Read more: Must-Do Treks in India
The Himalayan trekking camps arranged by The Youth Hostel Association of India (YHAI) are an excellent option for those looking for safety, experienced trek leaders, immersive community experiences – all at a very affordable cost.
Introducing YHAI’s Higher Altitude Bugyal trek
Bugyals are flat or sloping Himalayan meadows lying at an elevation between 10,800 ft and 13,000 ft in the state of Uttarakhand. This summer trek promises majestic views of towering peaks, scenic meadows, dense and alpine forests, steep rocky paths, floral blooms of rhododendrons, milky waterfalls, gushing streams and more.
Your trek will start from the Balawat village base camp located at an altitude of 6283 ft. You will be warmly welcomed by the 20 odd families that call this village their home. Enjoy an authentic Himalayan homestay in pretty wooden houses surrounded by apple orchards. Balawat village base camp lies about 220 km away from Dehradun and 140 km away from Shimla.
About the Himalayan trekking expedition
Embark on an eight-day and nine-night long trek. Trek up to the 13700 ft high ridgeline located on the top of Garhwal Himalayan Ranges in Bangan region of Kotigad Valley in Uttarakhand. Soak in the beautiful Himalayan vistas with sloping lush green meadows. In the summer months, the valleys are a floral fest with abounding red, white and pink blooms of rhododendrons.
The trek is classified as easy to moderate. But remember, these classifications are relative to Himalayan trekking. Prepare very well for a Himalayan trek – start at least two months before with intensive cardio (for stamina) and planking (for upper body strength) exercises.
However, this course is the most ideal for first-time Himalayan trekkers. The duration ensures adequate time for acclimatisation as you gradually gain an elevation of 7400 ft. over eight days.
Himalayan hiking timeline
On Day 1, check-in any time in a comfortable village homestay. You will be issued the necessary trekking equipment.
Spend Day 2 at leisure by interacting with the friendly locals and get briefed about the trek do’s and don’ts.
On Day 3, you will trek for 7 km up to 9500 ft on a steep climb through forests of deodar and silver oak. Breathe in a bit of Himalayas! Take in the meditative quiet of the forest, broken occasionally by the rhythmic chirping of native birds.
Day 4 will take you through undulating terrains amidst sacred trees of Bhoj Patra and Kharsu. You will cross over to the alpine region and reach 10600 ft elevation after a trek of 8 km. Spot trees of white rhododendron and Monal Pheasant – the state bird of Uttarakhand.
Day 5 promises stunning views of Samta Thach – the most beautiful meadow of the Chainsheel range. Soak in the 360-degree panoramic views of the snow-clad peaks, and the flower-bedecked meadow. You can also find medicinal plants here. End the trek at 12135 ft above sea level.
On Day 6, you will cross Sauyi – Sunai, the highest point of this trek at 13700 ft. View the expanse of the Pabber Valley from this height. After a 6 km long trek, you will end the day at 12700 ft.
Descend further on Day 7 as you trek for 6 km. The alpine meadows will give way to forests again. Your camp lies on the way to Saru Tal – a small lake lying between Samta Thach meadow in Uttarakhand and Tikula Thach meadow in Himachal Pradesh.
Day 8 is your final trekking day! You will descend steeply along a river stream and cross forests that are habitats of Himalayan Black Bears and Leopards. Spot many Himalayan birds including Monal and Western Tragopan. After an 11 km long trek, you will arrive at the base camp.
It is then time to check out after a sumptuous breakfast on Day 9. Bid goodbye to your trekking group members. After the experiences you have shared, you have made friends for life!
Many reasons to sign up for a Himalayan trek with YHAI
YHAI is an associate member of the Hostelling International, U.K., a premier international NGO promoting the Youth Hostelling movement, with a widespread network in 90 countries worldwide with more than 4000 unique hostels. The Youth Hostel Association of India (YHAI) endeavours to promote travel, tourism, adventure spirit, and national integration. They offer a number of programs across India including Trekking, Mountaineering, Nature Study, Family Camping, Sailing, to name a few.
A non-profit organization, YHAI guarantees affordable trekking packages that promise safety and experienced trek leaders. The trekking expeditions are very well designed keeping in mind the habitat, weather conditions and dietary requirements.
How to reach the base camp
The nearest airport is Shimla. Prepaid taxis are available at the airport. You can reach the base camp through the Shimla-Hatkoti-Arakot-Tikochi-Balawat (153 km) route. The road is in good shape.
The next best option is to fly to Dehradun airport and take the Dehradun- Mussoorie- Purola-Mori-Tiuni-Arakot-Tikochi-Balawat route (220 km). Prepaid taxis are available at the airport.
Local jeeps are available on sharing basis from Arakot to Balawat.
