Overview
The journey usually starts either from Sangam Chatti or from the nearby village of Agoda in Uttarkashi district. The route leads through the towns, oak and maple woods, Assi Ganga valley with some rest stations such as Bhebra and Manjhi. As the route continues to rise higher and higher, one reaches the Dodital lake that is surrounded by mountains and forest. There is a small temple of Lord Ganesha near the lake.
From Dodital, the trail to Darwa Top gets increasingly steep. This trail continues beyond the tree line into the alpine zone, with views of Banderpoonch, Swargarohini, and other Himalayan peaks if the visibility is good. Some trails go back to Dodital from the pass, whereas some continue further on to Hanuman Chatti in the Yamuna Valley. These are two separate routes and must not be confused with each other.
The pass day will likely be tiring, and snow, rain, cold weather, and bad visibility may affect accessibility even outside of winter. The need for a competent trek leader, proper acclimatization, and current information about trail/forest permits will be important.
Photos And Videos
Highlights
- Dodital Lake
- Darwa Top
- Forest trails and mountain villages
- Himalayan panoramas
Trek Details
Seasons
Departure Cities
Terrain
Itinerary
- 1
Dehradun to Agoda
Drive: approximately 160–185 km · 7–9 hours Travel through the Garhwal hills towards Uttarkashi and Sangam Chatti, then continue to Agoda, the usual base village. Overnight in a local homestay or arranged accommodation.
- 2
Agoda to Manjhi via Bhebra
Trek: approximately 8–11 km · around 5–7 hours Begin the uphill trek through village paths and forested slopes. Pass Bhebra and continue towards Manjhi, a common campsite in the Assi Ganga valley.
- 3
Manjhi to Dodital Lake
Trek: approximately 5–9 km · around 3–5 hours Continue through forest towards Dodital. Reach the lake, explore its surroundings respectfully and visit the small Ganesh temple. Overnight at permitted accommodation or an authorised campsite.
- 4
Dodital to Darwa Top and return
Trek: approximately 8–12 km round trip · around 7–9 hours Start early with a qualified trek leader for the steep ascent towards Darwa Top. The trail climbs into open high-altitude terrain, where weather can change quickly. After visiting the viewpoint, descend to Dodital if conditions and the group’s progress allow.
- 5
Dodital to Agoda
Trek: approximately 15–19 km · around 6–8 hours Retrace the forest trail via Manjhi and Bhebra towards Agoda. This is a long descent, so allow enough time for rest stops and careful footing.
- 6
Agoda to Dehradun
Drive: approximately 160–185 km · 7–9 hours Leave Agoda by road and return to Dehradun via Uttarkashi. Travel times can increase due to mountain-road conditions.
Things to Carry
Trek reviews
Reviews are opening soon for Dodital–Darwa Pass Trek. Share the route, season, difficulty, and trail experience.
