Alpine Meadows

Published on August 30, 2025

Alpine Meadows at Yulla Kanda – Nature’s Green Paradise for Camping

High up in the mountains of Himachal Pradesh, hidden far from noise and crowds, are the alpine meadows of Yulla Kanda. Locally called bugyals, these meadows are like soft green carpets spread across the slopes of the Himalayas. They are surrounded by tall peaks, cool breezes, and wide open skies – making them one of the most peaceful and beautiful places to camp in the Kinnaur region.

What Are Alpine Meadows or Bugyals?

In the Himalayas, when you climb above the dense pine and cedar forests, you reach a point where trees stop growing. Instead, you find open grasslands full of flowers during summer – these are called bugyals.

At Yulla Kanda, the meadows are lush, bright, and alive with colors from June to September. In spring and early summer, the grass is soft and green. By late summer, tiny wildflowers bloom everywhere, painting the ground in shades of yellow, purple, and red.

Where Are These Meadows Located?

The alpine meadows of Yulla Kanda lie at an altitude of about 3,800–3,900 meters in Kinnaur, Himachal Pradesh. They surround the famous Yulla Kanda Lake and Krishna Temple. To reach them, you need to trek from Yulla Khas village, walking through forests and rocky trails until you reach this open paradise.

The Journey to the Meadows

The trek to Yulla Kanda is a big part of the adventure:

1. Starting from Yulla Khas Village – A small, peaceful Kinnauri village with apple orchards and traditional wooden houses.

2. Walking through Forests – The first part of the trek is shaded by pine, oak, and cedar trees. You can hear birds and smell fresh mountain air.

3. Reaching the Meadows – After a few hours of climbing, the trees disappear, and suddenly you step into open grasslands with endless views of the mountains.

The entire trek is around 10–12 km one way and takes 6–7 hours depending on your speed and rest stops.

Why Are These Meadows So Special?

1. Perfect Place for Camping
   The ground is soft and flat, making it easy to pitch tents. At night, the sky is full of stars – much brighter than in towns or cities.

2. Breathtaking Scenery
   You can see snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, and the shining Yulla Kanda Lake nearby.

3. Peace and Silence
   There are no shops, no vehicles, no phone network – just nature and calmness.

4. Colorful Wildflowers
   In late summer, bugyals are covered with flowers. It feels like walking through a natural garden high in the mountains.

5. Adventure and Spirituality Together
   Since the meadows are close to the Krishna Temple, many visitors combine camping with a pilgrimage.

Best Time to Visit and Camp

• June to September: Best months to visit. The weather is pleasant, meadows are green, and flowers bloom.

• October: Clear skies but colder nights.

• November to May: Not suitable for trekking or camping because of heavy snow.

Things to Do in the Alpine Meadows

• Camping under the stars – Bring a tent, sleeping bag, and basic supplies.

• Photography – Capture panoramic views, flowers, and the lake’s reflections.

• Relax and meditate – Enjoy the peaceful surroundings and fresh air.

• Explore nearby spots – Visit Yulla Kanda Lake, Krishna Temple, or Rora Kanda Meadow.

• Stargazing at night – The sky here is crystal clear, with thousands of stars visible.

Tips for Visiting the Meadows

• Carry warm clothes – Even in summer, nights are very cold.

• Good trekking shoes are a must – The trail is rocky and sometimes slippery.

• Bring your own food and water – There are no shops on the way or at the top.

• Travel with a guide or local villager – They know the safe paths and camping spots.

• Keep the area clean – Do not leave any trash behind; protect nature.

• Start trekking early – Weather in the mountains changes quickly after noon.

The Experience of Camping Here

Imagine waking up to snow-covered peaks glowing in the morning sun, breathing crisp cold air, and hearing nothing except birds and the sound of a distant stream. In the evening, you watch the sun dip behind the mountains, painting the sky orange and pink. At night, you lie outside your tent and see a sky full of stars so clear you almost feel you can touch them.

Camping in the alpine meadows of Yulla Kanda is not just a stay – it’s an unforgettable experience of living with nature.

Nearby Attractions

1. Yulla Kanda Lake – A crystal-clear alpine lake perfect for resting and photography.

2. Krishna Temple – The world’s highest temple of Lord Krishna, right beside the lake.

3. Rora Kanda Meadow – Another beautiful camping spot nearby.

4. Yulla Khas Village – Experience Kinnauri culture, wooden houses, and apple orchards.

5. Kalpa and Sangla Valleys – Famous towns of Kinnaur you can visit on your way.

Why Should You Visit These Meadows?

• For Nature Lovers: It’s one of the most untouched and beautiful high-altitude grasslands.

• For Trekkers: The journey is challenging but rewarding, offering breathtaking views.

• For Peace Seekers: The silence and calmness are perfect for meditation and rest.

• For Photographers: Clear skies, stunning landscapes, and vibrant flowers make for great pictures.

• For Adventure Travelers: Camping at nearly 4,000 meters is a thrilling experience.

A Place to Refresh Your Soul

The alpine meadows of Yulla Kanda are more than just a trekking stop. They are a natural retreat where you forget the busy world for a while and feel connected to the earth and sky. Whether you go alone, with friends, or with family, spending a night here will leave you refreshed and happy.

As the sun rises over the mountains and the first light touches the soft grass, you realize why bugyals are called the crown of the Himalayas. They are truly nature’s gift – untouched, beautiful, and peaceful.

If you are planning a trip to Himachal Pradesh and love adventure, do not miss camping at the alpine meadows of Yulla Kanda. It’s not just a trip – it’s an experience you will remember for a lifetime.