Dayara Bugyal Trek

Dayara Bugyal Trek 2025, Complete Trekking Guide for Best Season, Difficulty, Weather, Packing List, Route Info, and What to Expect on This Himalayan Adventure

The Dayara Bugyal Trek is one of the most breathtaking and beginner-friendly alpine treks in India. Nestled in the heart of Uttarkashi, this trail offers a perfect introduction to high-altitude trekking, with lush forests, ancient villages, and sweeping meadows that seem to touch the sky. At a staggering height of 11,181 ft, the Dayara Bugyal rewards you with panoramic views of mighty Himalayan peaks like Bandarpoonch, Rudregaira, Gangotri I, II & III, Jaonli, and Draupadi Ka Danda.

The Dayara Bugyal Trek Location lies in Uttarakhand, starting from the charming mountain village of Raithal. The Dayara Bugyal Trek Distance from Raithal is about 10 km one way, making it a short yet rewarding journey suitable for all age groups with moderate fitness. If you’re looking at the Dayara Bugyal Trek Distance, expect a total of around 22 km round trip through oak forests, gurgling streams, and snowy mountain scenery.

One of the best things about this trek is its flexibility. Whether you’re planning a short weekend escape or following a 4 to 5-day Dayara Bugyal Trek Itinerary, it delivers a complete Himalayan experience. The Dayara Bugyal Trek Starting Point is Raithal village, and it’s easily accessible by road from Dehradun and serves as a peaceful acclimatization base camp.

The Best Time for Dayara Bugyal Trek depends on the experience you seek. It is open for you throughout the year. Whether you want to see snow in winter (December to March), flowers in spring-summer (April to June), lush greenery in monsoon (July to August), or golden meadows in autumn (September to November). There is always a change in the weather in these mountains, and the Dayara Bugyal trek temperature varies with time. Dayara Bugyal Trek in Uttarakhand provides a serene and awe-inspiring trek, displaying stunning Himalayan scenery at every turn.

Who Can Do Dayara Bugyal Trek

• Age Limit: This Trek is suitable for trekkers aged 8 to 62 years. Children above 8 years can do this trek with active supervision and fitness. Seniors up to 62 years can participate if they meet the fitness requirement and have no high-risk medical issues.
• Trekking Experience: Dayara Bugyal is an ideal trek for beginners, families, and first-time Himalayan trekkers. No prior high-altitude trekking experience is required.
• Required Fitness Level: You should be in good physical health with no major medical conditions. Must be able to jog or brisk walk 5 km in 45 minutes comfortably.
• Mental Readiness: Be prepared for 4–5 hours of trekking daily over moderate terrain. You should be comfortable staying in tents, with basic amenities, and cold weather.
• Acclimatization Ability: Although Dayara Bugyal is a moderate trek, it reaches altitudes of 11,181 ft, so basic acclimatization awareness is helpful. 

Short Itinerary of Dayara Bugyal Trek

Day 1: Pick up you Dehradun railway station to Raithal Basecamp 

Drive distance: 175 km | Duration: 7 to 8 hours | Altitude: 7,423 ft | Overnight Stay: Homestay at Raithal Village

Highlights: Begin your scenic drive from Dehradun to Raithal village via Mussoorie, Suwakholi, and Uttarkashi, enjoying Himalayan views, forested roads, and riverside stretches before reaching the Dayara Bugyal Trek Base.

Day 2: Trek from Raithal village to Gui Campsite

Altitude Gain: 7,423 ft to 9,884ft | Trek Distance: 5 km | Trek Duration: 4 to 5 hours | Overnight Stay: Tents 

Highlights: Trek from Raithal to Gui through forested trails and stunning clearings with gentle ascents and scenic views, making it a peaceful and rewarding day in the Himalayas.

Day 3: Trek from Gui Camp to Dayara Bugyal Summit back to the Gui campsite

Altitude Gain & Loss: 9,884 ft to 11,181 ft to 9,884ft | Trek Distance: 12 km | Trek Duration: 7 to 8 hours | Overnight Stay: Tents 

Highlights: Trek from Gui Camp to the summit of Dayara Bugyal through forested slopes and vast alpine meadows, enjoying breathtaking Himalayan views before descending back to camp after a fulfilling summit experience.

Day 4: Descend from Gui Camp to Raithal Village

Altitude Loss: 9,884 ft to 7,423ft | Trek Distance: 5 km | Trek Duration: 3 to 4 hours | Same day Drive to Dehradun by taxi: 175 km | Drive Duration: 7 to 8 hours | Drop Off Point: Dehradun railway station

Highlights: Descend 5 km from Gui Camp to Raithal through scenic meadows and forests. After reaching Raithal, Your adventurous journey will be concluded with a warm certificate ceremony to celebrate your successful Dayara Bugyal Trek. After that, we will bid you farewell to your drop point at Dehradun Train Station. 

Post-Trek Travel Guide

• The drop-off point after the trek is Dehradun Railway Station.
• You’ll reach Dehradun between 6:30 PM and 7:30 PM.
• It’s recommended to plan your onward travel after 9:00 PM to allow for any delays.
• Dehradun Railway Station is about 6 km from the ISBT Bus Stand, a 30-minute ride by public transport.
• The Jolly Grant Airport is approximately 27 km from the railway station and takes about 1 hour by taxi.
• We strongly suggest keeping a buffer day in your travel plans. If not needed for the trek, you can use it to explore Dehradun, Mussoorie, or Rishikesh.

Why Choose Himalayan Hikers for the Dayara Bugyal Trek?

Choosing the right trekking organization can elevate your trekking experience to the next level. Here’s why Himalayan Hikers stands out as the best trekking organization for the Dayara Bugyal Trek:

Expert Local Knowledge

Himalayan Hikers is a locally based team with over 3 decades of deep knowledge about the terrain, weather patterns, and best trekking routes. Our guides are not only trained professionals but also know the area intimately, which adds an authentic, insightful layer to your journey.

Well-Organized Campsites

Our campsites are strategically located with a focus on safety, scenic views, and sustainability. Whether you’re sleeping under the stars in winter or waking up to flower-filled meadows in spring, you’ll find their arrangements both comfortable and picturesque.

Season-Specific Expertise

Whether it’s snow-covered trails in winter to lush monsoon greenery, or clear autumn skies, Himalayan Hikers are equipped to handle all seasonal conditions. Our support staff ensures you’re properly guided and well equipped with trekking gear. So that you can be ready to face whatever nature throws your way.

Nutritious & Tasty Meals

You’ll be surprised by the quality of meals served at high altitudes. Himalayan Hikers provides hygienic, well-balanced meals that keep your energy levels high throughout the trek. We can accommodate special dietary needs for customized trek packages for the Dayara Bugyal trek.

Safety First Approach

Your safety is our top priority. That’s why we ensure that every trekking group has first-aid kits, pulse oximeters, oxygen cylinders, and emergency evacuation plans. Also, we conduct daily checkups to ensure each trekker is monitored for altitude sickness, especially important in higher or snow-laden terrains.

Eco-Friendly Trekking Practices

Himalayan Hikers are deeply committed to preserving the fragile ecosystems of the Himalayas. Since our establishment in 1990, we have strictly followed sustainable trekking practices, long before eco-tourism became a trend. We actively promote the Leave No Trace principles and encourage plastic-free trekking. Also, we regularly organize clean-up drives at every trekking destination. Environmental stewardship is the core part of our identity as the best Himalayan trekking community. 

Supporting the Local Economy

Himalayan Hikers help empower the local community and boost the regional economy by hiring local guides, cooks, and porters, and sourcing supplies from nearby villages. Choosing us means your trek also contributes directly to the well-being of the people who call these mountains home.

Butter Milk Festival: A Unique Cultural Celebration Near Dayara Bugyal Trek

The Butter Festival (Makhan Holi or Andhuri Utsav) is a unique cultural celebration held every August on the lush alpine meadows of Dayara Bugyal in Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand. Unlike traditional Holi, this festival features butter and buttermilk instead of colors, symbolizing gratitude toward nature and livestock. This event is celebrated during August in which villagers bring  their cattle to thank the land for its abundance. 

Festivities of this event include traditional Garhwali music and dances, cultural skits, and the popular Dahi-handi ritual that depicts Lord Krishna’s love for butter. One of the most playful highlights about this festival is Butter Holi, where participants smear butter and curd on each other in joyous celebration. Locals also prepare traditional food using local ingredients, making it a culinary treat.

The event is organized with the participation of nearby villages like Raithal, Barsu, and other areas in the Dayara Bugyal region. It offers a rare blend of pastoral tradition, spirituality, and community bonding, attracting both locals and tourists.

If you’re doing the Dayara Bugyal Trek During mid-August, then make sure to ask about this festival from your trek coordinator and experience a rare cultural event. 

–         We serve five -05 times meals a day including- Breakfast, Lunch, Eevening Snakes, Soup, Dinner, A variety of delectable and healthy food is provided which includes; Indian, Chinese and other Western meals. They are nutritious and keep you fit and healthy on the trek.

The type of food provided during a trek can vary depending on factors like the location, duration, and the trekking company or organization you’re with. However, there are some common types of food that are often included in trekking provisions:

1. Carbohydrates: Foods high in carbohydrates provide energy for the trek. This includes items like rice, pasta, bread, and potatoes. More
2. Proteins: Protein-rich foods help with muscle repair and recovery. Common protein sources include lentils, beans, tofu, meat (if available), eggs, and dairy products.
3. Fruits and vegetables: These provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. While fresh produce may not always be available, dried fruits and vegetables or canned options might be included.
4. Snacks: Trekking often involves long hours of physical exertion, so snacks are important for quick energy boosts. Snacks like nuts, energy bars, trail mix, and chocolate are common choices.
5. Local cuisine: Depending on the region you’re trekking in, you might also get the chance to sample local dishes. This can be a delightful way to experience the culture and flavors of the area.

What Is the Difficulty Level of the Dayara Bugyal Trek?

The Dayara Bugyal Trek Difficulty level is generally considered an easy to moderate trek. It’s a great choice whether you’re new to trekking or have some experience, especially if you want beautiful views without a tough climb. However, certain seasonal and terrain-based factors can slightly increase its difficulty. 

Terrain

The trail to Dayara Bugyal is well-marked and passes through dense forests, open meadows, and gradual ascents. Most of the path consists of packed dirt and stone-paved sections. While it’s not technically demanding, snow in winter or rain during monsoon can make the trail slippery and harder to navigate.

Altitude

The trek starts from Raithal village, 7,423 ft and goes up to Dayara Bugyal, 11,181 ft. This gain in altitude happens steadily over several kilometers, which helps with natural acclimatization. However, some trekkers might feel mild symptoms of altitude sickness as they cross 10,000 ft. But this is a very rare case on the Dayara Bugyal Trek, as almost 80% of the trail is covered with dense forest, which provides natural protection from harsh weather conditions and reduces the risk of altitude-related issues in the early stages of the hike. So, it’s essential to take it slow and stay hydrated.

Weather

Weather plays a significant role in the trek’s difficulty:

• Winter (Nov–Feb): Sub-zero temperatures, snow-covered trails, and icy patches increase difficulty.
• Monsoon (Jul–Aug): Heavy rain makes the trail muddy and slippery.
• Spring & Autumn: These are the best seasons for beginners due to dry weather and moderate temperatures.

Emergency Exits

While the Dayara Bugyal trek is relatively safe, it’s good to know your exit points in case of emergencies:

• The primary exit is to Raithal village, which is the starting and ending point of the trek. It’s reachable within a few hours from most midpoints on the trail.
• In case of altitude sickness or injury, mules or local porters can helpcyou to descent back to the Raithal base camp quickly.

Nearest Hospital to Raithal Village

The closest hospital to Raithal is in Uttarkashi town, approximately 45 km (1.5–2 hours by road) from Raithal. Uttarkashi District Hospital has basic emergency services and can stabilize patients for further transport if needed.

Is the Dayara Bugyal Trek Safe for Me?

Yes, Dayara Bugyal is considered one of the safest Himalayan treks. The trail is well-defined, mobile connectivity is available in some stretches, and it sees regular footfall during peak seasons. However, like any high-altitude trek, you must be well-prepared, especially if traveling in extreme seasons like winter or monsoon.

What Should You Keep in Mind for the Dayara Bugyal Trek?

Here are a few key points to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience:

• Train for the Trek: Basic physical fitness is essential. Practice brisk walking or jogging daily for 5–6 weeks and make sure you can easily run 5 km in 45 minutes before the trek.
• Pack Season-Appropriate clothing & Trekking Gear: Bring layered clothing, proper trekking equipment, and sun protection depending on the season.
• Acclimatize Properly: Don’t rush the trek give your body time to adjust to higher altitudes
• Go with a local Guide or Organized Group: Especially if you’re trekking in snow or rain, having an experienced guide increases safety.
• Carry High-altitude First Aid: Include ORS, altitude sickness meds (like Diamox if prescribed), a headlamp, and enough water/snacks.

What do we do for safety in Dayara Bugyal Trek?

At Himalayan Hikers, the safety of our trekkers is our top priority. We recognize that mountain trekking comes with its own set of challenges, especially in high-altitude environments like Dayara Bugyal. That’s why we’ve put in place a comprehensive safety protocol to ensure every trekker feels secure and well-supported throughout the journey.

Experienced Trek Leaders & Guides
All our treks are led by certified professionals with years of experience in the Himalayan terrain. They are trained in wilderness first aid and emergency response.

Planned Itinerary with Acclimatization Time
We design the route with adequate rest days and altitude gain to help trekkers adjust and avoid AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness).

Daily Health Monitoring & Medical Kits
Each day, we conduct basic health checkups using pulse oximeters and carry essential first-aid kits, oxygen cylinders, and altitude sickness medication.

Emergency Evacuation Backup
We maintain local emergency contacts and have tie-ups for quick evacuation support (by mule or vehicle) in case of serious issues.

Pre-Trek Briefings & Gear Checks
Before the trek, we conduct safety briefings and equipment checks to make sure everyone is properly prepared with the right gear and clothing.

Weather Monitoring & Route Flexibility
We constantly track mountain weather forecasts and adjust the plan if needed to avoid storms, heavy snow, or landslides.

Small Group Sizes for Better Supervision
We keep group sizes small to ensure that every trekker receives individual attention and support throughout the journey.

What Is The Best Time To Visit Dayara Bugyal Trek

Dayara Bugyal, one of Uttarakhand’s most breathtaking alpine meadows, transforms with the seasons, offering trekkers a different kind of magic year-round. Whether you’re drawn by the call of fresh snow, blooming wildflowers, misty monsoon trails, or starlit skies, there’s a perfect time for you to explore this high-altitude paradise. Here is a season-wise guide for the Dayara Bugyal trek best time to visit: 

Winter Wonderland (November to March) Best for Snow Lovers

• Peak Months to see snow: December & February
• Weather: Cold and crisp, often below freezing
• Day/Night Temperatures: 5°C (day) to -8°C (night)
• Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult due to snow and slippery paths

Winter Highlights

Dayara Bugyal trek is one of the most popular winter treks in Uttarakhand is a snow-covered dream. The snowfall begins from late mid-November and lasts will late March. But December, January, and February are some of the peak months that offer ideal conditions for skiing enthusiasts. 

This is the time when the entire region gets covered in knee-deep snow, making it difficult to navigate on the trail. This requires suitable trekking gear and insulated warm clothing for the Dayara Bugyal trek in winter. The meadows turn into vast white plains, surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks glistening under the sun. The silence is profound, that is only broken by the crunch of snow beneath your boots. Perfect for those seeking a true snow trek experience.

Summertime Bliss (April to June): Best for Wildflowers & Clear Views

• Weather: Pleasant days with cool nights
• Day/Night Temperatures: 10–18°C (day) to 2–5°C (night)
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Summer Highlights

As the snow begins to retreat towards the higher altitudes, a new transformation begins to take shape. It’s springtime, and the lower areas of the Dayara Bugyal become lush green with bright green leaves and tiny wildflowers. The Dayara Bugyal trek in Summer bursts with a variety of flowers. The meadows are carpeted in wildflowers, pinks, purples, and yellows, swaying gently in the mountain breeze. Snow still clings to distant peaks, providing a dramatic contrast to the greenery underfoot. Perfect for first-time trekkers and nature lovers.

If you’re traveling between March and April, you can join in the Phooldei festival. It marks the New Year according to the Hindu calendar. During this time, kids go from house to house, placing flowers at the doorway and singing old Phooldei songs. In return, they often get gifts like jaggery, rice, or some small money. It’s kind of like a Halloween celebration in the Christian tradition.

Monsoon Magic (July to August): Best for Lush Greens & Moody Skies

• Weather: Wet and misty with frequent rain
• Day/Night Temperatures: 12–20°C (day) to 6–10°C (night)
• Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult due to slippery trails

Monsoon Highlights

This is Dayara at its most mystical. The meadows turn a rich, almost surreal green, and clouds roll over the hills in soft waves. While landslides and leeches can be concerns, for the adventurous soul who doesn’t mind getting a bit wet, monsoon treks offer solitude and a chance to see nature in full bloom. 

Autumn Clarity (September to October): Best for Stargazing & Photography

• Weather: Clear skies, crisp air
• Day/Night Temperatures: 8–16°C (day) to 0–4°C (night)
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate 

Autumn Highlights

Autumn in Dayara is pure magic. The skies are startlingly blue by day and pitch-black by night, offering phenomenal stargazing. The post-monsoon freshness makes the trails dry and comfortable. The weather remains pleasant throughout the day but night can be a bit cold, so make sure to pack accordingly. 

The reason people love trekking to Dayara Bugyal after the monsoon is that it’s less crowded, and the views are just breathtaking with the bright blue sky. The clear weather makes the distant peaks seem even closer and more striking.

Important Considerations for Dayara Bugyal Trek:

Trekking Gear is Essential: If you’re trekking between November and March, carry insulated clothing, waterproof boots, gloves, and gear like microspikes or gaiters to safely navigate snow-covered and slippery trails.

Monsoon Challenges: July and August bring lush beauty but also risks like slippery paths, leeches, and occasional landslides. So, don’t go on this trek without a professional local guide who knows the area and can help you in an emergency situation. Also, make sure to get weather insights from your trek organizer and locals. 

Altitude & Acclimatization: Though not extremely high, the changing elevation can affect some trekkers. Take it slow and stay hydrated, especially in winter when physical exertion is more intense.

Local Festivals Enhance the Experience: If you’re trekking in March or April, consider timing your visit to coincide with the Phooldei festival, a charming local tradition that offers a cultural glimpse into the region.

Off-Season Peace vs. Peak-Time Buzz: Autumn and monsoon seasons see fewer trekkers, offering more solitude and raw natural beauty, while winter and spring attract more visitors for snow and wildflower views.

How to Reach Dayara Bugyal Trek? 

Getting to Dayara Bugyal is a multi-step journey, starting from Dehradun and ending at the scenic village of Raithal, the trek’s base camp. Here’s everything you need to know about reaching the starting point comfortably and on time.

Reach the Dehradun Pick-up Location by 7:00 AM

The pick-up point for most organized treks to Dayara Bugyal is Dehradun Railway Station. Make sure you arrive in Dehradun by 6:30 AM so you’re ready for a timely departure. Most trek operators arrange transportation from here to Raithal village.

How to Reach from Dehradun to Raithal Basecamp

Dayara Bugyal Trek distance from Dehradun to Raithal is around 175 km and takes about 7–8 hours by road, depending on traffic and weather conditions. The trek follows the most scenic mountain roads through Dehradun, Mussoorie, Suwakholi, Uttarkashi, and Bhatwari to reach Raithal village base camp. 

• Mode of Transport: The Himalayan Hikers team arranges shared taxis or private vehicles to take you from Dayara Bugyal trek pickup point (Dehradun train station) to Raithal base camp. 

How to Reach Dehradun

Whether you’re coming from Delhi, Mumbai, or another city, here are your options to reach Dehradun:

By Air

• The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, located about 25 km from Dehradun city.
• Regular flights connect it to Delhi, Mumbai, and other major cities.
• You can take a cab or local bus from the airport to the railway station (approx. 45–60 minutes).

Pro Tip: If you are coming to Dehradun from Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, then add a buffer day in your Dayara Bugyal Trek Itinerary before Day 1, which you can use to rest or explore the best tourist places in Dehradun.  

By Train

• Dehradun Railway Station is well-connected to Delhi, Haridwar, Lucknow, and other major cities.
• Trains like the Nanda Devi Express and Shatabdi Express are popular choices.

Pro Tip: Buses are also available from cities like Haridwar, Moradabad, Rishikesh, and Chandigarh.

By Road

• You can take overnight buses from Delhi ISBT (Kashmere Gate) to Dehradun.
• Buses range from budget options to luxury Volvo coaches and usually take 6–8 hours.
• You can take a local bus, Vikram, or a private taxi to reach the pickup location from Dehradun ISBT. The travel time is around 20-30 minutes, depending on the traffic in the city. 

ATM Point and Mobile Connectivity in Dayara Bugyal Trek

ATM

• The last reliable ATMs are in Uttarkashi, so withdraw sufficient cash there if you’re not carrying it from Dehradun.
• Raithal has no functioning ATMs, and local shops may not accept digital payments due to limited or no internet connectivity.

Mobile Connectivity

• You may get a limited mobile network (mainly BSNL or Jio) in Raithal.
• Once you start trekking, expect no network coverage for most of the route and at the Bugyal itself.

Tips

• Withdraw Cash: Ensure you carry enough cash from Dehradun or Uttarkashi to cover all your trek expenses.
• Pre-Download Maps: Internet access is patchy beyond Raithal. Download offline maps, trail guides, and emergency contacts before you leave Dehradun.
• Emergency Contacts: Keep a physical or digital copy of key emergency numbers, and inform a friend or family member about your Dayara Bugyal trek itinerary.
• Power Banks Are a Must: Carry at least one fully charged power bank, as electricity at the campsites may be limited or unavailable.