It is the first day of the trek, and we’ll start by taking the bus at Lohajung and head to the Bekaltal campsite. After a delicious breakfast, we’ll begin our tour heading towards Bekalatal, and, as we travel, you will be greeted by breathtaking views of Mount Nanda Ghunti. Walking through a coniferous forest consisting of Oak and Firs, the trail ends at Bekalatal Campsite after 4 to five hours. Stay overnight at the Bekalatal Campsite in a twin-sharing camp.
The trail towards the Bekaltal campsite is six kilometers long, with a gradual rise. The paths are well-defined, and a brief walk on the course will lead to Mandoli, the first mountain settlement. Mandoli. Mandoli village will be to your left when you walk on the trail. The trail continues to climb slowly as it winds through the mountain ranges and curves and bends as you go. It is possible to see an area known as the Kali Valley, the meeting point of the Kali and the Pindari Rivers. After Mundoli, it is a good idea to stroll through dense forest areas of Oak, Fir, and Cedar and a specific number of Rhododendron trees. A distinctive woody smell characterizes the forest. The spring and late winter are when you can see flowers of the Rhodendron blossoming and adding blush to the beautiful mountains. The trail remains covered with snow throughout all winter.
Two hours into your journey and you’ll be able to see the next point of interest, a 10 meters long wooden bridge that crosses a stream. It is possible to ration water at this source of water. After crossing the bridge, you’ll arrive at Begum, an idyllic and peaceful resting spot. Nanda Ghunti is the most prominent skyline of the area, and visitors can enjoy stunning mountain views from this spot and the breathtaking view of Navali and Bagdi Bugyal. A further 20 minutes walk will bring the visitor to Gujreni, and you’ll be able to see two streams in the area. A few trekkers also opt to stay at Gujreni, but we’ll walk further to camp next to Bekaltal. Gujarati is also an excellent location for bird watching, and you might see Himalayan bird species such as Asian Barred Owlet, Woodpeckers, Solitary Snipe, and Blue-fronted redstarts here.
Now you are at the final part of today’s hike. Take a walk for approximately an hour and a half, and you’ll arrive at the sandy beach of Bekaltal. The Lake is just 15 minutes away from our campsite. Once your tents are put up, you can refresh yourself and go to the Lake in the evening. It is Bekaltal Lake rests beautifully amidst an Oak forest. The still water of the Lake after the trek is a captivating experience.
The Lake is located in a dense clump of Oak trees, and the Lake’s waters remain dark brown throughout the year. The distinctive brown color in the lakes is due to the significant quantity of organic matter dissolving into the seas. Organic matter stains the water’s color and gives it an undertone of brown. A thin layer of ice may form in the waters when the weather gets more chilly. After watching the stunning sunset from Bekaltal, return to your camp for a delicious meal that awaits you in the evening. After dinner, you can rest comfortably in your camping tent.