Dayara Bugyal
Summer glory
Garhwal, Uttarakhand
-SWIFT-
2nd-6th June 2026
This 5-day itinerary invites you to experience Dayara bugyal, one of India's most stunning high-altitude meadows, in its prime summer glory. Starting with a scenic drive from Dehradun, you'll trek through dense, fragrant forests to reach the vast, undulating grasslands carpeted in lush green foliage and vibrant wildflowers. The journey is a perfect blend of challenging ascents and serene exploration, offering panoramic, unobstructed views of the mighty Himalayan peaks before your return journey.
At A Glance
ITINERARY
Day 01
Your journey begins with a long and scenic drive from Dehradun, which typically takes about 7-8 hours. The route takes you through the picturesque Garhwal region, with mesmerizing views of the Bhagirathi River and the stunning Tehri dam reservoir. After passing through towns like Uttarkashi, you'll reach the charming village of Raithal, which serves as the base camp for the trek. Upon arrival, settle into your local homestay or guesthouse and acclimatise to the altitude, enjoying the vibrant green terraced fields of the village and preparing for the trek ahead.
Day 02
After breakfast, you'll begin your trek. The trail from Raithal is a steady ascent through a thick, beautiful forest of rhododendron and oak trees. The trek is a good warm-up, offering the first glimpse of mountain biodiversity. As you emerge from the forest, you'll arrive at Gui, a stunning campsite that offers the first panoramic views of the Dayara meadows and the majestic Himalayan peaks. You will set up camp here for the night, enjoying the sound of wind through the surrounding trees.
Day 03
Today, you'll fully immerse yourself in the lush summer beauty of the Dayara bugyal or meadow. Starting from Gui, you'll trek into the vast expanse of undulating green grasslands carpeted with colorful wildflowers. The trail is gentle and rolling, allowing you to walk for hours across the pristine meadows. You can trek to Bakaria top, which offers a breathtaking 360-degree view of prominent snow-capped peaks like Bandarpoonch, Gangotri, and Draupadi ka Danda. Spend the day exploring the endless green, soaking in the crisp, serene atmosphere before returning to your camp at Gui for the night.
Day 04
Begin your descent back to Raithal. The trek is a relatively easy downhill walk, ensuring a quick return. The path winds back through the same beautiful, cool forests you ascended through. Upon reaching Raithal, you can take the opportunity to explore the traditional architecture of the local village life, interact with the people, and learn about the local Garhwali culture. You'll spend the night here in a cosy homestay, celebrating the successful completion of your trek.
Day 05
After a final breakfast in Raithal, you'll begin your return journey. The drive follows the same scenic route back, offering a final chance to enjoy the mountainous landscapes and the views of the Tehri reservoir and reach Dehrudun.
Inclusions and Exclusions
- Transport:
Pick-up and drop-off from the designated starting point as per the itinerary (Dehradun, Rishikesh, or Kathgodam).
All sightseeing in a dedicated mountain-ready vehicle (Ertiga or similar). - Accommodation:
Comfortable guesthouses on the drives to and from the trailhead, homestays in villages, and alpine tents on the trekking trail. - Permits & Fees: Forest department entry fees and trekking permits.
- Trek : Guided trek with professional camping gear.
- Meals: All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) and dinner and breakfast for the remaining itinerary.
- Staff: English-speaking tour leader, experienced local guides, and camping staff.
- Insurance: Mandatory travel insurance.
- Personal Gear: Personal equipment (thermal wear, hiking poles, etc).
- Meals: Any meals not mentioned in the program.
- Beverages: Any drinks including soft drinks, bottled water, or alcoholic beverages.
- Extra Tours: Any activities not mentioned in the itinerary.
- Tips: Gratuities for the local guides, drivers, and hotel/lodge staff.
- Taxes: All applicable taxes and transactional fees.
- Contingency Fee: Any additional expenses arising due to unforeseen circumstances such as bad weather, road blocks or unrest, that result in an extension or change in the program, or emergency evacuation for medical reasons.