06 October 2025
The Himalayan state Uttarakhand is home to many beautiful trekking locations and among the winter treks two names stand out, Gulabi Kantha Trek and Dayara Bugyal Trek. Both of these treks take you to explore beautiful Himalayan vistas; snow covered meadows, views of the snow-capped mountains and the Himalayan flora and fauna. This makes both of these destinations a good choice for adventurers seeking a snowy retreat.
On one hand is the Gulabi Kantha Trek, a destination sitting at an altitude of around 12,000 feet, that has remained mostly unexplored, and therefore this trek is ideal for trekkers who want gentle ascent and solitude in the Himalayas. On the other hand is the Dayara Bugyal Trek, which is also at a height of 12,000 feet but is one of the most popular Bugyal Treks in Uttarakhand and attracts a lot more tourists and is more accessible. Both are excellent choices, differing mainly in popularity and crowd levels.
Overview of Both Treks
The Gulabi Kantha Trek and the Dayara Bugyal Trek are two of Uttarakhand’s most rewarding winter trails. Both rise to similar altitudes, offer sweeping Himalayan views, and are beginner-friendly, yet they differ in accessibility, popularity, and trekking experience.
Gulabi Kantha Trek
The lesser known trails of Gulabi Kantha Trek offer solitude and panoramic views of Bandarpoonch and Kedarkantha. Ideal for trekkers seeking peace and raw Himalayan beauty away from crowded trails.
- Location & Altitude: Near Uttarkashi | ~12,000 ft
- Trek Distance & Duration: 15–18 km, completed in 4–5 days
- Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate | Suitable for beginners and those looking for a peaceful, less-commercialized trek
- Key Highlights:
- 360° views of Bandarpoonch, Kedarkantha, Srikanth, and Black Peak (Kalanag)
- Rich forests of oak, pine, and rhododendron covered in snow
- Meadows with seasonal wildflowers (in other seasons) that turn white in winter
- Perfect for trekkers who value solitude and raw natural beauty
Dayara Bugyal Trek
- Location & Altitude: Uttarkashi district | ~12,000 ft
- Trek Distance & Duration: 20–22 km, completed in 4–6 days
- Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate | Beginner-friendly with gradual ascents and well-marked trails
- Key Highlights:
- Among the most famous Bugyal treks of Uttarakhand
- Expansive meadows that transform into one of the largest natural ski slopes in India during winter
- Panoramic views of the Gangotri range—Jaonli, Draupadi ka Danda, and Srikanth peaks.
- Easily accessible via Barsu village (a day’s drive from Dehradun), making it popular with both beginners and families
Best Time to Visit:
The best time to visit both Gulabi Kantha and Dayara Bugyal trek is from December to February. This is the time when the region is blanketed in snow and the meadow and the forests turn into winter wonderland, offering breathtaking snow-capped Himalayan views and making for a serene and tranquil experience.
Here are reasons as to why you should visit Gulabi Kantha and Dayara Bugyal trek in the months from December to February.
- Snow-Covered Landscapes: In the winters the trails to these treks are covered in thick layers of snow. The meadows and the sharp Himalayan peaks are all covered in a white blanket, as far as the eyes can see.
- Panoramic Himalayan Views: Throughout the trek you find the crisp and clear air which offers stunning views of iconic Himalayan peaks like Bandarpoonch, Kedarkantha, Srikanth, and the Gangotri range.
- Peaceful Trekking Experience: The winter scene means fewer trekkers which mean more solitude and a serene environment.
- Winter Activities: Opportunity for snow play, photography, and even natural skiing on Dayara Bugyal’s expansive meadows.
- Crisp, Fresh Air: Cold winter temperatures enhance the refreshing Himalayan experience, making the trek invigorating. The clear air also makes the distant scenes
- Seasonal Beauty: Snow transforms forests and meadows into pristine, untouched landscapes, offering a completely different perspective compared to other seasons.
Which Trek Should You Choose?
Choosing between the Gulabi Kantha Trek and the Dayara Bugyal Trek depends on your preferences and trekking style:
- Pick Gulabi Kantha if you want to trek to a comparatively lesser known trek, if you want to explore the unexplored. Its pristine forests, snow-covered meadows, and panoramic views of peaks like Kedarkantha and Bandarpoonch make it perfect for solitude and nature photography.
- Pick Dayara Bugyal if you prefer accessibility, well-marked trails, and vast alpine meadows. Its winter snow cover transforms into a natural ski slope, and the trek offers iconic views of the Gangotri range. Ideal for beginners, families, and trekkers looking for a classic Himalayan experience.
Both treks are beginner-friendly, offer stunning winter landscapes, and can be completed in 4–6 days. Your choice mainly depends on whether you seek a peaceful, offbeat experience or a more popular, scenic Bugyal trek.
Trek with Himalayan Daredevils
