Overview
Dayara Bugyal is a high altitude meadow in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, India, and it is one of those places where trekking feels calm, easy, and deeply connected to nature. This Special trek is perfect for a weekend adventure and suits beginners, families, and trekkers looking for an easy to moderate journey in the mountains.
Starting from Raithal village near Uttarkashi, the trek takes around 3 to 4 days to complete the entire trek route and covers nearly 18 to 22 km. The trail is not a long trail and mostly follows a well-paved path, making the walk comfortable even for first-time trekkers. Much of the journey includes walking through forest areas filled with pine, rhododendron, and maple trees. Trekking through the dense forest feels peaceful, with fresh air and rich vegetation all around.
As the trail gains height, the forest slowly opens into alpine pasturelands known as “bugyal”. The Dayara Bugyal meadow starts at 11,181 feet and reaches around 12,000 feet at Dayara Top. These natural grasslands are covered with lush green grass and seasonal flowers during summer months, which makes it an excellent summer tour for families and school groups. In winter, it feels like a winter wonderland and is counted among the best winter treks in the country. For snow lovers and adventure enthusiasts, winter months from December to Febrauary is the best time to visit Dayara Bugyal. During the time, the meadows remain snow covered, offering a peaceful and memorable experience with snowy trails and vast snow fields all around.
Bugyals are fragile ecosystems and an important part of the Himalayan terrain. These alpine meadows support grazing cattle, wildlife, and diverse flora and fauna. Conservation and sensitivity to nature are important here, and trekkers are encouraged to follow Leave No Trace and protect the environment while trekking and camping in the region.
One of the major highlights of the trek is camping near Gui Lake. The Gui Lake campsite offers a peaceful overnight stay surrounded by forests and picture-perfect views of the mountains. From here, it’s a day hike from Gui to Dayara Bugyal which rewards trekkers with endless grasslands and stunning views of the Himalayas. Mountain peaks like Mt. Bandarpunch, Black Peak, Srikanth, Draupadi Ka Danda, Janoli, and the Gangotri mountain range dominate the skyline.
With the support of Himalayan Dream Treks (HDT), this trek becomes safe, smooth, and enjoyable. Dayara Bugyal is not just a trek, but a beautiful experience of nature, meadows, forests, and mountains that stays with you long after the journey ends.
Stay connected to this page to learn more about Dayara Bugyal, including package details, group dates, itinerary, weather, distance, how to reach, route map, preparation tips, and more.
Highlights of Dayara Bugyal Trek:
The Dayara Bugyal trek is widely considered one of the most beautiful treks in Uttarakhand, and for good reason. It offers breathtaking Himalayan views, easy accessibility, rich cultural experiences, beautiful campsites, and vast grasslands. Let’s dive into what makes this trek so special:
1. Raithal Village
The trek starts from Raithal village, a small mountain community with its own centuries-old temples and heritage homes worth exploring before or after your trek. Interacting with the local community here is one of the quieter highlights of the trip, offering a glimpse into traditional Garhwali village life before you head into the mountains.
2. Forest Walk & Wildlife
Starting the trek from the base camp, the first thing one comes across is a forest of oak, rhododendron, and maple. The cool, fresh air and a silent walk with the chirping of birds feel relaxing. The backdrop view of Srikanth and other mountains catches attention when seen through openings in the forest trail. Wildlife like deer, bear, or leopard is very rare here, but trekkers are more likely to spot Himalayan hares and birds like the Himalayan monal, jungle fowl, and blue magpie most visible during spring and summer.
3. Gui Lake & Alpenglow View from its Campsite
Gui campsite sits beside a small alpine lake that freezes over in winter, making it a scenic attraction on its own. But it’s the evenings here that really stand out when the sun’s last light scatters across Srikanth and the surrounding peaks, it creates one of the most photographed moments of the entire trek.
4. Vast Stretches of Meadows – A Major Highlight in Themselves
When the trail rises above the tree line and enters the meadow, a peaceful calm surrounds trekkers. Moving upward toward Dayara Top, the vast grasslands embrace everyone with their sheer expanse, opening up to a breathtaking view of Bandarpunch stretching toward its foothills. Toward the same foothills lie two other high-altitude meadows, Siyari Bugyal and Gidara Bugyal, each requiring a separate itinerary of their own a reminder of just how large this bugyal region really is. These pasturelands serve as summer grazing ground for local shepherds, who return to lower villages once winter snow covers the meadows.
5. Bakariya Top – The Highest Point of Dayara Bugyal with Close-Up Views of Mt. Bandarpunch
Reaching Bakariya Top the trek’s highest point at 12,400 ft rewards you with the closest views of Mt. Bandarpunch and Black Peak on the entire trek, along with a sweeping panorama of deep valleys and endless meadows. It’s not always included in every itinerary since it depends on time and weather, but when accessible, it’s one of the most rewarding stretches of the trip.
6. Uttarakhand’s Famous Butter Festival
The Butter Festival (Anduri Utsav) is celebrated each year around in monsoon, typically mid-to-late August. Trekkers visiting during this window get to witness a festival unlike any other locals celebrate with butter and buttermilk instead of colors, giving thanks for a season of healthy grazing for their cattle.
Dayara Bugyal Trek Itinerary
Drive Distance: 183 km; 7-8 hrs
Altitude: 5,905 ft
On the first day of the Dayara Bugyal trek, we will start our trek from Dehradun to Raithal early in the morning. The scenic drive takes us through the road alongside the Bhagirathi River. We will cross Landour and Uttarkashi as we drive. After a few hours of driving, we will stop at Pahadi Dhaba and enjoy the Grahwali Thali. Moriana Top (Tingling Point) is also a major attraction on this route. We will have clear views of peaks like Bandarpunch, Black Peak, Srikanth and Gangotri Peaks are clearly visible from here. On clear days, you can even see Chaukhamba or Nanda Devi from here. The drive then takes us towards Chinyalisaur from where we can have a clear view of Tehri Dam reservoir. And then, our journey towards Uttarkashi begins. In Uttarkashi, take time to visit Kashi Vishwanath temple and purchase any necessary items. Remember, this is the last town where you will have the ATM service, so it is recommended to withdraw the essential cash from here. By the evening time, we will already be reaching Raithal. Tonight we will stay at Raithal enjoying a local meal.
Trek Distance & Time: 5 km, 4-5 hours
Altitude: 9,630 ft
We will start our day with a warm breakfast and then prepare for the trek to Gui. Click the photo on the Dayara Bugyal trek entry point and start towards Gui. In between you will find Nag Devta temple, water point, and a tree dedicated to Naag Devta, where locals and trekkers stick their coins and offer several religious assets.
The 4-5 kilometer trek through lush green forests, which offers a close view of the local flora and fauna. The forest area gets beautiful and colorful during the Spring season. The rhododendron forests are in full bloom during spring offering trekkers a very relaxing journey.
The trail is well-maintained, so there will not be any issues in navigating. After a few hours of trekking, we will finally reach Gui, where we will rest overnight. Upon reaching Gui, enjoy the sunset over Srikanth and Gangotri Peaks.
Trek Distance: 12 km, 7-8 hours
Altitude: 12,000 ft at Dayara Top, and 12,400 ft at Bakariya Top
Today, we will begin our journey from Gui to Dayara Top. The trek spans approximately 12 kilometers (to and fro).
The trail stretches towards Dayara Bugyal after crossing Chilapada. The alpine meadows and the grasslands will welcome you with its beautiful surroundings, which will be very attractive to watch during the daytime.
After a last push, we will finally reach Dayara Top via a steep ascent. From the top, you will experience the 360 views of the peaks like Bandarpunch, Kala Naag, Srikanth, and Gangotri ranges. The whole Dayara Bugyal is visible from Dayara top. Additionally, if time permits, explore the meadow further to Bakariya Top, the highest point of Dayara. From here, the view is even more incredible.
Dayara looks different in every season. During spring, summer, and monsoon, the bugyal gets covered with grass and wildflowers. Huge herds of sheep can be seen from the end of June through the monsoon. In autumn, the bugyal turns an orangish color, and during winter, snow covers the entire landscape, making it a perfect place for snow trekking and skiing.
We will spend a few hours exploring the meadow and then return to Gui Campsite in the evening.
Trek distance & Time: 5 km, 2-3 hrs
Altitude: 5,905 ft
Today, we will bid farewell to Gui and then return to Raithal. We will descend through the 5 kilometer trail at around 2 to 3 hours of descent.
We will retrace the trails through forest and then reach Raithal crossing the same path we traversed before. After reaching Raithal, rest a bit and we will then drive back to Dehradun, which takes around 6 to 7 hours.
Note | Return Journey: Plan your return journey after 9 PM. Sometimes due to traffic, we can get late, that’s why it’s advisable to have your return tickets booked after 9 PM
Dayara Bugyal Trek Package
Price Inclusion
Stay: Accommodation is included for all days of the trek. Tents will be provided on a triple-sharing basis. Single and double sharing available at extra cost.
Meals: All meals are provided from dinner at Raithal on Day 1 to Day 4 breakfast.
Trek Equipment: All essential trek equipment is included, such as sleeping bags, kitchen and dining tents, utensils, mattresses, personal tents, toilet tents, and crampons (if needed).
Transport: Transportation from Dehradun to Raithal and back is included.
Forest Entry and Permits: All required fuel charges, tolls, forest entry fees, and permits are covered.
Trek Staff: A qualified, professional team, including a mountaineering-certified trek leader, guide, cook, and support staff, will accompany you.
Emergency Kit: First aid medical kits, oxygen cylinders, and stretchers are provided for safety.
Trek Certificate & HDT Badges: Receive a trek certificate and HDT badges to celebrate your adventure.
Price Exclusion
Meals during Transfer: Meals are not included while traveling to and from the trek starting points.
Emergency Evacuations: Any charges related to emergency evacuation are not included
Personal Expenses: Any meals or accommodations outside of the provided itinerary or additional services not listed in the inclusions.
Personal Luggage Carrying: Charges for mules or porters to offload personal luggage are not included in the package.
5% GST
Trek Insurance and Medical is compulsory
Check the booking procedure, including details on booking deposits, payment terms, and the cancellation policy.
Best Time for Dayara Bugyal trek
The Dayara Bugyal trek is accessible almost year-round. Here’s a quick season-by-season look:
- Winter (December-mid-March): Snow-covered meadows, classic Himalayan winter trek
- Spring (March-April): Rhododendron blooms, fresh greenery
- Summer (May-June): Mild weather, open snow-free meadows
- Monsoon (July-August): Quiet and green, also when Anduri Utsav (Butter Festival) happens in mid-August
- Autumn (September-November): Clearest skies, best mountain views favorite for beginners and families
For the full month-by-month and seasonal breakdown, see our best time to visit Dayara Bugyal guide.
How Difficult is the Dayara Bugyal trek
Dayara Bugyal is a beginner-friendly trek with good access from Dehradun, Rishikesh, and Delhi. It’s easiest in spring, summer, and autumn; winter brings snow that adds real physical difficulty, especially on summit day, so check the weather forecast before heading out and be mentally and physically prepared. For a full day-by-day breakdown of exactly where the trek gets hardest, see our difficulty and fitness guide.
In terms of elevation, the highest point on this trek is around 12,400 feet (approximately 3,780 meters). This altitude is not usually a sensitive elevation for Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) or other serious altitude-related sicknesses. However, the chances of minor symptoms are never zero, as altitude sensitivity depends heavily on a person’s acclimatization. Our itinerary is curated in a way that gives you enough time to acclimatize properly so you can enjoy the trek to its fullest.
The trekking trails are well-maintained and the landscapes are not overly steep, making the trek accessible to most fit trekkers with decent physical fitness including families and senior citizens with reasonable walking fitness. For guidance specific to your situation (beginner, child, senior citizen, gym-goer, or experienced trekker).
A major highlight is that you get to enjoy spectacular, up-close Himalayan sightseeing opportunities without reaching over 4,000 meters or 5,000 meters above sea level. You don’t have to face the treacherous landscapes and hazardous weather patterns associated with high-altitude expeditions to enjoy the most rewarding views on this trek.
Preparation for Dayara Bugyal trek
Being fit is like being equipped with the right weapons for a battle. With a fit body and strong mind, you can make the most out of your Dayara Bugyal trek.
Since Dayara is beginner-friendly, you don’t need an intense training regime regular walking, basic leg-strengthening exercises, and steady cardio over a few weeks before the trek are enough to make the walking days comfortable. For a structured, week-by-week 4-week fitness plan along with season-specific packing tips for summer, monsoon, and winter, see our complete preparation guide.
Altitude Sickness Awareness
While Dayara Bugyal’s height is generally not a high concern for serious AMS, awareness is crucial, as it reaches around 12,000 ft, with the optional summit at Bakariya Top touching 12,400 ft.
How to Prevent AMS
- Ascent: Always climb slowly to allow the body time to adjust.
- Hydration: Drink plenty of water; limit alcohol and caffeine.
- Rest: Ensure ample rest and sleep at camps.
What to Do if Symptoms Occur
- Crucial Step: Immediately inform your trek leader. They are trained to assess and manage the situation quickly.
- Action: Stop, rest, and hydrate.
- Severe Symptoms: Descend immediately (down to Raithal Basecamp). The team will assist with transport and medical care.
- Medical Aid: The nearest facility is District Hospital Uttarkashi. Address: PCHV+W38, near Vishwanath Chowk, Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand 249193.
Things to Carry for Dayara Bugyal trek [Backpack Essentials]
- Sleeping Bag
- Common Tent
- Mattress
- Dining Tent
- Camping Stool
- Walkie Talkie (For Team)
- Utensils
1. Clothing
- Base Layer (Thermals): 1–2 sets (Top & Bottom)
- T-shirt: 1 Quick-dry trekking T-shirt (+1 extra)
- Mid Layer: 1 Fleece Jacket + 1 Sweater
- Outer Layer: 1 Down Jacket (Heavy)
- Waterproof Shell: 1 Windproof and waterproof shell jacket
- Rain Gear: 1 Poncho or Raincoat
- Trekking Pants: 1 Insulated, quick-drying trek pant + 1 trouser (for camp)
- Warm Socks: 2 pair
- Woolen socks (for trekking) + 1 pair (for night)
- Gloves: 1 Waterproof & insulated gloves + 1 pair liners
- Headwear: 1 Warm Hat + 1 Scarf/Balaclava
- Sun Hat: 1
- Gaiters: 1 pair (Must-have) Microspikes: 1 pair (Must-have)
2. Footwear
- Trekking Boots: 1 pair (Sturdy, high-ankle, waterproof)
- Camp Shoes: 1 pair (Sandals/Slippers)
3. Backpack & Trekking Gear
- Rucksack: 1 (40–50 liters, with a waterproof cover)
- Daypack: 1 (For day-hike)
- Trekking Poles/Sticks: 1 pair
- Headlamp: 1–2 head torches (with extra batteries)
6. Health & Hygiene
- First-Aid Kit: 1 (Personal medications, painkillers, etc.)
- Toiletries: Biodegradable soap, mouthwash, wet wipes
- Sun Protection: Sunscreen
- Lip Balm: 1
- Snacks: Energy bars, dry fruits, chocolates (Must include)
7. Accessories
- Bottle/Bladder: 1
- Reusable Thermos: 1 (For hot beverages)
- Sunglasses: 1 (UV-protected and polarized)
- Camera (optional): 1
- Power Bank (optional): 1
8. Documents
- Govt ID card
- Trek Insurance
- Medical Certificate
- Self Declaration
How to Reach Dayara Base, Raithal
The nearest railway station to Raithal base camp is Dehradun Railway Station or Rishikesh Railway Station, and the nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport. However, the nearest railway stations and airport are at a far distance from Raithal village and are accessible only through road transport. To understand the detailed travel route, we have covered a complete guide on how to reach Dayara Bugyal base camp, Raithal.
The nearest major railway stations are Haridwar and Rishikesh. From these stations, one can take a taxi or board a bus to Rudraprayag or Ukhimath. The road journey from Rishikesh to Chopta takes around 8 to 9 hours. Regular buses are available to Rudraprayag and limited services to Ukhimath. From Ukhimath, which is about 30 kilometers from Chopta, shared jeeps or private taxis can take you to the base.
If you’re planning to travel by car, it’s better to leave early in the morning and aim to reach Chopta by the afternoon. Ukhimath is the last town with ATM facilities and petrol pumps, so it’s a good place to stop and refuel or withdraw cash. Roads beyond Rudraprayag are narrow but manageable. It is wise to carry enough fuel, cash, and warm clothes.
From Rishikesh take a bus to Karanprayag and from there change buses for Tharali. Tharali is connected to Loahjung and local taxis are available. Alternatively, you can also reach Lohajung via Haldwani. From Haldwani, take a bus to Tharali and from Tharali take a taxi to Lohajung.
Dayara Bugyal trek map
The route map of Dayara Bugyal trek usually follows these steps: Raithal → Gui Campsite → Dayara Bugyal Top or Bakariya Top → Back to Gui → Back to Raithal.
The route is well plotted on the map below, showing the distance and elevation gain and loss along the trek.
Special Casual Leave for Trek
Himalayan Dream Treks (HDT) is registered tour operator with the IMF, and we can cater to the needs of SCL for Government Employees. According to the rule, the government of India provides its employees with a prospect where they’re allowed to apply for a 30-day special casual leave in a calendar year to do trekking, hiking, or whatever adventure pleases them.
Mail us at info@himalayandreamtreks.in, if you want to avail SCL.
Nearby Attraction to Visit after the Trek
Once you’re done with the Dayara Bugyal trek, you can check out these nearby places for additional exploration:
- Dodital Lake
- Harsil Valley
- Nelong Valley
- Maneri Dam
- Vishwanath Temple, Uttarkashi
- Kuteti Devi Temple, Uttarkashi
- Nachiketa Tal
- Gangotri Temple
- Kush Kalyan Bugyal
- Gartang Gali
Charges for Foreign Nationals
For foreign nationals, permit charges are different, and hence the overall package price is different for foreign trekkers. Connect with us before booking your trek. For more details, contact us at info@himalayandreamtreks.in
FAQs on Dayara Bugyal
1. Where Exactly is Dayara Bugyal Located?
Dayara Bugyal is located near Raithal village in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, India. The base camp of the trek is approximately 180 km from Dehradun, which is well connected to major cities in India by national highways, a railway station, and an airport.
2. Is High-Altitude Sickness a Concern on This Trek?
While the risk of severe Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) might not be a high concern during the Dayara Bugyal Trek, you must remain very careful because safety is the first priority. Dayara Bugyal lies at an altitude of around 12,000 feet or a maximum of 12,400 feet. Though this altitude presents a low risk of serious altitude sickness, you are still advised to immediately inform your trek leader if you face any symptoms (such as a persistent headache or nausea).
3. Can I Camp at Dayara Bugyal?
Camping is not permitted directly on the main Dayara Bugyal meadow itself due to strict environmental regulations protecting the fragile alpine grasslands (Bugyals). However, overnight stays are allowed at officially designated forest campsites located just below the main meadow expanse, such as Gui or Barnala Tal, ensuring trekkers can still enjoy the overnight experience near the beautiful Dayara region while adhering to environmental safety norms.
4. What Are the Toilet Facilities During the Trek?
Every campsite during this trek features dry pit toilets. You must carry your own toilet papers and hygiene essentials.
5. Where Is the Nearest ATM?
Uttarkashi is the nearest ATM spot you can find during this trek. If you are looking to withdraw cash from the bank, it is the last stop where you can do so.
6. Are There Charging Points During the Trek?
Raithal, the starting point of Dayara Bugyal Trek, is also the last point for charging your gadgets. You must carry your own power banks or extra batteries. Trekking mostly comes with the activities like photography and videography, so it is advised to carry extra power banks and charge them in Raithal before you head towards Dayara Top.
7. Is Dayara Bugyal Trek Suitable for Children and Families?
Yes, it is highly suitable for families, but for the best experience, it is recommended that children are at least 10 years of age and possess good hiking fitness. Furthermore, summer is the ideal time that suits families best, as it allows them to experience the natural charm of the high-altitude meadows without dealing with the harsh cold weather and strenuous navigation through heavy snow.
8. How much does Dayara Bugyal Trek Cost?
The package cost of the Dayara Bugyal Trek varies from INR 6,000 to INR 12,000, depending on the itinerary, group size, service inclusions (stay, transportation, meals, trek essentials, etc.), and the time of the year (off-season or on-season) you are planning for trekking.
Recognized as one of the best trekking companies in India and listed as a certified service provider by Uttarakhand Tourism, Himalayan Dream Treks (HDT) offers the Dayara Bugyal Trek Package (4 Days / 3 Nights) with transportation from Dehradun to Dehradun for just INR 6,999.
With the 4D/3N itinerary, the package has essential services with inclusive of transportation, accommodation, meals, certified guide or experienced trek leaders, local sightseeing options, trail permit, and activities. As an on-ground tour operator, we have expertise in making arrangements and handling logistics to provide an unparalleled experience for our guests. To make your trekking experience as convenient and enjoyable as possible, our travel experts and dedicated support staff are available 24/7 to help you with any queries or issues related to the trek.
9. What are the Temperature and Weather Conditions in Dayara Bugyal in Winter?
During the winter season (December to February), Dayara Bugyal turns into a quiet winter wonderland with breathtaking mountain views, snowy trails, and landscapes covered in a thick blanket of snow. During the season, daytime temperatures range from 5°C to 12°C, while nighttime temperatures can drop below freezing, sometimes reaching as low as –15°C. However, the weather is a mix of sunny and cloudy, offering a thrilling experience, but the cold and extreme nights make the trek demanding, especially for beginners. So, it is always important to carry proper winter gear and warm layers of clothing such as thermals, fleece, jacket, windcheater, sturdy waterproof boots, and more.
10. What is the Weather Like on Dayara Bugyal in Summer?
In summer and spring (March to May), the weather and temperature in Dayara Bugyal are mostly pleasant and warm. Daytime temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C, and nights are cool with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 8°C. The landscape transforms as snow starts to melt in early spring and flowers begin to bloom. Rhododendron blooms and the scenic beauty of the lush green meadows are very impressive. This time period is ideal for beginners as they can experience stunning Himalayan views, a scenic landscape, sunny warm days, clear skies, and occasional rainfall during the trek. Mornings and evenings are cool compared to daytime temperatures.
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