Most Beautiful Bugyals in Uttarakhand for Easy to Moderate Treks

Uttarakhand, known as the land of gods, is also home to some of the most scenic Bugyals high-altitude alpine meadows that stretch endlessly across the Himalayan landscape. These grasslands turn into lush green carpets in summer and transform into snowfields during winter, offering year-round trekking experiences. For those looking to explore the Himalayas without venturing into technical or high-risk trails, Bugyal treks are the perfect balance of natural beauty, adventure, and accessibility.

Unlike steep summit climbs, Bugyal treks are ideal for beginners and intermediate trekkers, with trails that pass through forests, streams, and quiet mountain villages. Whether it’s the towering views of Mt. Bandarpunch from Dayara Bugyal or the twin meadows of Ali and Bedni, these trails offer a peaceful, soul-soothing alternative to crowded tourist spots. In this article, we highlight five of the most beautiful Bugyals in Uttarakhand that are suitable for easy to moderate treks.

1. Dayara Bugyal – Where Meadows Meet the Mountains

The Dayara Bugyal Trek is one of the most scenic and beginner-friendly trekking routes in Uttarakhand, located in the Uttarkashi district. This 3 to 4-day trek covers roughly 22 km round trip and begins from the quiet mountain village of Raithal. Known for its vast high-altitude meadows, Dayara Bugyal offers a picture-perfect setting that attracts nature lovers, families, and first-time trekkers alike.

The trail winds through dense forests of oak and rhododendron, small Himalayan hamlets, and bubbling mountain streams. As you reach the Bugyal at around 11,800 feet, you’re welcomed by a wide open pasture surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Garhwal Himalayas. Some of the prominent peaks visible from the meadow include Mt. Bandarpunch, Black Peak, Srikanth, Draupadi Ka Danda, Janoli, and the Gangotri range.

In the warmer months, the Bugyal bursts into a green expanse of grass and wildflowers, while in winter it becomes a snow-covered landscape ideal for snow trekking and camping. The gradient is easy to moderate, with no technical sections, making it ideal for those who want to experience the alpine charm without the strain of a summit climb.

Whether you walk the Dayara Bugyal in summer or winter, the wide-open terrain and distant peaks make every step memorable. It’s one of Uttarakhand’s best-kept secrets for immersive trekking experiences.

2. Ali Bugyal – Walk Through One of Asia’s Highest Meadows

Ali Bugyal is one of the most beautiful high-altitude meadows in Uttarakhand, situated at an altitude of around 11,500 feet. It forms part of the famous Ali–Bedni Bugyal trail, which starts from the village of Lohajung in Chamoli district. Known for its wide grassy slopes and expansive mountain views, the trek is ideal for those looking for a moderate adventure with stunning visual rewards.

The trail to Ali Bugyal passes through ancient oak and rhododendron forests, steep ridgelines, and open mountain clearings. As you ascend, you’ll notice the landscape opening up into vast rolling meadows that seem to stretch endlessly. In spring and summer, the meadows bloom with wildflowers, while winter brings a pristine white snow cover that adds a completely different charm.

From Ali Bugyal, trekkers are treated to sweeping views of the Trishul, Nanda Ghunti, and Chaukhamba peaks. Though the trek includes some uphill sections, the overall gradient remains non-technical, making it suitable for fit beginners and intermediate-level hikers. The peaceful terrain also provides excellent spots for camping under starlit skies.

Ali Bugyal is the perfect destination for those who want to explore the essence of the Himalayas without the intensity of high-altitude summit treks.

3. Bedni Bugyal – The Twin Meadow of Serenity and Spirituality

Bedni Bugyal is the adjoining twin to Ali Bugyal and shares the same trekking route starting from Lohajung. At about 11,700 feet, this vast alpine meadow is not only known for its stunning views and open landscapes but also holds spiritual significance, being close to the sacred Bedni Kund. This makes it a unique blend of natural and cultural experience.

The trek to Bedni Bugyal is part of the longer Roopkund trail, but many trekkers visit only up to Bedni for a more relaxed experience. The trail goes through pine and rhododendron forests, narrow ridges, and finally opens into a green or snow-covered meadow, depending on the season. The gradient is moderate, and trekkers don’t need prior high-altitude experience.

From Bedni Bugyal, the views of Trishul and Nanda Ghunti are absolutely breathtaking. The meadow itself is dotted with patches of wildflowers in the warmer months and turns into a winter wonderland in December and January. The nearby Bedni Kund, a small sacred lake, reflects the snow peaks on a clear day and adds to the peaceful atmosphere.

For those looking to experience both Himalayan beauty and quiet reflection, Bedni Bugyal is a perfect match.

4. Panwali Kantha – The Hidden Gem of Bugyal Treks

Panwali Kantha is one of Uttarakhand’s lesser-known Bugyals, offering serene landscapes and solitude away from the more crowded trekking routes. Located in the Garhwal region, this alpine meadow lies at an altitude of around 11,000 feet and can be accessed via multiple trails, including from Ghuttu or Triyuginarayan.

The trek is ideal for those seeking a peaceful yet rewarding experience. The route climbs gradually through thick forests of pine and oak, crossing several small clearings and water streams before opening into the breathtaking Panwali Bugyal. The open fields stretch as far as the eye can see, and during spring, the ground is covered in bright rhododendrons and alpine flowers.

One of the most remarkable features of this trek is the panoramic view of the Char Dham ranges Kedarnath, Badrinath, Yamunotri, and Gangotri — visible from a single vantage point. The winter months add a quiet blanket of snow, turning the Bugyal into a peaceful snowfield perfect for short snow treks and nature photography.

Panwali Kantha is perfect for those who want to explore a less commercial side of Uttarakhand while still enjoying wide meadows, snowy trails, and dramatic Himalayan views.

5. Kush Kalyani Bugyal – An Underrated Trail for Meadow Lovers

Kush Kalyani Bugyal is one of the lesser-known but incredibly rewarding Bugyal treks in Uttarakhand. Located near Ghuttu in the Tehri Garhwal region, this high-altitude meadow lies at an elevation of about 10,800 feet and offers a peaceful trekking experience away from the regular crowds.

The trek to Kush Kalyani is relatively short, taking 2 to 3 days, and follows a forested trail with gradual elevation gain. The path winds through thick deodar and oak forests, scattered village fields, and opens up to the beautiful Kush Kalyani meadow a vast grassland that changes colors with the seasons.

In spring and summer, the Bugyal is lush and green with flowering herbs and wildflowers. During winter, it offers a quiet snow trek with panoramic views of Bandarpunch, Khatling, and other peaks of the Garhwal range. Because it’s not as well-known, the area remains untouched and clean, offering a true offbeat Himalayan experience.

This easy to moderate trek is great for trekkers who want to connect with nature, camp in open fields, and explore the lesser-visited parts of Uttarakhand. If you’re looking for a short, peaceful Bugyal trek with all the scenic rewards, Kush Kalyani is worth discovering.