What is the best time to visit Dayara Bugyal?

Published on August 23, 2025

Dayara Bugyal is a huge, beautiful field high up in the mountains of Uttarakhand. "Bugyal" is a local word that means a high-up meadow. Dayara is at a height of about 11,000 feet, and it's one of the most amazing bugyals you'll ever see. The ground is gentle and rolling, making it a great place for people who love to walk and hike. From here, you can see all around you, with fantastic views of the big snow-covered mountains. The trek is perfect for both new hikers and experienced ones, making it a wonderful way to see the Himalayas. The Dayara Bugyal Trek takes you through beautiful forests and into a world of endless green grass. The best time to visit depends on whether you want to see the flowers of summer or the snow of winter.

 4 Days / 3 Nights – Dayara Bugyal with Barnala Tal

DAY 0: Departure from Delhi

• Evening Assembly Point: Botanical Garden Metro Station, Noida

• Departure Time: Around 9:00 PM by tempo traveller or Volvo

• Overnight Journey: Overnight road journey to Raithal (approx. 430 km | 12–13 hours)

DAY 1: Arrival at Raithal Village – Acclimatization & Local Exploration

• Morning Arrival: Reach Raithal, a beautiful village in Uttarkashi at ~7,400 ft elevation

• Check-in & Freshen Up: Settle into homestay or guesthouse

• Post-Lunch Activity: Acclimatization walk in the village and nearby trails

• Evening: Briefing about the trek, explore local life, enjoy sunset views of Mt. Shrikanth

• Dinner & Stay: Overnight stay in Raithal | Hot local food served

DAY 2: Trek from Raithal to Dayara Bugyal Base via Gui or Barnala Tal

• Trek Start: After early breakfast, begin the scenic trek (~5–6 km)

• Trail Details: Gradual climb through oak and rhododendron forests, reaching Barnala Tal or Gui

• Arrival at Base Camp: By afternoon, reach the camping zone near Dayara Bugyal meadows (~9,500 ft)

• Evening: Enjoy hot snacks, tea, and a breathtaking sunset over the mountains

• Dinner & Bonfire: Warm dinner under the stars with light bonfire

• Overnight Stay: Dome tents with sleeping bags (on sharing basis)

DAY 3: Explore Dayara Bugyal Meadows & Return to Raithal

• Early Morning Trek: Head towards Dayara Bugyal (~11,000 ft) after breakfast

• Activity: Witness vast rolling meadows, snowfields (in winter), and majestic views of Mt. Bandarpoonch and Srikanth

• Photography & Chill Time: Explore freely, click photos, relax amidst the open skies

• Evening Arrival: Check-in at Raithal homestay

• Dinner & Rest: Enjoy a wholesome local dinner and well-deserved rest

DAY 4: Drive Back to Delhi

• Early Morning Start: After breakfast, check out and begin return journey to Delhi

• Evening Arrival: Reach Delhi by 8:00–9:00 PM (depending on traffic)

• Trip Ends: With memories of snow trails, meadows, and mountain magic

Why Visit Dayara Bugyal?

Visiting Dayara Bugyal is an experience that will stay with you forever. The main reason people come here is for the breathtaking views. The endless meadows offer a stunning sight, a rolling green carpet that stretches as far as you can see. From this high point, you get incredible, up-close views of some of the biggest Himalayan peaks, like Bandarpunch and Black Peak. The sight of these snow-covered giants is truly unforgettable.

In spring and summer, the bugyal is covered in a beautiful mix of colorful wildflowers, making it a paradise for photographers. For those who love adventure in the cold, the winter months transform the area into a wonderland for a snow trek. You can walk through the quiet, snow-covered landscape and enjoy the pure silence of the mountains. A Dayara Bugyal trek package makes planning easy, handling all the details. With a well-thought-out Dayara Bugyal itinerary, you can enjoy every moment, from the peaceful forests to the magnificent open meadows.

How to Reach Dayara Bugyal ?

Reaching the Dayara Bugyal trek is an adventure in itself, with the journey taking you through some of Uttarakhand's most scenic landscapes. The trip can be easily broken down into three main parts: by air, by rail, and by road.

By Air: The nearest airport is Dehradun's Jolly Grant Airport (DED). It is well-connected with daily flights from Delhi and other major Indian cities. From the airport, you'll need to hire a taxi or book a shared cab to reach the base villages of either Barsu or Raithal. The drive from the airport to the base village takes about 7-8 hours, passing through the beautiful towns of Rishikesh, Tehri, and Uttarkashi.

By Rail: The closest railway station is also in Dehradun. The Dehradun Railway Station is a major rail hub with regular trains from Delhi, including the popular Dehradun Shatabdi Express. Once you arrive at the station, the next step is the same as with air travel—you'll need to arrange for a road journey to the base villages.

By Road: The most common way to reach the starting point is by road from Delhi. The entire journey from Delhi to the Dayara Bugyal base camps is about 450 kilometers. The route takes you through Haridwar and Rishikesh, where you can make a quick stop before continuing towards Uttarkashi. From Uttarkashi, the road becomes more winding as you make your way to either Barsu or Raithal. Many trekking companies offer a Dayara Bugyal tour package from Delhi that includes all transport, making the journey seamless. These packages often provide a comfortable vehicle and a knowledgeable driver who is familiar with the mountain roads, ensuring a safe and stress-free trip to the start of your adventure.

When to Go to Dayara Bugyal (A Simple Guide)

Deciding when to go on the Dayara Bugyal trek from Uttarakhand is all about what you want to see. The weather and the look of the place change a lot with each season, so every trip is different. This is why choosing the Dayara Bugyal trek best time is a personal decision based on your preference for a lush green landscape or a snow-covered wonderland.Summer (May - June): Green Fields and Flowers Summer is the most popular time for this trip. The weather is very nice. It’s warm during the day, about 15°C to 25°C, and cool at night, around 5°C to 10°C. The winter snow is gone, and the fields are a bright green, covered in all kinds of colorful flowers. The sky is usually clear, so you get amazing views of the big mountains.

Monsoon (July - August): A Very Green and Misty Place Some people don't go in the rainy season, but it's very beautiful in its own way. The whole place becomes a deep green color. It's warm during the day, just like in summer, but it rains often. The walking paths can be a bit slippery, and the mountain views might be hidden by fog. But if you like rain and a very green, misty look, this time is magical.

Autumn (September - November): Clear Skies and Cool Air Autumn is probably the best time to go. After the rains stop, the sky is very clear, giving you the best views of the mountains. The air is fresh and cool. During the day, it's about 10°C to 20°C. At night, it can get cold, dropping to 0°C to 5°C. The grass turns a beautiful golden color, which looks amazing against the snowy peaks.

Winter (December - February): A World of Snow  If you love snow, this is your season. The whole trail becomes a winter wonderland. Everything is covered in a thick, white blanket of snow. It’s very cold. Daytime is about -5°C to 5°C, and at night it can be freezing, around -10°C or colder. Walking through the deep snow is hard work but a great adventure. The quiet beauty of the snow-covered mountains is something you will never forget. You just need to have the right warm clothes.

Major Attractions Around Dayara Bugyal

The Dayara Bugyal trek is about more than just the main meadow; it's a journey through several beautiful and unique places. A good Dayara Bugyal Trek guide will show you how each one adds to the experience.

Raithal Village Raithal is another popular starting point for the trek. It's famous for its special Kath-Kuni architecture, where old houses are built with layers of wood and stone that make them very strong. Walking through Raithal feels like stepping back in time, and it offers a different route to the main meadow.

Barnala Tal After you start your trek, you will come to Barnala Tal, a calm and peaceful lake high up in the mountains. This lake is surrounded by a thick forest, making it a very beautiful and quiet place. It's a popular spot to set up camp for the night. The still water often reflects the trees and the sky, creating a magical view.

Barsu Village Barsu is a charming starting point for the trek. This village is known for its traditional houses made of wood and stone, and its fields are built on steps up the hillside. It gives you a perfect look at how people live in the mountains. For many trekkers, Barsu is the last place with a road and a mobile network, so it feels like a true starting point for a wild adventure.

Dodital Lake (Extended Trek) For those who want a longer adventure, the trek can be extended to Dodital Lake. This sacred lake is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Ganesha and is a place of deep spiritual importance. The journey to Dodital takes you through different landscapes and offers a new kind of trekking experience, perfect for anyone who wants to explore more of the region's beauty.

Trekking Experience at Dayara Bugyal

The walk at Dayara Bugyal is something you will always remember. It is known as one of the best walks for people of all levels.

The difficulty is easy to medium. The path is clear and goes up slowly, so you don't have to climb anything too steep. This makes it great for new walkers and families who want to see the mountains without a lot of hard work. Even though it's not super hard, you still need to be a bit fit.

The path itself is very pretty. You will walk through thick forests with oak and rhododendron trees. In some places, you'll walk on a high ridge that gives you great views of the valley below. As you get closer to the big field, the trees will get thinner, and you will finally step into the huge, open meadows. The total walk is about 10-12 kilometers one way, and you will go up about 3,500 feet in total from the start to the top of the field. The Dayara Bugyal trek distance is perfect for a multi-day hike.

• Tips for Your Walk:

  • Walk slowly and at a steady speed so you don't get tired.

  • Drink a lot of water to stay healthy.

  • Take short breaks often to rest and look at the views.

  • Always listen to what your guide says.

• What You Need to Bring:

  • A good backpack and comfortable shoes for walking.

  • Warm clothes and a jacket that keeps out rain.

  • Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.

  • A headlamp and a power bank to charge your phone.

  • A small kit with basic medicines.

With the right things and a little bit of planning, the Dayara Bugyal walk is a fun and safe adventure that will give you amazing memories.

Stay Options Near Dayara Bugyal

When you are planning your Dayara Bugyal trek, finding a good place to stay is an important part of the experience. The options range from simple camping under the stars to cozy guesthouses in the local villages.

Most trekkers choose to stay in campsites. This is the most common way to stay on the trek, and it allows you to get a real feel for being in the wilderness. Camps are usually set up at beautiful spots like Barnala Tal, where you can sleep in tents right by a calm lake. This gives you a chance to enjoy the peace of nature and see a sky full of stars. Campsites are simple but provide a truly unforgettable experience, connecting you directly with the mountain environment.

For a more comfortable stay, especially at the start and end of your trek, you can find great options in the base villages of Raithal and Barsu.

• Homestays: These are a fantastic way to experience local culture. You can stay in a traditional mountain home with a local family. This gives you a chance to eat authentic food, learn about their daily life, and experience the famous hospitality of the Garhwal region. Homestays are a warm and personal choice.

• Guesthouses: Both villages have a few guesthouses that offer basic but clean rooms with beds and sometimes hot water. They are a good choice for those who want a bit more comfort than a tent but still want to be in the heart of the village. These guesthouses are often run by local families and provide a friendly atmosphere for trekkers.

Whether you choose a tent, a homestay, or a guesthouse, each option gives you a different way to enjoy the beautiful area around Dayara Bugyal.

Dayara Bugyal Tour Package Price: ₹6500 per person

A Dayara Bugyal tour package price of ₹6500 per person is a very popular and attractive option. This cost is a fantastic value for anyone who wants to explore the mountains without a high cost. It typically covers all the most important services for a great trekking experience, usually over a 3-day or 4-day trip.

What's Included in the Package?

This price usually includes everything you need for the main trek.

• Transport: Shared travel from a main city like Delhi to the base village (Barsu or Raithal) and back. This makes the journey easy and affordable.

• Stay: Your accommodation is covered. This means you will stay in a guesthouse or a homestay in the base village and in tents at the campsites on the trail.

• Meals: Your breakfast and dinner from the start of the trek to the end are included. The food is simple but gives you the energy you need for the walk. Lunch is typically packed and given to you each morning.

• Guide and Staff: The package includes the service of an experienced local guide and a trekking team. They are there to keep you safe and make sure you have a good time.

What to Expect at This Price?

At this price, you can expect a very good and well-organized trip that focuses on the core trekking experience. It is a straightforward, no-frills adventure. The focus is on getting you to the beautiful meadows and back safely and comfortably. While it may not include extra things like a personal porter or luxury hotels, it provides all the essential services for a memorable trip.

Who is This Package For?

This package is a great choice for a few different types of people:

• Budget Travelers: It's an excellent way to see the Himalayas without spending a lot of money.

• Beginners: Everything is planned for you, so it's a perfect first trek.

• Friends or Students: The shared transport and stays make it a fun group experience.

Why is a Guide So Important?

Even at this price, a guide is a key part of the trip. Your guide is not just a person who shows you the way. They are a local expert who knows the trail, the weather, and what to do in any situation. They are there to make sure you are safe and to share their knowledge of the mountains, making your adventure much better.

Cultural Significance & Local Stories

The Dayara Bugyal trek is not just a walk through beautiful scenery; it's a journey into the heart of a rich culture filled with stories, traditions, and deep religious beliefs. The local villages and the mountains themselves are alive with folklore that has been passed down for centuries.

Folklore of the Villages: The villages at the start of the trek, such as Barsu and Raithal, are home to people who have lived in the Himalayas for generations. Their way of life is closely connected to the land. They have many stories about the mountains and the spirits that live in them. These stories are a way of teaching important lessons about respecting nature and living together as a community. The traditional houses, made of wood and stone, are also a part of this culture. They are built to be strong and to stand up to the harsh weather, showing the wisdom of the people who built them.

Himalayan Traditions: One of the most important traditions you can see is the seasonal movement of shepherds. Every summer, they lead their animals to the high-altitude meadows of Dayara Bugyal to graze on the fresh grass. This tradition is a vital part of their life and shows how they work with nature. It's a living part of the trek's history. The local people also celebrate a special festival called the Anduri Utsav, or Butter Festival, in the meadows. It's a joyful way for them to thank nature and the gods for a good season, and it shows their deep gratitude for the land.

Religious Beliefs: The entire region is considered sacred. The mountains are seen as the home of gods and goddesses. In the villages, you will find small, simple temples dedicated to local deities who are believed to protect the people and their animals. Barnala Tal, a lake on the trek, is believed to be the home of the Serpent God, Nag Devta. This belief adds a spiritual feeling to the trek. For many, the trek is not just a physical journey but also a spiritual one, a chance to feel closer to a pure and holy world.

Packing List for Dayara Bugyal Trek

Packing smart is key to a comfortable and fun trek. The weather in the mountains can change fast, so a good packing list is very important. Since you'll be traveling all the way from Delhi to Dayara Bugyal, you need to be prepared for both the journey and the trek itself.

Seasonal Essentials

• Summer (May - June) & Autumn (September - November):

  • Clothing: You will need three layers. A light T-shirt (the first layer), a warm fleece jacket (the middle layer), and a waterproof jacket to keep you dry from rain or wind (the outer layer).

  • Footwear: Wear strong, waterproof trekking shoes with good grip. It's also a good idea to bring a pair of sandals for when you are resting at the camp.

  • Rain Gear: Always carry a waterproof jacket or a poncho, even in summer. The weather can change very quickly.

  • Other: A sun hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are very important to protect you from the strong sun at high altitudes.

• Winter (December - February):

  • Clothing: You will need more layers for the cold. Start with a thermal inner layer (top and bottom), then a fleece jacket, and a thick, warm jacket (like a down jacket). A waterproof jacket is also needed for snow.

  • Footwear: Waterproof trekking shoes with a good grip are a must. Make sure they have ankle support. You might also need a pair of gaiters to keep snow out of your shoes.

  • Rain Gear: A waterproof jacket or a poncho is essential for snow and moisture.

  • Other: A warm woolen cap, waterproof gloves, and sunglasses are very important for the cold and to protect your eyes from the sun's reflection on the snow.

General Essentials for All Seasons

• Medical Kit: Carry a small bag with your personal medicines, painkillers, band-aids for cuts, and medicine for headaches or an upset stomach.

• Other Gear: A good backpack with a rain cover, a headlamp with extra batteries, a water bottle, and a power bank for your phone.

• Documents: Always carry a valid ID card, such as your Aadhaar Card or Driving License.

Travel Tips for Dayara Bugyal

Being prepared with a few key travel tips can make your Dayara Bugyal trek much smoother and more enjoyable.

Mobile Network: While you will find a mobile signal in the base villages of Raithal and Barsu, it is often weak and unreliable. Once you start trekking and gain altitude, you will likely lose the signal entirely. BSNL is generally considered the most reliable network in this region. Be ready to be disconnected for most of your trek, which can be a good thing for enjoying nature!

ATM: It is highly recommended that you withdraw all the cash you need for the trek before leaving a major city. The last reliable ATMs are in Uttarkashi or Bhatwari on the way to the base villages. Do not rely on finding a working ATM once you are in the villages, as they are often out of order.

Medical Aid: While trekking companies and guides carry a basic first-aid kit, it is important to bring any personal medication you might need. Guides are trained to handle common issues like minor cuts or altitude sickness. In case of a serious emergency, the trekking team will arrange to transport you to the nearest road head and then to a hospital. Some trekking companies also carry portable oxygen cylinders and other emergency medical equipment.

Travel Insurance: For your own safety, especially on a high-altitude trek, having travel insurance that covers trekking and high-altitude emergencies is a smart idea. It can help cover costs for unexpected medical issues or emergency rescue if needed.

FAQs About the Best Time to Visit Dayara Bugyal

1. What is the best time to visit the Dayara Bugyal trek?
The best time is May–June for lush green meadows and September–October for clear Himalayan views.

2. Can I visit Dayara Bugyal in winter?
Yes, December to February is perfect for a snow trek, though it requires warm gear and stamina.

3. Is the Dayara Bugyal trek good during the monsoon?
It’s not recommended in July–August due to heavy rain, slippery trails, and landslides.

4. Which season is best for photography at Dayara Bugyal?
Autumn (September–November) offers the clearest skies and golden meadows, making it ideal for photography.

5. Is summer a good time to visit Dayara Bugyal?
Yes, April–June is family-friendly with mild weather, colorful flowers, and open trails.

6. When can I see wildflowers in Dayara Bugyal?
Late May to June is the best time to witness blooming alpine flowers.

7. Can beginners trek to Dayara Bugyal in winter?
Yes, but only if you’re comfortable trekking in snow and have proper winter gear. Otherwise, summer is better for first-timers.

8. What is the coldest month in Dayara Bugyal?
January is the coldest, with heavy snow and sub-zero temperatures.

9. Is autumn better than summer for the Dayara Bugyal trek?
Yes, autumn offers clearer skies and better mountain views, while summer has lush greenery and flowers. Both are beautiful.

10. Which months should I avoid for the Dayara Bugyal trek?
Avoid July and August because of monsoon rains, landslides, and poor visibility.