If you crave an easy-to-moderate Himalayan adventure filled with sweeping alpine meadows and 360° mountain views, the Dayara Bugyal Trek is a perfect pick. This lush meadow trail in Uttarakhand offers a refreshing mix of forest walks, charming villages, and postcard-worthy peaks like Bandarpoonch and Srikantha.
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About Dayara Bugyal Trek
The Dayara Bugyal Trek sits in Uttarkashi district at an altitude of ~11,800 ft (3,600 m). Known for its vast rolling meadows (bugyals), it is often considered one of the most beginner-friendly Himalayan treks.
It’s also an all-season trail, making it a great alternative to the more crowded Kedarkantha and Nag Tibba treks.
- Meadows that span over 28 sq. km.
- Stunning sunrise views from Dayara Top
- Ideal for beginners, families, and photography lovers
- Snow trek possible in winter (Dec–Feb)
Dayara Bugyal Trek Itinerary (4–5 Days)
Below is the most popular Dayara Bugyal Trek itinerary followed by most trekkers.
Day 1: Dehradun → Raithal (7–8 hours’ drive)
- Arrive in Dehradun early morning.
- Drive to Raithal village — the base camp.
- Check into a homestay and acclimatize.
Altitude: 7,400 ft
Tip: Explore Raithal’s local temples and sunset points.
Day 2: Raithal → Gui Campsite
- Start your trek through oak and rhododendron forests.
- Easy ascent with incredible valley views.
- Overnight camp at Gui.
Trekking Distance: 4 km
Time: 3–4 hours
Altitude: 9,500 ft
Day 3: Gui → Chilapada → Dayara Bugyal Campsite
- Gradual climb to the wide meadows.
- First views of Bandarpoonch, Draupadi Ka Danda, Srikantha.
- Campsite usually set up near the upper bugyal.
Trekking Distance: 6 km
Time: 4–5 hours
Altitude: 11,000 ft
Day 4: Dayara Top Summit → Return to Raithal
- Early morning summit push to Dayara Top.
- Enjoy panoramic Himalayan ranges glowing in sunrise.
- Descend back to Raithal through the same route.
Trekking Distance: 8–9 km
Time: 6–7 hours
Optional Day 5: Raithal → Dehradun
- Return drive to Dehradun and conclude your trek.
Dayara Bugyal Best Time to Visit (Season-wise Guide)
The beauty of Dayara Bugyal changes dramatically with each season, making it a year-round trekking destination. Here’s a detailed season-wise guide to help you choose the perfect time:
Winter (December – February)
Best for: Snow lovers, photographers, winter trekkers
- The entire bugyal turns into a white snowfield.
- Expect freezing temperatures ranging from -5°C to 5°C.
- Trails are covered in snow; micro spikes may be required.
- Provides a classic Himalayan winter trek experience.
Why visit in winter?
For the magical snow views and peaceful, crowd-free trails.
Spring (March – April)
Best for: Beginners, families, nature enthusiasts
- Snow begins to melt, revealing fresh, green meadows.
- Forest trails come alive with rhododendron blooms.
- Pleasant weather: 5°C to 15°C.
- Clear views of peaks like Bandarpoonch and Srikantha.
Why visit in spring?
Ideal mix of mild snow patches, blooming forests, and comfortable weather.
Summer (May – June)
Best for: Camping lovers, long-weekend travellers
- Meadows turn lush green with wildflowers dotting the landscape.
- Temperatures range between 10°C to 20°C.
- Best time for open sky camping and vibrant photography.
- Days are long and perfect for extended exploration.
Why visit in summer?
For the full meadow experience at its greenest.
Monsoon (July – August)
Not recommended
- Trails become slippery and risky due to rain.
- Landslide-prone areas along the route.
- Meadows stay green but mostly covered with clouds and mist.
Why avoids monsoon?
Low visibility, tougher trails, and safety concerns.
Autumn (September – November)
Best for: Photographers, experienced trekkers, clear views lovers
- Perhaps the best overall time to visit.
- Crisp skies and crystal-clear Himalayan views.
- Meadows turn golden-yellow after the monsoon.
- Temperature: 5°C to 15°C.
Why visit in autumn?
Best visibility, stable weather, and stunning golden landscapes.
What Makes Dayara Bugyal Special?
- One of India’s largest high-altitude meadows spread across ~28 sq. km.
- Offers 360° Himalayan views of Bandarpoonch, Black Peak, Draupadi Ka Danda, and Srikantha.
- Beginner-friendly trek with easy to moderate difficulty and well-marked trails.
- Year-round destination with unique seasonal experiences: snow in winter, flowers in spring, greenery in summer, and golden meadows in autumn.
- Less crowded compared to popular treks like Kedarkantha and Nag Tibba.
- Beautiful forest trails lined with oak, maple, and rhododendron trees.
- Stunning campsites at Gui, Chilapada, and the upper bugyal with great sunrise and stargazing views.
- Rich local culture in Raithal village with traditional Garhwali hospitality and food.
- Ideal for photography, drone shots, and wide-angle landscape captures.
- Easily accessible base camp with good road connectivity from Dehradun and Uttarkashi.
How to Reach Dayara Bugyal from Delhi (Table Format)
| Route Segment | Distance (km) | Travel Time | Mode of Transport | Notes |
| Delhi → Dehradun | ~250 km | 5.5–7 hours | Bus / Train / Car | Overnight Volvo or Shatabdi recommended |
| Delhi → Dehradun (Flight option) | ~215 km (air route) | 45–60 min | Flight | Land at Jolly Grant Airport |
| Dehradun → Uttarkashi | ~145 km | 5–6 hours | Bus / Shared Taxi / Private Cab | Scenic but winding mountain roads |
| Uttarkashi → Raithal | ~40 km | 1.5–2 hours | Taxi / Shared Jeep | Regular taxis available from Uttarkashi |
| Total: Delhi → Raithal | ~435 km | 12–14 hours (overall) | Combined Travel | Raithal is the base village for the trek |
Best option: Delhi → Dehradun (train/bus) → Raithal (taxi)
- Private taxis from Dehradun to Raithal take 7–8 hours directly (approx. 185 km).
- Roads remain open most of the year except during heavy monsoon landslides.
FAQs
1. How long is the Dayara Bugyal Trek?
Typically, 4–5 days, covering around 20–22 km depending on the route.
2. Is the Dayara Bugyal Trek good for beginners?
Yes! It’s one of the easiest Himalayan treks, perfect for first-time trekkers and families.
3. Can I do the trek in winter?
Absolutely. Winter (Dec–Feb) turns the bugyal into a stunning snowfield, ideal for snow trekking.
4. Is camping allowed in Dayara Bugyal?
Yes, but only in designated areas. Many groups camp at Gui, Chilapada, and around the upper meadow.
5. Are guides mandatory for the trek?
Not mandatory but highly recommended for safety, navigation, and local support.
Why Clan Stays Is the Go-To Travel Agency for Treks & Tours
Clan Stays has earned the trust of travellers for its reliable and well-organized trekking and tour services. They offer personalized itineraries that suit beginners and experienced adventurers alike. With local expertise, safe arrangements, and comfortable accommodations, every trip is hassle-free and memorable. Their team ensures that you enjoy the beauty of the Himalayas while focusing on safety, convenience, and authentic experiences. Choosing Clan Stays means choosing a stress-free and unforgettable travel experience.
