Top 7 Uttarakhand Treks with Stunning Sunrise Views

There’s something unforgettable about watching the first light of day from the top of a mountain. Uttarakhand, with its vast range of treks, offers some of the most magical sunrise views in the Himalayas. From snowy peaks to lush green ridgelines, these treks reward early risers with golden skies and clear mountain silhouettes. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned trekker, these trails promise moments that stay with you long after the trek ends.

1. Kedarkantha Trek

Kedarkantha Trek is one of the best winter treks in Uttarakhand, known for its easy-to-moderate trail and stunning sunrise view from the summit. Starting from Sankri village, the trek takes 3 to 4 days to complete and passes through oak, pine, and rhododendron forests, snowy clearings, and the frozen lake of Juda Ka Talab. Most of the trail is gradual and beginner-friendly, with short walking hours and a steady climb to basecamp.

The final push to the summit is the most challenging part of the trek. With a steep incline of 40° to 60°, it demands physical effort but no technical skills. Trekkers climb early in the morning under starlit skies, often through deep snow. A bit of fitness preparation like cardio and strength workouts can make a big difference in enjoying this part of the journey.

The real magic happens at the top. At 12,500 feet, the Kedarkantha trek offers a breathtaking 360-degree view of Himalayan peaks like Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, Black Peak, and the Yamunotri range. As the sun rises, the sky glows with warm colors, lighting up the snowy landscape a moment that makes the Kedarkantha trek one of the top treks in Uttarakhand for sunrise views.

2. Nag Tibba Trek

Nag Tibba is one of the closest Himalayan treks to Delhi and is ideal for a quick weekend getaway. Located near Mussoorie, this easy trail takes you through thick forests and small mountain villages before opening up to the summit ridge.

The real charm of Nag Tibba is the sunrise from the top. On a clear morning, you can see peaks like Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, Kedarnath, and Gangotri glow as the sun rises. The light spreads slowly over the valleys, making the entire landscape feel calm and golden.

This trek can be done in just 2 days and is perfect for beginners or those short on time. Whether you’re camping under the stars or starting your summit push early, Nag Tibba gives a stunning Himalayan sunrise without the need for a long or difficult journey.

3. Dayara Bugyal Trek

Dayara Bugyal is a high-altitude meadow trek in Uttarkashi that’s known for its wide-open pastures and mountain views. The trail passes through forests, clearings, and traditional villages before reaching the vast bugyal at the top.

If you wake up early at the final campsite or trek to the Dayara top before dawn, you’ll catch a peaceful sunrise over the Garhwal Himalayas. Peaks like Bandarpoonch, Black Peak, and Draupadi Ka Danda light up one by one as the sun slowly climbs the sky. The soft golden light over the grasslands adds to the beauty of the moment.

The trek takes 3 to 4 days and starts from Raithal. It’s beginner-friendly and suitable in both summer and winter. For those who love a quiet start to the day with views of snow-capped peaks, the Dayara Bugyal trek offers one of the most peaceful sunrise experiences in Uttarakhand.

4. Deoriatal Chandrashila Trek

The Deoriatal to Chandrashila trek is known for its lake views, forest trails, and a famous summit point that offers some of the best mountain views in Uttarakhand. It starts from Sari village and takes you through Deoriatal lake, forested trails, and finally to the Chandrashila summit.

The sunrise from Chandrashila is breathtaking. From the top, you get panoramic views of big peaks like Nanda Devi, Trishul, Chaukhamba, and Kedarnath. The first light of the day turns these snowy mountains golden and orange, making the early climb completely worth it.

The trek can be done in 3 to 4 days and suits both beginners and experienced trekkers. The climb to the summit is steep but short, usually done early in the morning to catch the sunrise. If you're looking for a short trek with big views, Chandrashila’s sunrise should be on your list.

5. Phulara Ridge Trek

Phulara Ridge is a rare ridge trek in Uttarakhand, offering continuous mountain views for hours. Starting from Sankri, the trail moves through forests, grasslands, and finally along a high ridge line that gives you a sense of walking in the sky.

Sunrise on the ridge is unlike any other. As the sky turns orange, light spreads across a sea of peaks like Kedarkantha, Swargarohini, and others in the Sankri range. Since you're already on an open ridge, the view is wide and unobstructed, making sunrise feel even more magical.

This is a 5 to 6-day trek and is ideal for those who want a peaceful experience with fewer people around. The early morning walk on the ridge with a rising sun beside you makes Phulara Ridge a hidden gem for sunrise lovers.

6. Brahmatal Trek

Brahmatal is a winter favorite located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. It offers snowy forests, frozen lakes, and a rewarding summit climb. What makes this trek special is the combination of snow and silence during the colder months.

The sunrise from the Brahmatal ridge or summit is a must-see. From here, you can witness golden rays hitting peaks like Mt. Trishul and Nanda Ghunti. If you're lucky with the weather, even the distant outline of Nanda Devi might appear faintly in the morning light.

The trek takes about 5 to 6 days and starts from Lohajung. With its winter beauty and peaceful mornings, Brahmatal Trek is perfect for those who want a snowy sunrise experience with stunning peak views.

7. Kuari Pass Trek

Kuari Pass, also known as the "Curzon Trail," is a classic trek in the Garhwal Himalayas that combines forest paths with high mountain passes. The trek offers wide views of major peaks like Dronagiri, Hathi Parvat, and Nanda Devi.

Sunrise at Kuari Pass or from the nearby campsites is a quiet and beautiful moment. The tall Himalayan peaks slowly come to life with golden light spreading over their snowy tops. It’s a peaceful way to start your day surrounded by nature.

This trek usually takes 5 to 6 days and starts from Joshimath or Dhak village. With its mix of views, gentle paths, and peaceful mornings, the Kuari Pass trek is one of the best places to enjoy a true Himalayan sunrise.