An ideal Uttarkashi Himalayan trek experience for families and first-time trekkers

A perfect Himalayan trek in Uttarkashi for beginners and families”
We first explored the Dayara Bugyal trek in Uttarkashi back in 2010. At that time, trekking to a meadow wasn’t a common idea—most treks were focused on high mountain passes and glacial lakes. Though routes passed through Bugyals, meadows were rarely considered destinations themselves. But after our recce at Dayara Bugyal in Uttarkashi, we knew this perception needed to change.

The Dayara Bugyal Trek in Uttarkashi takes you through enchanting forests of pine, maple, oaks, and rhododendrons before opening up to a vast high-altitude meadow. The rolling grasslands here are so immaculately spread out, they feel almost surreal—as if nature itself has landscaped them. With the majestic Greater Himalayas forming the backdrop—Bandarpoonch, Kala Nag, Srikanth, Jaonli, and Draupadi Ka Danda—this trek beautifully combines every element of a classic Himalayan adventure.

What makes Dayara Bugyal in Uttarkashi even more special is that it remains stunning throughout the year. In spring, rhododendrons bloom in their full glory; summer meadows burst with wildflowers; autumn drapes the hills in shades of orange and gold; while winter covers everything in a magical blanket of snow. The best part? You can reach this high-altitude meadow in just 3 days of easy-to-moderate trekking. Dayara Bugyal in Uttarkashi offers everything you’d want in a Himalayan trek—rolling meadows, dense forests, and breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks—without being too demanding. It’s the perfect choice for beginners and families seeking an unforgettable Himalayan adventure.

When we first introduced Dayara Bugyal as a meadow trek, convincing trekkers wasn’t easy. Many assumed that easy trails couldn’t be beautiful. It took time to change that mindset. But today, Dayara Bugyal in Uttarkashi is not only loved by first-time trekkers but also admired by seasoned hikers.

It’s no wonder that Dayara Bugyal continues to be one of the most popular Himalayan treks we organize in Uttarkashi.

Things We Love About the Dayara Bugyal Trek

1) Our Raithal Campus in Uttarkashi
Staying at the Indiahikes Community Campus in Raithal, Uttarkashi, is a unique experience for trekkers. With Urjino Café, Crosstrek Stores, and cozy breakout zones, it feels refreshingly different from the usual lodge stay. What truly makes it special is the setting — Mt. Srikanth rises right in front, while the forested hills behind lead to the enchanting Dayara Bugyal. Spending a night here before your trek is both enriching and relaxing. If you love birdwatching, a short 30-minute walk around the campus can reward you with sightings of 10–15 Himalayan bird species.

2) The Big Mountains Overlooking Dayara Bugyal
The meadows of Dayara Bugyal in Uttarkashi are breathtaking, but the towering Himalayan peaks make the experience unforgettable. Picture yourself standing in the middle of these vast grasslands, surrounded by endless rolling hills, while the mighty Bandarpoonch glows under the sunlight. The massif feels like a guardian watching over the land. From Dayara, you get uninterrupted views of the Greater Himalayan range—Bandarpoonch, Kala Nag, Srikanth, Jaonli, and Draupadi Ka Danda—so close, it feels as if you could almost reach out and touch them.

3) The Vast Meadows of Dayara
The sheer scale of Dayara Bugyal in Uttarkashi is awe-inspiring. Stretching endlessly, the meadows roll over hillocks like a seamless green carpet. Trekkers often feel compelled to explore further—climbing one hillock only to discover another meadow waiting ahead. This vast, otherworldly landscape leaves visitors in disbelief that such a magical place truly exists in Uttarkashi.

4) Forest Trails and Rich Biodiversity
Just above Raithal, at a clearing called Ubaru ki Darali, the trail introduces you to towering oak (kharsu) forests. Soon, maples, rhododendrons (burnash), bamboo, and wild Himalayan cherry (tileen) join in. Giant roots grip the forest floor while peaks of the Gangotri Range peek through gaps in the foliage. Birdsong fills the air during the day, while at night you may hear the sharp alarm calls of Sambhar deer echoing in the silence. These shaded trails are alive with birds, including the Himalayan Monal, Uttarakhand’s state bird. As you trek further, the forest gradually thins into the vast, treeless grasslands of Dayara—a transition that feels magical to witness.

5) Campsites in Scenic Forest Clearings
The campsites on the Dayara Bugyal trek in Uttarkashi are among the most charming in the Himalayas. Places like Gui, Chilapada, and Nayata are nestled in grassy forest clearings with panoramic views of snow-capped peaks. You can wander into the nearby woods or simply relax, soaking in the peace and beauty. Their seclusion, charm, and natural setting make these campsites a favorite for trekkers.

Dayara Bugyal in Uttarkashi takes you through some of nature’s finest landscapes. While it’s beginner-friendly and perfect for families, it also offers immense rewards for seasoned trekkers. Be it spring, summer, autumn, or winter—you can never go wrong choosing Dayara Bugyal as your Himalayan adventure.

Dayara Bugyal – Complete Trek Information

We have always wanted trekkers to be well-informed before they go on a Himalayan trek. Knowledge is the difference between a safe trek and a dangerous one. It’s also the difference between a wholesome experience and a superficial experience.

Use this section to learn about the Dayara Bugyal trek. It has in-depth information about each day of the trek, what to expect, and how you need to prepare for it. Many years of expertise have gone into this content. Trekkers find that extremely useful.

Quick Itienary

Gets Your Plan

Dayara Bugyal Trek map 1

Day 1

Drive From Dehradun to Raithal

Drive Distance: 185 km

Drive Duration: 9 hours | Pick up point for Indiahikes trekkers: Live Free Hostel, Dehradun 

 Pick up Time: 6.30 am

Location of Indiahikes basecamp: Raithal

Transport will be arranged at 6.30 AM. The cost is Rs.1100/- (additional 5% GST) per trekker (one-way). These are non-AC vehicles. Please pre-book your transport through the dashboard before your trek.

Day 2

Trek from Raithal to Gui

Trek Distance: 4.5 km | Trek Duration: 5 hours | Altitude Gain: 7,142 ft to 9,630 ft

Day 3 – Trek from Gui to Chilapada

  • Trek Distance: 2.5 km
  • Trek Duration: 2–3 hours
  • Altitude Gain: 9,630 ft → 10,515 ft

This short but scenic trail gradually ascends through dense forests, opening into the beautiful Chilapada campsite in Uttarkashi, surrounded by serene greenery and mountain views.

Day 4 – Trek from Chilapada to Nayata via Dayara Top

  • Trek Distance: 9.5 km
  • Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
  • Altitude Gain & Loss: 10,515 ft → 11,830 ft (Dayara Top) → 9,186 ft

This is the highlight of the trek. You climb to the breathtaking Dayara Top in Uttarkashi, where vast meadows and panoramic views of the Gangotri range await you, before descending to Nayata for the night.

Day 5 – Trek from Nayata to Raithal

  • Trek Distance: 4 km
  • Trek Duration: 4–5 hours
  • Altitude Loss: 9,186 ft → 7,142 ft

A gradual descent through forests and open clearings brings you back to Raithal village, Uttarkashi, marking the end of your trekking journey.

Day 6 – Drive from Raithal to Dehradun

  • Drive Distance: 185 km
  • Drive Duration: Approx. 9 hours
  • Drop-off Point: Live Free Hostel, Dehradun
  • Expected Time of Arrival: 6:00 PM

Transport from Raithal will be arranged for your return journey. The cost is Rs. 1100/- per trekker (one-way) + 5% GST. These will be non-AC vehicles, and we recommend pre-booking through your dashboard before your trek.

Note: Trekking distances between campsites may vary by up to 100 meters depending on trail conditions and weather. Altitude readings may also differ by around 100 feet for the same reasons.