What to Expect on the Ali Bedni Bugyal Trek? A Day-Wise Itinerary

What to Expect on the Ali Bedni Bugyal Trek? A Day-Wise Itinerary

Introduction

If you’re looking for a Himalayan adventure that blends stunning landscapes, rich culture, and an unforgettable trekking experience, then the Ali Bedni Bugyal Trek is the perfect choice. This trek, located in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, is famous for its vast alpine meadows, breathtaking views of the Trishul and Nanda Ghunti peaks, and dense forests filled with vibrant flora and fauna.


Unlike other high-altitude treks, this one offers a perfect balance of challenge and beauty, making it an excellent option for both seasoned trekkers and beginners. I had been dreaming about this trek for a long time, and when I finally set foot on the trail, it felt like stepping into a fairy tale.


Every single day was a new adventure, filled with changing landscapes, stunning sunrises, and peaceful nights under the stars. If you’re planning this trek, let me take you through a detailed, day-by-day breakdown so you know exactly what to expect.


Best Time to Visit

Choosing the right season for the Ali Bedni Bugyal Trek is crucial for an enjoyable experience. While the trek is accessible throughout most of the year, the scenery, temperature, and trekking conditions change significantly with each season.



Each season has its own unique charm, but for most trekkers, the summer and post-monsoon seasons offer the best conditions. If you're planning to embark on the Ali Bedni Bugyal Trek and want a hassle-free, well-organized experience, I highly recommend booking with The Searching Souls. They provide expert guides, comfortable accommodations, delicious meals, and a seamless trekking experience from start to finish.


Day 1: Arrival in Lohajung

How to Reach Lohajung

Lohajung is the starting point of the trek, and reaching here itself is an adventure. This small but picturesque village sits at an altitude of 7,700 ft (2,347 m) and is the gateway to the meadows of Ali and Bedni Bugyal. To get here, you’ll need to travel via road, as there is no direct rail or air connectivity.



Briefing and Acclimatization

After a long road journey, arriving in Lohajung feels refreshing. The village is surrounded by dense forests and mountain views, making it the perfect place to unwind before the trek begins. In the evening, I attended a briefing session where our trek leader explained the route, safety measures, and altitude acclimatization tips. This is an important part of the trek, as acclimatizing properly can help prevent altitude sickness.


I spent the rest of the evening exploring the village, meeting other trekkers, and enjoying a simple yet delicious meal at our homestay. The excitement for the next day’s trek made it hard to sleep, but I knew that I needed all the rest I could get!


Day 2: Lohajung to Didna Village


The first day of trekking was moderate yet exciting, with a mix of gradual climbs, forest trails, and river crossings. We started early in the morning, leaving behind the small settlements of Lohajung, and soon found ourselves trekking through thick oak and rhododendron forests.


Crossing Neel Ganga River

A highlight of this day was crossing the Neel Ganga River—a glistening blue stream flowing through the valley. The water was freezing cold, but dipping my hands in it felt incredibly refreshing. We took a short break here, filling our bottles with fresh mountain water before continuing the climb.


Arrival at Didna Village

After trekking for a few more hours, we finally arrived at Didna Village, a charming little hamlet tucked away in the mountains. The villagers greeted us warmly, and we were served a simple, home-cooked meal consisting of dal, rice, chapati, and fresh vegetables.


The night sky in Didna was crystal clear, and I spent some time gazing at the stars before heading to bed. The next day was going to be long and challenging, so getting a good night’s sleep was essential.


Day 3: Didna Village to Ali Bugyal


Day 3 was one of the most beautiful yet demanding parts of the trek. The trail started steep and rocky, but as we gained elevation, the forest slowly thinned out, revealing the first glimpses of the vast meadows of Ali Bugyal.


First Glimpse of Ali Bugyal

After hours of climbing, we finally stepped onto Ali Bugyal—and I was absolutely speechless. It was like entering a picture-perfect setting. The rolling green meadows stretched as far as my eyes could see, with the snow-capped peaks of Trishul and Nanda Ghunti in the background.


The feeling of walking on soft, grassy meadows at such a high altitude was surreal. We spent some time just soaking in the views, taking photos, and enjoying the cool mountain breeze.


Camping at Ali Bugyal

Our campsite was set up right in the middle of the meadow, making for an unforgettable overnight stay. As the sun set, the sky turned shades of orange and pink, and by night, it was filled with millions of stars.


I lay outside my tent for hours, just watching the stars and feeling grateful for this incredible experience. It was one of the most peaceful nights I’ve ever had.


Day 4: Ali Bugyal to Bedni Bugyal


After spending a magical night under the stars at Ali Bugyal, I woke up early to catch the first rays of sunlight illuminating the meadows. The golden glow of the sun rising over the Himalayan peaks was a sight I will never forget. We had a quick breakfast and started our journey toward Bedni Bugyal, another high-altitude meadow that is equally breathtaking.


Scenic Beauty & Changing Landscapes

The trek from Ali Bugyal to Bedni Bugyal was relatively easy and short, but every step was filled with jaw-dropping views. The vast grasslands spread endlessly before us, and with every turn, we could see different shades of green, gold, and brown stretching towards the horizon.


As we moved further, the scenery began to change. The gentle slopes of Ali Bugyal transitioned into rocky outcrops, and we started noticing more shrubs and alpine flowers along the way. I was surprised to see a few shepherds grazing their livestock, adding a touch of local culture to this surreal landscape.


Bedni Kund – The Sacred Lake

One of the most fascinating spots at Bedni Bugyal is Bedni Kund, a small but sacred lake surrounded by a stone-paved platform. According to local legends, this lake is where Goddess Parvati worshipped Lord Shiva before heading to Mount Kailash. Many trekkers and locals offer prayers here, and the place has a serene and spiritual aura.


We set up our campsite near the lake, and as the sun dipped below the mountains, the landscape turned into a mystical paradise of golden hues. The cold breeze and crisp mountain air made it the perfect night for storytelling and bonding with fellow trekkers.


Day 5: Bedni Bugyal to Ghairoli Patal


I woke up to one of the most mesmerizing sunrises I had ever seen. The first light of the day slowly spread over the majestic Trishul and Nanda Ghunti peaks, turning them into shades of pink and orange. It felt almost otherworldly. After capturing some last memories of Bedni Bugyal, we packed our bags and began our descent toward Ghairoli Patal.


Descending Through the Forest

Leaving the open grasslands, we slowly entered a dense forest of oak and rhododendron trees. The trail was mostly downhill but had some steep sections, making it slightly challenging. However, the shade from the trees and the cool forest breeze made this part of the trek quite refreshing.


Along the way, I spotted a variety of birds, butterflies, and even a Himalayan Monal, which is Uttarakhand’s state bird. The forest was alive with sounds of rustling leaves, chirping birds, and distant streams, making the descent a sensory delight.


Camping at Ghairoli Patal

By late afternoon, we reached Ghairoli Patal, a quiet clearing in the forest where we set up our tents for the night. Unlike the vast open spaces of Ali and Bedni Bugyal, this campsite was surrounded by tall trees, creating a cozy and peaceful atmosphere.


After a long day of trekking, we enjoyed a warm meal around a small campfire, listening to stories of fellow trekkers and sharing our experiences. The sound of the wind whistling through the trees and distant calls of wildlife made this a truly unique camping experience.


Day 6: Ghairoli Patal to Wan Village and Drive to Lohajung


The final day of trekking had arrived, and while I was excited to complete the journey, I also felt a deep sense of attachment to the mountains. After breakfast, we began our last stretch of the trek, heading toward Wan Village, the largest settlement in the area.


Wan Village – A Glimpse into Local Life

The trail took us through thick forests, wooden bridges, and gently sloping paths until we finally emerged into Wan Village. It was fascinating to see how life thrives in these remote regions, with wooden houses, terraced fields, and villagers going about their daily activities.


One of the most interesting stops in Wan was the Latu Devta Temple, an ancient temple dedicated to a local deity. The architecture was simple yet beautiful, and the sense of devotion and history surrounding the place was profound.


Return to Lohajung

After exploring the village, we took a jeep ride back to Lohajung, marking the official end of our trek. The drive back was filled with reflections, laughter, and a deep sense of accomplishment. Looking out of the window, I could still see the meadows, forests, and mountains fading into the distance, but the memories of this trek would stay with me forever.


Day 7: Departure from Lohajung

Leaving Lohajung was bittersweet. While I was excited to return home and share my experiences, a part of me longed to stay in the mountains a little longer. Over the past few days, I had witnessed the beauty of nature in its purest form, pushed my limits, and made new friends along the way.


As I packed my bags and began my journey back to Kathgodam or Rishikesh, I knew that this trek had changed me in ways I couldn’t describe. The simplicity of life in the mountains, the sense of achievement after each day’s trek, and the sheer beauty of Ali and Bedni Bugyal had left an everlasting mark on my soul.


Essential Things to Carry

Packing the right gear is crucial for a comfortable and safe trekking experience. Here are the must-have items for this trek:


Clothing & Footwear


Trekking Gear


Health & Safety


Conclusion

The Ali Bedni Bugyal Trek is not just a trek—it’s a journey of self-discovery, adventure, and deep connection with nature. From lush meadows to dense forests, from ancient temples to local culture, this trek offers everything a nature enthusiast could ask for.


If you’re looking for a moderate trek that offers unparalleled beauty, I wholeheartedly recommend the Ali Bedni Bugyal Trek. It’s an experience that will stay with you forever.


FAQs

1. How difficult is the Ali Bedni Bugyal trek?

It’s a moderate trek, suitable for fit beginners. Some sections are steep, but with proper training, it’s manageable.


2. What kind of food is available on the trek?

Expect simple vegetarian meals like dal, rice, chapati, and porridge.


3. Can I do this trek solo?

It’s possible but not recommended. Hiring a guide ensures safety and navigation support.


4. What is the best time to visit?

April-June and September-November are ideal.


5. Do I need permits for this trek?

Yes, a forest permit is required, which your trek operator can arrange.