About the Trek
Dayara Bugyal is one of the most accessible and beautiful high-altitude meadows in Uttarakhand. Spread across a vast expanse at around 3,408 metres in the Uttarkashi district, these meadows offer sweeping views of Bandarpoonch, Draupadi Ka Danda, and Black Peak.
The name 'bugyal' means alpine meadow in the local Garhwali language, and Dayara Bugyal lives up to that name spectacularly. In summer, the meadows are carpeted with wildflowers; in winter, they transform into a pristine snow-covered wonderland perfect for snow trekking and even skiing.
The trek to Dayara Bugyal is straightforward and gentle, making it ideal for beginners, families, and anyone looking for a soul-soothing Himalayan experience without the rigours of high-altitude trekking.
Trek Highlights
- Vast rolling meadows stretching as far as the eye can see
- Views of Bandarpoonch, Draupadi Ka Danda and Black Peak
- Perfect winter trek with deep snow cover
- Beginner-friendly trail through oak and pine forests
- Opportunity for snow activities in winter months
Day-by-Day Itinerary
A 6-day journey from Dehradun to the sprawling alpine meadows of Dayara Bugyal in the Uttarkashi district.
- Drive from Dehradun to Uttarkashi and then to Raithal
- Scenic drive along the Bhagirathi river
- Arrive at the charming Raithal village
- Overnight at homestay
- Begin trek through terraced fields and forest
- Gradual climb through oak and pine forest
- Reach Gui campsite — a clearing in the forest
- Overnight in tents
- Continue ascending through thinning forest
- Tree line breaks open to reveal the vast meadow
- First views of Bandarpoonch and surrounding peaks
- Camp at Dayara Bugyal
- Overnight in tents
- Full day to explore the expansive meadows
- Walk to the highest point for panoramic views
- In winter, enjoy snow activities
- Photography and relaxation
- Overnight in tents
- Descend back to Raithal via the same route
- Arrive by afternoon
- Explore Raithal village
- Overnight at homestay
- Drive back to Dehradun after breakfast
- Reach by evening
- Trek concludes — departure
What's Included
- Meals as mentioned in the itinerary
- Accommodation — Hotel / Homestay / Tents on triple sharing
- All necessary entry fees and permits
- Professional trek leader, guide, cook and support staff
- Camping equipment — sleeping bags, blankets, mats, toilet tents
- Safety equipment — medical kit, oximeter, crampons & gaiters
What's Not Included
- Meals during the road journey
- Any kind of insurance
- Mules or porter to carry personal luggage (can be arranged at extra cost)
- Medical / evacuation expenses (assistance provided in emergencies)
- Any expense of personal nature
- Any expense not specified in inclusions
Things to Carry
Essentials
- Backpack (50-60 L) with rain cover
- Day pack (20 L)
- Trekking shoes with ankle support
- Headlamp / torch with spare batteries
- Water bottles (2 L)
- Personal medication
Clothing
- Thermal innerwear (top + bottom)
- Fleece jacket
- Waterproof outer shell / rain jacket
- Woollen cap, gloves, neck gaiter
- Trekking pants x 2
- Quick-dry t-shirts x 3
Documents
- Government photo ID (Aadhaar / Passport / DL)
- Two passport-sized photos
- Medical fitness certificate
Optional
- Trekking poles
- Sunglasses (UV protection)
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
- Power bank
- Energy bars / dry fruits
How to Prepare
This is an Easy grade trek. If you can walk 5 km comfortably and have a basic level of fitness, you're good to go. A little preparation will make the experience much more enjoyable.
Fitness — Start 2–3 Weeks Before
- Walk daily: 3–4 km brisk walk, gradually increasing to 5 km
- Jog: Aim to jog 2–3 km without stopping by departure week
- Stairs: Climb 5–6 floors daily — builds the legs you'll need on inclines
- Stretching: 10 minutes post-walk — calves, hamstrings, quads, hip flexors
Strength (3x per week)
- Bodyweight squats — 3 sets of 15
- Lunges — 3 sets of 12 each leg
- Planks — hold 45 seconds, 3 sets
- Calf raises — 3 sets of 20
Diet & Hydration
- Drink 3–4 litres of water daily starting 2 weeks before the trek
- Increase carbs and protein in the final week — your body needs fuel reserves
- Avoid alcohol for at least 3 days before departure
- Carry electrolyte sachets (ORS) for the trail
Good to Know
- Most easy treks stay below 3,500 m — altitude sickness is rare but stay hydrated
- Rental trekking shoes and jackets are usually available — but own shoes are always better
- Break in your shoes at least a week before the trek if they're new
- Your trek leader will brief you on Day 1 — ask every question you have
Photo Gallery
Photos from the trail. More coming soon — follow us on Instagram for daily updates.
Gallery photos will be added soon. Binoy is preparing the best shots from the trail.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, though the experience varies by season. October to March offers snow-covered meadows, while May to June features wildflowers. It is closed during peak monsoon.
Absolutely. The gentle trail and moderate altitude make it perfect for families with children aged 10 and above.
Yes, from December to March the meadows receive heavy snowfall, sometimes up to 3-4 feet deep.
Raithal is about 195 km from Dehradun via Uttarkashi. Trishul Adventures arranges the drive from Dehradun.