The damp, earthy smell of the forest floor is combined with the lingering scent of pine. The
distant call of a Himalayan monal is accompanied by the rhythmic crunch of your boots on
the trail. The world opens up as you abruptly cross the tree line. A huge, flowing carpet of
green that appears to be pulsing with life is in front of you. This is Dayara Bugyal, and you
will never forget this sight.
Imagine traversing miles of meadows while the majestic Gangotri and Bandarpoonch ranges
watch over you. This journey into one of the most magnificent landscapes the Garhwal
Himalayas have to offer is more than just a trek. The Dayara Bugyal trek is calling if you’re
searching for an adventure that combines easily accessible trails with breathtaking views.
Your one-stop shop for organizing the ideal summer trip in 2025 is this guide
Dayara Bugyal: What is she?
“Bugyal” means “high-altitude meadow” in the regional Garhwali dialect. Additionally,
Dayara Bugyal is frequently praised as one of India’s most exquisite and spacious bugyals.
This pristine pastureland, which is roughly 28 square kilometers in size, is located in
Uttarakhand’s Uttarkashi district. It turns into a verdant paradise in the summer, with tiny
wildflowers and tiny streams crisscossing it
Local shepherds, known as Bakarwals, have been using these meadows for generations to
graze their flocks. In the midst of breathtaking natural beauty, the journey to Dayara Bugyal
follows these historic shepherd paths, providing an insight into a timeless way of life. It is an
immersion into the heart of the Himalayas and goes beyond a simple physical journey.
Why Go to Dayara Bugyal in the Summer?
A Dayara Bugyal summer trek has a unique charm, even though the place is open all year
round, with the scenery changing with the seasons.
Lush Greenery: As the winter snow melts, a vivid carpet of verdant grass emerges. The
meadows are at their most vibrant, vibrant, and alive.
Pleasant Weather: The days are sunny and warm, with temperatures that are ideal for
hiking. Ascending, the cool mountain breeze keeps you feeling rejuvenated.
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Clear Views: Summer mornings frequently provide a clear view of the surrounding snow-
capped peaks, such as the Gangotri range, Kala Nag (Black Peak), and Bandarpoonch (The
Monkey’s Tail).
Blooming Flora: A range of wildflowers, including buttercups and primulas, adorn the
meadows, making for an idyllic scene.
Longer Days: With more daylight hours, you have more time to explore the campsites, take
in the scenery, and hike at a leisurely pace.
Dayara Bugyal’s Location and Significance
Dayara Bugyal is situated between 10,000 and 12,500 feet (3,048 and 3,810 meters) above
sea level. It is situated in the Uttarkashi area, which is a popular destination for trekking in
the Garhwal Himalayas. This region is important both geographically and spiritually because
it is close to Gangotri, the holy Ganges River source.
Along with its natural beauty, the trek provides an opportunity to experience the rich culture
of the Garhwal region. You can get a close-up look at Himalayan life as the journey starts in
tiny, traditional villages. It is the perfect place for anyone wishing to start their Uttarkashi
trekking adventures because of its accessibility and moderate difficulty.
Ways to Get to Dayara Bugyal
Long before you set foot on the trail, you start your journey to the undulating meadows of
Dayara. The charming village of Raithal (or Barsu) is where the trek begins. The route from
Delhi is broken down here.
Step 1: From Delhi to Dehradun or Rishikesh
By Air: Jolly Grant Airport (DED) in Dehradun is the closest airport. With daily flights fro
Delhi and other important Indian cities, it has excellent connections.
By Train: The closest major train stations are Dehradun (DDN) and Haridwar (HW). From
Delhi, a number of overnight trains operate, including the Dehradun Shatabdi and the Nanda
Devi Express.
By Bus: From Delhi’s ISBT Kashmere Gate, regular overnight buses—both private and
government-run—travel to Dehradun and Rishikesh. The trip takes roughly six to seven
hours.
Step 2: Travel to Raithal from Dehradun or Rishikesh
Distance: roughly 180 kilometers
Time Spent Traveling: 7-8 hours
You must go to the village of Raithal from Dehradun or Rishikesh; it is roughly 32 kilometers
from Uttarkashi, the main town.
The most practical choice is a shared or private taxi. From Dehradun or Rishikesh, you can
hire a private taxi that will drive you all the way to Raithal. Additionally, you can take a
shared taxi up to Uttarkashi, from which you can take another taxi to Raithal.|
Bus: From Dehradun or Rishikesh, you can travel to Uttarkashi by morning bus. For the last
part to Raithal, local buses or jeeps are available from Uttarkashi. Although it takes more
time, this is a more economical choice.
The drive itself is breathtaking, with breathtaking views of the Tehri Dam reservoir as it
winds alongside the Bhagirathi River. To ensure you have enough time to get settled before
the trek starts, we advise leaving Dehradun early in order to arrive in Raithal by evening.
Trek Route and Comprehensive Daily Schedule
Day 1: Reaching Raithal (7,400 feet)
Arriving in the quaint village of Raithal marks the start of your adventure. For the trek, this is
your base camp. Explore the village in the evening. It is renowned for its traditional “koti
banal” architecture, which consists of stone and wood homes that are earthquake-resistant.
From here, the views of the Gangotri range provide a wonderful preview of what’s to come.
After settling into your homestay or guesthouse, have a hot Garhwali meal and get some rest
in preparation for the journey
Day 2: Hike to Gui Campsite (9,800 feet) from Raithal
4 km is the trek distance.
Time Spent Trekking: 4-5 hours
You’ll begin your climb after a filling breakfast. After a gradual ascent through the village, the
trail soon enters a stunning oak and rhododendron forest. The trees’ shade offers much-
needed respite from the sun, and the path is clearly marked. The air is filled with the sound
of birdsong, and if you’re quiet, you might be able to see some of the local wildlife.
You will arrive at the Gui campsite after several hours of climbing. You get your first good
look at the high peaks from this forest clearing. For your first night of camping in Dayara
Bugyal, the campsite is a serene location. Sip tea in the evening as you watch the mountains
turn pink and orange as the sun sets.
