DAYARA BUGYAL BLOG

DAYARA BUGYAL

HIGHLIGHTS

A PERFECT HIMALAYAN TREK FOR BEGINNERS

If you haven’t heard about DayaraBugyal, you are definitely missing out something big. Carpet full of lush meadows, oak trees, walk through forests and ancient villages. The trek is rated between easy to moderate. Hence one should go for this if you are newbie to the trekking world.

WILDFLOWERS AND GRAND MEADOWS

You will find a lot of forests of oaks, maples, rhododendrons and pines in a small Himalayan village called Raithal. The grand meadows will blow will your mind once you walk through this trail.

MESMERIZING GARWHAL MOUNTAINS

Sparkling views of the Gangotri range with Bandarpoonch stand out magnificently. Once you trek to the top of the meadows, you will get a a glorious view from the Dayara top and Bakaria Top.

FROM A LUSH GREEN MEADOW IN SUMMERS TO SNOWY MEADOW- A DIFFERENT HUE ALTOGETHER

The trek gives a different look in summers and in winters the landscapes are presented to in front of yours eyes to be straight out movie say the Chronicles of Narnia

OVERVIEW

DayaraBugyal is a marvelous alpine green meadow tucked away in the western Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand. The carpet full of flowers and green meadows will make heart melt. Not many trekkers and adventure enthusiast talk about this hidden trail.

WHAT IS THE BEST THING ABOUT THIS TREK?

Stupendous Alpine meadows in the country

The Meadows has qualities which are bound to charm you. It can’t get any better as you move ahead and see the entire Himalayan range. Yet again, we would like to tell you that people don’t talk much about DayaraBugyal . We have few names like Ali- BedniBugyal ,Gidara, GorsonPanwali Kantha.

The Gangotri Range

Once you enter DayaraBugyal meadows, you will get to witness the views of Mt Srikanth, Draupadi Ka Danda Ka Danda , Jaonli and Bhagirathi. And of course, Mt Banderpoonch on the right side of the meadow. Photos would not even do justice to the view; you have to struggle a bit to get this view with your own eyes and it’s worth it. As you go higher and higher the view gets outstanding.

The trekking trail is pretty

Well let’s talk about the trail which is often not talked about. The DayaraBugyal is extremely pretty. From villages, meadows, the temples. The trail is very pleasant to walk through forests and alpine oak trees.

Brief Itinerary

Day 1- Dehradun to Raithal Village

• Altitude:7,400 ft
• Stay in Guest house/homestay
• Drive 180km (6-7 hours)
• View of Gangotrirange from Moryana top
• Front view of Shrikanth peak and massif view the Gangotri range from Raithal

Day 2- Raithal to Gui

• Altitude: 7,400 to 9,500 ft
• Distance is 3.5km will take 4-5 hours
• Easy trail. Gradual ascend throughout
• No water sources, carry 2 liters of water bottles
• Same view as Raithal, village huts around, campsite surrounded by forests of silver, gold oak trees, bloomed with rhododendrons.

Day 3- Gui to Chilapada

• Altitude: 9,500 to 9,800ft
• Distance is 3km, 2hours
• Stay in tents
• Easy trail, Gradual walk

Day 4 – Chilapada to Dayara top and back to Raithal

• Altitude: 9,800ft to 12,100ft
• Distance is 6 km (each way), 6-7 hours
• Easy to Moderate trail
• Massive views of many peaks and Dodital range from top

Day 5- Gui to Raithal

• Altitude: 9,900 to 7,400ft
• Distance: 3.5 km 2 hours
• Easy descend all the way

Day 6- Raithal to Dehradun

• Time taken: 6-7 hours drive to Dehradun
• Leave Raithal by 6:30 am
• You’ll reach Dehradun between 3-4 pm. You can book your travel any time after 6 pm.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Reach Raithal

The first base camp of the DayaraBugyal Trek is Raithal which is around 9 hours from Dehradun. You will pass through the river Bhagirathi and drive through the lovely streches of forests. Uttarkashi is the largest town, where you head to Batwari. Once you reach Raithal , witness the gorgeous sunsets over Mt Jaonli and Draupadi ka Danda peaks.

• Altitude: 7,096 ft (2,163 m)
• Time taken: 7-8 hours drive

Day 2: Raithal to Gui

• Altitude: 7,096 ft (2,163 m) to 9,701 ft (2,957 m)
• Time taken: 4-5 hours
• Trek gradient: Easy-moderate. Gradually ascending the trail throughout

Srikhand Mahadev and Group Peak 1,2,3 can be seen from Raithal. As you move ahead

At Raithal, you can see Srikhand Mahadev and Gangotri 1, 2, 3 in the distance along with the mountains mentioned above. These become more prominent as you gain altitude on the trail to Gui. The trekking route is a gradual ascent. Firstly, you will go out of the Raithal Village and then you will walk in between the village fields that ie trekking through the fields. Keep following the trail and you will see a flat grassy clearing which has a hand pump. You can take a water break and start trekking further. You will be welcomed by a lot of forests mainly of green and brown oaks (Moru and Kharsu) and rhododendron.

The forest opens up to a couple of small clearings before you reach Gui.

The campsite at Gui is located in a small clearing surrounded by forests. There is a small tal close by. You will find village huts around – these are used by villagers in the summer. There is also a u-shaped forest department hut at some distance.

Day 3: Gui to Barnala

• Altitude: 9,884 ft (3,012 m) to 11,100 ft (3,383 m)
• Time taken: 3-3.5 hours
• Trek gradient: Easy-moderate. Mostly a flat trail through the forest

As you climb up from Gui, you start seeing mountains on the other side, which were earlier hidden from view. Twenty minutes into the climb, you come to a rain shelter to your left. At the rain shelter, the trail to Barnala turns right into the forest.

You are here in the middle of an oak forests and you will reach Barnala campsite after about one and a half hours. There are small water streams flowing by. The campsite of Barnala is magnificent as it is guarded by small hillocks on three sides giving a ethereal mountain view on the fourth side. Have lunch and take some rest at the camp. Head towards west from the campsite on the trail towards the Barnala meadows. Pass through the green lush meadows and continue to trek for 10-15mins and then keep on walking for another 10 mins. After sometime you will witness the entire Gangotri as you walk along the trail where you will come across a Nag Devta temple located next to a tal. The walk is quite steep but worth it. Walk in and around the meadows, stroll for a while. Sunsets are the most amazing stuff to watch in the mountains and one cannot miss it. Astonishing view of Bandarpooch to the left,Kalanag, Srikhand Mahadev and Draupadi ka Danda to the right can be seen.

Day 4: Barnala to Dayara Top to Chilapada/ Gui

• Altitude: 11,100 ft (3,383 m) to 12,057 ft (3,675 m) to 9,500 ft (2,896 m)
• Time taken: 5-6 hours
• Trek gradient: Undulating walk across meadows followed by a final ascent.

Finally, today is the summit day. You will be going to the highest point and the retur to the base camp. With the first few steps under forest, the trail gradually opens up, leading to vast meadows.You will find yourself amidst the meadows, and wildflowers. The adrenaline rush cannot stop as one will see the stunning views of Bandarpoonch. The summit is steep but one will not regret it. When you stand at the Dayara Top you will find the Dodital Range. The trail further leads to Gidara Pass . This is a treat to everyone’s eyes to enjoy the serene nature. Head back to the campsite as the day have already been very hectic

Day 5: Gui/Chilapada to Raithal

• Altitude: 9,500 ft (2,896 m) to 7,400 ft (2,256 m)
• Time taken: 4 hours
• Trek gradient: Short stretches of ascents and descents for 1.5 hours followed by a steeply descending trail

To reach Raithal it takes only 4 hours, so start your trek by 9am. It takes about 4 hours to reach Raithal, so start your days trek by 9 am. The descent is very easy and throughout the entire trail you will rememeber the memories. Raithal is a lively village where children and villagers will be seen meandering around.

Day 6: Raithal to Dehradun.
Start from Raithal after breakfast. Enjoy the scenic drive back to Dehradun. You are expected to reach Dehradun at around 7 pm on this day.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. When is the best time to go to Dayara Bugyal Trek?

Round the year except monsoon. More snow in the winter months until April. During winters: December- April

2. What will be the temperature on the Dayara Bugyal trek?

The temperature is normal and bearable. During day time temperature is hot and at night time it stays between 3 degree and can go upto –4

3. How long do we walk each day?

Generally every day trek distance is not long. Average walking distance is 4 km each day and trekkers complete in 3-4 hrs.

4. Is diamox is advisable?

NO, but in case you are having so please consult your doctor because there are lots of MYTH about Diamox.

5. Who will lead and who all will go along with us?

There will be trek leaders who are professionally trained in Basic and Advance Mountaineering Course and certified in the first-aid course and along with one local guide, cook, helper, porter and other staff.

6 How big are the groups?

We try to bring together a small group of likeminded people to give them a memorable and insightful travel experience, normally we take 22 – 26 people in one batch including male and female. We need minimum 6 people to run a fix departure but for the customized trip group size doesn’t matter.

7. I am the only girl in trek, is it safe?

Girls safety is important for us. We have the entire crew and guides who are extremely trust worthy. People’s safety is what matters to us the most. But we would advise you to take care of your own personal belongings.

8. What are the things we need to carry?

Once you made the booking our team will send you the trek essentials list according to the trek.

9. Which type of shoes should I buy?

Good trekking shoes are the most important part of the trek, so you have to be very careful before buying it. You can buy trekking shoes from Decathlon which includes brands like Quechua.

10. How many trekkers will be in one tent?

There will be two people will be accommodating in one tent.

11. What is the level of fitness expected from the participants?

Optimum level of fitness is always required in any trek so that you can enjoy your trek.

12. What type of food is served during a trek?

We serve Indian vegetarian food and eggs during our trek.

13. Will the Doctors accompany during the trek?

No, but our trek leaders are certified in Wilderness first-aid” and be aware of high attitude problems, and we carry whole first-aid kit and necessary medicines with us. Make sure you are medically fit for a trek or take professional advice if you feel you are unable to judge yourself.

14. Do you think I should bring some medicines with me?

Yes, it is always advisable that in any trek carry your own medication weather organizers carrying it or not.

15. How do I book a trek with you?

After choosing the trip you wish to join, the first step is to fill up the booking form, a deposit has to be made in order to confirm the reservation. All details will be emailed to you to make it easy for you to book.

After choosing the trip, the first step is to direct message on the numbers given on the social media. One of our team members will directly contact you regarding the bookings. All the details will be sent to you via mail.

16. is the trekking pole necessary?

Yes, walking stick necessary for you because it will help you to walk in decent and provide you balance also, it will reduce your fatigue.

17. What kind of toilet facility you are providing us?

Toilet tents would be there. Basically, we use dry toilet which is one of the best ways to answer a nature call in forest. Dry toilet means, we dig a pita and keep mud and shovel so once you are done with your business you can cover it up using mud. It is most hygienic way. You should carry toiletries as we mention in essential.

How to get fit for Dayara Bugyal

The Dayara Bugyal is considered as an easy to moderate trek. For that you need to have very strong lungs.

The Dayara Bugyal requires a good amount of cardiovascular endurance. And you might be thinking how to make your lungs stronger? Firstly, start by jogging every day. Start jogging at a slow pace and keep increasing day by day. This will make your lungs stronger than before hence cardiovascular endurance exercises are very important.

Fitness Regime :

• –>. Firstly, when you start target 5km in 40 mins
• –>Then gradually increase your pace by running at least 4 times a week. Then try to bring it down to 5km in less than 37 mins
• –> If you are a person who prefers cycling over running then your target must be 22km means you should be able to cover 22km in 60 mins.

Here is the routine for a course of one month. You must exercise four times a week

The workouts:

1. Walking is a great exercise that gives great shape to your legs and your body. It helps in burning calories and cut down excess weight and strengthens the heart.
2. Jogging is effective in increasing human lifespan and makes your lungs stronger. It is an aerobic activity that requires a lot of oxygen. This is a great exercise for fighting obesity and staying healthy.
3. Squats are the best form of functional exercises to improve stability. They also strengthen your legs, thighs, hips and hamstring
4. Another great cardio vascular exercise is pushing your body upstairs after stairs. This is regarded as the best exercise for increasing strength and power

Trek Fitness Guide

Week 1:

Warm up: Spot Jogging for 5 mins

Start with Brisk walking then go for light jogging. You must aim for 3km in 4omins.

Week 2:

Warm up: Spot Jogging for 5 mins

Brisk walk with light jogging. Now this time speed up a little than before that is 3km in 30mins. Squats: 15*3 Start slowly and easily with Stair climbing: 2 stories*10 in 15 mins.

Week 3:

Warm Up: Spot Jogging for 5 mins (same as for you did it for the week 1 and 2)

Brisk walk with light jogging. Now this time speed up a little than before that is 3km in 20mins.

Squats: 15*3 Start slowly and easily with Stair climbing: 3 stories*10 in 15 mins

Week 4:

Warm Up: Spot Jogging for 5 mins (same as for you did it for the week 1 ,2 and 3)

Brisk walk with light jogging. Now this time speed up a little than before that is 3km in 20mins.

Squats: 15*3

Start slowly and easily with stair climbing: 2 stories*10 in 20 mins. Carry a 4kg backpack and start doing the stair climbing.

Why Travel with Discovery Hike?

1.Safety:We breath in the term ‘Safety’ as this our outmost priority. We have tremendous trek leaders where all of them are hold a degree in mountaineering course (Basic and Advance as well). Our trek leaders are carefully chosen, groomed well enough and rigorously trained. They know the safety protocols like the back of their hand.

2. Trained Mountain Staff members:Our trek leaders and the entire team bring in incredible safety to trek as well. Our Mountain staff members of The Trail Himalayaalso holds a vital backbone in terms of safety, organizing treks across the Himalayas. They not only can save lives, but a single handedly can the run the trek on their own.

3.Technical Team of The Trail Himalaya: During pass crossing or any kind of summit, a technical team is required specialized in snow craft which is present on all slopes. Our technical team keep the trekkers safe and guide them through technical sections (For example: During a steep descent, one may have to use a rope because it’s a technical section. The trekkers won’t be able to able to cross this hurdle without a technical craft, hence our team will be present through thick and thin during the entire journey. In any kind of an emergency they can reach any trekker in a flicker of a second. Talking about our technical team, they comprise of the advance level of mountaineers.

4.Medical Safety:The Trail Himalayamakes sure of the medical safety for the trekkers. From health check, carrying oxygen cylinders, checking the trekkers around the camp.