Dayara Bugyal in January

[Ankit Dinkar]

Dayara Bugyal was the first snow trek I did. As Indiahikes have also mentioned "Our only Winter Trek with the Biggest Snow expanse" is absolutely true. We started our trek from Raithal basecamp the  through beautiful oak forest we reached our first basecamp to Gui  located in small clearing surrounded by forest. Headed in easterly direction from Raithal to Gui we walked through direct  path of the slanting rays of the sun. It lights up the maple and oak leaves around you with tremendous colours. The next day when we started our trek from Gui towards chilapada we saw this frozen lake our way. we spent some time there. Barnala lake is extremely picturesque too. From there you have a beautiful view of entire Gangotri range. After that we went through beautiful rhododendron. The terrain was beautiful. Then we gradually started ascending after the relaxed forest walk ends. we crossed a couple of frozen streams before reaching chilapada basecamp. We started our summit day bit early in the morning so that we could enjoy the sunrise on the peak. Looking at sun rising through range was mesmerizing. There was white snow everywhere. The view was bit overwhelming because of sun rays getting scattered due to snow. UV sunglasses is a must for this or any snow trek. While coming down from the peak there was this snow slide.  The trail to Nayata goes below the huts and immediately enters the forest.