Hey everyone,
I wanted to share my experience and also gather some insights from those who have done the Dayara Bugyal Trek more recently. Having trekked in a few Himalayan regions before, I can honestly say this one has a special place in my heart.
For those who might not know, Bugyal literally means “high-altitude meadow,” and Dayara is one of the most beautiful alpine meadows in Uttarakhand. It’s often overshadowed by more popular treks like Kedarkantha or Brahmatal, but honestly, it deserves way more attention. When I first decided on this trek, a lot of my friends were skeptical – “Is there enough snow? Is it even challenging enough?” But the more I researched, the more curious I got. And let me tell you, from the first step of the journey, it felt like stepping into a fairytale.
The Journey & First Impressions
I started from Raithal, a small village that serves as the base. The warmth of the locals was something I didn’t expect. Even before the trek began, sipping tea while looking at distant snow-clad peaks made me realize I had chosen the right trail. As I climbed higher, the trail opened into vast stretches of lush meadows. In winters, it’s completely blanketed with snow, making it feel like you’re walking on a white ocean. In summers, these meadows are painted with wildflowers, and the panoramic views are unmatched. The calmness here is different – it doesn’t feel rushed like some of the more commercialized treks.
The Views from Dayara Top
The trek isn’t just about meadows. Once you reach Dayara Top (around 12,000 feet), the views hit differently. Peaks like Bandarpoonch, Black Peak, Srikanth, and Draupadi Ka Danda look so close that you feel you could almost touch them. The sunrise here is magical – golden rays lighting up snowy ranges while the meadows slowly wake up. I’ve done Kedarkantha, and while the summit climb there is more talked about, Dayara offers a more open, peaceful vibe. It’s not just about conquering a peak, but about soaking in the vastness around you.
Why I Think Dayara Bugyal Is Underrated
-Less crowded compared to other treks – perfect if you love solitude.
-Flexible – can be done in summer, autumn, or winter, each season offering a new personality.
-Great for beginners yet rewarding enough for seasoned trekkers.
-Meadows so vast that you genuinely feel humbled by nature.
Things I Wish I Knew Before
1. Acclimatization – Even though it’s considered an easy to moderate trek, the sudden altitude can make you feel uneasy. Taking it slow helps.
2 . Winter Gear – If you’re planning it in snow season, proper shoes and gaiters are a must. The snow can get knee-deep in some parts.
3. Photography Tip – Don’t just focus on peaks; the village life, the meadows, and the starry nights deserve equal attention.
4. Connectivity – Mobile network is patchy. Best to inform family in advance.
My Question to the Forum
For those who’ve done both Dayara Bugyal Trek and Brahmatal Trek, how do you compare the two? I personally found Dayara more serene, but Brahmatal had those stunning lake reflections. Do you think Dayara will eventually get more recognition, or will it always stay the “hidden gem” of Uttarakhand? I’m planning to return in spring to see the meadows in full bloom (last time I went in peak winter), so any tips from spring trekkers would be great.
If anyone is on the fence about doing this trek – I’d say go for it! Whether you’re a first-time trekker or someone who’s been on Himalayan trails before, Dayara Bugyal has this way of connecting you to the mountains without overwhelming you. Would love to hear your experiences, tips, or even challenges you faced during this trek. Did you find the route from Barsu more scenic compared to Raithal? And has anyone here done it as a snowboarding/skiing trip (I read that it’s possible)?
Looking forward to a healthy discussion.
Cheers,
A fellow mountain lover
I wanted to share my experience and also gather some insights from those who have done the Dayara Bugyal Trek more recently. Having trekked in a few Himalayan regions before, I can honestly say this one has a special place in my heart.
For those who might not know, Bugyal literally means “high-altitude meadow,” and Dayara is one of the most beautiful alpine meadows in Uttarakhand. It’s often overshadowed by more popular treks like Kedarkantha or Brahmatal, but honestly, it deserves way more attention. When I first decided on this trek, a lot of my friends were skeptical – “Is there enough snow? Is it even challenging enough?” But the more I researched, the more curious I got. And let me tell you, from the first step of the journey, it felt like stepping into a fairytale.
The Journey & First Impressions
I started from Raithal, a small village that serves as the base. The warmth of the locals was something I didn’t expect. Even before the trek began, sipping tea while looking at distant snow-clad peaks made me realize I had chosen the right trail. As I climbed higher, the trail opened into vast stretches of lush meadows. In winters, it’s completely blanketed with snow, making it feel like you’re walking on a white ocean. In summers, these meadows are painted with wildflowers, and the panoramic views are unmatched. The calmness here is different – it doesn’t feel rushed like some of the more commercialized treks.
The Views from Dayara Top
The trek isn’t just about meadows. Once you reach Dayara Top (around 12,000 feet), the views hit differently. Peaks like Bandarpoonch, Black Peak, Srikanth, and Draupadi Ka Danda look so close that you feel you could almost touch them. The sunrise here is magical – golden rays lighting up snowy ranges while the meadows slowly wake up. I’ve done Kedarkantha, and while the summit climb there is more talked about, Dayara offers a more open, peaceful vibe. It’s not just about conquering a peak, but about soaking in the vastness around you.
Why I Think Dayara Bugyal Is Underrated
-Less crowded compared to other treks – perfect if you love solitude.
-Flexible – can be done in summer, autumn, or winter, each season offering a new personality.
-Great for beginners yet rewarding enough for seasoned trekkers.
-Meadows so vast that you genuinely feel humbled by nature.
Things I Wish I Knew Before
1. Acclimatization – Even though it’s considered an easy to moderate trek, the sudden altitude can make you feel uneasy. Taking it slow helps.
2 . Winter Gear – If you’re planning it in snow season, proper shoes and gaiters are a must. The snow can get knee-deep in some parts.
3. Photography Tip – Don’t just focus on peaks; the village life, the meadows, and the starry nights deserve equal attention.
4. Connectivity – Mobile network is patchy. Best to inform family in advance.
My Question to the Forum
For those who’ve done both Dayara Bugyal Trek and Brahmatal Trek, how do you compare the two? I personally found Dayara more serene, but Brahmatal had those stunning lake reflections. Do you think Dayara will eventually get more recognition, or will it always stay the “hidden gem” of Uttarakhand? I’m planning to return in spring to see the meadows in full bloom (last time I went in peak winter), so any tips from spring trekkers would be great.
If anyone is on the fence about doing this trek – I’d say go for it! Whether you’re a first-time trekker or someone who’s been on Himalayan trails before, Dayara Bugyal has this way of connecting you to the mountains without overwhelming you. Would love to hear your experiences, tips, or even challenges you faced during this trek. Did you find the route from Barsu more scenic compared to Raithal? And has anyone here done it as a snowboarding/skiing trip (I read that it’s possible)?
Looking forward to a healthy discussion.
Cheers,
A fellow mountain lover