About The Trek
Baraadsar Lake Trek
The Baraadsar Lake Trek is one of the more challenging and less-explored high-altitude treks in the Uttarakhand Himalayas. The trail takes you deep into the remote mountain landscape between the Rupin and Supin valleys, passing through dense forests, traditional Himalayan villages, vast alpine meadows, rocky ridges and high-altitude terrain.
The journey begins around the Himri–Sankri region and gradually climbs through beautiful campsites such as Sarutal, Badang, Masunda Dhar, Dhaldhar and Dev Basa. As you gain altitude, the landscape changes dramatically from green forests and meadows to rugged mountain terrain and snow-covered ridges.
The highlight of the trek is reaching Baraadsar Lake, a spectacular alpine lake situated at around 4,300–4,400 metres. Surrounded by high mountain ridges, the lake offers a dramatic Himalayan setting and is regarded locally as a sacred or wish-fulfilling lake. From the higher ridges, trekkers can also get impressive views toward peaks and valleys including Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch and Kalanag.
Baraadsar is not a conventional beginner trek. The route includes steep climbs, rocky and boulder-filled sections, high ridges and potentially snow-covered terrain. Good physical fitness, proper acclimatization and experienced trek support are essential for a safe and enjoyable experience.
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Detailed Itinerary
Drive: Approx. 200–210 km
Duration: 8–10 hours
Altitude: Sankri approx. 1,950 m
Your Baraadsar Lake adventure begins with an early-morning drive from Dehradun toward the remote mountain village of Sankri. The scenic road passes through Mussoorie, Purola, Mori and the Tons River valley.
Depending on the final trek logistics and road conditions, the group proceeds toward the Himri area, which provides access to the Baraadsar route. Enjoy the changing Himalayan scenery and prepare yourself for the challenging days ahead.
Overnight: Homestay/Guesthouse or campsite.
Trek Distance: Approx. 6–8 km
Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
Altitude: Approx. 2,000–2,500 m
After breakfast, begin walking through the Himalayan landscape toward Sarutal. The trail passes through forested sections and near traditional mountain settlements such as Pujali and Bitri.
The route gradually climbs through pine forests and open meadows. Sarutal provides a peaceful campsite surrounded by mountain scenery and is an excellent place to rest before the trail becomes more demanding.
Overnight: Campsite at Sarutal.
Trek Distance: Approx. 7–8 km
Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
Altitude: Approx. 2,600 m
Today, the trail continues toward Badang through dense forest and gradually steeper terrain. As you gain height, the views begin opening toward the surrounding valleys and Himalayan peaks.
Badang is a beautiful alpine meadow and a popular camping location on the route. Spend the evening resting and preparing for the bigger elevation gains ahead.
Overnight: Campsite at Badang.
Trek Distance: Approx. 8–13 km
Trek Duration: 5–7 hours
Altitude: Up to approx. 3,600 m
The trail becomes significantly more challenging today. You gradually leave the forested landscape behind and climb toward the higher ridges.
The route passes through Masunda Dhar/Vijay Top before continuing toward the Dhaldhar area. Steep sections, rocky terrain and increasing altitude make this an important day for maintaining a steady pace and staying hydrated.
The views become increasingly dramatic as the surrounding mountains appear closer.
Overnight: Campsite near Dhaldhar/Masunda Dhar.
Trek Distance: Approx. 5–7 km
Trek Duration: 4–5 hours
Altitude: Approx. 3,600 m
Today's trek is comparatively shorter but still demanding because of the altitude and rugged terrain.
The trail continues toward Dev Basa, a high-altitude campsite surrounded by rocky mountain landscapes. As you approach Dev Basa, the vegetation becomes sparse and the landscape takes on a distinctly alpine character.
Use the evening to rest well and prepare for the most demanding section of the trek.
Overnight: Campsite at Dev Basa.
Trek Distance: Approx. 7–10 km
Trek Duration: 5–7 hours
Altitude: Up to approx. 4,000–4,300 m
This is one of the toughest days of the trek. The trail climbs steadily from Dev Basa toward the high Baraadsar region.
You will encounter rocky sections, steep climbs, boulders and possibly snow depending on the season. There are sections where the terrain becomes exposed and demanding, so careful footing and instructions from the trek leader are essential.
After reaching the higher ridge, the landscape opens into a spectacular high-altitude wilderness. On clear days, you may get your first distant glimpse of Baraadsar Lake.
Overnight: High-altitude campsite near Baraadsar Meadow/Ridge.
Trek Distance: Approx. 10–14 km
Trek Duration: 6–9 hours
Highest Point: Approx. 4,300–4,400 m
The most anticipated day of the expedition has arrived.
Start early for the excursion toward Baraadsar Lake. The trail crosses rugged terrain, rocks and moraine-like sections before reaching the spectacular alpine lake.
Baraadsar Lake sits amid high mountain ridges and may remain partially or completely frozen depending on the season. Take time to admire the stark Himalayan landscape and capture photographs before beginning the return journey.
After spending time at the lake, retrace your route and descend toward Dev Basa.
Overnight: Campsite at Dev Basa.
Trek Distance: Approx. 8–11 km
Trek Duration: 5–7 hours
Today begins the descent from the high-altitude landscape. The trail gradually loses elevation as you move back toward greener valleys and lower camps.
The change in scenery is noticeable as rocky terrain gives way to alpine meadows and forested landscapes. Depending on route and conditions, the trek may continue toward Rahla/Phitari or another lower campsite before connecting back toward Sankri.
Overnight: Campsite/Homestay.
Drive: Approx. 200–210 km
Duration: 8–10 hours
After breakfast, begin the scenic drive back to Dehradun. Enjoy the final views of the Himalayan valleys, forests and villages as the road gradually descends.
The Baraadsar Lake Trek concludes in Dehradun with memories of one of Uttarakhand's most remote and adventurous high-altitude lake journeys.
Inclusions
- Transportation from Dehradun to the trek starting point and back as per the fixed itinerary.
- Accommodation during the trek in camps and basic guesthouse/homestay accommodation.
- Camping equipment including tents, sleeping arrangements and kitchen setup.
- All vegetarian meals during the trekking days.
- Experienced trek leader and support staff.
- Local guide and support team where required.
- Cook and camping crew.
- Common technical and safety equipment as required by the trek team.
- First-aid kit and basic medical support.
- Necessary permits and forest entry charges, wherever applicable.
- Porter/mule support for common trekking equipment as per the package plan.
Exclusions
- Personal expenses such as snacks, beverages and shopping.
- Accommodation and meals outside the fixed itinerary.
- Personal porter or mule for carrying individual luggage, unless specifically included.
- Trekking shoes, clothing and personal trekking equipment.
- Insurance covering trekking, medical emergencies or evacuation.
- Emergency evacuation or rescue expenses.
- Any additional transportation caused by weather, road blockage or unforeseen circumstances.
- Costs arising from itinerary changes due to natural disasters, bad weather or government restrictions.
- Anything not specifically mentioned under inclusions.
Things to Carry
Clothing
- 2–3 moisture-wicking T-shirts
- 1–2 thermal inner layers
- Fleece jacket
- Heavy insulated/down jacket
- Waterproof and windproof jacket
- Trekking pants
- Thermal lower
- Woollen socks
- Lightweight gloves
- Warm woollen cap
- Sun cap
Trekking Gear
- Good-quality high-ankle trekking shoes with strong grip
- Backpack with rain cover
- Trekking poles
- Headlamp with spare batteries
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Water bottles or hydration bladder
- Personal mug, spoon and lunch box
- Gaiters, especially during snow season
Personal Essentials
- Sunscreen SPF 30–50+
- Lip balm
- Personal toiletries
- Hand sanitizer
- Quick-dry towel
- Personal medicines
- Small first-aid kit
- Toilet paper/tissues
- Wet wipes
- Reusable garbage bags
- Power bank
- ID proof and photocopies
- Some cash for personal expenses
Important for High Altitude
- Keep your backpack as light as possible.
- Carry enough warm layers because temperatures can drop sharply at high camps.
- Use trekking poles on steep and rocky sections.
- Stay hydrated throughout the trek.
- Avoid rushing during steep ascents.
- Follow the trek leader's instructions, especially on exposed ridges and snow-covered sections.
Why Choose Trekking Zen for Baraadsar Lake Trek?
- Experienced Trek Support: Baraadsar Lake is a remote and demanding Himalayan trek where route knowledge and experienced guidance are extremely important. Trekking Zen provides trained trek leaders and support staff to help you navigate the challenging terrain safely.
- Carefully Planned Itinerary: The itinerary is designed to provide gradual altitude gain wherever possible, allowing trekkers to adapt to the changing terrain and high-altitude environment.
- Safety Comes First: From pre-trek briefing to high-altitude camps, safety remains a priority. Our team monitors weather, trail conditions and the overall well-being of trekkers throughout the journey.
- Local Knowledge: Remote Himalayan routes can be difficult to navigate, particularly around high ridges and less-marked sections. Local route knowledge helps the team choose safer and more practical trails according to current conditions.
- Quality Camping Experience: After demanding days on the trail, comfortable campsites and nutritious meals provide the rest and energy needed for the next stage of the expedition.
- Small-Group Trekking Experience: We focus on creating a more personal trekking experience where trekkers can receive better attention from the trek leader and support team.
- Explore Beyond the Popular Trails: Baraadsar Lake is ideal for trekkers looking beyond the crowded Himalayan routes. The trek takes you into remote valleys, alpine meadows and rugged high-altitude landscapes that offer a true wilderness experience.
- Responsible Trekking: We encourage responsible trekking practices, including minimizing waste, respecting local communities and protecting the fragile Himalayan environment.
Baraadsar Lake Trek is not just a trek to an alpine lake—it is an expedition through some of the most remote and dramatic landscapes of the Uttarakhand Himalayas. With Trekking Zen, experience this challenging journey with proper planning, experienced support and a strong focus on safety.