Dayara Bugyal Trek
Trek Difficulty
Moderate
Trek Duration
6 Days
Highest Altitude
12,000 ft (3,658 m)
Pickup Point
Dehradun
Dayara Bugyal Trek
The Dayara Bugyal Trek is one of Uttarakhand’s most scenic and beginner-friendly Himalayan treks, located in the Uttarkashi district. “Bugyal” means meadow in the local language, and Dayara is one of the most beautiful alpine meadows in India. Situated at an altitude of around 12,000 ft (3,658 meters), the trail offers expansive views of majestic Himalayan peaks such as Bandarpunch, Black Peak, Srikanth, and Gangotri ranges.
The trek begins from Raithal village, a charming Himalayan hamlet known for its warm hospitality and traditional wooden homes. The route passes through dense oak and rhododendron forests, crystal-clear streams, and open grasslands that change color with every season. In summer, the meadows bloom with wildflowers, while in winter, they transform into a vast white snowfield—perfect for snow trekking and skiing.
Ideal for both beginners and seasoned trekkers, Dayara Bugyal provides a complete Himalayan experience—lush forests, mountain views, and camping under starry skies—all within a short and easily accessible trek.
Highlights
Often referred to as the “Crown Jewel of Uttarakhand Meadows,” the Dayara Bugyal Trek unfolds like a painter’s dream — vast green pastures turning golden at sunrise and snow-white in winter. Perched high in the Garhwal Himalayas, it offers soul-soothing views of peaks like Bandarpunch, Black Peak, and Srikanth, all glowing against the blue Himalayan sky.
The trek takes you through charming villages, ancient oak and rhododendron forests, and finally into wide alpine meadows that seem to stretch endlessly. Each season paints a different story here — blooming wildflowers in summer, crisp orange hues in autumn, and powdery snow carpets in winter.
The nights at Dayara are magical — under a blanket of stars, with the Milky Way shimmering above silent mountains. Whether you’re a beginner chasing your first Himalayan adventure or a seasoned trekker seeking peace, Dayara Bugyal offers the perfect balance of beauty, solitude, and serenity.
A journey here isn’t just a trek — it’s a walk through living poetry written by nature herself.
Itinerary
Day 1: Dehradun → Raithal (Drive – 185 km | 8–9 Hours)
Your journey begins early in the morning from Dehradun, heading towards the quiet mountain village of Sankri. The drive passes through scenic hill towns like Mussoorie, Purola, and Mori, with the Yamuna and Tons rivers flowing alongside for much of the route.
By evening, you’ll arrive at Sankri — a charming base village surrounded by pine forests and snow-clad peaks. After checking into your guesthouse or homestay, relax and enjoy a short village walk followed by an orientation session about the trek ahead.
Altitude: 6,400 ft (1,950 m)
Stay: Guesthouse / Homestay
Meals: Dinner
Day 2: Raithal → Gui / Barnala (Trek – 4–5 km | 3–4 Hours)
After an early breakfast, begin your trek from Raithal towards Gui or Barnala, which will be your campsite for the night. The trail passes through dense oak and rhododendron forests with occasional clearings that open up to magnificent views of Mt. Bandarpunch and Srikanth Peak.
The gradual ascent makes it a perfect acclimatization day. On reaching Gui/Barnala (9,500 ft), you’ll be greeted by lush green meadows and a serene forest environment. Barnala also has a small lake (Barnala Tal) that adds charm to the campsite.
Spend the evening relaxing, exploring the meadow, and watching the sunset over the distant snow peaks.
Altitude Gain: 7,400 ft → 9,500 ft
Trek Distance: 4–5 km
Highlights: Forest trail, rhododendron blooms, Barnala Tal lake
Stay: Campsite at Gui / Barnala
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Gui / Barnala → Dayara Bugyal (Trek – 6–7 km | 4–5 Hours)
After breakfast, start your trek to Dayara Bugyal (12,000 ft) — one of the most beautiful alpine meadows in India. The trail climbs steadily through forest patches and then opens into vast green meadows that stretch endlessly across rolling slopes.
As you approach the main Bugyal, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking 360° views of Himalayan giants such as Bandarpunch, Srikanth, Black Peak, Gangotri I, II, III, and Jaonli. The meadow glows golden in the morning sun and turns emerald in summer, while in winter it becomes a pristine snowfield.
Enjoy packed lunch amidst the meadows and spend time exploring this Himalayan paradise. You can also hike to Bakaria Top (12,200 ft) for a higher vantage point.
Return to your campsite at Dayara Bugyal or descend slightly to Gui depending on weather conditions.
Altitude Gain: 9,500 ft → 12,000 ft
Trek Distance: 6–7 km
Highlights: Expansive alpine meadows, panoramic Himalayan views, Bakaria Top
Stay: Campsite at Dayara Bugyal or Gui
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4: Dayara Bugyal → Raithal (Trek – 8–9 km | 4–5 Hours) → Drive to Dehradun (185 km)
Wake up early to witness a mesmerizing sunrise over the snow-covered Himalayas. After breakfast, begin your descent back to Raithal through the same scenic trail. The downhill journey offers beautiful views of the valley and dense oak forests.
By afternoon, you’ll reach Raithal village, marking the end of your trek. After lunch, drive back to Dehradun, reaching by late evening — concluding a short yet unforgettable Himalayan experience filled with meadows, mountain views, and peace.
Altitude Loss: 12,000 ft → 7,400 ft → 2,200 ft
Total Distance: 8–9 km trek + 185 km drive
Highlights: Sunrise views, forest descent, farewell mountain drive
Meals: Breakfast
Day 5: Base Camp to Kedarkantha Summit → Descend to Hargaon (7 km Trek | 6–7 Hours)
Wake up before dawn for the summit push — the most thrilling day of the trek. The climb to the Kedarkantha summit is steep and challenging but rewards you with one of the most stunning sunrise views in the Himalayas.
From the top, you can see a 360° panorama of peaks including Swargarohini, Yamunotri, Gangotri, and Har Ki Dun Valley. After spending some time soaking in the views, begin your descent to Hargaon, passing through beautiful snow meadows and forests.
Altitude: 11,250 ft → 12,500 ft (Summit) → 8,900 ft (Descent)
Highlights: Sunrise at the summit, panoramic Himalayan view, snow ridge walk
Stay: Campsite at Hargaon
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6: Hargaon to Sankri (6 km Trek | 3–4 Hours) → Drive to Dehradun (190 km | 8–9 Hours)
The final morning trek takes you down through a scenic pine forest back to Sankri. After breakfast at Sankri, begin your drive to Dehradun, reaching by evening with unforgettable memories of the snow trek.
Altitude: 8,900 ft → 6,400 ft → 2,200 ft
Highlights: Forest descent, farewell at Sankri, scenic return drive
Meals: Breakfast
Includes & Excludes
- Transportation from Dehradun to Raithal and back (as per package)
- Accommodation in guesthouses/homestays at Sankri and alpine tents during the trek
- Daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner (all meals during trek as per MAP plan)
- Forest permits and entry fees for the trek route
- Driver allowance, toll tax, parking, and state tax included
- Personal expenses such as laundry, tips, snacks, or bottled water
- Any kind of medical expenses or evacuation charges
- Trekking shoes, jackets, gloves, or personal gear (should be brought by participants)
- Expenses due to weather conditions, landslides, or roadblocks beyond our control
- Travel insurance or accidental coverage
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Dayara Bugyal located?
Dayara Bugyal is located in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, India. The trek starts from Raithal village, which is about 185 km from Dehradun.
What is the best time to do the Dayara Bugyal Trek?
The best seasons are April to June (for lush green meadows and flowers) and December to February (for snow trekking). Monsoon months (July–September) are generally avoided due to slippery trails.
How difficult is the Dayara Bugyal Trek?
Dayara Bugyal is graded as an easy to moderate trek, making it ideal for beginners and families. The trail has gentle ascents and is well-marked, with gradual altitude gain.
How long is the trek and what is the total distance?
The trek covers approximately 16–18 km (round trip) and usually takes 4 days and 3 nights to complete, including travel and camping.
What is the maximum altitude reached during the trek?
The highest point of the trek is around 12,000 ft (3,658 meters) at Dayara Top (Bakaria Top), offering stunning 360° Himalayan views.
What kind of accommodation is provided during the trek?
Accommodation includes homestay or guesthouse at Raithal village and tented camping at Gui/Barnala and Dayara Bugyal. All campsites are equipped with sleeping bags and mats.
What safety measures are provided during the trek?
We provide experienced trek leaders, first aid kits and all necessary safety equipment to ensure a secure experience.
Will there be snow during the trek?
Yes, if you visit between December and February, you will find snow-covered trails and meadows. The area becomes a white wonderland during winter.
What should I carry for the trek?
Carry warm clothing, trekking shoes, gloves, woollen caps, thermals, and a rain poncho. A small day backpack and water bottle are also recommended.
Can I contact the team for any query or help?
Yes, absolutely. You can contact us anytime through phone, WhatsApp, or email for any assistance related to bookings or trek details.
What are the key peaks visible from Dayara Bugyal?
You can see Bandarpunch, Black Peak (Kalanag), Srikanth, Draupadi Ka Danda, and Gangotri Range from the top.
Starting From ₹6,000/ Per Person
5% GST
Submit Your Inquiry
Why Book With Us
- Customized Travel Plan
- 24/7 Support
- Affordable Packages