Dayara Bugyal Trek

Our Only Winter Trek with the Biggest Snow Expanse

Why Dayara Bugyal Is A Must-Do Trek

Dayara stands out among our treks for having the largest snow expanse, a vast canvas of whiteness extending as far as the eye can see. In winter, it transforms into a rarity, offering a panoramic view of Mt Bandarpoonch and Black peak, rising almost 21,000 feet over Dayara. This spectacle alone makes the trek a must-do adventure.

Dayara Bugyal, nestled in Uttarakhand, is a high-altitude meadow known for its pristine beauty. While popular in warmer months, the Dayara Bugyal Winter Trek provides a unique experience for those seeking snowy landscapes. Starting from the village of Natin, the trek ascends from Barsu at 7,400 feet to Dayara Bugyal at 12,100 feet. Considered a moderate trek, it suits both beginners and experienced trekkers, with challenges including snow-covered trails and cold temperatures.

Overview

  • Trail Type: Round trail, starting and ending at Natin village.
  • Rail Head: Rishikesh is the nearest rail head to the base camp.
  • Airport: Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun.
  • Base Camp: Natin (6-7 hrs drive from Rishikesh).
  • Best Season: Winter Treks (Mid Nov – Mid Feb).
  • Snow: December to April.
  • Services: Natin to Natin.
  • Meals: Provided during the trek and at Hotel/Guesthouse (Veg & Eggs).
  • Stay: Camping (Twin sharing) & Hotel/Guesthouse.
  • Region: Uttarakhand.
  • Duration: 6 Days.
  • Grade: Easy To Moderate.
  • Max Altitude: 12100 Ft.
  • Approx Trekking Km: 22 Kms.

Highlights

  1. Snow-Covered Meadows:
    • Vast expanse perfect for photography and introspection.
  2. Panoramic Views:
    • Breathtaking views of Himalayan peaks, including Bandarpoonch, Kalanag, Draupadi Ka Danda, and Srikanth.
  3. Camping in Snow:
    • Thrilling experience with tents set up in the snow-clad meadows.
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Detail Itinerary

Day 1 (Dehradun to Raithal)
  • Destination: Raithal Village (2,100M)
  • Distance: 192 kms (Dehradun to Raithal)
  • Duration: 8 hours
  • Travel Details
    • Participants with Bikat’s drive start early, meeting at 7 AM.
    • Independent travelers provided with an article for journey planning.
  • En Route Highlights
    • Acclimatization during the journey.
    • Scenic landscapes include mustard fields, changing hilltop shades, Bhagirathi river, and Tehri Dam Falls.
    • Route via Dhanaulti to Chinyalisour.
    • Raithal visible from a short route towards Maneri after passing Uttarkashi.
  • Post-Drive Activities
    • Briefing session covering schedule, do’s and don’ts, and environmental conservation practices.
    • Learning session on trekking essentials, including a demonstration on packing backpacks and sleeping bags.
    • Completion of forest permits, paperwork, and clearances for a hassle-free trek.
Day 2 (Raithal to Gui Campsite)
  • Starting Elevation: 2,100M
  • Destination: Gui Campsite at 2,948M
  • Distance: 6 kms
  • Duration: 4 hours
  • Trek Highlights
    • Trail begins after a filling breakfast.
    • Passes through alley with terraced farms and golden paddy fields, accompanied by a local stream.
    • Enters a thick forest stretch with pinewood and oaks (Mohru and Pangar).
    • Reaches an open ground with shepherd shielings, close to the campsite.
    • Offers mesmerizing views of Mt. Srikanth, Mt. Bandarpoonch, and DraupadikaDaanda peaks.
    • Gain in elevation: 848M.
  • Mid-Trek Break
    • Snacking and rest in the wilderness ambiance.
  • Campsite Arrival
    • Gui Campsite, a 4-hour trek from Raithal, reached by early noon.
    • Participants pitch their own tents after a demo by trek leaders.
  • Gui Lake Exploration
    • Lunch at the campsite.
    • Visit to the jade-colored Gui Lake, frozen even during daytime in winter.
    • Return to campsite for captivating sunset views.
  • Evening Delights
    • Enjoy hot snacks.
    • Early dinner amidst the serene mountain setting.
Day 3 (Gui to Chilapada Campsite, Barnala Tal Visit)
  • Starting Elevation: 2,948M
  • Destination: Chilapada Campsite at 3,094M, visit to Barnala Tal at 2,850M
  • Distance: 6 kms
  • Duration: 5-6 hours
  • Morning Routine
    • Day begins early at 7 AM.
    • Morning tea followed by a hearty breakfast.
  • Trek Highlights
    • Pack tents and start trek to Chilapada.
    • Pass through thatch patches near Gui.
    • Navigate a forest patch with Golden Oaks and Maple trees.
    • Encounter a slightly difficult trail with a steep half-hour ascent to Chilapada.
  • Chilapada Campsite
    • Three kilometers from Gui Lake.
    • Tents pitched upon reaching.
    • Rest before hiking to Barnala Lake.
  • Barnala Tal Exploration
    • Trail through dense alpine forest and soft snowy high grounds.
    • Reach two semi-frozen water bodies after a boulder zone.
    • Panoramic view of Mt. Bandarpoonch and Gangotri peaks from a strategic spot.
    • Afternoon spent around the lake and a nearby temple.
  • Return to Chilapada
    • Hike back through the woods.
    • Chilly evenings at Chilapada, dress accordingly.
  • Evening Routine
    • Hot dinner.
    • Retire for the night, preparing for the next day’s adventures.
Day 4 (Chilapada to Dayara Top to Nayata)
  • Starting Elevation: 3,094M
  • Destination: Dayara Top at 3,750M, Nayata at 2,697M
  • Distance: 9 kms
  • Duration: 5.5 hours
  • Journey to Dayara Top
    • Start early toward the trek’s highest point, Dayara Top.
    • Begin at dawn after a hearty breakfast.
    • Trail through an opaque forest patch covered with powdered snow.
    • Panoramic view of Garhwal Himalayas from the last shieling.
  • DayaraBugyal Exploration
    • Reach DayaraBugyal, expansive snow-covered meadows.
    • Stunning views of Bakariya Top, Black Peak, Bandarpoonch, Mt. Srikanth, DraupadikaDaanda, Mt. Jaunli.
    • Ascend through undulating snowy grounds to reach Dayara Top.
    • Elevation gain from Chilapada to Dayara Top: 656M.
  • Summit Experience
    • Spend time at the summit, appreciating the breathtaking views.
    • Snack break before descending back to the last shieling.
  • Snowy Descent to Nayata
    • Descend through a snow section in the southwest.
    • Snow walk with cold breeze, offering an adventurous experience.
    • Adrenaline-filled descent with mesmerizing views.
  • Trail to Nayata
    • Head to Nayata through oakwoods.
    • Peek at Mt. Bandarpoonch and Gangotri in the background.
    • Moderate descent from Barnala Tal, a 3 kms trail lined with maple trees.
    • Stunning sunset views over the mountains.
  • Campsite at Nayata
    • Reach Nayata, commemorating the day’s experiences.
    • Share stories under the starry sky.
    • Call it a night, ready for the next day’s adventures.
Day 5 (Nayata to Raithal and Drive to Dehradun)
  • Starting Elevation: 2,697M
  • Destination: Raithal at 2,100M
  • Distance: 4 kms trek + 192 kms drive
  • Duration: 3.5 hours trek + 8 hours drive
  • Descent to Raithal
    • Descend 4 kms through maple and oakwood trees.
    • Moderately steep forest path with abundant rhododendrons.
    • Enjoy packed lunch midway with village landscape in view.
    • Trail ends near GMVN cottage, marking the trek’s completion.
    • Proudly declare the accomplishment of the Dayara Top trek.
  • Drive to Dehradun
    • The drive back to Dehradun takes about 8 hours.
    • Depart by 1 pm for an evening arrival in the city.
    • Ensure accommodations and travel arrangements are booked.
    • Assistance available if required; contact for support.
  • Note: Network Coverage
    • Minimal network coverage around Raithal village.
    • Limited but possible network points in Chilapada camp.
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