approach towards packing is likely to make carrying your backpack easier.
How to pitch a tent – When you reach your campsite, the first thing you do is pitch a tent. Although we will be guiding you on how to pitch a tent on the trail, do give the article above a read to get a head start.
Hiking attire and layering – In winters, the temperature drops to -10 degrees in the Brahmatal campsite. Layering appropriately to protect yourself from the cold is mandatory. Take a look at the article linked above to get an idea of the winter layers you will be needing and how to layer them at campsites and while hiking.
How to use Microspikes – During peak winters, the weather frequently changes at Brahmatal. On many days there is snowfall. This fresh snow turns into ice after a day or two. The trails become slippery to navigate as a result. Microspikes 9which we will provide on treks) can give you the support and balance you will need to navigate these trails efficiently.
How to use gaiters – Around December, the snow level varies anywhere between 2-3 feet on the Brahmatal Trek. Gaiters are special layers that you wear over your shoes and ankles to prevent dirt, pebbles, and snow from getting inside your shoes. The article linked above will guide you on how to use them.
We hope this article answers all the questions you may have had on the Brahmatal Trek. In case you have any questions or need assistance with something, please feel free to reach out to us. We are only a phone call away.
