Surya Top Trek

Are you in search of an untouched Himalayan trek in Uttarakhand? A jewel in the crown of the Garhwal mountains that will give you the perfect chance to witness breathtaking mountain views and a challenging yet satisfying summit climb if so, then your search ends with the Surya Top Trek. Surya Top Trek gives you the grandest feel of meadows and the adrenaline rush of a summit climb. It is an extension of the Dayara Bugyal Trek.

Surya Top Trek offers a long ridge walk to reach Devkund. Along the way, you will be treated to mind giggling views of the Gangotri range, including Bhagirathi I, II, Mt. Meru, Thalay Sagar, and Kedardome as well as the Yamunotri range consisting of Bandarpoonch I, II, and Kalanag.

Another reason that makes Surya Top Trek the best meadow trek in India is the camping experience at Devkund with the Bandarpoonch massif right in front of you.

The Dayara Bugyal Trek meadows are another compelling reason to trek to Surya Top. You spend two days trekking through the Dayara meadows accompanied by the Gangotri and Yamunotri ranges on your side. Many times you will feel as though these divine mountain ranges are walking with you. On the route you will never feel alone, as all the Himalayan mountains accompany you to provide the best views they can offer.

Trekking through the meadows which are blanketed in a profusion of vibrant alpine flowers such as Himalayan blue poppies, daisies, and primrose, leaves a lasting impression. It resembles a painting with vibrant hues throughout. The landscapes of the meadows never cease to enchant regardless of the time of year you choose to trek to Surya Top. The meadows turn golden brown in the autumn season after being lush green in the summer. That guarantees that regardless of when you visit Surya Top is ready to amaze you.

After a charming drive to Barsu village, the trekking adventure officially begins. Along the way you pass through idyllic oak, rhododendron, maple, and cedar forests that gradually give way to meadows. You will pass through Siyari Bugyal and the well known Dayara Bugyal the wide ranging meadows are sure to amaze you with their majesty. When you reach Surya Top, the trek's highest point, you can get a full 360 degree view of the Himalayan ranges. You will spend the trek at lovely campsites with a breathtaking view of the mountains encircled by forests.

Historical and Cultural Significance of Surya Top

The Surya Top Trek is steeped in cultural and historical significance. The region of Uttarkashi is rich in mythology and local traditions with every nook and corner hiding a story or spiritual practice of the Garhwali people.

Did you know that Surya Top is named after the Sun God Surya? In Hindu mythology Surya represents warmth energy and life itself. Local folklore suggests that the Sun God is considered the creator of the sacred Yamuna River adding a layer of reverence to this trek. During your journey you may come across sites like Surya Kund where villagers perform rituals and offer prayers. This interaction with local customs provides trekkers with a unique opportunity to engage with the culture of the Garhwali people who are known for their hospitality and vibrant traditions.

As you pass through villages such as Barsu and Agoda you will witness the warmth of the Garhwali people. The locals celebrate various festivals including the Someshwar Devta Mela and the Butter Festival (Andhuri Utsav) which reflect their deep-seated devotion to their deities and gratitude for nature's bounty. These festivals often involve traditional dances, music, and communal gatherings that showcase the community spirit and cultural heritage of the region. Uttarakhand is a treasure trove of ancient temples and archaeological sites that narrate tales from a bygone era. The Surya Top Trek offers access to several significant landmarks including remnants of temples dedicated to local deities. Among these is the ASI-marked Sun Temple which features Buddhist relics alongside Hindu shrines highlighting a historical confluence of cultures. This blend of beliefs illustrates how diverse communities have coexisted in harmony throughout history.

The village of Raithal serving as your base camp for this trek is steeped in legends such as that of Jeetu Bagadwal who is revered as a protector deity. His tale involves themes of love, sacrifice, and divine intervention.

Best Time to Do Surya Top Trek

Meadow treks are best visited during spring and summer when they are in their full glory. The Surya Top Trek is accessible in spring, summer, and autumn, with these seasons being the most favorable for the trek.

Summer (April to June)

• Temperature: Daytime highs between 15°C to 18°C; nighttime lows around 2°C.
• Weather: Warm and sunny with no significant snowfall, making trekking easier. However, the atmosphere can become hazy due to dust and pollen.
• Advantages: Clear views of Dayara Meadows and surrounding mountains, with comfortable trekking conditions.
• Snow Presence: In late April, snow is present near Surya Top, but it melts at higher elevations by May.

Spring (Mid-March to April)

• Temperature: Daytime temperatures range from 5°C to 18°C; nights can drop to around 2°C.
• Weather: Pleasant, with blooming wildflowers and lush greenery. Snow may still be present at higher altitudes, enhancing the scenery.
• Advantages: Ideal for witnessing vibrant landscapes and clear mountain views.
• Snow Presence: Snow lingers on higher altitudes until mid April, providing beautiful contrasts of white, green, and floral colors.

Autumn (Mid-September to Late October)

• Temperature: Daytime temperatures between 12°C to 15°C; nighttime temperatures can drop to around 0°C.
• Weather: Clear skies and vibrant fall colors in the meadows. The weather is stable, providing excellent trekking conditions.
• Advantages: Fewer crowds compared to spring and summer, allowing for a more serene trekking experience.
• Snow Presence: Snowfall may begin in early November.

The autumn season offers the clearest skies and breathtaking views of the Himalayas. The landscape transforms with golden and brown hues as trees shed their leaves. The crisp scent of maple and deodar fills the air making it the perfect season for photographers.

Difficulty Level of Surya Top Trek

The Surya Top trek is classified as "moderate." Treks that last longer and include some steep ascents and climbs are classified as moderate in difficulty. The daily Surya top trek distance averages around 8 km which includes gradual ascents and some steep climbs. The final ascent to Surya Top is steep but not technically challenging meaning that trekkers do not need specialized climbing skills. The carefully crafted itinerary by Himalayan Shelter allows you to acclimate your body to the high altitude and shifting conditions by completing the Surya Top trek.

The ascent to Surya Top is steep but not technical because there are no boulders or moraine along the route. You need endurance and stamina to complete the climb. Starting a proper routine and training your body to be fit is advised. If you face any kind of physical difficulty it is better to start your descent immediately to Raithal. The nearest hospital to Surya Top Trek is the district hospital in Uttarkashi.

How to Reach Dehradun from Delhi

Travelling from Delhi to Dehradun can be accomplished through various modes of transportation, including air, rail, and bus.

• By Air: For those who prefer flying, the journey begins at Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) in Delhi with flights landing at Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun. The distance between the two airports is approximately 235 km (146 miles), and flight durations typically range from 45 minutes to 1 hour. Major airlines such as IndiGo and Vistara operate daily flights on this route making it a quick and efficient option for travellers.
• By Rail: Travellers opting for train travel will depart from New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS) and arrive at Dehradun Railway Station (DDN). The distance covered by trains is around 250 km with several train options available. Notable trains include the Nanda Devi Express (Train Number:12017) and the Dehradun Express (Train Number:22457), both of which take approximately 6 hours and 10 minutes. For those considering overnight travel, the Night Train (Train Number: 14041) is available taking about 11 hours.
• By Bus: Bus travel is another popular option for reaching Dehradun. Buses typically depart from key locations in Delhi such as RK Ashram and Anand Vihar travelling along National Highway NH7. The distance by road is approximately 243 km (151 miles) with travel times averaging between 6 to 7 hours. Various operators like FlixBus, NueGo, and Zingbus provide frequent services throughout the day making sure flexibility for travellers.

Reasons to Visit Surya Top Trek

Here are the reasons why you should embark on the Surya Top Trek:

• During the Surya Top Trek you will be treated to panoramic views of the Himalayan ranges and Dayara meadows. You can see Bandarpoonch, Srikanth, Jaonli, the Gangotri range, and Draupadi ka Danda 2 up close to the summit.
• And what is the highlight of the Surya Top Trek? The meadows! Particularly in the spring and early summer when the landscape is dotted with colorful wildflowers making it appear as if nature has dressed up just for you.
• How does it feel to enter the trek? Like stepping into a secret world of unspoiled beauty. The trail winds through verdant meadows, thick forests, and breathtaking alpine landscapes.
• Surya Top Trek is a treat for nature lovers offering a chance to witness diverse flora and fauna. Mountain goats and Himalayan monal pheasants are commonly seen.
• If you are looking for an untouched Himalayan trek that welcomes you with an authentic Pahadi vibe then Surya Top Trek is the one you should head to.
• Photographers will love this trek for its countless opportunities to capture stunning natural landscapes, including expansive valleys, dramatic cliffs, and lush meadows.

Flora and Fauna of Surya Top Trek

The high-altitude regions of the Surya Top Trek provide a thriving environment for diverse flora and fauna.

Flora

The magical forests here are dominated by Oak, Rhododendron, and Deodar (Himalayan Cedar) which translates to "Wood of the Gods" in Sanskrit. Beyond 3000m Himalayan Birch or Bhojpatra trees appear historically used for recording manuscripts. Rare flowers like the Blue Poppy (Hemkamal) and Brahmakamal the state flower of Uttarakhand can be found. The Brahmakamal blooms only at night once a year in late summer or early autumn and holds cultural significance often offered to Someshwar Devta for prosperity.

Fauna

The region is home to a variety of wildlife including Himalayan monals, snow partridges, and various other birds. Trekkers may spot Himalayan foxes, musk deer, and occasionally, bharals (blue sheep), Himalayan langurs, Griffon vultures, and, with some luck, even a snow leopard. Birdwatchers can enjoy sightings of Monal (Uttarakhand’s state bird), Long-tail Minivet, and Yellow-billed Chough. Butterflies thrive in abundance adding splashes of color to the landscape. Notable species include:

• Peacock Pansy: Golden with eye-like brown spots.
• Red-base Jezebel: Vibrant red, yellow, and black patterns.
• Saturn Moth: Brown with distinct eye-like spots on its wings.

What to Pack for Surya Top Trek

These are the following essentials you need to take for Surya Top Trek:

Essential Gear

• Backpack (60-70 liters, with rain cover)
• Daypack (for daily excursions)
• Trekking poles (for stability and reduced fatigue)

Clothing

• Base Layers: 2-3 long-sleeve thermal tops (non-cotton) 1 fleece or wool sweater 1 down jacket (lightweight)
• Outer Layers: 1 waterproof jacket or 2 pairs of trekking pants (quick-drying)
• Headwear: Sun hat or cap with a strap Woolen cap for warmth Buff or balaclava for neck protection
• Footwear: Waterproof, high-ankle trekking shoes Comfortable sandals or floaters for relaxing at camp

Accessories

• Socks: 4 pairs of cotton socks 1 pair of woolen socks for warmth at night
• Gloves: Waterproof gloves Additional pair of woolen gloves Sunglasses (UV-protected for eye protection)

Personal Items

• Hygiene Kit: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, toilet paper, wet wipes, hand sanitizer, quick-dry towel
• Medical Kit: Personal medications and a basic first-aid kit
• Hydration: Hot & cold water bottle (like Borosil or Milton)

Food and Snacks

• Eat energy bars and dry fruits (for quick energy boosts during the trek).
• Tiffin box (for carrying meals or snacks)

Lighting and Navigation

• Headlamp (essential for nighttime visibility, keeping hands free for other tasks)

Take your confidence and enthusiasm for exploration with you.

Campsites Of Surya Top

• Raithal Raithal is the base camp for the Surya Top trek located at approximately 7000 feet in Uttarkashi district. It serves as a starting point for trekkers and is accessible from Dehradun in about 8-9 hours. The village offers basic accommodations and a glimpse into local Garhwali culture. The surrounding landscapes are picturesque making it a scenic launchpad for the trek.
• Pichkiya Pichkiya is situated about 5.3 km from Raithal and is a popular campsite on the trek. The trek to Pichkiya takes around 5-6 hours and features lush greenery and vibrant wildflowers. This campsite offers beautiful views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. It provides a peaceful environment for trekkers to rest and recharge. Pichkiya is known for its natural beauty making it a favorite stop along the route.
• Siyari Siyari Bugyal is located at an altitude of about 11600 feet approximately 7 km from Devkund. This campsite features expansive meadows and stunning views of the Garhwal Himalayas. The area is rich in flora and fauna attracting nature enthusiasts.
• Devkund Devkund is situated at around 11400 feet and is a key campsite on the trek. The trek from Siyari to Devkund covers approximately 8 km through scenic terrain. This campsite offers a peaceful atmosphere surrounded by hills and forests. Trekkers can enjoy panoramic views of the mountain ranges from Devkund. It serves as a great location for stargazing and gathering around a bonfire at night.
• Surya Top Surya Top stands at an altitude of 12950 feet making it the highest point on the trek. The ascent from Siyari involves about 9 km of trekking through diverse landscapes. Trekkers are rewarded with breathtaking views of the Gangotri range and surrounding peaks at the summit. This trek is popular for photography because of its stunning vistas on clear days. Reaching this point marks a significant achievement for many trekkers.
• Chilapada Chilapada is located at about 10800 feet and serves as a campsite on the Surya Top trek. The trek from Devkund to Chilapada covers approximately 4-5 km, making it an easier descent. This campsite is surrounded by lush forests and offers picturesque views of the landscape. Chilapada is known for its wildflower meadows and diverse wildlife. It provides a serene environment for trekkers to relax before concluding their journey.