Dodital Darwa Pass Trek

6 Days
Group : 8-15 People
Guided Trek
Difficulty: Easy
Start: Uttarkashi
Max Altitude : 3770 m

The Dodital-Darwa Pass trek takes us through the beautiful forests of Assi Ganga Valley and up to the sacred Dodital Lake, believed to be Lord Ganesha’s birthplace.

Located at 3,080 meters, Dodital Lake is a picturesque destination surrounded by lush forests and snow-capped mountains. The Dodital Lake serves as the primary source for the Assi Ganga river, and its surroundings feature a Ganpati temple nestled in the Barahat range. As trekkers ascend toward Darwa Pass, they are surrounded by pine trees, deodar trees, and oaks.

Climbing to Darwa Pass, with an elevation gain of over 700 meters from Dodital, may prove difficult in terms of acclimatization. The snow climb during the winter adds to the adventure of this challenging trek.

You will witness stunning views of various mountains such as Mt. Bandarpoonch, Mt. Draupadi Ka Danda, Mt. Jaunli, Mt. Srikanth, and Black Peak may also spot various wildlife, including Himalayan black bears and musk deer. It also serves as a gateway for pilgrims traveling to Yamunotri via Hanuman Chatti.

In the winter, the stunning lake transforms into a semi-frozen wonderland with a blanket of snow covering its surrounding trees and foliage, and the pass is covered in deep snow. On this trek, we will trek through dense forests and meadows, cross several streams, and camp under the stars.

Departure & Return Location

Dehradun I.S.B.T (Google Map)

Meeting Time

7 A.M

Price Includes

Activity: Trekking, Camping, etc
Accommodation during Trek (Camping)
Meals during Trek (Veg)
All season Camping tents on twin sharing basis, Sleeping bags with adequate sub-zero temperature rating, comfortable mattress
Safety Equipment includes static rescue rope, seat harness, carabiners, pulleys, ice-axe, micro-spikes, slings
Forest Permits/Camping Charges/Permits, Trek Permit Fee/IMF Permission – up to the amount charged for Indian Nationals.
Mountaineering course certified Trek Leader with First Aid knowledge
Experienced Local guide, cook, helpers
Porters or mules for carrying common luggage
Exhaustive First Aid kit including portable oxygen cylinder, oximeter

Price Excludes

Transportation
Meals during the road journey
Insurance
Any expenses of personal nature
Mules or porter to carry personal luggage. (extra luggage, if any can be left at the base camp with the authorities)
Cost Escalation due to natural reasons
Any expense not specified in the inclusion list

What to Expect

Semi Frozen Dodital LakeAs you trek through snowy forests, pass by frozen waterfalls, and cross icy bridges, you'll finally reach the stunning Dodital Lake, which only partially freezes over during the coldest months. But don't worry, hot cups of tea and cozy campsites will keep you warm throughout the journey.
Mesmerizing views of Snow Clad Mountain PeaksNot only will you get to witness breathtaking views of famous peaks like Mt. Bandarpoonch, Mt. Draupadi Ka Danda, and Black Peak, but also lesser-known gems like Mt. Jaunli and Mt. Srikanth.
Changing Picturesque LandscapesThis place is constantly evolving, with every passing moment bringing a new dimension to its beauty. It's like we never see the same place twice. Talk about keeping things interesting!
WildlifeIt is a great spot for bird watching - over 190 species have been spotted here! We'll have the chance to spot some rare Himalayan birds and maybe even catch a glimpse of the elusive Himalayan monal (the national bird of Nepal). You'll also get the opportunity to spot some rare wildlife, like the Himalayan Tahr, Musk Deer, wild boars, langurs, and even the occasional Himalayan black bear. Also, in Dodital Lake you can spot a type of freshwater fish that is found only in high altitudes.

Dodital Darwa Pass Trek Itinerary

Day 1Dehradun to Sangam Chatti

Distance: 154 km
Time Taken: 8 hours
Altitude: 1,600 m (5,250 ft)

The first day of the trek is dedicated to traveling from Dehradun to the beautiful village of Sangam Chatti, which serves as our base camp. If you’ve booked transportation with us, we’ll meet in the morning and enjoy scenic mountain views on the way.

The route from Dehradun to Sangam Chatti follows the Bhagirathi river and passes through pine forests and the town of Maneri. Before reaching our base camp village, you’ll also see the confluence of the Assi Ganga and Varna rivers.

Once we arrive at Sangam Chatti, we settle into our homestay and have a briefing about the trek schedule, necessary know-how, and ways to conserve the environment. After a restful night, we’ll be ready to begin our adventure in the morning.

Day 2Sangam Chatti to Bebra

Distance: 8 km
Time Taken: 5 hours
Altitude: 2,230 m (7315 ft.)

The second day of the trek will be exciting as we’ll be trekking from Sangam Chatti to Bebra. After a delicious breakfast, warm-up, and a trail briefing session, we’ll start our steep ascent to Agoda settlement, marking the start of our journey to Dodital and Darwa Pass.

After some time, the trail eases into a gentle incline, dotted with tea shacks and hotels. We pass by several tiny villages before reaching our campsite, near a beautiful flowing creek. You’ll have plenty of time to explore and take in the stunning surroundings before settling in for a cozy evening.

Enjoy a tasty dinner and some star-gazing in the evening before getting some rest for the next day’s trek to Dodital Lake.

Day 3Bebra to Dodital Lake

Distance: 12 km
Time Taken: 8 hours
Altitude: 3,070 m (10,070 ft)

The third day is all about reaching Dodital Lake, and the trek begins with a steep ascent through beautiful pine forests. The trail also passes by Manjhi village, where we may catch glimpses of Gujar shepherds and their flocks.

After some time, the trail levels out as we reach open meadows overlooking gorgeous views of snow-capped mountains. We then descend towards the lake, passing a Ganpati temple on the way. You’ll have some time to explore the lake and its surroundings before setting up camp for the night.

Enjoy dinner next to the serene Dodital Lake before getting a good night’s rest in preparation for tomorrow’s trek to Darwa Pass.

Day 4Dodital Lake to Darwa Pass and Back

Distance: 5.5 km
Time: 5 Hours
Altitude: 3,770 m (12,370 ft)

The big day has arrived! We will be trekking to the trek’s highest point, Darwa Pass. We start early in the morning after breakfast to safely navigate through snow and ice. The trail passes through dense pine forests before reaching a clearing that offers stunning views of Mt. Bandarpoonch and Mt. Jaonli.

As we ascend toward Darwa Pass, be prepared for some steep climbing before reaching the summit at an elevation of 3,770 meters. The stunning panoramic views from the top are well worth the effort, and we’ll have some time to rest and take photos before beginning our descent.

We’ll make our way back to Dodital Lake and rest after a fulfilling day of trekking. You can spend the evening enjoying the calming atmosphere of the lake and reflecting on your accomplishment.

Day 5Dodital Lake to Bebra

Distance: 12 km
Time Taken: 6 Hours
Altitude: 2,230 m (7315 ft.)

The next day, we’ll start our descent and retrace our steps back to Bebra, trekking through dense pine forests and meadows. We pass through several villages before reaching our campsite for the night. You’ll have time to relax and soak in the beautiful surroundings before a delicious dinner. This will be our last night of camping, so make sure to savor the moment. In the evening, enjoy some stargazing before getting some well-deserved rest.

Day 6Bebra to Sangam Chatti and Drive to Dehradun

Distance: 12 km
Time Taken: 6 Hours
Altitude: 640 m (3,000 ft.)

The final day of the trek is a short and easy descent back to Sangam Chatti, where we’ll have lunch before packing up and heading back to Dehradun. We’ll bid farewell to our new friends and trekking companions as we head back to civilization.

But don’t be sad – memories of the beautiful scenery, challenges conquered, and new friendships will surely stay with us for a long time. You’ll leave this trek feeling refreshed and accomplished, ready for the next adventure.

Dodital Darwa Pass Trek Map

Peaks Visible From Darwa Pass

Dodital Darwa Pass Trek Photos

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the requirements for participation?

All participants are expected to be confident that they are physically and mentally fit and able to complete the itinerary of their chosen event as defined in the itinerary.

Any minors between 10 and 17 years of age must accompany their parent or guardian who assumes full responsibility for them to participate in the adventure activity or event. Any unaccompanied, underage minor will not be allowed to participate in the adventure activity.

How to make a booking with us?

You can make your booking at our website www.advenchar.com or you can contact us at hello@advenchar.com.

You must be at least 18 years old to make a booking with us. After the booking, our team will send you a confirmation of the booking.

We understand that you may have to change your travel plans due to the Covid-19 situation, so considering this we have introduced a Book Now, Pay Later facility for all the participants. However, you will be required to pay the full amount at least 15 days prior to the departure date.

How do I cancel/modify my booking?

If you wish to cancel/modify your existing booking, you can do so by logging in to www.advenchar.com, and pay through the dashboard or you can drop us a mail at hello@advenchar.com with all the details of your booking, and we’ll cancel it for you.

What is cancellation policy?

You can claim a 100% refund if you choose to cancel your booking before 15 days. The refund will primarily be in the form of a voucher valid for 12 months. You can also opt for a cash refund provided the booking is not part of a promotional offer or a coupon code provided by Advenchar.

Refund

Before 15 days from departure date – 100% refund.
Between 15 days and 7 days from departure date – 70% refund.
Less than 7 days from departure date – You can modify your trek free of cost, and transfer it to a friend/family member.

Why Book With Us?

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