TREK DIFFICULTY
Moderate - Difficult
TREK DURATION
6 Days
HIGHEST ALTITUDE
3299m
GROUP SIZE
12
TREK DISTANCE
32 Km
BASECAMP
Uttarakhand
BEST TIME
March to June and September to November
PICKUP POINT
Dehradun (Prince Chowk)
Pakhwa Bugyal Top is a serene and beautiful location situated in the Bageshwar district of the Kumaon region. This region remains protected from modern construction, offering a magnificent, offbeat location for trekkers. Pakhwa Bugyal Top Trek is an exquisite alpine meadow trek in Uttarakhand. The word “Bugyal” means high-altitude grassland in the local language. Pakhwa Bugyal is one of the most beautiful high-altitude grasslands of our country. The altitude of Pakhwa Bugyal Top is about 3300 m, and the meadow is surrounded by big dense forests and waterfalls.
The Pakhwa Bugyal Top offers a stunning view of snow-capped Himalayan peaks. You can have a clear view of peaks like Nanda Devi, Nanda Khat, Nanda Kot, Panchachuli, etc. The vast grassland surrounded by Himalayan views makes it a perfect and picturesque trek. Pakhwa Bugyal Top is a lesser-known paradise for trekkers and adventure seekers. In summer, the Pahkwa Bugyal turns green, making it a perfect location for grazing cattle. In the monsoon, you can see beautiful wildflowers in these meadows. People who love snowfall can trek to Pakhwa Buygal in winter as the meadow turns into a winter wonderland.
Pakhwa Bugyal Top is a culturally rich trek in the Kumaon region. In Uttarakhand, most trekkers choose the Garhwal treks like the Valley of Flowers, Har Ki Dun Trek, etc. The Kumaon treks are still very underrated, which makes them untouched and more connected to nature. Pakhwa Bugyal is a valuable location for the shepherds as it has a long grazing period. The local and tribal people like Kumaoni shepherds and Bhotiyals migrate to the Pakhwa Bugyal with their cattle in the summer season. The flocks of sheep and goats spend their whole summer in these high-altitude grasslands.
The Pakhwa Bugyal Top has a good significance in the lives of shepherds. Earlier, this Buygal was a trail to access different villages, valleys, and hunting grounds. Pakhwa Bugyal is a kind of corridor that still holds the essence of Himalayan culture. In the trek, you can still see old stone huts, temples, etc. This trek is still unknown to most of the trekkers. In recent years, local trekkers and naturalists have gained interest in the Pakhwa Bugyal Top Trek due to its adventurous terrain and panoramic views of Himalayan peaks. Today, Pakhawa Bugyal is emerging as a part of sustainable tourism in the Kumaon hills.
Pakhwa Bugyal Top is a big, vast alpine meadow in Uttarakhand. This region is still lesser-known to the trekkers, making it a less-crowded spot for nature lovers. The Bugyal is very big and remains green for the whole summer season. In winter, the Pakhwa Bugyal becomes a snowfield.
The trail to Pakhwa Bugyal Top passes through dense forests. In the spring season, the Rhododendron trees bloom and the whole forest looks red and pink. The dense pine and oak trees open routes between them for the trekkers. Trekkers can spot various species of birds and wild animals such as Himalayan monals, deer, etc.
The trail to Pakhwa Bugyal passes through small villages of Bageshwar, such as Jhuni, Supi, etc. These villages are rich in Kumaoni culture and traditions. The locals in these villages are very welcoming. Talking to locals will give you a portrait of deep culture.
The summit of Pakhwa Bugyal Top is located at an altitude of 3300 m. When the trekkers reach the top, the panoramic views look like a reward. Trekkers can witness some of the majestic Himalayan ranges of Nanda territory, Panchachuli, Maiktoli, etc.
The difficulty level of the Pakhwa Bugyal Top Trek is rated as Moderate. This trek is perfect for experienced trekkers, and even beginners can do this trek. Beginners should start doing some exercises 2 weeks before the trek.
Trek Distance
The total trek distance of Pakhwa Bugyal Top is about 30 km. This much distance will be covered in 4-5 days. The trek distance is not very long; however, the altitude gain requires good stamina. Trekking daily for a week can be a bit difficult for beginners.
Altitude of Pakhwa Bugyal Top
The Pakhwa top is situated at a height of 10,826 ft. The height is not very high compared to other high-altitude Himalayan treks. But still, new trekkers can face some AMS symptoms like fatigue and headache. Trekkers should acclimate properly and stay hydrated.
Trail Condition
The trail to Pakhwa Bugyal Top passes through forests, villages, steep ridgelines, and rocky patches. Most parts of the trail are easy and have gentle ascents. But the final ascent to the Pakhwa Top contains a steep section and can be challenging for some trekkers. In monsoon and winter, the trail can be very slippery and difficult.
You can plan your Pakhwa Bugyal Top throughout the year. This trek is always open for trekking. However, the trail conditions and views will be difficult in every season.
This is the best time to trek to Pakhwa Bugyal Top as the weather starts getting pleasant with clear skies. The Rhodos start blooming, and the meadows start turning greener. The trail will be dry and easy for the trekkers.
Summer is also a good time to trek to Pakhwa Top. The Bugyals will be lush green and become a perfect spot for trekking. The clear skies give majestic views of the Himalayan ranges. The stable weather conditions allow comfortable trekking.
Trekking to Pakhwa Top in the monsoon can be difficult. The trail will be very slippery and muddy. There are high chances of landslides. Leeches and other insects are very common in the monsoon. The views are not clear, and trekking becomes very risky.
Post-monsoon is also a great time to visit Pakhwa Bugyal Top. The grasslands start turning golden, and the views become clear. The crowd will be very small, and the air will be crisp.
Trekking to Pakhwa Bugyal Top in winter is difficult. The grassland turns white and becomes a good snow trek destination. Winter is only suitable for experienced trekkers with proper gear.
To trek to Pakhwa Bugyal Top, you need to reach Tharsali, which is the base point. This is a small village in Bageshwar. The road from Kapkot to Tharsali is narrow. You should plan your trip during the daytime for safety. The major transport hub for the Pakhwa Bugyal Top Trek is Kathgodam / Haldwani.
Kapkot via Road
The popular roadways station near Kapkot is Haldwani. You can easily find buses to Haldwani from various cities. After reaching Haldwani, look for shared taxis to Kapkot. If you can’t find direct taxis, then look for taxis to Bageshwar. You can find shared taxis from Bageshwar to Kapkot.
Kapkot via Train
The nearest railway station to Kapkot is Kathgodam. You can find direct trains to Kathgodam from Delhi, Dehradun, Lucknow, and a few other locations. After reaching Kathgodam, look for shared taxis to Bageshwar or Kapkot. You can also get off at Haldwani station, as you can find more taxi services.
Kapkot via Air
The nearest airport to Kapkot is Pantnagar Airport. This airport is about 30 km away from Haldwani. After reaching Pantnagar, take a shared taxi or local bus to Haldwani. Now, look for buses to Bageshwar or direct taxis to Kapkot. After reaching Kapkot, take a shared taxi to Patiyasar, which is just 34 km away.
Pakhwa Bugyal Top is a week-long trek, and the trekkers should carry all the essentials for a smooth trekking experience.
Clothing
Start packing with a pair of thermals (top and bottom). Now pack 3 quick-dry t-shirts and 2 trekking pants. Pack a fleece jacket and a woolen sweater (during spring and autumn). Carry a waterproof jacket or poncho. If you are trekking in the winter, then get a good padded jacket, woolen cap, neck gaiter, and an extra pair of thermals.
Footwear
A good pair of shoes is a necessity for every trek. Get a good pair of trekking shoes that provide good ankle support. If you are trekking in the monsoon, then your shoes should be waterproof. Pack a pair of sandals for resting at the campsite. Get 4 pairs of socks and a pair of gaiters.
Personal Care
Pack all the personal items like toothpaste, biodegradable soap, etc. You should also pack a pair of sunglasses, a sun cap, and sunscreen. Carry a thermos for hot/cold water. Pack moisturizer, lip balm, hand sanitizer, and toilet paper. Carry a small first aid kit with basic items like painkillers, ORS, muscle relaxant spray, band-aids, etc.
Day 1: Reach Kathgodam and drive to Tharsali. The distance is about 220 km and will take about 9-10 hours.
Day 2: Trek from Tharsali to Jhuni.
Day 3: Trek from Jhuni to Birmuwa Koth.
Day 4: Trek from Birmuwa Koth to Pakhwa Top.
Day 5: Trek from Pakhwa Top to Tharsali.
Day 6: Drive from Tharsali to Kathgodam.
Pakhwa Bugyal Top Trek is a beautiful trek nestled in the Kumaon division of Uttarakhand. This trek offers unmatched views of the Kumaon Himalayan Ranges. Pakhwa Bugyal Trek is magnificent but difficult to plan. Forget all the worries and plan your trek with our team. Himalaya Shelter offers customized itinerary plans for the Pakhwa Bugyal Top Trek. We will arrange everything for you, including transport, stays, meals, etc. Our trek guides are very experienced and will help you complete your trek smoothly.
The Himalaya Shelter (HS) team can customize the trek as per your dates and other requirements. If you are planning the Pakhwa Bugyal Trek with your family, we can adjust the pace according to age and fitness level. Veg and even Jain food options can be customized for the trekkers. We believe in eco-tourism and will plan the whole itinerary for you accordingly.
Day 1: Arrival at Kathgodam, drive to Tharsali
Reach Kathgodam early in the morning. Have breakfast and drive to Tharsali via Almora, Bageshwar, and Kapkot. Stay at Tharsali and have proper rest.
Day 2: Trek from Tharsali to Jhuni
Begin your trek early in the morning to make the most of the day’s light and ensure you have plenty of time to reach Jhuni.Along the trek, you might come across scenic spots, viewpoints, or interesting natural features. Take your time to enjoy these moments and capture some memories.Once you reach Jhuni, take some time to settle in and appreciate the surroundings
Day 3: Trek from Jhuni to Birmuwa Koth
Begin your trek early in the morning Take advantage of any scenic spots, viewpoints, or unique natural features you come across. Pause to appreciate these moments and capture some memorie sOnce you reach Birmuwa Kothi, take some time to settle in and soak in the surroundings.
Day 4: Trek from Birmuwa Kothi to Pakhwa Top
Begin your trek in the morning,Follow the established trail Once you reach Pakhwa Top, take some time to relish the panoramic views and the high-altitude experience.Spend some time exploring the surroundings of Pakhwa Top.
Day 5: Trek back from Birmuwa Kothi to Tharsali.
Begin your descent towards Tharsali in the morning. Find a suitable spot to take a break for lunch. Enjoy your packed lunch or light snacks to refuel.Resume your descent towards Tharsali. Once you reach Tharsali, take some time to rest and celebrate the completion of the trek.
Day 6: Drive from Tharsali to Bhimtal.
Begin your drive from Tharsali towards Bhimtal. This drive will likely take approximately 6-8 hours, depending on road conditions, traffic, and stops along the way.
Distance: 215 kilometers
Our treks are specially designed by the experienced team at Himalaya Shelter, taking you on an adventure of a lifetime all while making you connect not only with the bountiful nature but also with yourself and with others on the trek with you, creating wonderful memories which will last you a lifetime. All Himalaya Shelter treks are guided by experienced Trekkers having vast knowledge and experience of the region, providing with insightful information and stories pertaining to the region’s flora and fauna and the history of the region, whilst on the trek. It is safe to say that on successfully completing the trek, one will gain tremendous insight and experience along with lifetime memories.
Keeping the Himalayas clean is our own responsibility. Reduce the use of Plastic when you are in the abode of the Sacred Himalaya. 🌱