If you ever dreamt of walking on clouds surrounded by endless meadows and snow-dusted Himalayan peaks, the Dayara Bugyal Trek is your dream come true.
Hidden in the heart of Uttarkashi district, Uttarakhand, this trek is one of India’s most underrated gems — often called the Switzerland of Garhwal.
Unlike crowded treks, Dayara offers untouched beauty, an easy trail suitable for beginners, and mesmerizing 360° views of Bandarpunch, Srikanth, and Draupadi Ka Danda. In 2025, when winter paints the meadows white, this trek becomes a wonderland for photographers and nature lovers alike.
🗺️ About Dayara Bugyal Trek
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Altitude: 12,100 ft (3,690 m)
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Location: Uttarkashi District, Uttarakhand
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Trek Duration: 4 – 6 days
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Trek Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
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Base Camp: Barsu Village (or Raithal)
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Total Trek Distance: ~22 km (round trip)
“Bugyal” means meadow in the local Garhwali dialect. Dayara Bugyal is one of the highest alpine meadows in India, blanketed with flowers in summer and snow in winter — a perfect trek for families, first-timers, and seasoned trekkers seeking serenity.
🚗 How to Reach Dayara Bugyal
Getting to the base is easy yet scenic. Here’s your route:
1️⃣ Reach Dehradun
Dehradun serves as the nearest major hub.
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By Air: Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun) – 220 km from Barsu.
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By Train: Frequent trains from Delhi → Dehradun (Nanda Devi Exp., Mussoorie Exp.).
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By Bus: Overnight Volvo buses from Delhi ISBT to Dehradun.
2️⃣ Dehradun → Uttarkashi → Barsu/Raithal
From Dehradun, take a shared taxi or private cab to Uttarkashi (approx. 6 hr).
Then continue to Barsu (45 min) or Raithal (1 hr), both serving as base villages.
🛣️ Tip: Start early from Dehradun to enjoy the Bhagirathi River views and reach before dusk.
🥾 Dayara Bugyal Trek Itinerary (4-Day Classic Route)
Day 1: Dehradun → Barsu (7–8 hrs drive)
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Altitude – 7,400 ft
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Stay – Guesthouse/Homestay
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Highlights – Village walk, sunset over the Gangotri range
You’ll love the peaceful vibe of Barsu village. Locals are warm and welcoming — perfect to experience rural Himalayan life.
Day 2: Barsu → Barnala Tal → Dayara Bugyal
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Trek Distance – 7 km
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Altitude – 12,000 ft
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Highlights – Barnala Tal (lake), rhododendron forest, first Himalayan views
The trail ascends gradually through oak and pine forests, revealing the shimmering Barnala Tal — a picturesque spot to rest. As you climb further, meadows open up with jaw-dropping vistas of snow-clad peaks. Camp overnight under a blanket of stars.
Day 3: Explore Dayara Top (12,100 ft)
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Distance – 4 km (round trip)
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Duration – 4 hrs easy hike
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Highlights – Summit view of Bandarpunch, Gangotri range
The final ascent is short but breathtaking. From Dayara Top, you’ll witness panoramic views of some of the tallest peaks in the Garhwal Himalayas. Perfect for drone shots or photography enthusiasts. Return to the meadow campsite.
Day 4: Dayara Bugyal → Barsu → Dehradun
Descend through lush forests and reach Barsu by afternoon. You can stay the night or head back to Dehradun the same day.
🌤️ Best Time to Visit Dayara Bugyal
| Season | Month | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Summer | May – June | Lush green meadows, clear skies |
| Autumn | Sept – Nov | Pleasant weather, perfect trek conditions |
| Winter | Dec – Feb | Snow-covered meadows, white wonderland |
| Spring | Mar – Apr | Blooming rhododendrons, mild weather |
🧭 Best Recommended Time: Late October – Early December (ideal for those who want light snow without extreme cold).
🌡️ Dayara Bugyal Weather & Temperature
| Month | Temperature (°C) | Weather |
|---|---|---|
| May – June | 5 – 18 °C | Cool & pleasant |
| July – Sept | 8 – 16 °C | Rainy, avoid monsoon |
| Oct – Nov | 2 – 12 °C | Crisp air, best time |
| Dec – Feb | -5 – 8 °C | Heavy snow, winter trekking |
| Mar – Apr | 3 – 15 °C | Mild, colourful forests |
🏕️ Stay & Accommodation
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Barsu Village: Homestays, GMVN Guesthouse, small cafes.
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Campsites: Barnala Tal, Dayara Top (operators provide tents & meals).
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Raithal: Eco-lodges & village homestays with local cuisine.
💬 Pro Tip: Always book local guides — they know hidden water sources & safe routes during snowfall.
💰 Trek Cost & Budget Breakdown (Approx 2025)
| Item | Estimated Cost (INR) |
|---|---|
| Travel Delhi → Dehradun → Barsu (Round) | 3,000 – 4,000 |
| Accommodation (3 Nights) | 1,500 – 2,500 |
| Meals (Local or Trek Operator) | 1,000 – 1,800 |
| Guide & Permits | 1,500 – 2,000 |
| Misc + Gear Rentals | 1,000 – 1,500 |
| Total Estimated Budget | ₹8,000 – ₹12,000 per person |
(If booked via a trek company with transport, expect a ₹9,500 – ₹11,500 package.)
🎒 Trekking Essentials & Preparation
Must-Have Gear
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Trekking shoes (waterproof)
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50 L rucksack
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Layered winter clothing
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Thermals & gloves
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Rain cover & poncho
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Sunglasses (UV 400 rated)
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Power bank & torch
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First-aid kit & personal meds
Fitness Tips
Start basic cardio (jogging/cycling/stairs) 2 weeks before.
Focus on leg strength + endurance for smooth trekking.
🧾 Permits & Local Rules
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Entry permission from the Forest Department, Uttarkashi required (usually handled by local guides).
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Plastic ban – carry reusable bottles.
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Respect local temples and grazing lands.
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No loud music or drone use near villages without consent.
📸 Photography & Travel Tips
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Sunrise from Dayara Top is golden – reach before 6 AM.
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Carry extra batteries – cold drains power fast.
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Use a polarizing filter for mountain shots.
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Talk to villagers – you’ll learn local stories of Bandarpunch Parvat.
🏞️ Nearby Attractions
If you have extra days:
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Dodital Lake Trek – Birthplace of Lord Ganesha (2 days extra)
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Gangotri Temple – Sacred Hindu shrine (4 hr drive)
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Nachiketa Tal – Mystical lake near Uttarkashi
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Harsil Valley – Scenic apple orchards and riverside views
🧘♂️ Cultural Touch – Garhwali Heritage
Dayara Bugyal isn’t just a trek; it’s an experience of Garhwali hospitality. Locals still follow age-old traditions — from folk songs to hand-made woollen shawls. In winter, small fairs are organized in nearby villages, celebrating local deities and the coming of snow.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Is the Dayara Bugyal Trek suitable for beginners?
Yes, it’s one of the easiest high-altitude treks in Uttarakhand, perfect for first-timers and families.
Q2: Do I need a guide?
Recommended. Local guides ensure safety and take care of permits.
Q3: Is it safe for solo female travellers?
Absolutely. Uttarkashi villages are safe and welcoming, but always inform someone about your itinerary.
Q4: Can I do this trek in December?
Yes, December is magical with snow. Make sure to carry proper gear and check weather forecasts.
Q5: Are mobile networks available?
Jio and BSNL work till Barsu. No signal beyond that — enjoy digital detox!
🌟 Conclusion – The Meadow That Stays in Your Heart
The Dayara Bugyal Trek is not just a journey through the Himalayas — it’s a journey within. The crisp mountain air, glowing sunsets, and the sound of distant cowbells create an experience that words can barely capture.
For trekkers looking to explore beyond popular trails like Kedarkantha or Nag Tibba, Dayara Bugyal is a serene, less-crowded masterpiece that offers both peace and thrill.
So, pack your rucksack, tie your laces, and let the Himalayas whisper their stories as you walk across one of India’s most enchanting meadows.
🔖 Quick Recap
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Location: Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand
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Altitude: 12,100 ft
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Best Season: Oct – Dec & May – June
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Duration: 4 Days
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Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
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Budget: ₹8,000 – ₹12,000
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Base Village: Barsu / Raithal
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