Dayara to Dodital
Classic Garhwal
Uttarakhand
-SWIFT-
4th-10th April 2026
The Dayara to Dodital Trek is a spectacular Himalayan crossover that bridges the gap between the world’s most expansive alpine meadows and a sacred emerald lake. This journey takes you from the rolling, velvet-green ridges of Dayara, framed by the towering peaks of Bandarpoonch and Black Peak, over the high-altitude Darwa Pass, and down into the serene forest sanctuary of Dodital. It is a rare trail that combines panoramic mountain vistas, dense rhododendron forests, and deep spiritual heritage in one unforgettable adventure.
At A Glance
ITINERARY
Day 01
This day is dedicated to travel, involving a long drive to reach the trek's base village. You'll pass through several beautiful hill towns and follow the scenic Bhagirathi river. The overnight stay at Raithal helps your body begin the process of acclimatization at this moderate altitude before the climb the next day.
Day 02
The first trekking day is a steep, but relatively short ascent. The trail is well-defined, winding through beautiful forests of oak and rhododendron which provide pleasant shade. You'll gain significant elevation quickly to reach the forested clearing of Gui camp, a beautiful spot where you will spend your first night sleeping in tents amidst the mountain air.
Day 03
This is a high-reward day where you ascend and traverse the magnificent, sprawling alpine meadows of Dayara bugyal. The views from the top of the bugyal or meadow are breathtaking, offering panoramic sights of prominent Himalayan peaks like Bandarpunch. After enjoying the views, you descend to the peaceful forest campsite at Devi Kund for your overnight stay.
Day 04
A moderate day of hiking through a mix of forests and open clearings. The path involves gentle ascents and descents as you proceed towards the higher altitude of Manji camp. Manji is an important junction camp, placing you in an excellent position for the short final push to the main destination the next day.
Day 05
The trek today is short, easy, and predominantly downhill or flat, making it a relaxed walk. It leads you directly to the sacred Dodital lake, the mythical birthplace of Lord Ganesha, where a small temple stands. The rest of the afternoon is free for relaxation by the serene lake, enjoying the surroundings, and preparing for the challenging Darwa Top summit attempt.
Day 06
This is the most strenuous day, requiring an early start and a tough, sustained climb to the 4,150 m Darwa Top summit. The reward is a spectacular, close-up view of the Gangotri and Bandarpunch ranges. After descending to Dodital for lunch, you'll continue trekking back down to the more comfortable Manji camp for a well-deserved night's rest.
Day 07
The final day involves a quick and continuous downhill trek to Agora village, marking the end of the walking portion of your adventure. The path is well-worn and enjoyable as you descend to lower altitudes. From Agora, you will board your pre-arranged vehicle for the road trip back to Dehradun.
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.