Top 10 High Altitude Meadows (Bugyal) in Uttarakhand
The word “Bugyal” in the local Garhwali and Kumaoni language means "high-altitude meadow." These are open, grassy slopes found above the treeline, usually surrounded by dense forests below and snow-covered peaks above. For trekkers, nature lovers, and photographers, bugyals are some of the most enchanting landscapes in the Himalayas. Uttarakhand is home to several such meadows, each offering a unique mix of solitude, scenery, and simplicity.
Whether you’re a beginner trekker or a mountain veteran, visiting a bugyal is an experience that slows down time. Here are the top 10 bugyals in Uttarakhand that deserve a spot on your bucket list.
1. Bedni Bugyal
Location: Chamoli District
Altitude: ~3,354 meters
Best Time to Visit: May to June, September to October
Located on the trail to Roopkund, Bedni Bugyal is one of the most scenic alpine meadows in Uttarakhand. It offers breathtaking views of Trishul and Nanda Ghunti peaks. The meadow is dotted with small seasonal flowers and a holy pond known as Bedni Kund. Culturally significant and naturally stunning, Bedni is a favorite among trekkers and spiritual seekers alike.
2. Dayara Bugyal
Location: Uttarkashi District
Altitude: ~3,400 meters
Best Time to Visit: May to October
One of the most famous and easily accessible bugyals, Dayara Bugyal is a vast expanse of lush grassland surrounded by forests and snow peaks like Bandarpoonch and Black Peak. It turns into a natural ski slope in winter and hosts the traditional Anduri Utsav during summer. The trail is beginner-friendly and perfect for those looking to experience a classic Himalayan meadow without going too remote.
3. Ali Bugyal
Location: Chamoli District
Altitude: ~3,400 meters
Best Time to Visit: May to June, September to October
Often paired with Bedni Bugyal in the same trek, Ali Bugyal is one of the highest and most beautiful meadows in Asia. It appears suddenly after a long forest climb, opening up like a green ocean beneath a wide sky. The views here are open and endless with layers of distant mountains rolling away in every direction. It’s also a great spot to spot horses grazing freely in the wild.
4. Kush Kalyani Bugyal
Location: Near Ghuttu, Tehri Garhwal
Altitude: ~3,200 meters
Best Time to Visit: May to June, September to October
This lesser-known bugyal lies on the trail to Khatling Glacier and offers a peaceful alternative to the more touristy spots. Surrounded by oak and pine forests, Kush Kalyani opens into undisturbed green pastures. You’ll likely have this place all to yourself, making it perfect for solitude, reflection, and offbeat adventure.
5. Gidara Bugyal
Location: Near Gangotri, Uttarkashi
Altitude: ~4,000 meters
Best Time to Visit: June to mid-October
One of the largest bugyals in Uttarakhand, Gidara is still relatively unknown. The trek to reach it is slightly tougher, which keeps the crowds away. Once you reach, you’re rewarded with sweeping views and a meadow that seems to stretch forever. On clear days, you can spot peaks like Gangotri, Srikanth, and Bandarpoonch.
6. Panwali Kantha Bugyal
Location: Near Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary
Altitude: ~3,200 meters
Best Time to Visit: April to June, September to October
Located on an ancient pilgrim route connecting Gangotri and Kedarnath, Panwali Kantha is rich in both natural beauty and spiritual energy. The trail climbs through rhododendron forests before opening to a ridge with views of the snow-clad Kedarnath range. During spring, the entire meadow turns red and pink with blooming flowers.
7. Auli Bugyal
Location: Chamoli District
Altitude: ~2,800 to 3,000 meters
Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year (for different experiences)
While Auli is famous as a ski resort, the upper slopes are home to alpine grasslands that bloom in summer. From the meadows of Auli, one gets stunning views of Nanda Devi, Hathi-Ghoda Peaks, and the entire Joshimath valley. The beauty of this bugyal lies in its accessibility — a cable car ride can take you right to the edge.
8. Lush Bugyal
Location: Near Mandal Valley, Chamoli District
Altitude: ~3,300 meters
Best Time to Visit: May to June, September to October
Tucked away near the Mandal Valley and not far from Anusuya and Atri Muni temples, Lush Bugyal lives up to its name with rich green pastures and scattered wildflowers in the post-monsoon months. It is relatively unexplored and rarely sees tourists, making it a perfect place for solitude lovers. The approach takes you through thick forests and gentle trails, ideal for beginners looking to experience an untouched alpine landscape. The surrounding ridgelines and distant peaks complete the stunning setting.
9. Har Ki Dun Valley (with meadows en route)
Location: Govind Pashu Vihar National Park
Altitude: ~3,500 meters
Best Time to Visit: April to June, September to November
While not a single bugyal, the Har Ki Dun valley is full of lush alpine meadows and ancient forests. The route takes you past several high-altitude pastures used by shepherds. The valley itself is surrounded by snowy peaks and feels like a walk through a Himalayan fairytale. A great option for those who want meadows mixed with history and local culture.
10. Bugyal Sar (near Dodital)
Location: Uttarkashi
Altitude: ~3,000 meters
Best Time to Visit: May to June, September to October
Close to the Dodital lake trail, Bugyal Sar is a lesser-explored meadow that offers an escape into the wild. It's ideal for those looking for a short and quiet trek. With forests on one side and open skies above, it’s perfect for nature walks, birdwatching, and peaceful camping under the stars.
Final Thoughts
Bugyals are not just stretches of grass they’re living landscapes that change with seasons, colors, and light. For centuries, they’ve served as summer grazing grounds for shepherds, places of worship, and havens for wildlife. Visiting these meadows offers a rare kind of silence, beauty, and connection that few places can match. Whether you're going for a weekend trek or a longer adventure, Uttarakhand’s high-altitude meadows promise something unforgettable.