Dayara Bugyal Trek

Duration: 4–5 Days Difficulty: Easy to Moderate Max Altitude: ~3,658 m (12,000 ft) Best Season: Dec–Feb (snow), Apr–Jun & Sep–Nov

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 typically takes around 3 to 4 days on the trail and covers nearly 18–22 km in total. The route mostly follows a well-marked 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, with peaceful, fresh mountain air all around.

As the trail gains height, the forest slowly opens into alpine pasturelands known as “bugyals”. The Dayara Bugyal meadows begin around 11,181 ft and rise to roughly 12,000 ft near Dayara Top. In summer, these grasslands turn lush green and are sprinkled with seasonal flowers, making this an excellent summer tour for families and school or college groups. In winter, the same slopes transform into a white wonderland and Dayara Bugyal is counted among the best easy winter treks in the country.

Bugyals are fragile alpine ecosystems that 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 principles and protect the environment while trekking and camping in the region. Camping near Gui and walking out to the open meadows above offers wide-open views of Bandarpunch, Black Peak, Srikanth, Draupadi Ka Danda, Janoli and the Gangotri range dominating the skyline.

4-Day Itinerary

Day 1 — Dehradun to Raithal (Drive)
Drive: ~180 km Time: 7–8 hours Stay: Homestay at Raithal
Scenic drive from Dehradun via Mussoorie and Uttarkashi to the beautiful village of Raithal, the base for Dayara Bugyal. Settle into a local homestay, meet your trek leader and enjoy sunset views over the valley.
Day 2 — Raithal to Gui Campsite
Trek: 4–5 km Time: 4–5 hours Altitude: ~9,884 ft Stay: Tents at Gui
Start the trek from Raithal on a gradually ascending trail through dense oak and maple forests. Occasional clearings offer first glimpses of snow-clad peaks. Reach the peaceful Gui campsite and spend the evening soaking in the silence of the forest.
Day 3 — Gui to Dayara Top & Back
Trek: 10–12 km (round trip) Time: 7–9 hours Highest Point: ~12,000 ft Stay: Tents at Gui
From Gui, climb steadily through open clearings to reach the vast rolling meadows of Dayara Bugyal. Continue further towards Bakaria Top (around 12,500 ft) for 360° Himalayan views. On a clear day, peaks like Bandarpunch, Black Peak, Srikanth and the Gangotri range dominate the horizon. After enjoying the views and photographs, retrace your steps back to Gui for the night.
Day 4 — Gui to Raithal; Drive to Dehradun
Trek: 5 km Drive: ~180 km Time: 10–11 hours (trek + drive)
Early morning descent from Gui back to Raithal through the same forest trail. After breakfast at Raithal, depart by vehicle towards Dehradun, reaching by evening depending on road and traffic conditions. Trip ends with memories of easy meadows and big-mountain views.

What's Included / Not Included

Included

  • Accommodation (tent / homestay, triple sharing)
  • Sleeping bag, mattress, inner, tents
  • Toilet tent, kitchen tent
  • All meals during trek & travel
  • Refreshments (tea, soup)
  • All permits
  • Certified trek leader, guide, cook & support staff

Not Included

  • Personal expenses
  • Insurance
  • Porter / mule charges for personal luggage
  • Personal toiletries
  • Costs due to bad weather, road blocks, natural calamities

Safety & Trek Prep

  • Acclimatization is key — we build in rest and gradual gain.
  • Carry proper gear: layers, rain shell, trekking shoes, headlamp.
  • Trek with certified guides and leaders (NIM & WFA trained).
  • First aid and oxygen support available on the trek.

Ready to Book Dayara Bugyal Trek?

We use one simple booking page for all treks. Click below to open the booking form, choose “Dayara Bugyal Trek” from the trek list, and share your details and payment screenshot.

Open Booking Page

Your info is private — we'll contact you personally on WhatsApp or phone.