Dayara Bugyal Trek: Walking Through the Meadows of Heaven

Some treks challenge your strength, others steal your heart. The Dayara Bugyal trek does both in equal measure. Tucked away in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, this trail takes you through thick forests, ancient villages, and finally, to some of the most expansive alpine meadows in India. When I set out on this journey, I was prepared for snow-capped vistas and starry nights, but what I got was a soulful experience that redefined my connection with the mountains.

The Journey Begins: Arrival in Raithal

The adventure kicked off in Raithal, a quaint village perched at around 7,400 feet above sea level. It took a long drive from Dehradun—winding roads, tea breaks in roadside dhabas, and glimpses of the Bhagirathi River keeping me company. As soon as I reached Raithal, the quietness of village life wrapped around me. The locals were warm and welcoming, offering chai with tales of the surrounding peaks.

I spent the night in a cozy homestay, where wooden interiors creaked gently with every step, and the kitchen smelled of hot chapatis and sabzi cooked over a wood-fired stove. The calm before the trek felt like nature's own way of easing you in.

Through Oak and Rhododendron Forests

The real magic began the next morning. With a packed lunch and a heart full of excitement, I started the trek. The path climbed steadily through dense oak and rhododendron forests, with sunlight streaming in through the leaves. There was a rhythm to the trail—the sound of boots crunching on dry leaves, the rustle of branches, and the occasional call of a mountain bird.

Along the way, we crossed tiny shepherd huts and paused to refill water from natural springs. As we gained altitude, the air grew crisper, and the scenery turned more dramatic. Snow started making brief appearances on the trail's edges, and the treetops gave way to more open terrain. The first day’s trek ended at Gui, a beautiful campsite nestled among pine trees with stunning views of Mt. Shrikanth and Mt. Jaonli.

Meadows that Stretch to the Sky: Dayara Bugyal

On the second day, we left Gui and began our final ascent to Dayara Bugyal. The trail opened up, and suddenly we were walking through vast meadows blanketed in snow. The landscape was otherworldly—rolling white hills merging with the sky, with a 360-degree panorama of Himalayan giants like Bandarpoonch, Draupadi Ka Danda, and Black Peak.

There’s something about high-altitude meadows that feels unreal. I stood in the middle of the snow-covered expanse, spun around with arms wide open, and felt the wind whistle past. We made snowmen, clicked endless pictures, and simply lay in the snow staring up at the endless sky. The silence was profound—no buzzing phones, no honking vehicles, just the soft crunch of snow underfoot.

Camping in Sub-Zero Temperatures

Camping at Dayara Bugyal is both challenging and deeply rewarding. As night fell, temperatures dropped well below freezing, but our tents and sleeping bags kept us surprisingly warm. We sat around a small fire, sipping soup and hot chai, watching the stars come out one by one.

The sky was a canvas of stars—so clear and bright that you could trace constellations with your fingers. I remember stepping out of my tent around midnight and being completely mesmerized. The Milky Way arched overhead, and the silence was so intense, it was almost sacred.

The Descent and Reflection

After soaking in the beauty of Dayara Bugyal, it was time to head back. The descent was easier on the lungs but harder on the knees. We retraced our steps through Gui and finally back to Raithal. As I looked back at the now-distant meadows, I felt a quiet sense of achievement and gratitude.

The Dayara Bugyal trek isn't just a trail through the Himalayas—it’s a passage through time and self. It reminded me that true beauty lies in simplicity: in a shared cup of tea, in the glow of sunrise on snow, and in the smiles of people who live close to the land.

Trek Tips for First-Time Explorers

• Best time to visit: May–June for lush green meadows and December–March for snow.
• Carry layers of warm clothing, especially for the night.
• Good trekking shoes are a must—preferably waterproof.
• Stay hydrated, carry a thermos for hot water, and always keep a headlamp.
• Respect local traditions and leave no trace.

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a beginner looking for your first snow trek, Dayara Bugyal welcomes you with open arms and a sky full of stars. It’s a journey that stays with you, long after the snow has melted and the trail disappears behind you.