akaysharma
6 posts
Aug 22, 2025
6:35 AM
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I recently got back from the Dayara Bugyal Trek, and I wanted to share my experience here because I think this trail deserves more attention. For those who are hearing about it for the first time, “Bugyal” in the local language means alpine meadow, and trust me, Dayara is one of the most stunning high-altitude meadows in Uttarakhand.
The trek starts from a small village called Barsu or Raithal, depending on which route you take. Both villages are about 6–7 hours from Dehradun by road, so getting there is not too difficult. The moment you start walking, you’re already surrounded by oak and rhododendron forests, which makes the trail very refreshing. And as you go higher, the forests open up into rolling meadows that look straight out of a postcard.
One of the main reasons people choose Dayara Bugyal Trek is because it’s suitable for beginners as well as experienced trekkers. The altitude is around 11,800 ft, which is manageable for most people with a bit of preparation. The trail is not too steep or technical, so even first-timers can attempt it without much difficulty. That said, fitness should not be ignored, because even an “easy to moderate” Himalayan trek can feel challenging if you’re not prepared.
What really makes Dayara Bugyal special is the 360-degree views. On a clear day, you can see prominent Himalayan peaks like Bandarpoonch, Srikanth, Gangotri, and Jaonli. The sight of these snow-clad giants rising above the green meadows is something that stays with you forever. In winter, the entire bugyal gets covered in snow, turning it into a white wonderland. In fact, a lot of people call it a mini Switzerland of India.
Another thing I loved was the campsite experience. Unlike many treks where you just camp in forests or small clearings, here you get to pitch your tents right on the meadows with open skies above. Imagine waking up early in the morning, unzipping your tent, and seeing golden sunlight hitting the Himalayan peaks—that’s a moment of pure bliss. At night, the stargazing is magical, especially if you go during the new moon phase.
For those who are wondering about the best season to go, I’d say it depends on what you want. In summer (May–June), the meadows are lush green and filled with wildflowers. Post-monsoon (September–October), the skies are crystal clear, making the mountain views more dramatic. And if you’re someone who loves snow, December to February is the time when Dayara Bugyal becomes a perfect snow trek.
In terms of difficulty, like I mentioned, it’s not too tough, but proper acclimatization is always important. The camps are at a reasonable altitude, so AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) is less common, but basic precautions like staying hydrated and walking at your own pace should always be followed.
If you’re planning to book this trek, I’d suggest going with an experienced trekking company that takes care of safety, local guides, and sustainable practices. Trekking in the Himalayas is not just about reaching a destination—it’s also about respecting the local culture and environment.
To sum it up, Dayara Bugyal Trek is perfect if you’re looking for a mix of adventure, natural beauty, and a relatively easy introduction to Himalayan trekking. It’s family-friendly too, so even younger trekkers (above 10 years) can join in. Personally, I’d rate this trek very high on the scenic value and camping experience.
Has anyone else here done the Dayara Bugyal Trek recently? Would love to hear your experience and whether you found it as breathtaking as I did.
Last Edited by akaysharma on Aug 22, 2025 6:37 AM
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