The Dodital to Darwa Top trek offers a quintessential experience for beginners eager to explore the great outdoors and immerse themselves in the grandeur of the Himalayas at high altitudes. Tucked away beyond the Bhagirathi River valley lies the serene and unspoiled Dodital, with 'tal' signifying lake in Hindi. Further ahead awaits the Darwa Pass (3750m), nestled between the prominent river valleys of the Ganga and the Yamuna. Ascending a bit higher from the pass leads to Darwa Top (4150m), the pinnacle of the region, offering awe-inspiring views where peaks like Banderpoonch and Swargarohini seem within arm's reach. This route has long been traversed by Gujjars, nomadic herders who guide their cattle to graze in the meadows, and by holy men known as sadhus journeying between the temples of Gangotri and Yamunotri.
If spirituality does not hit you, and you prefer hunting for some real thrill and adventure, then trekking trails surrounding the Char Dham Yatra Routes serve your purpose. Embark on the Dodital-Darwa trek to immerse yourself in the serenity of nature, where the melodious streams and verdant landscapes offer a soothing retreat. Nestled amidst dense deodar forests, Dodital Lake awaits at an elevation of 3,307 metres above sea level. Beyond its tranquil vistas, Dodital holds profound spiritual significance as the revered birthplace of Lord Ganesh.
A Detailed Itinerary for Dodital to Darwa Top Trek
Day 1 - Reach Uttarkashi from Dehradun
Reach Dehradun by flight or train and proceed to Uttarkashi immediately. The distance from Dehradun to Uttarkashi is roughly 140 km, requiring duration of 4 to 5 hours. Uttarkashi is a significant landmark route to Chardham Yatra nestled on the bank of the River Bhagirathi. If time permits, halt and pay a visit to the Vishwanath Temple, which is the most popular shrine of Uttarkashi, the destination of the day. Book an accommodation for the night at Uttarkashi and the next day you will be starting for Sangamchatti.
Day 2 - Drive to Sangamchatti and Trek to Bebra via Agoda
Embark on a 40-50 minute drive to reach Sangamchatti, the base camp of the trek. From Sangamchatti your trekking expedition begins towards Manjhi. The first stop of the trek will be Agoda village, where you can reach after trekking for about 5 km. The route to the village is a bit steep, therefore, might take a longer time to cover. Resting for some time, resume your footslogging toward Bebra is not too far from Agoda and the route is less steep. Set up your tents and rest for the night in Bebra.
Day 3 - Trek from Bebra to Dodital
Today you will trek to Dodital Lake. In between the trek take a halt at Manjhi and then resume your hiking to the picturesque Dodital Lake. the total trekking distance from Bebra to Dodital is roughly about 15 km and due to the undulating surface, you will be engaging in a 9 to 10 hours trek. However, the very first glimpse of the lake with its striking panoramic beauty will ward off the entire exhaustion. There is a temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha at a corner of the lake, where you can pay a visit after setting up your tents for camping overnight at the lakeside.
Day 4 - Trek from Dodital to Darwa Top and Back to Dodital
With the first rays of the sun, wake up to a breathtaking view of Dodital Lake and the distant Banderpoonch Peak. The hike to the ultimate point of the trekking expedition is fatiguing yet the most rewarding one. The steep trail, especially nearing the Darwa Top might take a toll on your stamina, but once you reach the top, the heavenly view will be etched in your memory forever. Soak in the priceless moment at the top and then begin the downhill trek towards Dodital, where you will again append the night.
Day 5 - Dodital to Sangamchatti and drive to Uttarkashi
This is the longest distance to trek down about 22 km. Take regular halts and keep hydrating yourself. Once you reach Sangamchatti drive to Uttarkashi and check into a hotel for an overnight stay at Uttarkashi.
Day 6 - Drive from Uttarkashi to Dehradun for Departure
Getting proper rest and meals check out from the hotel at Uttarkashi and drive to Dehradun to board a flight or a train for the scheduled departure.
