Ali Bedni Bugyal and Brahmatal are two treks in the Garhwal Himalayas that are on par with everything they offer. They also remain open during the winters and make for excellent winter treks with some of the best views of prominent peaks in the region. Choosing between the two treks can be confusing given that they offer similar terrain and are even of the same difficulty level!
In this article we provide a comparison of the two treks to help you choose depending on what appeals to you more. While both the treks are a gateway into Himalayan trekking and are beautiful in their own way, this information can make it easier for you to pick your winter adventure.
Difficulty
Both Ali Bedni Bugyal and Brahmatal are rated Level 3 on the BRS (Bikat Rating Scale) which means they are not entirely easy and require you to have a certain level of fitness with some experience of activities in the mountains. The trail for Ali Bedni Bugyal covers a total distance of 30 kms over 6 days taking you through hamlets, forests and meadows before reaching Bedni Top which opens into panoramic views of Garhwal Himalayas. While most of the trail is gradual and moderate, the final stretch to Bedni Top has a strenuous patch with a steep ascent for one hour which can be challenging.
On the other hand, Brahmatal spans over 6 days and covers 35 km, taking you through the ridges and meadows of Garhwal Himalayas all the way to Brahmatal top. The trek to Brahmatal top can be challenging during snowfall with trekkers encountering knee deep snow as they make their way up.
Peaks Visible
Bedni Top offers close up views of Mt.Trishul and Nanda Ghunti and it almost feels like you can reach them in a hop, skip and a climb. Mountains can be deceiving that way, so close yet so far!
Brahmatal top opens into panoramic views of Mt.Trishul, Mt.Nanda Ghunti, Mt.Chaukhamba, Mt.Neelkanth, Mt.Kamet and Mt.Hathi Ghoda. With most of these names forming references to Hindu mythology, there is almost something mystical about standing there and just admiring these peaks that stand at a distance.
Terrain
The terrain on Ali Bedni Bugyal trek keeps varying with stone paved and dirt trails and oak forests and open lands. And this is just day one! It then takes us through thick forests before opening up into a vast expanse of meadows that offer views of prominent peaks in the Garhwal Himalayas.
The trail of Brahmatal takes us through exciting ridges with views of snowclad mountains that will keep your head turning to get one more glance. The route to Brahmatal top is short but is a steady ascent to the top.
Trekkers on the Trail
This is probably where Brahmatal and Ali Bedni Bugyal differ from each other. Brahmatal has tremendously grown in popularity over the years and has become the go to choice for a winter trek. Ali Bedni Bugyal remains relatively untouched which means fewer people on the trail and more of the meadows and views to ourselves!
Flora and Fauna
Oak and Rhododendron are a common sighting in the forests of Ali Bedni Bugyal whereas the meadows are home to Brahma Kamal and Blue Poppy. On a lucky day, one can spot the Himalayan Musk Deer, Barking Deer or maybe even the Himalayan Black Bear!
Conifers, Cedar and Fir form the dense forests around Gujreni campsite on the Brahmatal trek.
The forests above Lohajung are home to a diverse species of birds. The Himalayan bird, Monal, is endemic to this region and the chances of spotting it are high.
Although similar in many ways, Ali Bedni Bugyal sees fewer trekkers thus making it more quaint and a better choice if you are looking to avoid the crowds. We hope this information helps you choose your next winter trek and should you require any further help, please reach out to our team!
