The Roopkund Connection
Yes, the two treks- Brahmatal and Roopkund, are adjacent to each other. One gets to experience the meadows of Roopkund- Ali and Bedni Bugyal and Junargali top right from the Brahmatal Summit. Even though you are not there, you can experience what Roopkund Trek is all about. Killing two birds with a stone!
The Cons
Now a Himalayan trek cannot possibly have too many cons but if we were to mention a few for Brahmatal, the following would be it.
Overcrowding of Trekkers on the Route
Ever since the route was discovered, Brahmatal rapidly grew in popularity as an easy winter trek that can be attempted by beginners. This attracted people from across the country resulting in overcrowding on the route. Being one of the few treks that is open during winters, it is now thronged by trekkers along with small scale trekking organisations who bring large batches of trekkers. This inevitably leads to unsustainable trekking practices resulting in pollution and degradation of the ecosystem in the region.
Change in Climatic Conditions
With the advent of global warming, we are seeing increasingly erratic climatic conditions across the country. The mountains are no exception. One of the key highlights of Brahmatal in winters is the snow. Snow adds vibrance and a sense of calming beauty to the landscape. However, there could be times when the initial parts of the trail are dusty and devoid of snow. While this will change in probability by the end of Day 1 but don’t be disappointed if you get heaps of snow right from the start.
The Winds at Bekaltal
Strong gusts of wind are common at the Bekaltal campsite. Winds make you feel more cold and can be unpleasant if you are looking to spend some time outdoors. Tents keep flapping at night as the wind hits them at full speed, but don’t worry they are not getting blown away! And usually when the winds pass, the landscape is even more beautiful and might even bring a gentle snowfall to surprise you.
The above are a few points you might want to weigh in while deciding on opting for the Brahmatal Trek. While all treks have their pros and cons, ensuring that the trek is a right fit for your interests and fitness levels is important to have the best Himalayan trekking experience. If you wish to know more about Brahmatal, our team is always available to guide you.
This article was originally written by Dhaarna Kukreja on 24/10/2017. It was edited and updated by Geethanjali on 4/10/2023.
