Dayara Bugyal
A Walk Through the Most Beautiful Alpine Meadows of Uttarakhand
Altitude
3639 Meters
Difficulty
Easy
Duration
5 Days
Location
Uttarakhand
Fee
INR 11,000
Overview
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DAYARA BUGYAL TREK HIGHLIGHTS
- Breathtaking alpine meadows: One of India’s most stunning and expansive high-altitude grasslands with endless rolling slopes.
- Panoramic Himalayan views: Clear vistas of Bandarpoonch, Gangotri I, Srikanth, Jaonli, and other iconic Garhwal peaks.
- Ideal for beginners: Easy-to-moderate gradient makes it perfect for first-time trekkers and family groups.
- All-season trek: Offers a unique experience in every season—wildflowers in spring, golden pastures in autumn, and snow in winter.
- Rich biodiversity: Forest trails filled with oak, rhododendron, maple trees, and Himalayan wildlife and birdlife.
- Accessible yet remote: Just a day’s drive from Dehradun, yet offers the remoteness of a true Himalayan escape.
- Cultural immersion: Authentic interaction with Garhwali villages, homestays, and local traditions like the Anduri Utsav.
- Stunning winter trek option: Snow-covered meadows make it a perfect winter wonderland without extreme altitude.
- Photography paradise: Perfect settings for sunrise, sunset, stargazing, and wide-angle meadow shots.
- Short and fulfilling: Can be completed in 4-5 days, delivering high scenic rewards with limited time commitment.
Itinerary
Embark on a scenic drive from Dehradun to Raithal, a quaint village nestled in the Uttarkashi district. The route offers breathtaking views of the Bhagirathi River, terraced fields, and dense pine forests. As you ascend, the majestic peaks of the Garhwal Himalayas begin to reveal themselves, setting the tone for the adventure ahead. Raithal, perched at an altitude of approximately 2,176 meters, serves as the perfect acclimatization spot, offering panoramic vistas and a glimpse into the local Garhwali culture.
Upon arrival, settle into a cozy homestay, where the warmth of the locals and the simplicity of mountain life provide a comforting embrace. Spend the evening exploring the village, interacting with residents, and preparing for the trek. The serene environment and crisp mountain air make for a restful night, ensuring you're rejuvenated for the journey ahead.
Altitude: 2,176 meters (7,142 feet)
Distance: ~185 km drive
Duration: 8–9 hours
Accommodation: Homestay in Raithal
The trek commences with a gradual ascent from Raithal to Gui, traversing through dense forests of oak, rhododendron, and maple. The trail is well-defined, meandering through a landscape that resonates with the melodies of chirping birds and rustling leaves. As you progress, occasional clearings offer glimpses of snow-capped peaks, including the majestic Srikanth and Gangotri ranges.
Gui, situated at an altitude of approximately 2,948 meters, is a serene campsite surrounded by towering trees and expansive meadows. The area is known for its tranquility, with the night sky offering a mesmerizing display of stars. The campsite provides an ideal setting to relax, acclimate, and immerse oneself in the natural beauty of the Himalayas.
Altitude Gain: 2,176 m to 2,948 m
Distance: ~4.5 km
Duration: 4–5 hours
Accommodation: Campsite at Gui
Today's journey takes you from Gui to Chilapada, a relatively short trek that allows for a deeper appreciation of the alpine environment. The trail continues through lush forests, gradually opening up to reveal expansive meadows adorned with seasonal wildflowers. The vibrant hues of the flora contrast beautifully with the backdrop of towering peaks.
Chilapada, located at an altitude of approximately 3,094 meters, serves as a tranquil campsite nestled amidst the meadows. The area offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and is an excellent spot for photography and nature observation. The serene ambiance and cool mountain breeze make for a peaceful evening under the stars.
Altitude Gain: 2,948 m to 3,094 m
Distance: ~2 km
Duration: 2–3 hours
Accommodation: Campsite at Chilapada
This day marks the highlight of the trek as you ascend to Dayara Top, the highest point of the journey at approximately 3,750 meters. The trail leads through expansive meadows, offering unobstructed views of the Himalayan panorama, including peaks like Bandarpoonch, Kala Nag, and Draupadi ka Danda. The summit provides a sense of accomplishment and awe, with the vastness of the landscape stretching as far as the eye can see.
After soaking in the breathtaking vistas, begin the descent to Nayata, a picturesque campsite surrounded by maple and rhododendron trees. The journey down offers a different perspective of the terrain, with the changing light casting new hues across the meadows and forests.
Altitude Gain: 3,094 m to 3,750 m
Altitude Loss: 3,750 m to 2,697 m
Distance: ~9.5 km
Duration: 6–7 hours
Accommodation: Campsite at Nayata
Conclude the trek with a descent from Nayata back to Raithal, retracing the path through the enchanting forests and meadows. The journey offers an opportunity to reflect on the experiences and memories forged over the past days. Upon reaching Raithal, embark on the drive back to Dehradun, carrying with you the serenity and inspiration of the Himalayas.
Altitude Loss: 2,697 m to 2,176 m
Distance: ~4 km trek + ~185 km drive
Duration: 3–4 hours trek + 7–8 hours drive
Inclusions
Accommodation: Comfortable homestay in Raithal on Day 1; alpine tents on twin/triple sharing basis during the trek.
Meals: Nutritious vegetarian meals starting from dinner on Day 1 to breakfast on Day 5. This includes breakfast, lunch, evening snacks, and dinner.
Trekking Equipment: High-quality tents, sleeping bags with liners, sleeping mats, dining tents, toilet tents, and kitchen tents.
Safety Gear: First aid kit, oxygen cylinder, oximeter, microspikes, and gaiters (as per snow conditions).
Guidance: Experienced and certified trek leader, local guides, cook, and support staff.
Permits and Fees: All necessary forest entry permits and camping charges.
Transportation of Common Gear: Porters/mules for carrying common equipment.
Exclusions
Transportation: Travel from Dehradun to Raithal and return (can be arranged on request).
Meals During Transit: Meals during the journey to and from the base camp.
Personal Expenses: Tips, laundry, phone calls, bottled water, and other personal expenses.
Personal Trekking Gear: Trekking shoes, jackets, poles, and other personal equipment.
Backpack Offloading: Charges for offloading personal backpacks (available at extra cost).
Insurance: Travel and personal insurance.
Emergency Expenses: Costs arising due to unforeseen circumstances like landslides, roadblocks, or medical evacuations.
Additional Expenses
Transportation: Shared cab from Dehradun to Raithal and back (₹2000 per person).
Backpack Offloading: ₹1800 for the whole trek if you choose not to carry your backpack.
Gear Rentals: Trekking poles, jackets, and other gear (~₹100–₹300 per item per day).
Miscellaneous: Personal expenses, tips, and any additional snacks or beverages.
Food & Cuisine
Food on the Dayara Bugyal trek is simple, hearty, and perfectly suited for trekking in high altitudes. Meals are prepared fresh at camps or homestays by local cooks who understand what the body needs while on a Himalayan trail. You can expect warm, vegetarian, balanced meals served three times a day with energy-rich snacks and beverages in between.
Breakfasts include parathas, poha, porridge, eggs (in some cases), and tea.
Lunch and dinner usually offer rice, dal, vegetables, chapatis, and sometimes regional specialties like mandua roti (finger millet bread).
Evening snacks often include maggie, soup, pakoras, and chai to warm you up.
Hydration is emphasized throughout the trek. Most operators also carry electrolytes, ORS, and hot water refills. The use of local ingredients supports the nearby communities and ensures freshness, while the food is kept mild and easily digestible to suit the altitude. No fancy food, just real fuel for the body and soul—with a mountain view every time.
Accommodation
Accommodation on the Dayara Bugyal trek is a beautiful mix of Garhwali hospitality and wilderness camping. The first night is usually spent in a local homestay at Raithal, offering trekkers a cultural connection with the villagers, homemade food, and the comfort of a proper bed. It’s the perfect way to start your journey grounded in local life.
From Day 2 onward, trekkers stay in high-altitude tents pitched in pristine locations like Gui, Chilapada, and Dayara Bugyal. Campsites are chosen for their views, safety, and shelter from wind.
Tents are usually triple-sharing, alpine-grade, with insulated sleeping mats and warm sleeping bags.
Toilet tents and basic hygiene facilities are set up at every campsite.
Campsites often have common dining tents, and in winters, insulated ground mats help retain heat.
While comfort is basic, the trade-off is waking up to sunrise over snow-capped peaks or falling asleep under a sky full of stars. There’s no Wi-Fi, but a deeper connection forms—with nature, silence, and simplicity. This is not five-star luxury—this is five-billion-star Himalayan living.
Fitness & Difficulty
Dayara Bugyal is one of those rare Himalayan treks that balances accessibility with grandeur. It’s ideal for beginners with basic fitness as well as seasoned trekkers looking for a laid-back, scenic trail. While the highest point (Dayara Top) stands at 3,750 meters, the altitude gain is gradual and spread comfortably over multiple days, minimizing the risk of AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness).
Daily trekking distances range between 4 to 9 km, with mild to moderate ascents.
The trail is well-marked, non-technical, and involves no boulder crossings or river fords.
Expect a mix of forest trails, open meadows, and gentle ridgelines.
Basic cardiovascular endurance and leg strength are enough to enjoy this trek. A month of light jogging, stair climbing, or brisk walking before the trek can make the journey smoother. The key challenge is stamina over multiple days and coping with thin air at higher camps—but the route gives you time to acclimatize.
If you can walk 5–6 km daily with a small backpack, you’re trek-ready for Dayara.
Dates Available
DATES |
AVAILABILITY |
|---|---|
21 September
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Slots Available
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22 November
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Slots Available
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Trek Fee: ₹11,000 + 5% GST per person
(This includes everything – comfortable stays, delicious meals, permits, expert guides, and more, as detailed in the Inclusions above.)
To Confirm Your Spot:
Click the Book Now button below to proceed with your booking. You’ll have the option to select your preferred dates and any optional add-ons on the next page.
Something Else In Mind?
We get it — adventures should feel personal. We’re here to co-create a version of this journey that feels right for you.
Start on your preferred dates
Custom inclusions & stay options
Tweak the itinerary or route
Plan a private group experience
Fill out the form or drop us an email at mail@outdoorwhisperer.com with your questions & requirements, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible. For a quicker response, feel free to reach us directly at +91-8285967537.
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Why Outdoor Whisperer?
We do things a bit differently — and proudly so. We don’t chase numbers; we focus on depth, care, and quality. Each trek is meticulously planned, and organized with warmth, care, and an unwavering focus on your safety. From pre-trek online briefings to carefully curated experiences on-ground, we believe the best adventures are the ones that feel like they were made just for you.
Founder-led Journeys
Every batch is personally led by our founding team — not outsourced. We’re deeply involved in your journey, from planning to trail.
Quality Over Quantity
We run fewer batches on purpose. It lets us focus on doing each trek really well, with attention to detail, better care, and stronger group vibes.
Designed With Heart
We thoughtfully craft each batch to feel personal — with small surprises, better pacing, and meaningful touches that make the journey feel your own.
Safety Comes First
From altitude protocols to evacuation readiness, our on-ground team is WFR-certified, highly experienced, and well-versed with Himalayan conditions.
Pre-Trek Online Briefing
Before every departure, we host detailed virtual briefings so you're mentally and logistically prepped for what lies ahead.
Transparent Pricing & Terms
No hidden charges. No unpleasant surprises. We only offer what we’d want for ourselves — quality, integrity, and care.
What To Pack?
Things to Pack for Hampta Circuit Trek
The Hampta Circuit trek takes you through a mix of forests, meadows, snowy slopes, and cold desert terrain — so packing smart is the key to staying warm, dry, and comfortable throughout the journey.
Dress in layers, choose lightweight materials, and avoid overpacking — everything should fit neatly into a single rucksack.
Clothing – Layer Up Smart
- 3 full-sleeve quick-dry trekking t-shirts
- 1 light fleece / woolen pullover
- 1 down jacket / padded jacket (sufficient warmth for sub-zero nights)
- 1 waterproof shell jacket or poncho
- 2 pairs trekking pants (at least one quick-dry; avoid jeans)
- 1 set thermal inners (top & bottom)
- 4–5 pairs of warm trekking socks (mix of wool + synthetic)
- Woolen cap / beanie + sun cap or wide-brimmed hat
- Buff or scarf (for dust, sun, and wind protection)
- Waterproof gloves + fleece inner gloves
- Undergarments (quick-dry preferred)
Footwear & Accessories
Waterproof, high-ankle trekking shoes with good grip
Floaters/slippers – for campsite use
Gaiters (optional, based on snow conditions)
Trekking poles (highly recommended for descent and stability)
UV-protected sunglasses – must-have for snow days
Sunscreen SPF 50+
Lip balm with SPF + Moisturizer
Gear & Packing Essentials
50–60L backpack with good back support & rain cover
Small 20–25L daypack – for optional Chandratal visit or summit day (if carrying own load)
Headlamp with extra batteries
Water bottles (2L total capacity) or hydration bladder
Power bank + charging cable
Dry bags or packing cubes – to keep things organized and dry
Passport-size photos + ID copy (for permits)
Small lock – for hotel luggage or bag security
- Tiffin box / snack box (for packed lunch)
- Cash (for Sankri market or café stops; ATMs not reliable)
NOTE: All cutlery, cups, and utensils are provided by us. No need to carry personal lunchboxes or mugs.
Personal Hygiene & Toiletries
Toothbrush + toothpaste
Quick-dry towel or small microfiber towel
Biodegradable soap or soap strips
Toilet paper + tissues
Hand sanitizer + wet wipes
Nail cutter + comb
Menstrual hygiene products (if applicable)
Small pouch for toiletries
Health & Medical Kit
Diamox (Acetazolamide) – for altitude (consult your doctor)
Personal medication (for asthma, diabetes, etc.)
Basic painkillers – Combiflam, Crocin
Band-aids, blister patches
Antiseptic ointment
ORS/Electrolyte sachets
Anti-diarrheal tablets
Antihistamines (if you have allergies)
Extras & Good-to-Haves
Energy bars, dry fruits, OR homemade trail mix
Notebook + pen (great for journaling!)
Playing cards or small game for downtime
Lightweight reading book or Kindle
Eye mask + earplugs (for light sleepers)
Camera + spare batteries/memory card
Climbing Gear? Not Required!
This is a trekking expedition — no personal climbing gear needed. All group logistics like tents, sleeping bags, and kitchen setup are provided by us. You only need to bring your personal gear and wearables.
Common Questions
Dayara Bugyal is a high-altitude alpine meadow situated in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, India. It lies at an elevation of approximately 3,639 meters (11,940 feet) and offers panoramic views of the Garhwal Himalayas, including peaks like Bandarpoonch and Kala Nag.
'Bugyal' is a local term in Uttarakhand referring to high-altitude meadows or grasslands. These meadows are typically found above the tree line and are known for their lush greenery and scenic beauty
The Dayara Bugyal trek spans approximately 20–22 kilometers, typically completed over 4 to 6 days, depending on the chosen itinerary and acclimatization needs.
The trek is graded as easy to moderate, making it suitable for beginners and families. However, certain sections, like the initial ascent from Raithal and the final climb to Dayara Top, can be steep and challenging, especially in winter conditions.
The trek is accessible throughout the year, except during the monsoon months (July to August). Each season offers a unique experience:
Spring (March–April): Melting snow, blooming rhododendrons, and vibrant meadows.
Summer (May–June): Lush green landscapes and pleasant weather.
Autumn (September–November): Clear skies with golden-hued meadows.
Winter (December–February): Snow-covered terrains ideal for snow activities.
No prior trekking experience is required. However, a basic level of fitness and preparation is recommended to ensure an enjoyable experience.
Participants should be able to jog or brisk walk 4–5 kilometers without undue fatigue. Engaging in regular cardiovascular exercises and strength training a few weeks prior to the trek is beneficial.
The trek typically commences from Raithal or Barsu villages, both accessible from Dehradun via a scenic drive of approximately 7–8 hours.
From Dehradun, you can hire a taxi or use public transportation to reach Raithal or Barsu. Many trekking agencies also provide organized transportation as part of their packages.
Accommodation includes guesthouses or homestays in the base villages and tents during the trekking days. Tents are typically shared between two or three participants.
Yes, nutritious vegetarian meals are provided throughout the trek. The menu is designed to offer balanced nutrition suitable for high-altitude trekking.
The trail encompasses dense forests of oak and rhododendron, open meadows, and gradual ascents leading to panoramic viewpoints. In winter, the trail is blanketed with snow, adding to its charm.
Yes, the trek is family-friendly. Children above 8 years and adults up to 60 years can participate, provided they are in good health and have a basic fitness level.
The meadow is situated at an elevation of approximately 3,639 meters (11,940 feet).
While the risk is minimal due to the gradual ascent, some individuals may experience mild symptoms. Staying hydrated, maintaining a steady pace, and proper acclimatization can mitigate these effects.
At the base villages, standard restrooms are available. During the trek, portable toilet tents are set up at campsites, adhering to eco-friendly practices.
Mobile network coverage is limited. Some spots may have intermittent signals, but it's advisable to inform family and friends about limited connectivity during the trek.
Electricity is available in the base villages. However, during the trek, there are no charging facilities. Carrying power banks is recommended for charging essential devices.
You’ll need:
Quality trekking shoes (ankle-high recommended)
Trekking pants (quick-dry)
Thermal layers, fleece, and a down jacket
Waterproof jacket & pants
Gloves, woollen cap, sunglasses, and sunscreen
A 50-60L backpack with rain cover
Headlamp, water bottles (or hydration pack), and personal meds
- A detailed checklist can be found above on this page.
Yes, we offer rental options for items like trekking poles, ponchos, jackets, and sleeping bags. It's ideal for beginners or those who trek occasionally.
While not mandatory, trekking poles help with stability and reduce stress on knees during ascents and descents—especially useful on snow or uneven terrain.
Summer/Autumn: 2°C to 8°C at night
Winter: Can drop to -5°C to -10°C
We provide high-altitude rated sleeping bags for comfort.
Our team carries:
High-altitude first-aid kits
Pulse oximeters
Guides trained in Wilderness First Aid
We follow strict evacuation protocols in case of emergencies.
If a trekker cannot continue, our team arranges immediate descent with a dedicated support member. In severe cases, transport to the nearest medical facility is coordinated swiftly.
You’re welcome to join solo! Many trekkers come alone and leave with lifelong friends. We foster a community vibe, and solo travelers are never left out.
Absolutely! It’s a perfect mix of challenge, bonding, and nature immersion—ideal for corporate offsites, adventure clubs, and leadership programs.
Yes, snow starts accumulating by mid-December and remains till early March, especially around Dayara Top and the higher camps.
360° views of the Gangotri range, Bandarpoonch, and Kala Nag
Wide, sprawling meadows (ideal for camping and stargazing)
Great for all seasons: snow in winter, greenery in summer
Peaceful trails, not overcrowded like Kedarkantha or Triund
Yes, we offer porter/mule services for those who prefer to trek light. Charges are additional and must be requested in advance.
Yes, we offer porter/mule services for those who prefer to trek light. Charges are additional and must be requested in advance.
We understand that plans can change, and we try to keep our cancellation policy fair and transparent. Depending on how close to the departure date you cancel, partial refunds are possible, and we also offer options to transfer your booking to a future trip in certain cases.
For the full breakdown of timelines, conditions, and refund details, please check out our complete cancellation policy here: