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.
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 ascends 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.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 rivulets takes you to the stunning Bandarpunch peak and Swargarohini range.
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 expunged after crossing the village of Agoda.
The easy walk along the trail to Dodital, through dense forest, grasslands on the mountain slope, by the river gorges and remote hamlets, reaches the climax at the Darwa Top.
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.
Highlights:
• 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.
Details:
• Height of the trek: 13,300 feet
• Difficulty level: Easy to Moderate
• Age group: 12-45 years
• Trek distance: 25.5 Km (one way)
How to Reach:
By Air
Jolly Grant Airport is the airport serving Dehradun, located about 25 km from the city. There is a daily flight from Delhi to Dehradun.
By Train
Take the overnight train to Dehradun from Delhi
Nandadevi Express – Train no: 12205 (Departure 11:50 pm; Arrival – 5:40 am) Dehradun Express – Train no: 12687 (Departure – 9:10 pm; Arrival – 5:00 am)
By Road
There is regular bus service from Delhi for Dehradun from Delhi ISBT Kashmere Gate. Usually buses drop you at Dehradun ISBT. From there you have to come to Dehradun Railway Station.
Vehicles are available for pick-up from Dehradun Railway Station at 6:30am.
One can reach Uttarkashi by 2:00 pm.
