Maldaru Lake & Baiyan Top Trek
- Uttarakhand, India
7 Days & 6 Nights
Trek Duration
14,400 ft.
Maximum Altitude
40 Kms.
Trekking Distance
Moderate to Hard
Trek Difficulty Level
Expert Leaders
Hands-On Adventure
Comfy Transport
Nutritious Meals
Adventure Safety
Leave No Trace
Departure Date On Demand!
Overview
Maldaru Lake & Baiyan Top Trek: A Sacred Mirror of the Himalayas
Nestled high in the Sankri range of Uttarkashi district, Maldaru Lake is one of the most pristine and lesser-known gems of the Indian Himalayas. This sacred lake sits quietly at an altitude of around 14,400 feet, surrounded by towering peaks. To the locals, Maldaru is not just a waterbody but a goddess in herself, worshipped for her divinity and purity. Known for its shimmering surface that sometimes reflects a deep sky-blue and at other times turns grey with the mood of the skies, Maldaru Lake creates an enchanting mirror to the heavens above.
Maldaru Lake & Baiyan Top Trek Package: What to Expect
The Maldaru Lake & Baiyan Top Trek takes you through dense forests, open meadows, and beautiful landscapes before reaching the sacred high-altitude Maldaru Lake. This moderately difficult trek tests endurance with its long walking days and a steep final ascent but rewards you with pristine beauty and raw adventure at every step.
Our package includes freshly prepared vegetarian meals from Day 1 dinner to the last breakfast and camping arrangements with high-quality camping gear, along with all required forest permits and camping charges. Experienced trek leaders, guides, and support staff accompany you throughout, ensuring safety, guidance and an immersive learning experience at every stage. Every trekker receives an eco bag to collect personal waste, which is disposed of responsibly after the trek, helping us keep the trails clean and untouched.
How to Prepare for the Maldaru Lake & Baiyan Top Trek
This Trek isn’t your casual Sunday stroll, it’s a test of grit, lungs, and legs. But with the right prep, you’ll cruise through the trails while soaking in the magic.
First things first, start walking or jogging 4–5 km daily. Think of it as training your legs to stop complaining every time the trail points upward. Throw in some stairs too, if you can’t smile climbing a few flights at home, the mountain won’t be a walk in the park. Leg workouts like squats and lunges are your new best friends, because Maldaru doesn’t believe in flat paths. Mix in some yoga or breathing exercises to get cozy with thin air, trust us, gasping shouldn’t be your main soundtrack on the trek.
And don’t forget your mindset. The weather will flip moods faster than you, meals will be delicious and earthy. Come with an explorer’s spirit, ready for laughter and raw adventure. That’s when the trek truly becomes unforgettable.Read More
Essential Tips for Trekkers If it’s your first time taking on the Maldaru Lake & Baiyan Top Trek, here are some tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience: Why Choose The Nativs for the Maldaru Lake & Baiyan Top Trek? At The Nativs, safety isn’t a checkbox, it’s our foundation. With decades of Himalayan expertise and Air Force grade adventure protocols, you’re always in good hands. We keep our groups small and tight-knit, so every trek feels personal, raw, and community-driven. Everything’s taken care of, permits, meals, tents, trek leaders, so you can focus on the journey, not logistics. Our local partners bring unmatched knowledge of the trails, hidden stories, and secret spots, while our eco-responsible approach ensures we leave the mountains as pristine as we found them. Beyond just trekking, we add moments that truly matter, learning experiences, “no phone” breaks, and activities that let you connect deeper with nature. With us, adventure is authentic, raw, and unforgettable! Sustainable Trekking: Preserving the Sacred Beauty Maldaru isn’t just another lake, it’s sacred to the locals, a place woven with myths, prayers, and centuries of reverence. At The Nativs, we believe adventure and responsibility go hand in hand. That’s why every trekker carries an eco-bag to collect their waste, ensuring the trails remain untouched. We keep group sizes small to minimize our footprint, use local resources mindfully, and follow “leave no trace” practices at every campsite. Our guides will share not only the route but also the culture and stories tied to the land, because respecting nature also means respecting the people who call these mountains home. Trekking with us means you don’t just explore beauty, you help preserve it for those who come after. Wildlife and Nature on the Maldaru Lake & Baiyan Top Trek This trail is a paradise for nature lovers. As you climb through dense pine and oak forests, the symphony of birdsong follows you. Keep an eye out for Himalayan Monals, the state bird of Uttarakhand, flashing their vibrant feathers against the green backdrop. Higher up, you may spot herds of Bharal (blue sheep) grazing on steep ridges or, if you’re lucky, the distant silhouette of a Himalayan fox. The alpine meadows burst into bloom with wildflowers during summer, painting the valleys in hues of yellow, purple, and pink. Towering peaks, glacial streams, and star-studded skies complete the raw wilderness that makes this trek unforgettable. Adventure Awaits: Activities Beyond Trekking The Maldaru Lake & Baiyan Top Trek isn’t just about walking trails, it’s about living the Himalayas in their rawest form. Along the way, you’ll get the chance to experience adventure beyond trekking. Camp under endless starry skies, and cross icy streams that test your grit. Morning breathing sessions amidst the silence of the mountains help you recharge, nights spark laughter, stories, and connections. For thrill-seekers, optional add-ons like short hikes to hidden waterfalls or trying out local adventure activities ensure the journey is as diverse as it is unforgettable. The Magical Sunrises and Sunsets of Maldaru Lake & Baiyan Top Few things compare to watching the sky transform over the Himalayas. Here, every sunrise feels like the world awakening just for you, golden rays spilling over snow-capped peaks, painting the lake in shimmering hues. Evenings bring a different kind of magic, as the sun dips behind the ridges, setting the valley aglow in fiery shades of orange and pink. These moments remind you why you made the climb, to witness beauty that can’t be captured in pictures, only felt in the stillness of the mountains. Local Cuisine: A Taste of Himalayan Flavors Trekking isn’t just about the trails, it’s also about savoring the flavors of the mountains. On the Maldaru Lake & Baiyan Top Trek, you’ll get to taste authentic Garhwali cuisine, simple yet nourishing meals that fuel your journey. From piping hot dal and rice to mandua ki roti, ghee, and seasonal vegetables, every dish carries the warmth of the locals who prepare it. Don’t miss trying the region’s special pahadi teas and sweet treats after a long day’s hike. Sharing these meals under the open sky or around a campfire turns food into an experience, one that connects you deeply with the land and its people. The Mythological Significance of Maldaru Lake Maldaru Lake isn’t just a breathtaking alpine wonder, it’s a sacred site woven into the spiritual fabric of the region. Locals believe the lake holds divine powers and is blessed by the deities who guard the high Himalayas. For centuries, villagers have trekked here with offerings, prayers, and faith, considering it a place where wishes are heard. The serene waters are treated with reverence, untouched and pure, making the trek not just an adventure but also a journey into age-old traditions and myths. Walking to Maldaru feels less like reaching a destination and more like stepping into a story that’s been told for generations. Why the Maldaru Lake & Baiyan Top Trek is a Must-Do Maldaru Lake isn’t your everyday trek, it’s a rare blend of raw adventure, untouched beauty, and deep cultural roots. The trail takes you through changing landscapes, from dense forests to open meadows, all leading up to the crystal-clear alpine lake that feels almost otherworldly. Unlike the overly crowded Himalayan routes, Maldaru stays quiet, giving you space to truly soak in the wilderness. Add to that the local legends, warm mountain hospitality, and the thrill of camping under star-filled skies, and you’ve got an experience that sticks with you long after you’ve returned. It’s not just a trek, it’s a story you’ll want to tell again and again!
Highlights
- Stunning views of snow-clad Himalayan giants like Black Peak, and Bandarpoonch.
- Witness the sacred Maldaru Lake shimmering at 14,400 feet, revered by locals and wrapped in mythological tales.
- A trail rich in diversity, lush pine and deodar forests, blooming rhododendrons, alpine meadows, and rocky moraines.
- Spot wildlife within the Govind Pashu Vihar Sanctuary, including Himalayan Monal, bharal (blue sheep), and more.
- Perfect mix of challenge and serenity, ideal for trekkers with some experience.
- Scenic campsites under star-filled skies with panoramic mountain backdrops.
- A less-trodden route compared to popular treks, making it perfect for adventurers seeking raw, untouched beauty.
- Sunrise and sunset views that transform the valley and lake into magical hues of gold, pink, and purple.
- A spiritual experience, blending adventure with local legends and the tranquility of high-altitude wilderness.
Trek Itinerary
Meet us at Dehradun railway station bright and early at 7 am and hop into our vehicle. The drive is long but never boring, you’ll roll past Mussoorie’s winding roads, pine-scented forests, sleepy villages, and sparkling rivers. Once here, tea awaits, followed by a hearty dinner at our cozy homestay. A quick trek briefing later, you’ll tuck into bed and dream of the mountains.
After breakfast, we drive 25 km to Gangarh, where your trek begins. The trail to Devsu is a perfect warm-up, forests, streams, blooming wildflowers, and maybe even a glimpse of Himalayan birds. You’ll carry a packed lunch to enjoy en route (bonus points if you stop at a dhaba for rhododendron juice or pahadi maggie). By evening, you’ll reach Devsu campsite for hot snacks, stargazing, and dinner under the Himalayan sky!
Wake up early for mountain sunshine, sip on hot chai, eat a steaming hot breakfast, and set off. Today’s trail winds past waterfalls and streams, opening up to stunning views of snow peaks. After hours of walking, Baiya Kullu welcomes you with tea and snacks at the campsite. Tonight’s mantra: eat, rest, and sleep early, because tomorrow is the big day!
The star of the trek! A long day, but every step is worth it. The climb gets steeper as you cross Baiyan Top and boulder sections, but soon the sacred Maldaru Lake appears, sometimes deep blue, sometimes shimmering grey, mirroring the sky and legends that surround it. After soaking it all in (and clicking those brag-worthy photos), we descend 4 km to Odari campsite, where tea, snacks, and warm tents await!
Today we descend into the heart of mountain culture, the historic village of Osla. With its wooden homes, rich folklore, and warm hospitality, Osla feels like stepping back in time. Tonight, we swap tents for a homestay and enjoy a home-cooked Garhwali meal with the locals, maybe even a match of cricket or carrom with them!
Our journey nears its end as we bid farewell to Osla and begin our trek back to Sankri via Gangarh. The trail takes us through familiar landscapes, offering new perspectives with each passing step. As we descend towards Sankri, we take the time to savor the beauty of the mountains one last time, knowing that our adventure is coming to a close. Arriving in Sankri, we celebrate our achievements and reminisce about the unforgettable moments shared along the way!
With hearts full of memories and a sense of accomplishment, we bid adieu to Sankri and embark on our journey back to Dehradun. As we drive through the winding roads, we carry with us the sights and sounds of the Himalayas, etched forever in our minds. The journey may be over, but the spirit of adventure lives on, fueling our dreams of future expeditions in the majestic mountains of the Himalayas.
What's Inside the package?
Package Inclusion
- Comfortable transport from Dehradun to Dehradun.
- Clean & scenic accommodation in Homestay on sharing basis, Camping in Tents on triple sharing basis.
- Nutritious and delicious meals on trek, Breakfast, Lunch, Tea/Snacks, Dinner.
- All camping equipment is hygienic and expedition grade, including Dome tents, Sleeping bags, Stools, Cutlery, Toilet tents, Technical equipment, First aid.
- All required permits.
- Professional and experienced trek leader, guide, and support staff.
- Strict adventure safety protocols.
- Eco-friendly practices throughout.
- No hidden charges.
Package Exclusion
- Any kind of personal expenses.
- Meals during transit (Dehradun to Sankri & Sankri to Dehradun).
- Charges of mules/porters/carrying your personal luggage.
- Anything not specifically mentioned under inclusions.
- Any kind of emergency evacuation charges.
- Personal insurance.
- Personal medical kit.
- Any equipment that needs to be rented or is not mentioned in inclusions.
Map
- All Inclusive Price, No Hidden Charges
- No Daily Departures, Very Limited Spots
- 24/7 Customer Care
- Maximum group size of 15
trek FAQs
The Maldaru Lake & Baiyan Top Trek is a Moderately challenging adventure, with steep climbs, rocky trails, and trekking days of 5-7 hours. At altitudes above 12,000 feet, it demands stamina and acclimatization, but nothing unachievable with good fitness. It’s the perfect balance, tough enough to feel rewarding, yet doable for prepared trekkers.
The best time to do the Maldaru Lake & Baiyan Top Trek is from May to June and September to early October. In summer, you’ll find blooming meadows and clear trails, while post-monsoon brings crisp skies, fresh greenery, and stunning mountain views. Winters turn the route into deep snow, making it inaccessible.
The starting point of the Har Ki Dun Trek, usually Sankri, is around 200 kilometers from Dehradun. It takes roughly 8 to 10 hours by road to reach Sankri, depending on weather and road conditions.
