Some treks are about summits; the Dayara Bugyal trek is about space. These high-altitude meadows above the village of Raithal in Uttarkashi roll on for miles — snowfields in winter, wildflowers in summer — with Bandarpoonch and Black Peak standing straight ahead the whole way. The gradients are gentle enough that we welcome children aged 8 and up on this trail.
What is the Dayara Bugyal trek itinerary?
Day 1 is a 180 km, 7-hour drive from Dehradun up the Bhagirathi valley to Raithal (7,400 ft), a village of centuries-old wooden homes. Day 2 climbs 4 km through oak forest to the shepherd huts of Gui at 9,500 ft. Day 3 is a short, dreamy 3 km walk to the Chilapada clearing at 10,170 ft — an easy day that lets your lungs catch up with your eyes.
Day 4 is the highlight: 7 km up through an ocean of grass or snow to Dayara Top at 12,100 ft, where Bandarpoonch, Black Peak and the Gangotri ranges fill the skyline, then back to Chilapada. Day 5 descends to Raithal, and Day 6 drives you home to Dehradun.
Which months can you do Dayara Bugyal?
December through June — one of the longest windows of any Himalayan trek. December to March is a snow wonderland; April to June turns the meadows green and flower-flecked. Both versions are spectacular — pick snow or spring based on what you want your photos to look like.
How hard is the Dayara Bugyal trek?
Rated Easy-Moderate, with short daily distances and well-graded climbs, this is the trek we recommend most often to families and first-timers. A month of regular brisk walking is preparation enough for most people.
What does the Dayara Bugyal trek cost?
₹9,999 + 5% GST per person covers all meals on trek, alpine tents on twin sharing with sleeping bags, trek leader and local guide, and forest permits and camping charges. The shareable cab between Dehradun and Raithal is extra.
How to reach Raithal?
Dehradun is the gateway — overnight train from Delhi or a flight to Jolly Grant airport. The drive to Raithal passes Uttarkashi, so keep your camera handy along the Bhagirathi.
What about permits?
Uttarkashi forest division permits are arranged by us and included. Carry a government photo ID; that is all the paperwork this trail demands.
Come roll in the meadows
Whether you want winter snow play or a family summer trek, dates are live now — book on our Dayara Bugyal page and bring the kids.
