Dayara Bugyal Trek – Discovering the Hidden Gems of the Himalayas

Both novice and experienced trekkers at CoolTrials cherish the Dayara Bugyal trek. With each season comes a whole new view: spring will dazzle with its green woods, summer will blanket everything with verdant meadows, autumn will dress everything in golden orange, and winter lays a blanket of white snow on the terrain! During any time of the year, one is bound to be astounded by the experience.

This trek’s portfolio has intricately styled meadows, which appear to have been done so; every rock and tree is put deliberately where it is seen. Coupled with the impressive background of the stunning Gangotri mountain range, the disbalance of how much effort went into a trek and how much one is rewarded makes it beginner-friendly yet appealing.

Located above a height of 10,000 ft, Dayara Bugyal consists of sights from far and wide, the top of the prominent peaks of the Bandarpunch, Kala Nag, Srikanth, Jaonli and Draupadi Ka Danda while also seeing the Great Himalayan range. Watching the tremendous sunset over these mountains is one thing that brings trekkers back time and time again.

In summer, the meadows were covered with colorful, blooming alpine flowers such as blue Himalayan poppies, daisies, and primrose. The dense oak and rhododendron forests are a splendid site when overshadowed by the snow-capped peaks surrounding the area rich in avifauna, including the State Bird of Uttarakhand, the Himalayan monal.

A different kind of charisma is revealed in winter along the beautiful trail consisting of oak, pine, and maple trees with rhododendron shrubs scattered along. 

The trek reaches stunning peaks such as Mt. Bandarpoonch (6,316m) and Gangotri I (6,672m). At Dayara Top, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Garhwal range the trekkers offer.

This short trek is also home to two serene high-altitude lakes—Gui Lake, nestled amid the icy landscape, and the seaweed-green Barnala Tal, which beautifully reflects the winter colors of the valley. The soothing sounds of russet sparrows, Eurasian jays, and scarlet minivets accompany trekkers, enriching the overall experience.

Dayara Bugyal is located in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, India, in the Garhwal Himalayas. It is approximately 11,800 feet (3,600 meters) above sea level. Another attractive feature of this region is the large grassy meadows, which command the best views of the snow-capped Peak Man and the majestic Bandarpoonch, Kala Nag, and Srikanth Mahadev towering over the horizon.

The trek typically begins from the small village of Raithal or Barsu, accessible from Dehradun or Haridwar.

The Dayara Bugyal trek is particularly suitable for those with no experience and those who seek to get a taste of high-altitude trekking. So, it’s begging in a way to senor appetizing dishes later on. Effects such as difficulty during the trek are somewhat present, and the terrain is easy, making it entirely suited for the inexperienced.

Of all the high-altitude treks above 11,000 ft, Dayara Bugyal is the least hazardous one. That is why we usually advise it, even for novices, families, and people who are likely to start trekking later in life.

Key Challenges on the Dayara Bugyal Trek

Although Dayara Bugyal is mostly beginner-friendly, two specific sections could test your resolve:

• Basecamp to the Forest (1 km stretch): This initial kilometer is notably steep. While the trail is standard, the slope will test your endurance. It acts as a measure of the physical intensity of the trek, preparing you for the rest of the trek.
• Climb to Dayara Top: The last push to Dayara Top is also a steep stretch and is even worse in winter when snow covers the entire area. When you start this climb in the early morning, the snow is hard and frozen after a night of good temperatures. A steep, snowy section persists up to the summit and becomes steeper as you approach it.

Despite these hardships, the Dayara Bugyal trek is fairly easy and rewarding, allowing it to be perfect for an individual who wishes to explore the extraordinary nature of the Himalayas while perfecting his trekking skills.

The Dayara Bugyal Trek typically takes  4 to 5 days, depending on the itinerary and the trekking pace. The trek covers a distance of approximately 20–25 km, starting from the base camp at Raithal or Barsu, leading to the beautiful meadows of Dayara Bugyal and back. This duration allows time for acclimatization, scenic exploration, and a comfortable trekking experience.

Dayara Bugyal Trek is perceived to be gigantic rolling hills perfect for treks for at least ten months in a year, with the exception of the monsoons.

This means that trekkers spend almost eight months every year enjoying the beauty of Dayara Bugyal. There is some charm in every season, making it a total of 4 experiences: winter, spring, summer, and autumn.

A) Dayara Bugyal in Winter

• Daytime Temperature: Approximately between 8 and 12 degrees centigrade
• Nighttime Temperature: Approximately between minus 5 and minus 10 degrees centigrade
• Presence of Snow: Snow begins to blanket the landscape from the base camp around the end of December, transforming the entire valley into a winter wonderland.
• Warm Layers Required: Trekkers should wear approximately five warm layers in these cold climate conditions.

The best period to go for a trek to Dayara Bugyal is winter. The entire area is covered with fine, soft layers of snow, making it beautiful. It is also very beautiful to see snowflakes falling onto the pine trees. This season has one of the best activities: the snowball fight. If you are lucky enough to get some snowfall, it is one of the most enjoyable things to witness.

However, at the same time, the White Snow drifts also increase the level of difficulty of the trek, so if someone chooses to go at this time, then proper planning and preparation are a must. You don’t even have to go there to witness some white snow scenery. Just see videos of people trekking and enjoying Dayara Bugyal in winter.

B) Dayara Bugyal in Spring

• Temperature during the day: 13 °C to 17 °C
• Nighttime Temperature: Drops to around 0 °C
• Snow Presence: Spring gradually melts snow, especially in the lower campsites, while the upper reaches remain snow-clad.
• Warm Layers Required: 3-4 warm layers.

Dayara Bugyal has a spring season from the middle of March till the last day of April. The last traces of snow cover the area during the zonal whiteout, and only green grasses, along with the flowers in the meadows, are visible.

Rhododendrons start to flower while small wildflowers emerge from the grasses, creating a beautiful picture amongst the still snow in the upper areas. During this period, most varieties can be seen whose ecological amity with snow, green, or abundant flowers is a naturalist’s delight.

C) Dayara Bugyal in Summer

• Daytime Temperature: Averages between 18 °C and 20 °C
• Night Temperature: Falls to about 5 °C.
• Snow Presence: Most snow has melted, allowing for a lush green landscape.
• Warm Layers Required: 3 warm layers.

The summers during the Dayara Bugyal trek are quite hot, with the meadows turning green and the sun shining. The scent typical in the summer can be smelled while trekkers stroll in the shadows of oak and maple trees as flowers bloom.

However, dust and pollen in the air can sometimes make things hazy, which may allow only partial views. Nevertheless, when the skies are clear, it is possible to see the beautiful snow-capped peaks in the distance. Summer is known to be the best season to go on trekking. It is also a good season for families that want to take their children to witness lovely views of the mountain ranges.

D) Dayara Bugyal in Autumn

• Daytime Temperature: Ranges between 12 °C and 15 °C
• Nighttime Temperature: Drops to around 2 °C
• Snow Presence: There is no snow during autumn, as the landscape transforms into shades of gold and amber.
• Warm Layers Required: 4 warm layers.

Clear skies and stunning mountain vistas characterize autumn at Dayara Bugyal. This season offers some of the sharpest views of the majestic Gangotri range and the towering Bandarpoonch peak against golden meadows.

The rich autumn colors, such as the maple leaves turning red, make the scene more beautiful, along with the fall scenery. Autumn is a perfect season for photographers and nature lovers since the cold air, freshened by pines, heightens an already great trekking experience through stunning landscapes.

• Trek Name: Dayara Bugyal Trek
• Duration: 6 days
• Dayara Bugyal Trek height: 12,100 ft
• Dayara Bugyal Trek Location: Uttarakhand, India
• Dayara Bugyal Trek distance: 22 km
• Base Camp: Natin Village
• Trail Type: Circular trail with camping
• Dayara Bugyal Trek best time: Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter
• Seasons: January to June, September to December
• Dayara Bugyal Trek Winter Trek: Ideal in December for snow-covered landscapes
• Dayara Bugyal Trek Temperature: Freezing in winter, mild in summer
• Accommodation: Guesthouses and camping
• Nearest Railhead: Dehradun
• Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (28 km)
• Dayara Bugyal Trek Distance from Raithal: Common starting point for the trek
• Ideal for Beginners: Easy-grade trek suitable for all fitness levels
• Scenic Highlights: Meadows, forests, Himalayan views

Dayara Bugyal Trek is an expedition involving high altitudes; hence, the equipment you will be required to have differs from that of a normal trek. Here’s a comprehensive list of necessary items in order from head to toe:

1) Essentials

 Head Gear

• Headgear: Protect your head and face from the elements. Ensure you don’t leave any cap or hat behind to protect yourself from sun, wind, or cold.
• Headlamps: In addition to providing adequate light, headlamps are hands-free. These lamps are essential while trekking at night. So be cautious when selecting one to ensure the proper light output and battery life.
• Caps/Hats: A broad-brim cap will shield your face from the sun’s heat. Hikers where it gets really cold, however, may only be inclined to wear a few layers. A hat will get too hot for them, so they prefer snug-fitting caps that keep their heads warm and prevent heat loss.
• Sunglasses: UV radiation is most damaging to the eyes. Due to rarified air conditions, eye protection becomes even more important during mountain trekking. A pair of snug fitting sunglasses will aid in this regard, but ensure they are not too tight to slip under strain.
• Buff or Balaclava: Wearing scarf to protect against harsh weather is not new. To keep warm, these can be used as headbands or neckwarmers depending on weather conditions

B) Clothing

• Layering: Dressing in layers is key to staying warm and adjusting to temperature changes at high altitudes.
  • Use three layers for spring, summer, and monsoon treks: a woolen sweater, fleece, and padded jacket.
  • For autumn treks, add an extra fleece layer.
  • For winter treks, wear five layers, including thermals, sweaters, fleeces, and a jacket.
• T-shirts/Long-sleeved shirts: Pack three quick-dry T-shirts or long-sleeved shirts. Synthetic materials work best as they dry quickly and protect you from UV rays.
• Trekking jacket: A down jacket rated for temperatures as low as -5°C to -10°C or a multi-layered trekking jacket will keep you warm.
• Thermals: Carry at least two pairs of thermals for added warmth.
• Undergarments: Bring enough according to your hygiene preferences.
• Gloves: Good insulated gloves will keep your hands warm in freezing conditions.
• Trekking pants: Pack 2-3 pairs of quick-dry, comfortable trekking pants that allow flexibility during hikes.
• Rain gear: Carry a raincoat or poncho. A poncho offers the added benefit of covering both you and your backpack. If using a raincoat, ensure your backpack has a waterproof cover.

C) Foot Gear

• Trekking Shoes: Waterproof shoes with good ankle support are crucial for rough terrain.
• Sandals/Flip-flops: For resting your feet at campsites or crossing streams.
• Socks: Pack at least 3-4 good-quality trekking socks to keep your feet dry and blister-free.
• Microspikes & Gaiters: You don’t need to carry these yourself, as Trekup India provides them when needed for snow or slippery conditions.

D) Personal First Aid Kit

Packaging your first aid kit before heading out on your trek is essential. Be prepared for any unforeseen situations by including these essentials. However, remember to consult your doctor regarding medications.

First Aid Essentials:

• Antiseptic wipes or a water syringe to clean wounds.
• Butterfly bandages for minor cuts.
• Cotton, elastic bandages, and sterile gauze pads for larger injuries.
• Latex gloves for handling wounds with bleeding.
• Medications for diarrhea, cold, fever, and headaches.
• Painkillers for quick relief.
• ORS pouches to treat dehydration.
• Pain relief spray for external use.
• Personal medications prescribed by your doctor.
• Dimox or similar medication for altitude sickness.
• Bug repellent to avoid insect bites.
• Carry some energy bars or drinks (non-alcoholic) for a quick energy boost.

Note: Always consult your healthcare provider before taking any medication.

E) Gadgets and Other Items

When you are trekking, carry gadgets that will enhance your trekking experience and add convenience:

• Trekking poles for extra stability on uneven terrain.
• Mobile phone for communication.
• Camera to capture the scenic beauty.
• Spare batteries for your phone and camera and a power bank for charging.
• A lightweight flashlight or headlamp for nighttime navigation.
• A waterproof bag for your electronics, like a camera.
• Plug converter for charging devices.
• A 1-liter water bottle to stay hydrated.
• A journal and pen for recording your thoughts or notes.
• Books for leisure reading during idle times.
• Map and guidebook to keep track of the region you are trekking in.

F) Hygiene & Personal Toiletry Items

Maintaining personal hygiene on a trail can be difficult due to the lack of services if you stay in a tent. In this scenario, bring the following:

• Sunscreen with UV protection to shield your skin from harmful rays.
• Quick-dry towels to dry off after rain or sweating.
• Toilet paper, tissues, or wet wipes for cleanliness on the go.
• Toothbrush, toothpaste, and mouth freshener to maintain oral hygiene.
• Deodorant or talcum powder to stay fresh and odor-free.
• Shampoo to keep your hair clean.
• Sanitary pads or tampons for female trekkers.
• Lip balm or salve to prevent chapped lips.
• Biodegradable soap to stay clean while being eco-friendly.
• Personal items such as nail clippers and other everyday essentials.

2) Fitness Level:

The Dayara Bugyal Trek is a moderate trek suitable for beginners but requires decent physical fitness. As the trek includes walking on flat surfaces along with climbing and descending, the trekker’s body will undergo serious impact, so trekkers should be appropriately conditioned to the extreme conditions.

Here are some physical fitness requirements and recommended preparatory exercises:

• Cardiovascular Fitness: Trekkers should be able to walk  5-6 hours daily with a light backpack. Cardiovascular exercises like running, swimming, cycling, or brisk walking can help improve stamina. Aim to comfortably run briskly for 5 km in less than forty minutes.
• Strength Training: Focus on exercises like squats, lunges, and step-ups to build leg strength. Core strengthening exercises such as planks and sit-ups are also beneficial for stability.
• Flexibility: Incorporate stretching exercises or yoga to improve flexibility, crucial for preventing injuries while trekking on uneven terrain.
• Altitude Acclimatization: Ideally, practice trekking at lower altitudes as it prepares the body for higher elevation requirements for the actual scenarios. The need for adjustment is under lower pressure zones, where used oxygen levels are comparatively restricted.

3) Safety Tips:

A) Acclimatization:

• Great care has to be taken in planning and implementing the physical aspect of treks like Dayara Bugyal, which does not cross very high altitudes (the highest point is approximately 12,000 ft). People should be aware of altitude sickness and measure their efforts accordingly. Ascend slowly and stay hydrated. If possible, spend a day acclimatizing at Raithal, the base village, before starting the trek.
•  Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) symptoms include headaches, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. If this happens, the best approach would be to rest and drink a lot of liquids, and if the condition does not improve, go to a lower altitude.

B) Handling Emergencies:

• Moving down lower altitudes is one way to cope with injuries or altitude sickness.
• Always carry a well-stocked first aid kit (with medications like Diamox for altitude sickness) and familiarize yourself with basic emergency procedures like CPR.
• Always inform someone who is not part of the trek about your trekking Itinerary with a person with an emergency contact near them.

C) Weather Precautions:

• The higher altitude Bugyals (meadows) weather is unstable, and conditions can change anytime. Even in summer, the temperatures can drop to sub-zero at night. Be prepared with layered clothing, including a fleece jacket and windproof, waterproof outerwear.
• Avoid trekking during the monsoon season (July to September), as the trails can be slippery, and landslides are at risk.
• Carry rain gear (raincoat or poncho) and wear waterproof trekking boots to stay dry during unexpected rains.

How to Reach Dayara Bugyal Trek

When planning your journey, especially if you’re traveling from cities like Bengaluru, Chennai, Pune, or Mumbai, it’s essential to book your air tickets either for Day Minus One (the day before Day 1 of your itinerary) or for a time that ensures you arrive at least half an hour before your scheduled pick-up.

1) Flight Booking Options

Option 1: Fly Directly to Dehradun

So, it is better because there will be an additional rest day in Dehradun. Almost all the metropolises fly directly to Dehradun. If the flight costs to Dehradun are prohibitively high, consider booking a flight to Delhi and then traveling to Dehradun by train or bus.

While the Dehradun Airport has limited city connectivity, hourly buses run between the airport, Rishikesh, and Dehradun. Worrying could be necessary since the journeys may take one hour to one and a half hours.

Passengers flying in reach the terminal for taxis immediately after disembarkation, or they may take prepaid taxis at the desk next to the baggage collection area. Using a taxi with other passengers from your flight is also recommended whenever possible.

Pro Tip: Consider walking about 1.5 km to the Dehradun-Rishikesh National Highway to save money. You can catch a private or Uttarakhand Vikas Mandal Nigam bus to ISBT Dehradun for just Rs 40. After arriving at ISBT, take a shared auto (locally known as Vikrams) to Dehradun Railway Station for about Rs 10.

Option 2: Flying to Delhi

Once in a while, the prices of air tickets to Delhi are much lower than the other tickets. If you choose this option, ensure your flight arrives in Delhi by 8:00 PM on Day Zero (the day before your trek starts).

If the price difference between flights to Delhi and Dehradun is less than Rs 1000, booking directly to Dehradun for a more relaxed travel experience is advisable.

After arriving in Delhi, book a ticket on the Nanda Devi Express (Train No: 12401), which departs from Hazrat Nizamuddin at 11:45 PM and arrives in Dehradun at 5:40 AM. Please note that since August 26, 2019, the Nanda Devi Express now departs from Hazrat Nizamuddin instead of New Delhi, which may result in a slight delay of 15 to 30 minutes.

For airport connectivity from Indira Gandhi International Airport, take a metro to Dhaula Kuan, then switch to the Dhaula Kuan to Hazrat Nizamuddin line. This journey usually takes about 45 minutes to an hour.

At Dehradun, expect pick-up at 6:30 AM. Contact your driver by 6:00 AM, and you’ll receive your transport coordinator’s contact information a day or two before your trip.

Caution: Avoid booking trains other than the Nanda Devi Express, as alternatives like the Mussoorie Express are notorious for delays, which could cause you to miss your pick-up. 

If you are unable to get tickets for the Nanda Devi Express, it is worth mentioning that a bus from Delhi to Dehradun is rather reliable, avoid the Mussoorie Express though.

Pro Tip: Consider taking the Jan Shatabdi Express, which departs from New Delhi at 3:20 PM and arrives in Haridwar at 9:10 PM. Stay over in Dehradun, then take direct pick up from Dehradun Railway Station the next morning.

2) Bus Options

If you cannot secure a train ticket, regular Volvo AC buses run from Delhi’s ISBT Kashmiri Gate to Dehradun. There are also Non-AC buses and their departure time is every half hour. The bus journey typically takes 7-8 hours, and AC bus tickets cost approximately Rs 700.

Note: The last metro train from the airport to New Delhi, which connects to ISBT Kashmiri Gate, departs at 11:15 PM, with a fare of Rs 60.

3) Planning Your Return Journey

For your return tickets, if your trek concludes on Day 6, it’s best to book your travel for Day 7, ideally after 8:00-9:00 PM.

If you depart from Delhi, ensure your tickets are booked for Day 7. Although some trekkers worry about early morning flights, booking flights after 8 AM on Day 7 is feasible. Avoid scheduling flights between 6:00 and 8:00 AM, as you may not reach Delhi in time.

A) Getting to Delhi for an Early Morning Flight

If your flight is scheduled between 8:00 and 9:00 AM, you have two options:

• Train: Take the Nanda Devi Express (Train No: 12402), which departs Dehradun at 10:50 PM, arriving at Hazrat Nizamuddin at 4:35 AM. From there, you can catch airport buses or taxis.
• Bus: Alternatively, opt for a bus from Dehradun. A bus ride takes approximately 5½ to 6 hours, so if you leave around 9:00 PM, expect to arrive in Delhi around 3:00 AM (ISBT Kashmiri Gate). An AC Volvo bus is the quickest option.

Note: Metro trains in Delhi do not begin service until 5:00 AM.

4) If You Are Flying Out of Dehradun

If you’re departing from Dehradun, ensure you book your flight for Day 7. The metropolitan cities are now well connected to Dehradun by all weather roads facilitating seamless travel.

These guidelines can guarantee a hassle free travel experience for your trekking trip. Good luck with your travels!

5) Reach the Raithal base camp

Here’s a guide on how to reach the Raithal base camp independently:

If the intention is to go to Uttarkashi from Dehradun, preferably by bus. The earliest bus usually departs from Dehradun Railway Station around 5:30 AM, costing approximately Rs 355.

Another option is to take local private buses or shared taxis from Lansdowne Chowk near the Parade Ground. The last private bus typically leaves around 9:00 AM. Additionally, private buses are operating from Rishikesh to Uttarkashi.

Once you arrive in Uttarkashi, head to the taxi stand, a short walk from the bus stand (also known as Bhatwari Taxi Stand). You can catch a shared taxi to Raithal for about Rs 100 here.

Important Note: Shared taxis from Bhatwari to Raithal are available until around 4 PM, so plan accordingly.

This approach helps distribute the work load evenly as you reach the base camp fresh and enthusiastic to begin the trek!

1) Accommodation:

The Dayara Bugyal trek begins from Raithal village, where trekkers often spend a night before starting their journey. In raithal and the vicinity, several eating and lodging facilities are available in homestays, budget guest houses, and simple lodges and hotels meant for trekkers. Such common options are as follows:

A) Homestays in Raithal:

• The locals in Raithal open their homes for trekkers and provide the guests basic but warm rooms with clean beds, electricity and home cooked food.
• Raithal is a more homely place where trekkers can meet the culture first hand and experience a more guest-oriented stay.
• Expect rooms to start around ₹500 to ₹1,000 per night.

B) Guesthouses and Lodges:

• Trekking guests can also get the services of small lodges in Raithal, where they can spend the night at low rates.
• These lodges are equipped with facilities like electric lights and hot water so that trekkers can rest before commencing the trek itself, however, internet services are sometimes unavailable.
• Prices range from ₹700 to ₹1,500 per night, depending on the facilities and season.

C) Camping on the Trek:

• Most trekking companies set up camps during the trek at scenic spots such as Gui and Chilapada. For a night, participants of the trek are provided with tents, sleeping bags and mats at the camps which are usually included as part of the trekking package.
  • These facilities are very basic during the trek. Temporary kitchens and dry pit toilets are also available as the basic provisions.

D) Backpacker Hostels and Hotels in Dehradun:

• Many trekkers do prefer to spend the night at Dehradun before proceeding to Raithal. Options like Hotel Grand Legacy, Nomads House, and Sun n Soil Backpackers cater to various budgets, from backpackers to those seeking more comfort.

2) Food:

The meals included on the Dayara Bugyal trekking expedition can be characterized as basic and catering to the needs of the trekkers. Here is what you can expect, as usual in most cases:

A) Meals in Homestays and Guesthouses:

• If you’re staying in Raithal or nearby villages, locals usually prepare meals and include typical North Indian dishes like dal, roti, rice, and seasonal vegetables. Some places may also offer local Garhwali cuisine, which includes dishes like Aloo ke Gutke and Phaanu.
• Most vegetarian diets consist of meals as a result vegetarian meals are common, and the food is cooked fresh and served hot.

B) Trekking Meals:

• When you begin trekking, the camp staff will prepare your meals at the campsite. The meals are basic, nutritious, and energy sustaining. Common meals include porridge, parathas, vegetable curry, and rice.
• During the trek, snacks such as energy bars, dry fruits, and biscuits are provided to keep your energy levels up.
• Ensure you carry ORS (Oral Rehydration Salts) or other electrolytes to stay hydrated during the trek, especially at higher altitudes.

C) Special Dietary Requirements:

• Have your dietary preferences made known to your trekking organizers in good time, if you have some (vegan, or gluten free). There may be more challenges to satisfy a particular diet, however, in isolated areas there would likely be vegetarian meals.

To trek in the Dayara Bugyal region, you must obtain specific permits, as the area falls under government-regulated zones. Here are the key permits and regulations that trekkers should be aware of:

1) Trekking Permit:

• A forest department permit is required to enter the Dayara Bugyal trek route. These permits help regulate the flow of trekkers and ensure that the forest and grasslands are preserved. The permit fee varies depending on the season and can typically be obtained from the Forest Office in Raithal or Bhatwari.
• Most trekking agencies or guides can help you obtain this permit as part of their services.

2) Identity Proof:

• Trekkers must carry valid identity proof (e.g., Aadhaar card, passport, driving license) to be shown when applying for the trekking permit or in case of checks by authorities during the trek.

3)  Fees:

• Along with the trekking permit fee, trekkers may also need to pay camping fees if they stay overnight in certain forest areas. These fees are typically nominal and vary based on the region or campsite.

Dayara Bugyal Trekking Tips

• If you’re heading to Dayara Bugyal from a low-altitude location, take a day or two to acclimatize in Dehradun or Raithal before starting the trek. There are other real risks like altitude sickness and allowing for acclimatization would minimize chances of experiencing headaches or dizziness when on the trail.
• Dayara Bugyal offers some of the finest views of mountains combined with large green pastures. Rather than rushing to the campsite, one should enjoy every part of the hike. Stop frequently, take photos, and let your body naturally adjust to the altitude as you ascend.
• The weather in Dayara Bugyal can shift quickly from sunny to cold, especially at night. Bring thermal layers and a down jacket, but avoid the temptation to overpack. Stick to essentials like a waterproof jacket, warm gloves, and an excellent trekking beanie. Every extra gram will feel heavier the higher you go.
• The trekking route involves some long stretches where you need help finding shops. Keep high-energy snacks like dry fruits, energy bars, or chocolate in easy-to-reach pockets. These can be useful during steep ascents, and you may appreciate a quick sugar rush.
• In the colder months, one must remember to hydrate sufficiently. On this trek, this is especially crucial to minimize the effects of altitude sickness. You can add electrolyte tablets to your water to stay balanced, especially after long days of hiking.
• To prevent yourself from getting ruined by blisters, practice using your trekking shoes before the trek by taking long walks or short hikes. You can avoid blisters ruining your trek if you do this. For added comfort, wear moisture-wicking trekking socks to avoid friction and blisters.
• It’s very important to have a first-aid kit. Also include anti-blister pads, muscle pain relief spray, and tablets for altitude sickness. Given the altitude of Dayara Bugyal (around 11,000 to 12,000 feet), Diamox can help prevent altitude sickness if prescribed by your doctor.
• While the trek is relatively easy to navigate, hiring a local guide can offer invaluable insights into the region, culture, and history. They can also provide heimatization tips and route planning and ensure you follow eco-friendly practices.
• One of the most beautiful things about Dayara Bugyal is its natural and unspoiled beauty. Carry out what you carry in – garbage including biodegradable, and tissues. Use a portable trash bag for the trek, and don’t leave anything behind.
• The sunrise and sunset views at Dayara Bugyal are breathtaking. Be prepared to stand in the early hours and late at night with a camera to capture the golden rays hitting the peaks of the Himalayas.