The Dayara Bugyal Trek is one of the most scenic and beginner-friendly treks in the Indian Himalayas. Located in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, this trek takes you through dense forests, ancient villages, and vast high-altitude meadows (known locally as bugyals) surrounded by snow-capped Himalayan peaks. At an altitude of around 3,660 meters (12,000 feet), Dayara Bugyal transforms with the seasons — lush and floral in summer, golden in autumn, and snow-blanketed in winter.
You can start the Dayara Bugyal Trek from either:
Raithal Village (preferred for better infrastructure and views)
Barsu Village (an alternative route with a steeper ascent)
Both villages are located in Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand.
By Air
Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (approx. 190–200 km from Raithal)
From the airport, you can:
Hire a private taxi
Take a bus/shared cab to Uttarkashi, then onward to Raithal
🕓 Travel time: ~8–10 hours from Dehradun to Raithal by road
By Train
Nearest Railway Station: Dehradun or Haridwar
Well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Lucknow, Kolkata, Mumbai
From the station:
Take a bus or shared jeep to Uttarkashi
Then hire a shared jeep or taxi to Raithal (~45 km from Uttarkashi)
🕓 Haridwar to Raithal: ~10–11 hours
🕓 Dehradun to Raithal: ~8–9 hours
By Road
You can reach Raithal directly by road via:
Route from Dehradun/Haridwar/Rishikesh:
Dehradun → Mussoorie → Suwakholi → Uttarkashi → Raithal
Total distance: ~190–210 km
Road condition: Mostly good, last stretch is narrow and winding
Local buses to Uttarkashi are available, but private taxis or shared sumos are faster and more reliable for the Raithal stretch
Travel: Drive from Dehradun/Haridwar to Raithal
Distance: ~190–210 km | Time: 8–10 hours
Stay: Guesthouse or homestay in Raithal village
Highlights: Views of Bhagirathi valley, local Garhwali culture
Tip: Acclimatize and explore the village before the trek starts
Trek Distance: ~4.5 km | Time: 3–4 hours
Trail: Gradual ascent through oak and rhododendron forests
Stay: Tents at Gui campsite with panoramic views
Highlights: Sunset over Mt. Srikanth and Bandarpoonch range
Tip: Stay hydrated and carry light snacks
Trek Distance: ~6–7 km total
- Altitude: Dayara Bugyal – 11,800 ft | Bakaria Top – ~12,300 ft
- Trail: Open meadows, gradual climb
- Stay: Camp at Gui or Chillapada (depending on group and pace)
- Highlights: 360° views of snow-covered peaks, vast alpine meadows
- Tip: If attempting Bakaria Top, start early for clear skies
- Trek Distance: ~4.5 km downhill
- Time: 2–3 hours
- Stay: Guesthouse in Raithal or drive to Uttarkashi (optional)
- Highlights: Leisurely walk back through forest
- Drive Back: 8–10 hours by road
- Optional: Stay in Uttarkashi or Rishikesh for sightseeing