Why Dayara Bugyal Trek or Kedarkantha Trek Comparison
Winter Trek in the Himalayas is the dream of everyone, because of the snow-covered trails, frozen streams, starry skies, and the breathtaking views of the beautiful peaks which makes for an unforgettable experience. Among the many winter treks there are lots of trek option, but the Dayra Bugyal and Kedarkantha stand out different as two of the loved treks in Uttrakhand
These both treks are best for beginners, which offer snowy trails, and will give you the close view of some of the most famous tallest Himalayan peaks. But there are many newbie trekkers who find themselves confused: Which one should I go on—Trek of Dayara Bugyal or Trek of Kedarkantha?
In this blog we will compare these both treks in the terms of location, duration, scenery, camping, and overall experience, so you can decide which trek is best for you or your travel goals.
Location and Accessibility Comparison between Dayara Bugyal Trek and Kedarkantha Trek
- Dayara Bugyal: This trek is located in Uttarkashi district, Uttarakhand. The trek of Dayara Bugyal starts from a small village called Barsu or Raithal. To reach the base, you can travel from Dehradun or Rishikesh by road.
- Kedarkantha: This trek of Kedarkantha begins from the village Sankri, which is also in Uttarkashi district. Sankri is around 200 km from Dehradun and well connected by road.
Comparison: Both treks are accessible from Dehradun, but the starting point for Kedarkantha (Sankri) takes a bit longer to reach than Barsu/Raithal for Dayara Bugyal. If you prefer a slightly easier journey to the base camp, Dayara Bugyal might feel more convenient.
Trek Duration and Difficulty
- Dayara Bugyal: This trek takes about 4 to 6 days which depends on the route chosen. This trek will take you to the highest point of the trek, which is around 12,000 ft. This trek is moderate and can be managed by beginners with average fitness.
- Kedarkantha: Kedarkantha Trek takes about 5 to 6 days to complete. The summit of Kedarkantha is elevated at an altitude of about 12,500 ft. This trail involves a steady climb which is slightly more challenging than Dayara Bugyal, especially the final summit push
Comparison: These both treks are beginner- Friendly, but the kedarkantha requires more stamina for the climb to Kedarkantha Trek’s summit. Dayara Bugyal is easy to trek and more relaxing, making it suitable for families and first-timer trekkers.
Scenic Beauty and Highlights
- Dayara Bugyal: The main attraction here is the vast snowfield in winter. The white fields go on forever and you feel like walking on a natural snow carpet. The trek also gives great views of Bandarpoonch, Gangotri and other peaks.
- Kedarkantha: This trek has dense pine and oak forests, frozen lakes, snowy trails and finally a dramatic summit climb. From the Kedarkantha top you can experience the beautiful 360 degree view of Swargarohini, Black Peak and Ranglana.
Comparison: If you like wide open spaces and meadows, Dayara Bugyal is unbeatable. If you want adventure, changing landscapes and summit climb, Kedarkantha is the winner.
Best Time to Visit in Winter
- Dayara Bugyal:Before going to Dayara Bugyal, you should know about the best time to go there. The best time to go for Dayra Bugyal Trek is December to March, but January and February are the best for deep snow experience.
- Kedarkantha: This trek is also considered to go during December to April. During peak winter (late December to January), the whole trek gets covered by fresh snow which makes the summit climb even more exciting.
Comparison: These both treks are the perfect option for the winter trekking adventure. For those who want a less crowd and Peaceful trails, then doing Dayara Bugyal in January or February will be a better choice. Kedarkantha is a very popular trek and there are chances of crowds during the Christmas and New Year season.
Camping Experience
- Dayara Bugyal: Campsites like Dayara Top Camp, the Pichkiya Camp, the Gujarwali Camp, and the Gui Camp offer open camping spaces with incredible views. Imagine waking up surrounded by snowy meadows stretching as far as your eyes can see.
- Kedarkantha: Campsites of the Kedarkantha offer best outdoor views, which are set inside the pine forests or open clearings. Juda ka talab, a famous campsite of Kedarkantha, there is a frozen lake which attracts travellers and makes the best site for camping, and the kedarkantha base camp will give you the dreamy experience which is night stay, an amazing starlit sky view.
Comparison: Dayara Bugyal camps are wide and peaceful, while Kedarkantha offers more variety—forests, lakes, and summit base camps. For photographers and stargazers, Kedarkantha is a dream. For meadow lovers, Dayara Bugyal is perfect.
Summit/Final Viewpoint Experience
- Dayara Bugyal: Instead of one summit, the highlight here is the meadow itself. The snow fields go on forever and from the high points you can see peaks like Bandarpoonch, Srikanth and Draupadi ka Danda.
- Kedarkantha: The final summit climb is the most exciting part. At 12,500 ft you get a 360 degree view of Himalayan ranges, Swargarohini, Black Peak and Yamunotri and Gangotri ranges.
Comparison: Kedarkantha gives you the thrill of reaching a summit which gives you a sense of achievement. Dayara Bugyal gives you a calm and open experience where beauty is all around you.
Crowd and Popularity
- Dayara Bugyal: It is less crowded compared to Kedarkantha. Trekkers looking for peaceful trails will enjoy it more.
- Kedarkantha: One of the most popular winter treks in India. During peak season, especially December and January, hundreds of trekkers attempt it daily.
Comparison: If you love meeting other trekkers and don’t mind crowds, Kedarkantha will be lively and fun. If you want a quieter, offbeat experience, Dayara Bugyal is the better option.
Who Should Choose Which Trek?
- Choose Kedarkantha if…
- You want the thrill of a summit climb.
- You enjoy variety—forests, lakes, snow, and open ridges.
- You don’t mind crowds and are okay with a slightly more challenging trek.
- You want the thrill of a summit climb.
- Choose Dayara Bugyal if…
- You are a first-time trekker or traveling with family.
- You prefer peaceful trails with fewer people.
- You love walking on vast snow-covered meadows and enjoying open views.
- You are a first-time trekker or traveling with family.
Conclusion
Both Dayara Bugyal and Kedarkantha are winter treks in Uttarakhand. Dayara Bugyal has endless snow and peacefulness, Kedarkantha has adventure and summit thrill.
There’s no “better” or “worse” here—it’s all about what you want. If you want calm beauty and easy trails go for Dayara Bugyal. If you want adventure and summit joy go for Kedarkantha.
Either way both treks will give you winter memories in the Himalayas.
