Maldaru Lake

A Pristine Alpine Jewel in the Supin Valley

Discover a Sacred High-Altitude Lake Hidden in the Garhwal Himalayas

The Maldaru Lake Trek takes you to one of Uttarakhand’s most beautiful and lesser-known alpine lakes, nestled at an altitude of 4,200 meters (13,780 ft) in the Supin Valley of the Govind Pashu Vihar National Park. Surrounded by majestic snow-covered peaks and meadows, Maldaru Tal is a crystal-clear glacial lake revered by locals as sacred.

A perfect blend of spiritual calm, alpine adventure, and unspoiled beauty, this trek offers a quiet escape into the heart of the Himalayas — far from touristy trails.

Why Visit Maldaru Lake?

Unlike commercial treks, Maldaru Lake offers pure wilderness, cultural richness, and panoramic Himalayan views. Starting from Jakhol or Sankri, the trail passes through dense pine and oak forests, remote Garhwali villages, high-altitude bugyals (meadows), and culminates at a shimmering lake nestled in the clouds.

On clear days, you can see iconic peaks like Swargarohini, Bandarpunch, and Kala Nag (Black Peak) reflecting in the lake. Perfect for photographers, spiritual seekers, and offbeat trekking lovers, this route offers a peaceful and soulful Himalayan experience.

Location

  • Region: Supin Valley, Govind Pashu Vihar National Park

  • District: Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand

  • Altitude: ~4,200 meters (13,780 feet)

  • Starting Point: Jakhol or Sankri

Difficulty Level

Moderate – Suitable for:

  • Trekkers with basic to intermediate Himalayan experience

  • People looking for less-crowded, scenic, and spiritual trekking routes

  • Requires good physical fitness due to steep climbs and high altitude

  • No technical equipment needed

Best Time to Attempt

The best months to trek to Maldaru Lake are:

  • Mid-May to June: Snow begins to melt, meadows come alive with flowers

  • Mid-September to October: Post-monsoon clarity, golden bugyals, and stunning reflections in the lake

Avoid monsoon months (July to early September) due to landslides and slippery terrain. Winters (November to April) are generally inaccessible due to deep snow and harsh temperatures.

Trek Highlights

  • Reach a sacred glacial lake nestled between snow-capped peaks

  • Hike through oak and deodar forests, wildflower-filled meadows, and glacial zones

  • Camp at remote alpine sites with panoramic views of Swargarohini and Kalanag

  • Visit traditional villages like Dhatmir, Gangaad, or Osla along the way

  • Ideal for birdwatching, star gazing, and experiencing silence and solitude

Itinerary Overview (6–8 Days)

  1. Day 1: Drive from Dehradun to Sankri (~200 km / 8–9 hrs)

  2. Day 2: Trek from Sankri to Dhatmir village

  3. Day 3: Dhatmir to Vishkhopri – high meadows and ridge walk

  4. Day 4: Trek to Maldaru Lake and camp near the lake

  5. Day 5: Exploration and acclimatization near the lake

  6. Day 6–7: Return via same route to Sankri

  7. Day 8: Drive back to Dehradun

(Itinerary can be customized to combine with Supin Valley or Har Ki Dun trail)