Maldaru Lake Trek

Maldaru Lake Trek is revered as a goddess by the locals, and it’s easy to understand why. Nestled amidst unnamed peaks, the lake’s crystal-clear waters mirror the ever-changing hues of the sky, ranging from shades of blue to grey. Surrounding the lake, there are sacred rocks standing tall, serving as religious symbols. The atmosphere here is enveloped in a profound silence, creating a sense of standing in a space blessed by the gods, enhanced by the chilling cold that permeates the air.

The path leading to the lake is equally enchanting, passing through dense forests, ancient villages, and alpine settings. The Maldaru Lake trek closely follows the route of the Har Ki Dun-Ruinsara Valley trek. Along the way, you encounter the valley and its encompassing mountain ranges from various vantage points – from Rashi Top, the Maldaru base camp, and the shoulders of the nameless peaks encircling the lake.

Another remarkable feature shared by these treks is the opportunity they provide to explore ancient villages intimately. Villages such as Dhatmir, Dharkot, Osla, Gangaad, and Seema are secluded from the outside world, preserving their unique culture. The villagers continue their traditions, weaving clothes from locally sourced wool, growing their food in the fields, residing in wooden houses, and worshiping in their sacred places. As you traverse the lower, busier sections of the trail, friendly greetings from villagers commuting between settlements add to the trail’s charm. This cultural immersion is a rare experience, making these trails truly exceptional.

Highlights Maldaru Lake Trek

Trail Information in detail.

Day 1: Arrive in Dehradun and drive 177 km to Sankri. Dehradun serves as the last opportunity for last-minute purchases. Public buses to Sankri are available at 5:30 am and 7:30 am, taking approximately 10 hours. Alternatively, take a bus to Purola before 1 pm and catch the last bus to Sankri from Purola. Note: Last working ATM and proper internet are available in Purola. Sankri offers basic accommodation options such as GMVN, Hotel Mountain View, Hotel Swargarohini Palace, and Hotel Wild Orchid. No internet or reliable phone network is available in Sankri.

Day 2: Drive 12 km from Sankri to Taluka, then trek 9 km to Dharkot (6955 ft to 8380 ft) in 6-7 hours. Forest permissions are required. The trek starts near the forest office, following the river valley of Thamsa through mixed forests and clearings, reaching Dharkot village, where you can stay in homestays.

Day 3: Trek 5.5 km from Dharkot to Batgoera (8380 ft to 10722 ft) in 4-5 hours. The trail ascends southeast, passing through forests, clearings, and private farms. Batgoera is a vast clearing used for grazing and camping.

Day 4: Trek 6 km from Batgoera to Rashi (10,722 ft to 12,250 ft) in 5-6 hours. The trail starts in an Abies Pindrow forest, reaching a clearing with a wild Jambul tree. The trek continues to a river crossing, ascending through White Rhododendrons, finally reaching Rashi with panoramic views.

Day 5: Trek 6 km from Rashi to Maldaru Base Camp (12,250 ft to 13,188 ft) in 5-6 hours. The trek includes an ascent to Rashi Top for panoramic views and a challenging descent to Swargaronini View Point. Camp at Maldaru Base Camp with breathtaking mountain vistas.

Day 6: Trek 4 km to Maldaru Lake (14,338 ft) and return to Chilurgaad (7770 ft) in 4-5 hours. Explore the divine Maldaru Lake, descending through the jungle with varied flora. Descend to Seema, crossing the suspension bridge, and continue to Chilurgaad.

Day 7: Trek 11 km from Chilurgaad to Taluka, then drive 12 km to Sankri (7770 ft to 6397 ft) in 5-7 hours. Follow the flat Har Ki Dun trail, passing ancient villages like Gangaad. Take picturesque breaks by the Thamsa river.

Day 8: Drive 177 km from Sankri to Dehradun in 10 hours.

Maldaru Lake Trek Key Points:

Duration: 7 Nights, 8 Days

Base Camp: Sankri

Summer Temperature: Daytime: 5°C to 15°C | Nighttime: 2°C to 5°C

Maldaru Lake Trek Altitude: 4200 Meters

Best Time to Visit: May, June, September, October, November

Trek Difficulty: Moderate

Trek Distance: On Foot: 64 km | By Taxi: 425 km

Group Size: Minimum 5 people, Maximum 20 people