I’ve always been fascinated by the Himalayas — their towering peaks, tranquil meadows, and the sense of peace they exude. The Ali Bedni Bugyal trek in Uttarakhand, India, has been on my bucket list for a long time. When I finally set out to conquer this stunning trek, I was not disappointed. It’s a journey that offers everything a nature lover could want: mesmerizing mountain views, lush meadows, vibrant alpine flowers, and the peaceful ambiance of high-altitude meadows.

In this article, I’m going to take you through a detailed, day-by-day breakdown of the trek so you can understand why this adventure should be on your list, too. Here’s what to anticipate from the time you get to Kathgodam till the last descent back to Lohajung.

Introduction to the Ali Bedni Bugyal Trek

Trekking

The Ali Bedni Bugyal trek, for me, was an immersive experience that blended the beauty of the Garhwal Himalayas with the thrill of high-altitude trekking. I was drawn to this trek because of its unique combination of dense forests, alpine meadows, and breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks. Even though the walk is regarded as moderately challenging, most hikers with a good level of fitness can complete it.

During the journey, I came across some of the most breathtaking scenery I’ve ever seen, including the well-known bugyals (meadows) of Ali Bugyal and Bedni Bugyal. These meadows, nestled at an altitude of over 3,600 meters, provide some of the most stunning panoramic views of peaks like Trishul, Nanda Ghunti, and Nanda Devi.

The best part? The route isn’t too challenging for those with moderate trekking experience, yet it offers enough of a challenge to give you the sense of accomplishment you’ll want at the end of a trek. The combination of varying terrains—from forests to grassy meadows to rocky paths—made the trek feel diverse and exciting every single day. Every time I reached a new viewpoint, I was amazed by how the landscape shifted, always offering something new.“For a hassle-free trekking experience on the Ali Bedni Bugyal trek, I highly recommend The Searching Souls. From accommodation to route planning, they have everything covered so you can immerse yourself in nature with peace of mind.”

Day 1: Arrival at Kathgodam, Transfer to Lohajung

Travel Time: 10-12 hours (from Kathgodam to Lohajung)
Altitude: Kathgodam (1,200 meters) → Lohajung (2,300 meters)
Distance: 220 km

I started my journey by boarding the train to Kathgodam, the nearest railway station to the Ali Bedni Bugyal trek. The excitement was palpable, as I was finally going to embark on a trek I’d heard so much about. It was time for a lengthy drive to Lohajung once I got to Kathgodam. The drive was scenic, winding through the hills, with glimpses of lush valleys and picturesque villages. It took around 10-12 hours, but it was a perfect introduction to the beauty of the Kumaon and Garhwal hills.

As the vehicle ascended, I could feel the altitude kicking in. By the time we reached Lohajung, the altitude was around 2,300 meters. The journey begins in the tiny village of Lohajung. I spent the night here, resting and acclimatizing, knowing that the next day would be the start of the real adventure.

The quiet of the village is something I truly appreciated. There’s a peacefulness to the area, and staying overnight in Lohajung helped me mentally prepare for the adventure ahead. At this altitude, the air felt fresh, and I could already spot a few peaks in the distance. After a nice dinner with fellow trekkers, I got an early night’s sleep, eager for the next day’s trek.

Day 2: Lohajung to Ali Bugyal

Altitude: Lohajung (2,300 meters) → Ali Bugyal (3,350 meters)
Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
Distance: 8 km

Day two was the day I finally laced up my trekking boots and hit the trail. After breakfast, I left Lohajung behind and started the trek to Ali Bugyal. The path initially winds through dense forests, with oak and rhododendron trees offering shade from the early morning sun. The gradual climb was quite manageable, and I had plenty of time to appreciate the serene surroundings. I passed by a few local shepherds tending to their flocks, which added a rural charm to the whole experience.

As the forest opened up, the view began to reveal the first stunning glimpses of the high-altitude meadows. The landscape here feels otherworldly, like stepping into a natural paradise. Every few steps, there was something new to marvel at — from the vibrant wildflowers carpeting the ground to the dense oak trees that towered overhead. A few shepherds’ huts dotted the landscape, providing a glimpse into the rural life of this region.

The final stretch to Ali Bugyal was a bit more challenging, but the sight of the meadow waiting at the top made it all worth it. When I reached Ali Bugyal after about 5-6 hours of trekking, I was mesmerized. The meadow was vast and green, dotted with wildflowers, and surrounded by snow-capped peaks. The views of the mountains were jaw-dropping — especially the view of Trishul, which loomed in the distance. I knew I had arrived at one of the most special places in the Himalayas.

I camped here for the night, and as the sun set behind the peaks, I couldn’t help but feel that I was in a dreamlike place. The evening was peaceful, and I knew I was in for more incredible views in the coming days.

Day 3: Ali Bugyal to Bedni Bugyal

Altitude: Ali Bugyal (3,350 meters) → Bedni Bugyal (3,680 meters)
Trek Duration: 4-5 hours
Distance: 4 km

On day three, I continued my trek from Ali Bugyal to Bedni Bugyal. I woke up early to witness the sunrise over the peaks. The sight of the sun casting a golden glow over the snow-covered mountains was nothing short of magical. The crisp air, the sound of birds chirping, and the sweeping views made it one of the most serene mornings of the entire trek.

The trail to Bedni Bugyal was relatively short but had its share of challenges. The path meanders through more meadows and patches of alpine forest, with a few streams to cross along the way. I encountered a few trekkers along the route, each one absorbed in the same awe-inspiring views that I was experiencing. It felt like a shared experience, even though everyone was on their own journey.

As I ascended, the landscape changed, becoming more rugged and alpine. Bedni Bugyal itself was a beautiful, wide-open meadow that offered even better views than Ali Bugyal. Surrounded by towering peaks, it felt like I had entered a different world. The area is also known for its wildflowers, and depending on the time of year, you might be treated to a carpet of colorful blooms.

I spent the night camping here, and as the night sky unfolded above me, I couldn’t help but marvel at the sheer beauty of this high-altitude meadow. The isolation and peace of the place were extraordinary — the kind of peace that only a high mountain meadow can provide. I looked forward to spending more time in such a special spot.

Day 4: Rest and Exploration Day at Bedni Bugyal

Altitude: Bedni Bugyal (3,680 meters)
Trek Duration: Light walk or exploration
Distance: N/A

Day four was a rest day, which I welcomed after several days of trekking. It’s essential to acclimatize at this altitude to avoid altitude sickness, so I took it easy and spent the day exploring the Bedni Bugyal area at a relaxed pace.

The ability to detach is among this trek’s most amazing features. With no mobile signal and very few people around, I felt as if I had entered a completely different world. The silence was profound. I took long walks around the meadow, explored the surrounding areas, and just let the beauty of nature wash over me. The towering peaks of Nanda Ghunti and Trishul stood like sentinels over the landscape, and I couldn’t help but feel both humbled and inspired by their immensity.

I took a short walk to Bedni Bugyal Lake, a serene spot surrounded by tall pine trees. The peaceful atmosphere was perfect for reflecting on the journey so far. As I wandered through the meadow, I spotted several different species of birds and took in the magnificent views of the snow-capped peaks all around me. The most breathtaking sight was the Nanda Devi massif, which loomed larger than life. It was hard to believe that I was standing in such a pristine, untouched part of the world.

The evening was spent stargazing. The clear skies at this altitude made it possible to see the stars in all their glory. The air was crisp, the night was silent, and it felt like I was part of something greater. It was the perfect day to recharge my energy for the upcoming trek.

Day 5: Bedni Bugyal to Kalu Vinayak

Altitude: Bedni Bugyal (3,680 meters) → Kalu Vinayak (3,500 meters)
Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
Distance: 5 km

On day five, I began my descent, heading toward Kalu Vinayak, a small temple located at 3,500 meters. Although it was a relatively short trek, it was a challenging one, with the terrain becoming steeper and rockier as we descended. The beauty of this section of the trek lies in the panoramic views of the snow-clad peaks that accompany you on your descent.

The trek from Bedni Bugyal to Kalu Vinayak is marked by a significant change in landscape. The meadows gradually give way to rocky paths and forested sections. The trail traverses through alpine pastures, and if you’re lucky, you’ll spot wildlife like the Himalayan Monal, a brightly colored pheasant that’s often spotted in this region. As I made my way through the landscape, I felt a deep sense of connection to the mountains, as though they were silently guiding me forward.

At Kalu Vinayak, I visited the small temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha, which is considered a sacred spot by local pilgrims and trekkers alike. The temple offers an excellent viewpoint of the surrounding mountains, and I took my time to sit and enjoy the view. The silence here was different from the meadows — more introspective, more peaceful. As I sat by the temple, I found myself contemplating the journey, both physical and spiritual, that I had embarked on. The serenity of Kalu Vinayak was a perfect place to reflect before continuing the trek the next day.

After a restful night at Kalu Vinayak, I prepared for the next leg of the journey — the final descent back to Lohajung.

Day 6: Kalu Vinayak to Lohajung

Altitude: Kalu Vinayak (3,500 meters) → Lohajung (2,300 meters)
Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
Distance: 9 km

On the final day of the trek, I made my way back down to Lohajung. The descent from Kalu Vinayak was not as strenuous as the ascent, but it required careful footing due to the rocky and uneven trail. The weather was clear, and the morning sun filtered through the trees, creating a magical atmosphere as I descended. The first few hours were spent walking through dense forests, where the cool, shaded trail provided a welcome relief from the heat of the midday sun.

The descent gradually turned into a more gradual walk, and as I approached Lohajung, I could feel a sense of accomplishment. The entire trek had been an unforgettable journey through the Himalayan landscape, and I felt incredibly proud to have completed it. As I reached Lohajung, I was greeted by the sight of the village nestled in the hills, a stark contrast to the remote meadows and rugged terrain I had just come from.

Once back in Lohajung, I spent some time reflecting on the adventure. The trek had taken me through forests, meadows, and rocky ridges, offering an unparalleled experience of nature’s beauty. It wasn’t just about reaching the destination; it was about the journey itself — the camaraderie shared with fellow trekkers, the peace found in solitude, and the connection to the vast landscape that unfolded at every turn.

I ended the day with a hearty meal and some conversation with my fellow trekkers, sharing stories about the trek. I could sense the bond that had formed among all of us during the past few days. It felt like we had all experienced something unique together. The sense of camaraderie, combined with the stunning landscapes, made this trek one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve had.

What Makes the Ali Bedni Bugyal Trek Special?

Mountains

The Ali Bedni Bugyal trek is truly one of the most captivating treks I’ve ever experienced. It’s the kind of trek that combines adventure with serenity, challenge with beauty. Here are a few reasons why I think this trek stands out:

Breathtaking Views: The Ali Bedni Bugyal trek is all about the views. From the wide-open meadows of Ali Bugyal to the snow-covered peaks of Trishul and Nanda Ghunti, the views are always spectacular. Every turn on the trail presents a new vista, making it impossible not to stop and take it all in.
The Meadows (Bugyals): The term ‘bugyal’ means ‘meadow’ in the local language, and both Ali Bugyal and Bedni Bugyal are nothing short of extraordinary. These alpine meadows stretch out like vast carpets of green, dotted with colorful wildflowers, surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks. It feels like walking through a painter’s canvas.
Rich Flora and Fauna: As you trek through the forested sections, you’ll find yourself surrounded by dense oak, pine, and rhododendron trees. The region is renowned for its abundant wildlife as well. From the Himalayan Monal to the occasional Himalayan bear, there’s plenty to see for nature enthusiasts. Numerous orchid and wildflower species can be seen during the trip, among other types of flora.
Cultural Connection: While the trek is mostly about nature, there’s a strong cultural connection to the land. The locals here are deeply connected to their land and have been practicing traditional forms of shepherding for centuries. The temples, like the Kalu Vinayak temple, are reminders of the region’s spiritual heritage. These connections make the trek feel like more than just a physical journey; it becomes a spiritual and cultural experience as well.
Ideal for Beginners and Intermediate Trekkers: While the trek has its challenges, it’s accessible to anyone with a moderate level of fitness. The gradual ascent and descent, combined with the well-maintained trails, make it suitable for both beginner and intermediate trekkers. It’s a perfect choice if you’re looking to experience the Himalayas without needing to be a seasoned trekker.

Conclusion

The Ali Bedni Bugyal trek is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful treks I’ve ever been on. The combination of stunning landscapes, peaceful meadows, high-altitude trekking, and cultural experiences made this journey unforgettable. Each day brought new surprises, new challenges, and new perspectives on the grandeur of the Himalayas. It’s a trek that stays with you long after you’ve completed it.

If you’re considering the Ali Bedni Bugyal trek, prepare for a journey that will challenge you physically but reward you with some of the most stunning views you can find in India. The trek has something for everyone — whether you’re a seasoned trekker or someone looking for a challenge that’s still manageable, the Ali Bedni Bugyal trek offers an adventure you won’t forget.

FAQs

1. How difficult is the Ali Bedni Bugyal trek?

The trek is considered moderate, suitable for beginners with a decent fitness level. It involves a few steep climbs, but it’s manageable for most trekkers.

2. What is the best time to do the Ali Bedni Bugyal trek?

The best time to trek is during the spring (March to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is clear and the meadows are in full bloom.

3. Can I go on the Ali Bedni Bugyal trek without a guide?

While it’s possible to do the trek without a guide, it’s recommended to go with an experienced guide for safety reasons and to enhance your experience, as they can provide insights into the region’s flora, fauna, and culture.

4. How much time does it take to do the hike?

The trek typically takes 6-7 days, depending on the pace and the number of rest days taken.

5. Is the trek safe for solo travelers?

Yes, the Ali Bedni Bugyal trek is considered safe for solo travelers. However, it’s advisable to go with a group or a guide for safety, especially if you’re trekking for the first time in the Himalayas.

A Day-by-Day Breakdown of the Stunning Ali Bedni Bugyal Trek