Tour overview
Dayara Bugyal Trek 2025 – A Scenic Himalayan Getaway in Uttarakhand
If there is one trek in Uttarakhand that beautifully blends adventure with serenity, it’s the Dayara Bugyal Trek. Nestled in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, Dayara Bugyal is considered one of the most stunning alpine meadows in India. Rising to an altitude of approximately 12,000 feet, this high-altitude trek unveils sweeping grasslands, snow-clad Himalayan peaks, and forest trails lined with oak, maple, and rhododendron.
Whether you’re a first-time trekker or a seasoned adventurer, the Dayara Bugyal Trek 2024 is the perfect escape into nature’s untouched wilderness.
🌿 What Makes Dayara Bugyal So Special?
The name “Bugyal” translates to “meadow” in the local language. True to its name, Dayara Bugyal is a vast, undulating expanse of lush green fields spread across 28 square kilometers. During spring and summer, wildflowers carpet the meadows, while in winter, the terrain turns into a snowfield perfect for skiing. The landscape is surrounded by towering Himalayan ranges, including:
Bandarpoonch (6,316 m)
Kala Nag (Black Peak)
Shrikhand Mahadev
Srikanth Peak
Gangotri peaks
The meadow offers a panoramic Himalayan view that is awe-inspiring and soul-refreshing.
🗺️ Trek Route Overview and Starting Point
The trek begins from the serene village of Barsu, located on the Haridwar–Gangotri road, approximately 32 km from Uttarkashi. Barsu serves as the base camp for this trek and offers basic accommodation including GMVN rest houses and local guesthouses. The view from Barsu is already a teaser of what’s to come—valleys on one side and snow-draped mountains on the other.
From Barsu, the trail meanders through dense oak and maple forests, quaint wooden bridges, and bubbling brooks. Wildflowers bloom along the way during the warmer months, while in winter, the snow transforms the area into a serene white paradise.
🏞️ Barnala Tal – A Picture-Perfect Lake
One of the highlights of the Dayara Bugyal trail is the picturesque Barnala Tal, a small lake located en route. On a clear day, the reflection of the peaks on its still waters is a sight to behold. It is a peaceful stop where trekkers often rest, click photographs, and soak in the mountain air before continuing their ascent to the main meadow.
🧗♂️ Difficulty Level – Ideal for Beginners
One of the major advantages of the Dayara Bugyal trek is its easy to moderate difficulty level, making it perfect for:
Beginners with moderate fitness
Families with children (above 10 years)
Photography and nature enthusiasts
Trekking groups looking for a long weekend escape
Although the maximum altitude reaches 12,000 feet, the gradual ascent and well-marked trail make it accessible for most age groups and skill levels.
❄️ Best Time to Visit Dayara Bugyal
The meadow transforms dramatically with the seasons:
Spring/Summer (April to June): Lush greenery, wildflowers, clear skies
Monsoon (July to early September): Avoid due to slippery trails and landslides
Autumn (September to November): Crisp air, post-monsoon freshness, perfect views
Winter (December to February): Thick snow blanket, perfect for skiing and snow trekking
For trekking, the best time is April–June and September–November, while snow lovers will enjoy the winter months.
❄️ Winter Wonderland: Skiing in Dayara Bugyal
What makes Dayara Bugyal unique is its transformation into a skiing paradise during winters. With a consistent snow cover and gently rolling slopes, it has emerged as a popular skiing destination in Uttarakhand. Skiers from around the country visit here for its powdery snow, wide slopes, and majestic views.
Even if you’re not skiing, trekking through snow-laden trails adds an extra layer of thrill and beauty.
🌸 Wildlife, Flora, and Cultural Glimpses
The trail is alive with the vibrant hues of rhododendron flowers in spring. You’ll also find grazing herds of sheep and cattle, often accompanied by local shepherds. The quaint mountain culture and simple lifestyle of the villagers are a heartwarming experience.
The forests are also home to a variety of Himalayan birds, butterflies, and occasional sightings of barking deer, adding a touch of wilderness to the serene environment.
🔍 Quick Facts About Dayara Bugyal Trek:
Altitude: Up to 12,000 ft
Trek Distance: Approx. 29 km (round trip)
Temperature Range: -4°C to 25°C (colder in winter)
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Base Camp: Barsu Village
Nearest Railway Station: Haridwar
Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun
Last ATM Point: Uttarkashi and Bhatwari
🎒 Essential Packing List
Waterproof trekking shoes
Thermal inners and warm jackets (especially in winter)
Raincoat and poncho (for summer monsoons)
Reusable water bottle
Personal medications and first aid
Headlamp or flashlight
Power bank for electronics
Trekking pole for stability
🧘 Why Choose the Dayara Bugyal Trek?
✅ One of the most scenic and accessible treks in Uttarakhand
✅ Ideal for beginners, families, and weekend trekkers
✅ Offers year-round beauty – wildflowers in summer, snow in winter
✅ Explore the untouched culture of Himalayan villages
✅ Panoramic views of iconic Himalayan peaks
📅 Plan Your Dayara Bugyal Trek 20245Today!
Whether you are yearning for peace, looking to begin your trekking journey, or simply wish to reconnect with nature, the Dayara Bugyal Trek 2024 offers everything you need. A perfect mix of beauty, adventure, and culture – all in a short and fulfilling Himalayan escape.
🚩 Reserve your trek today and experience one of India’s most breathtaking alpine meadows firsthand. Limited slots available during peak season!
Included
- GUESTHOUSE/TENTS
- High Nutrition Veg Meal During Trek
- Necessary permits and first aid medical kits
- Qualified and experienced trek leader, guide and support staff
- First aid medical kits and oxygen cylinder
Not Included
- if cancellations are made within 0-30 days before the start date of the trip, 100% of total to cost will be charged as cancellation fees.
- GST
- In case of unforeseen weather conditions or government restrictions, certain trips or activities may get cancelled. In such cases operator will try their best to provide an alternate feasible.
- .Any expenses for optional activities
- Any train airline fare is not included
Day 1 - Drive from Haridwar - Barsu (220 kms/day-long drive
Embark on your journey at dawn with a meal and a day-long drive from Haridwar to Barsu covering 220 kms. The route trails through the scenic towns of Rishikesh, Chamba and Uttarkashi beside the Bhagirathi River. On arriving Barsu that stands tall at 7,545 ft, settle down for the evening in a guesthouse.
Day 2 - Trek from Barsu - Barnala (4 hours)
This 4 kms long trek is a gradual ascend landscaped beautifully with Rhododendrons, Silver Oak and Deodar forests. Reach the destination for the day which is Barnala at an elevation of 8,530 ft. It is this place which marks the beginning of the famed undulating stretches of green prairies or ‘Bugyals’. Set up your campsite at this ideal location and retire here for the night.
Day 3 - Trek from Barnala - Dayara Bugyal (5 kms)
This day entails an ascending trek of about 5 kms to the high alpine meadow of Dayara Bugyal, Uttarakhand that is elevated at 9,980 ft through the Barnal grasslands. On arriving this vast meadow that resembles a table top, you can catch sight of some majestic peaks, namely Srikanth, Rudregaira, Gangotri I, II & III, Jaonli, Draupadi ka Danda I & II, Black peak, Bandarpunch and such. Spend the night in the camp set up here.
Day 4 - Trek from Dayara Bugyal - Bakaria Top - Dayara Bugyal (3 kms)
This day marks the climb up from Dayara Bugyal to Bakaria top, the highest point of the vast meadow standing at 12,000 ft. Get enchanted by the panoramic views of snowy peaks, lush valleys and such from the top. Depart from Bakaria back to the campsite at Dayara Bugyal.
Day 5 - Trek from Dayara Bugyal - Pichkiya (8 kms)
Begin the day with a hearty meal after which starts your descent to Pichkiya that is at an elevation of 7,873 ft. After trekking 6 to 7 hours through a mix of ascends and descends over alpine meadows, dense woods and little rivulets, reach the campsite of Pichkiya.
Day 6 - Trek from Pichkiya to Barsu (4.5 kms)
This last day of Dayara Bugyal trekking, it involves descending down to Barsu along a well-marked trail through the surrounding thickets. Catch sight of the charming village of Barsu and its adjoining settlements can about halfway down the trail. Arrive at Barsu by afternoon and camp here for the night.
Day 7 - Drive from Barsu to Haridwar
Rise in the morning and set off for a drive back to Haridwar; the Dayara Bugyal Trek ends here.