Dayara Bugyal Trek

Vast meadows, snow covered landscapes & more!

A great Weekend Trek, ideal for Beginners & Families

Customize Your Himalayan Trip or Join Our Fixed Departures
Duration
3 Days
Trek Altitude
12,447 Feet
Destination
Uttarakhand
Trek Distance
20 KM
Group Size
12
Best Time
All Year

Dayara Bugyal 3 Day Trek Overview

This trek is known for its scenic beauty and the undulating slopes of Dayara Bugyal - a meadow. This is an ideal place to ski in the months of January to March. The rest of the year this is a comfortable and rewarding trek in terms of views. It offers clear views of the Gangotri range. The trek passes through some beautiful Oak forests and affords excellent views of the snow-clad peaks. The peaks of Draupadi ka Danda, Srikantha, and Jaonli are visible. The trek gives you the opportunity to visit one of the best meadows in Uttarakhand. Barnala Tal, a lake on the way to the Dayara Meadows further adds to the beauty of the trek. The trek has different routes and can be done in either 3, or 4 days. The 4-day itinerary of the Dayara Bugyal Trek starts from Raithal and ends in Barsu or raithal, while the 3-day trek takes you to the meadows from Barsu and back to Barsu, making it a great trek experience. It is ideal for beginners or families and the 3-day trek can be easily done over a long weekend.

What makes Dayara Bugyal the best weekend trek?

Dayara Bugyal is the best weekend trek that can be done in 3 days. The trek has multiple routes and thus some people undertake the journey in 4 or even 6 days. The route from Barsu is a short one and it is only around 7.5 KM trek to the Dayara Bugyal. The altitude of Barsu is 2,340 meters or 7,670 feet. The Baranala Tal campsite is situated at 2,900 meters or 9,120 feet. Dayara Bugyal meadows start from an altitude of 3,300 meters or 10830 feet & extend all the way to Dayara Bugyal top, which rises to 3,794 meters or 12,447 feet. Those who want to just explore the Bugyal can spend the day roaming around the vast swathes of Dayara. It is a spectacular meadow that extends as far as the eye can see. Dayara Bugyal extends up to 4 KM in length. We cover a total of 15 to 20 KM in trek distance in the 3 days, which is not too difficult even for beginners. While fit trekkers can always attempt going to Dayara Top, kids and families can enjoy exploring the Bugyal and the dense flora.

Burnash or Rhododendron forests at Dayara Bugyal trek

Buransh or rhododendron forests surround the Bugyal. The prominent variety of rhododendron that is found here is RHODODENDRON ARBOREUM. It is the state tree of Uttarakhand. The trees can grow as tall as 60 feet. The deep red flowers of this tree bloom in the months from March, April, and June to September. It is used to make Buransh juice which is very popular in Uttarkhand as a tonic. The landscape covered in snow in March contrasts very beautifully with the red-blooming rhododendrons.

Red rhododendron trees covered with snow

Visiting Harsil & Gangnani

Furthermore, you can visit Harsil and Gangnani on the last trekking day when you reach Barsu. Overnight stay in either of these places is very rewarding. While Gangnani has a hot water spring, Harsil is known for its great campsites, amazing views and tranquil environment. It was the dwelling place of Frederick Wilson "The Raja of Harsil", who introduced Apples and Rajma to this region, but at the cost of forests being cleared for timber in substantial quantity. Dayara Bugyal trek is a great alternative to the crowded Kedarkantha trek in peak winters when trekkers in huge numbers visit Kedarkantha. The trek will have ample snow and rhododendrons along with pine trees offering great contrasting views. Content Credit: Abhishek Sohu Dayara Bugyal

Barnala Tal at Barnala Meadows on the way to Dayara Bugyal

Dayara Bugyal Trek in various seasons-

Dayara Bugyal, A Year-Round Trekking Paradise, Nestled in the lap of the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, India, Dayara Bugyal is a high-altitude meadow that offers an enchanting trekking experience throughout the year. Each season graces this natural wonder with its unique charm, making it a destination that beckons adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike.  
  • Summer Splendor (May-June)
The months of May and June unveil Dayara Bugyal in its full glory, with vibrant meadows in full bloom. The weather is characterized by pleasant warmth and ample sunshine, creating an idyllic setting for exploration. As you traverse the trails, you'll be greeted by awe-inspiring views of the surrounding mountains, their majestic peaks seemingly touching the sky. The verdant expanse of Dayara Bugyal in summer is nothing short of a painter's palette come to life.    
  • Monsoon: A Season of Caution (July-August)
While Dayara Bugyal holds its allure year-round, the monsoon season requires trekkers to exercise caution. July and August bring rain, rendering the trails muddy and slippery. The risk of landslides is heightened during this period, making it inadvisable for trekkers to embark on this adventure. Safety should always be paramount, and it's best to plan your trip around the other seasons.    
  • Autumn's Golden Embrace (September-October)
As summer transitions into autumn, Dayara Bugyal undergoes a captivating transformation. The weather remains mild and sunny, providing an ideal backdrop for exploration. The meadows retain their vibrant hues, and the changing foliage adds a new dimension to the landscape. Packing layers of warm clothing is recommended, as even in the daytime, the temperatures can drop, especially as the sun begins to set.    
  • Winter Wonderland (November-April)
The winter months, from November to April, cast a magical spell on Dayara Bugyal. The meadows, blanketed in a pristine layer of snow, glisten under the winter sun. The sight of snow-capped mountains against the azure sky is nothing short of awe-inspiring. However, venturing here in winter requires meticulous preparation. Warm, insulated clothing, waterproof footwear, and proper trekking gear are essential. Trekkers should also be mindful of the potential risks of altitude sickness and take appropriate precautions.   In all seasons, Dayara Bugyal promises an unforgettable adventure. Its sprawling meadows, cradled by towering peaks, create a visual symphony that etches itself into your memory forever. Whether you're captivated by the riotous colors of autumn or the pristine serenity of winter, Dayara Bugyal invites you to discover its ever-changing beauty, one season at a time.

Mountain Peaks Visible During Dayara Bugyal Trek:

The whole trek is filled with astonishing natural scenery. Not only you will traverse through beautiful Himalayan forests and meadows, but you will also be able to spot some of the most famous and beautiful snow-capped mountain peaks of the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand. Some of the most beautiful Himalayan peaks are Mt. Gangotri I,II,III along with Mt. Jaonli, Mt.Bhrigupath, and Mt. Thalaysagar.      

Customize Your Trek:

In Himalaya Shelter, we provide you with the option to customize your trekking experience. Whether you're a solo traveler, a group of friends, or a family, you can opt for our personalized tailor-made trekking program. This customized trek will be exclusively designed for you, taking into account your specific requirements for transportation, accommodation, meals, and any other premium facilities you may need during the trek. No other participants will be added to your group. Choosing a customized trek will enable you to fully enjoy the trek with your loved ones.

Itinerary

Drive: 182 km, 7-8 hrs

Trek: 5 km, 2 hrs

Accommodation: Alpine Tents

Altitude Gain: 1200 ft – 7,217 ft

Meals: Dinner

 

We drive through the towns of Chamba, Uttarkashi, Bhatwari to reach Barsu. A number of temples and ashrams are situated in Uttarkashi. The famous Nehru Institute of Mountaineering is also based here. The road to Barsu diverges from near Bhatwari. The final 30 km is an uphill drive. Barsu is a quaint little village with a reservoir and a GMVN guesthouse. This village is a birder’s paradise with many ground birds easily sighted. It is very easy to spot a black eagle on this trek.

We follow the trail past the reservoir and after the village enter a forest. Trees like oak, rhododendron, walnut and maple are most common here. One can find walnuts lying on the trail during autumn. In spring the red rhododendrons provide a colorful touch to the forest hues. We pitch tents about 5 km above Barsu village near Barnala Tal and spent the night here. There is a vast meadow at Barnala and one can enjoy the views of Himalayan peaks as well.

Trek: 2.5 km, 2 hrs

Accommodation: Alpine Tents

Altitude Gain: 7,217 ft – 10,006 ft

Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Evening Snacks + Dinner

We start post-breakfast. Once we clear the tree line the walk becomes very rewarding with unending views of the snow-clad peaks. We reach Dayara Bugyal and pitch our tents. We spend the afternoon exploring the area and can hike up to Bakariya top for a panoramic view of the meadows. The Banderpunch peaks are visible clearly towards our north. Towards our east, a range of Himalayan peaks including Srikantha, Draupadi ka Danda and Jaonli can be seen. We can also explore the nearby Gidara Bugyal and walk on the ridge connecting Dayara to Assi Ganga valley.

Drive: 182 km, 7-8 hrs

Trek: 7.5 km, 4 hrs

Altitude Loss: 10,006 ft – 6,725 ft – 1,200 ft

Meals: Breakfast

We trek downhill back to Barsu and leave in a vehicle for Dehradun. We reach Dehradun by early evening.

Upcoming Treks

  • September 2, 2023 open
  • September 9, 2023 open
  • September 16, 2023 open
  • September 23, 2023 open
  • September 30, 2023 open

  • October 7, 2023 open
  • October 14, 2023 open
  • October 21, 2023 open
  • October 28, 2023 open

  • November 4, 2023 open
  • November 11, 2023 open
  • November 18, 2023 open
  • November 25, 2023 open

  • December 2, 2023 open
  • December 9, 2023 open
  • December 16, 2023 open
  • December 23, 2023 open
  • December 30, 2023 open

FAQS

  • The trek is easy to moderate. Children above 12 years of age can trek without any issues.
  • It is an easy trek and highly recommended for beginners, thus called ‘pre-trek’ .Amongst the high altitude treks, this is the least risky.
  • The initial 1km from the basecamp to the forest as well as the climb to the dayara top at the end is steep which will test your stamina.

  • Hard snow is prone to slips. A small slip can result in injuries like a ligament tear, a sprained ankle or even a fracture. Thus you should wear your microspikes while climbing the steep sections in snow.
  • At high altitudes, there’s a high chance of getting acute mountain sickness. You should watch out for symptoms like headache, dizziness, fatigue and weakness, nausea, loss of appetite, etc.

  • The trek can be done all year round except monsoon, although, the best season to visit Dayara Bugyal is from May to November. However, it receives a lot of tourist visits this during winters as well, mainly because of the refreshing snowfall.
  • The trek looks different in all different seasons.

The trek can be done all year round except monsoons.

  • Breathtaking snow covered peaks like Bandarpooch, Bhagirathi and Black Peak are visible.
  • The peaks of Draupadi ka Danda, Srikantha and Jaonli are visible easily.

 

  • The trek gives you the opportunity to visit one of the best meadows in Uttarakhand.  
  • This is an ideal place to ski in the months of January to March.
  • It offers clear views of the Gangotri range.

You will find the last ATM at Uttarkashi. However, there’s chances the last ATM might run out of cash, so be prepared beforehand.

BSNL and VI are both available at both Raithal and Barsu.

Electricity is available at Raithal and Barsu

The district hospital in Uttarkashi is the closest. Uttarkashi is an hour drive from  Raithal or Barsu.

Summer brings out the best in Dayara Bugyal, offering a peaceful getaway into nature’s arms. The meadows burst into a riot of colors with wildflowers, making the land a vibrant painting of endless shades. The weather is kind, with temperatures ranging from a cozy 15 to 25 degrees Celsius. The sky is wide and open, giving a perfect view of the stunning mountains that surround the meadows.

In October, when you go for the Dayara Bugyal trek, you can expect nice and sunny weather. The days are comfortable and warm, with temperatures between 15 to 20 degrees Celsius. However, once the sun sets, it gets chilly, sometimes even dropping below 5 degrees Celsius. The sky is usually clear and bright blue, giving you a stunning view of the nearby mountains. It’s really an amazing sight!

The height of Dayara Bugyal is 11,880 feet.

During the winter trek in Dayara Bugyal, the weather gets really cold and there’s a lot of snow. Days are short, and temperatures range from about -5 to 2 degrees Celsius. Nights are even colder, sometimes dropping below -10 degrees Celsius. The sky is usually covered in clouds, and it might snow at any time.

But, even with the chilly weather, Dayara Bugyal looks incredibly pretty in winter. The meadows and mountains are all covered in a thick blanket of snow, making everything look like a winter wonderland. The air is super fresh and clean, and the quietness of the mountains is truly amazing.

The best time for the Dayara Bugyal Trek is during Spring and Autumn. These seasons offer pleasant weather and stunning natural beauty, making for an ideal trekking experience.

The Dayara Bugyal trek is located in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, India. It is a high-altitude meadow situated in the Indian Himalayas. The trek starts from the village of Raithal, which is the base camp for the Dayara Bugyal trek.

A Dayara Bugyal trek package generally covers the following:

Transportation: This includes the journey from Dehradun to Raithal and the return trip.

Accommodation: You’ll be provided with either tents for a camping experience or guesthouses for a more comfortable stay during the trek.

Meals: All your meals throughout the trek will be taken care of.

Guide and Support Staff: A professional guide and support team will accompany you, ensuring a safe and enjoyable trekking experience.

Permits: All necessary permits required for the trek will be arranged.

The cost of a Dayara Bugyal trek package depends on several factors including the duration of the trek, the type of accommodation chosen, and the level of services provided. Here’s an approximate cost breakdown:

3-day trek: INR 6,000-10,000 per person
5-day trek: INR 7,000-13,000 per person
7-day trek: INR 10,000-16,000 per person

In Dayara Bugyal, the snowy season can vary each year, but it generally spans from November to April. The most substantial snowfall tends to grace the meadows in December and January. In these winter months, the entire landscape transforms into a breathtaking spectacle. The meadows are blanketed in a deep layer of snow, while the encircling mountains stand tall with their snow-capped peaks, crafting a picturesque winter wonderland.

Bakaria Top is like the crown of Dayara Bugyal meadows, which are like a beautiful carpet of grass high up in the mountains of Uttarakhand, India. It’s the tallest point there, sitting at a lofty 11,830 feet (3,606 meters). From here, you get to see some of the tallest mountains around like Swargarohini, Gangotri, and Yamunotri.

To get to Bakaria Top, first, you’ll trek to Dayara Bugyal. You start this adventure from a village called Raithal, which is the closest starting point. This trek to Dayara Bugyal usually takes about 2-3 days, depending on how fast you go.

Once you’re at Dayara Bugyal, the next exciting part is hiking to Bakaria Top, which you can do in a single day. The hike itself takes around 3-4 hours, but that can vary based on how strong and fit you feel. The path is clear and not too hard to follow. Just remember, it’s quite high up, and in the winter, there might be snow, so be prepared!

The maximum altitude of Dayara Top is 11800 feet from sea level.

To get to the Dayara Bugyal starting point, first, you have to go to Dehradun, which is the main city in Uttarakhand. Dehradun is well-connected to big cities in India by roads, trains, and planes.

From Dehradun, you can hire a taxi or share a taxi with others to go to Raithal village. Raithal is the closest place to start your Dayara Bugyal adventure. This ride from Dehradun to Raithal takes about 6-7 hours.

By road is the only way to travel from Dehradun to Raithal:

You can either get a taxi or share one with others. This drive from Dehradun to Raithal takes about 6-7 hours.

There are no direct buses from Dehradun to Raithal. You’ll need to take a bus from Dehradun to Uttarkashi, and then get a taxi or share one to reach Raithal. This whole journey takes about 7-8 hours.

Inclusions
  1. Transport support from Dehradun to Dehradun
  2. Pick-up location: Prince Chowk, near Dehradun Railway Station
    Pick-up Time: Around 7:30 am
  3. All vegetarian meals starting from dinner on day 1 to breakfast on the last day
  4. Professional Guide, Cook and Support staff
  5. First-Aid kit with Oximeter and Portable Oxygen Cylinder
  6. Kitchen tents, common tents, toilet tents with portable toilet seats
  7. Rent for camping equipment like Clean sleeping bags and foam mattresses, Good quality ‘A’ shaped or dome tents, Camping stools, Table and Crampons and gaiters if required
  8. Forest entry charges for Indian nationals (Additional charges will be applicable for international tourists)
  9. Porter and mule support to carry camping equipment and NOT personal luggage
  10. Accommodation throughout the trek on a triple-sharing basis
  11. Guesthouse accommodation on the first and second last day on a triple-sharing basis
  12. All applicable taxes
Exclusions
  1. Personal expenses like tips, personal medicines, phone calls etc.
  2. Any transport support during the trek apart from what is included above
  3. Any cost or services not mentioned in the Inclusions
  4. Accommodation in Dehradun
  5. Adventure Insurance
  6. Cost arising due to unforeseen incidents like bad weather, medical evacuation, roadblocks etc
  7. Porter and mule support to carry personal Luggage can be arranged at an additional cost of INR 350 per bag per day (weighing up to 12 kg)
  8. Please carry a lunch box for packed lunch/breakfast to avoid using polythenes and Aluminium foils. Keeping the Himalayas clean is our own responsibility. Reduce the use of Plastic when you are in the abode of the Sacred Himalaya. 🌱