ALI BEDNI BUGYAL TREK
India's grandest twin alpine meadows
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TREK DIFFICULTY
Moderate
TREK DURATION
6 days
HIGHEST ALTITUDE
12,550 ft
India's grandest twin alpine meadows
Out of the other meadow treks in our country — Dayara Bugyal, Gidara Bugyal, and Bhrigu Lake trek — Ali Bedni Bugyal has the grandest of mountain views. That’s because of one thing — the sight of Mt. Trishul and Mt. Nanda Ghunti jutting right out of the meadows.
Jutting out doesn’t mean you see the tops of these mountains, you see the entire face — almost 6000-7000 feet of it — rising right in front of you.
Ali Bedni Bugyal is a favourite trek for most of us at Indiahikes. Watch this video to know why.
During Spring, the mountain views are at their sharpest and clearest, as the air is still crisp and clean from the winter months. The blue sky seems to stretch on forever. The landscape is unmarred by the haze and smog that can often plague the plains. The snow-capped peaks glisten in the sunlight. Soon, green meadows will start peeping out from under the snow.
By summer, you see meadows carpeted with fresh grass.
The surprise of finding yourself in Ali Bugyal after trekking through dense forests is unbeatable. The moment you get out of the shades of the forest cover, you see acres and acres of green carpet sprawled out in front of you. Mt Trishul, stands tall against the blue skies, making for a formidable backdrop. Horses and their foals tear themselves across the turf in an uninhibited abandon while the cattle graze lazily on this bounty.
The walk to Bedni Bugyal from here is exhilarating! It is a walk that tempts you to take off your shoes and feel this carpet for yourselves. The Bedni Bugyal is another stop in this meadow country – a strip of vibrant green, overlooking the western valley. Popping right out of this meadow-like sentient, silent guards are the mountains of Trishul and Nanda Ghunti. If you climb the Bedni Top, other high risers of the imposing Chaukhamba range open up before you. These incredible settings make these twin meadows a must-do on the trekker’s bucket list.
Out of the other meadow treks in our country — Dayara Bugyal, Gidara Bugyal, and Bhrigu Lake trek — Ali Bedni Bugyal has the grandest of mountain views. That’s because of one thing — the sight of Mt. Trishul and Mt. Nanda Ghunti jutting right out of the meadows.
Jutting out doesn’t mean you see the tops of these mountains, you see the entire face — almost 6000-7000 feet of it — rising right in front of you.
Ali Bedni Bugyal is a favourite trek for most of us at Indiahikes. Watch this video to know why.
Ali Bedni Bugyal - Complete Trek Information
We have always wanted trekkers to be well-informed before they go on a Himalayan trek. Knowledge is the difference between a safe trek and a dangerous one. It’s also the difference between a wholesome experience and a superficial experience.
Use this section to learn about the Ali Bedni Bugyal trek. It has in-depth information about each day of the trek, what to expect, and how you need to prepare for it. Many years of expertise have gone into this content. Trekkers find that extremely useful.
Trek Map of the Ali Bedni Bugyal trek
Day 1
Drive from Rishikesh to Lohajung
Drive distance: 260 km | Drive Duration: 10-11 hours | Pick up point for Indiahikes trekkers: Live Free Hostel, Rishikesh | Pick up Time: 5 am | Location of Indiahikes basecamp: Lohajung
Reach Lohajung; 10-11 hours drive from Rishikesh. Transport will be arranged from Live Free Hostel, Rishikesh at 5.00 am.
The cost of a cab is Rs 7,000 per vehicle and the cost of a Tempo Traveller is Rs 11,000, which is to be divided amongst trekkers and paid directly to the driver. These are Non-AC vehicles.
Day 2
Drive from Lohajung to Wan. Trek to Gehroli Patal
Trek Distance: 6.3 km | Trek Duration: 6 hours | Altitude gain: 7,550 ft to 10,350 ft
Day 3
Trek from Gehroli Patal to Abin Kharak via Bedni Bugyal
Trek Distance: 5.6 km | Trek Duration: 5-6 hours | Altitude gain: 10,350 ft to 11,145 ft via 12,550 ft
Day 4
Trek from Abin Kharak to Didna via Ali Bugyal
Trek Distance: 9.3 km | Trek Duration: 5 hours | Altitude loss: 11,145 ft to 8,150 ft
Day 5
Trek from Didna to Kuling. Drive to Lohajung
Trek Distance: 6 km | Trek Duration: 4-5 hours | Altitude loss: 8,150 ft to 7,550 ft | Drive Distance: 6 km | Drive Distance: 35 mins
Day 6
Drive from Lohajung to Rishikesh
Drive distance: 260 km | Drive Duration: 10-11 hours | Drop off Time: 7 pm
Reach Rishikesh; 10-11 hours drive from Lohajung. Transport will be organized by Indiahikes. Cab cost is Rs 7,000 per vehicle, for an SUV and Rs 11,000 per vehicle, for a Tempo Traveller which is to be divided amongst trekkers and paid directly to the driver. These are Non-AC vehicles.
Please note: The distance between campsites may vary by 100 meters depending the weather conditions and the route you take. The altitude may also vary by 100 feet for similar reasons.
Trek Map of the Ali Bedni Bugyal trek
IMPORTANT POINTS
➤Documents required: Trekkers must carry a copy of their photo ID for entry at forest check posts on the trek. These documents will be part of the Safety Check-in done by the trek leader when you arrive at the base camp.
➤Stay facility: There are no facilities at Lohajung. Ensure you have all the gears required before reaching the basecamp. Do not bring any packaged food, tags from your new clothes, or any waste with you. We follow a Dustbin Free Zone and No Wet Wipes Policy at our base camps in line with our spirit of Green Trails. Please note that you will be staying in tents (twin sharing) on all days of the trek.
➤Cloakroom facility for excess luggage: We have a cloakroom facility available at the basecamp for extra luggage. Every trekker is permitted to leave behind one piece of luggage at no charge. Anything beyond one piece of luggage is chargeable at Rs 500 per luggage. (The luggage could be a backpack / suitcase / duffel bag or anything similar.).
Day 1
Drive from Rishikesh to Lohajung
Drive distance: 260 km | Drive Duration: 10-11 hours | Pick up point for Indiahikes trekkers: Live Free Hostel, Rishikesh | Pick up Time: 5 am | Location of Indiahikes basecamp: Lohajung
Reach Lohajung; 10-11 hours drive from Rishikesh. Transport will be arranged from Live Free Hostel, Rishikesh at 5.00 am.
The cost of a cab is Rs 7,000 per vehicle and the cost of a Tempo Traveller is Rs 11,000, which is to be divided amongst trekkers and paid directly to the driver. These are Non-AC vehicles.
Day 2
Drive from Lohajung to Wan. Trek to Gehroli Patal
Trek Distance: 6.3 km | Trek Duration: 6 hours | Altitude gain: 7,550 ft to 10,350 ft
Day 3
Trek from Gehroli Patal to Abin Kharak via Bedni Bugyal
Trek Distance: 5.6 km | Trek Duration: 5-6 hours | Altitude gain: 10,350 ft to 11,145 ft via 12,550 ft
Day 4
Trek from Abin Kharak to Didna via Ali Bugyal
Trek Distance: 9.3 km | Trek Duration: 5 hours | Altitude loss: 11,145 ft to 8,150 ft
Day 5
Trek from Didna to Kuling. Drive to Lohajung
Trek Distance: 6 km | Trek Duration: 4-5 hours | Altitude loss: 8,150 ft to 7,550 ft | Drive Distance: 6 km | Drive Distance: 35 mins
Day 6
Drive from Lohajung to Rishikesh
Drive distance: 260 km | Drive Duration: 10-11 hours | Drop off Time: 7 pm
Reach Rishikesh; 10-11 hours drive from Lohajung. Transport will be organized by Indiahikes. Cab cost is Rs 7,000 per vehicle, for an SUV and Rs 11,000 per vehicle, for a Tempo Traveller which is to be divided amongst trekkers and paid directly to the driver. These are Non-AC vehicles.
Please note: The distance between campsites may vary by 100 meters depending the weather conditions and the route you take. The altitude may also vary by 100 feet for similar reasons.
IMPORTANT POINTS
➤Documents required: Trekkers must carry a copy of their photo ID for entry at forest check posts on the trek. These documents will be part of the Safety Check-in done by the trek leader when you arrive at the base camp.
➤Stay facility: There are no facilities at Lohajung. Ensure you have all the gears required before reaching the basecamp. Do not bring any packaged food, tags from your new clothes, or any waste with you. We follow a Dustbin Free Zone and No Wet Wipes Policy at our base camps in line with our spirit of Green Trails. Please note that you will be staying in tents (twin sharing) on all days of the trek.
➤Cloakroom facility for excess luggage: We have a cloakroom facility available at the basecamp for extra luggage. Every trekker is permitted to leave behind one piece of luggage at no charge. Anything beyond one piece of luggage is chargeable at Rs 500 per luggage. (The luggage could be a backpack / suitcase / duffel bag or anything similar.).
Day 1 (Pickup Day): Drive from Rishikesh to Lohajung
Duration: 10-11 hours | Drive distance: 260 km
Altitude: 7,550 ft
The drive: You drive along mountain roads, through forests. You also get glimpses of the Garhwal mountains in the distance on a clear day.
Lohajung is the base camp for the Ali Bedni Bugyal trek. The best way to reach here is from Kathgodam. The route, once you cross Nainital, is beautiful. You drive along mountain roads, and through forests. You also get glimpses of the Garhwal mountains in the distance on a clear day.
Once you reach Lohajung, you find yourself face to face with the beautiful Nanda Ghunti peak. If you reach before sunset, the colours of the peak will enthral you.
Lohajung is at the centre of 7-8 nearby villages. There are a couple of local stores where you can buy jackets, hand gloves, caps, shoes etc. if need be. However, it is advised that you carry all the required things for the trek beforehand and not rely on these shops. You will have a mobile network in most parts of Lohajung.
Lohajung, as the locals say, is the place where Goddess Parvati had a war (Jung) with the demon, Lohasur. Hence, the name translates to ‘War with Lohasur.’
Lohajung is the base camp for the Ali Bedni Bugyal trek. The best way to reach here is from Kathgodam. The route, once you cross Nainital, is beautiful. You drive along mountain roads, and through forests. You also get glimpses of the Garhwal mountains in the distance on a clear day.
Once you reach Lohajung, you find yourself face to face with the beautiful Nanda Ghunti peak. If you reach before sunset, the colours of the peak will enthral you.
Lohajung is at the centre of 7-8 nearby villages. There are a couple of local stores where you can buy jackets, hand gloves, caps, shoes etc. if need be. However, it is advised that you carry all the required things for the trek beforehand and not rely on these shops. You will have a mobile network in most parts of Lohajung.
Lohajung, as the locals say, is the place where Goddess Parvati had a war (Jung) with the demon, Lohasur. Hence, the name translates to ‘War with Lohasur.’
Day 2: Drive from Lohajung to Wan. Trek to Gehroli Patal
Trek Duration: 6 hours | Trek Distance: 6.3 km
Altitude gain: 7,550 ft to 10,350 ft
Difficulty: Moderate. This day is full of ascent from Wan to Gehroli Patal
Water sources: Carry sufficient water. You will cross streams intermittently where you can refill your water bottles.
You’ll start by taking a vehicle from Lohajung to Wan. It’s a drive of about 45 mins.
The initial trail from Wan is cemented through a cluster of houses. 15 minutes into your trek, you will find a cluster of centuries-old Cypress trees. It would take four people to circumvent the tree! Try hugging it.
From here, there are two trails you can spot. One goes straight ahead to the ridge. The second one acts as a deviation from the Latu Devta temple. Latu Devta is a local deity, who is believed to protect the area. The mountain folk pay obeisance to him before ascending higher on the Nanda Devi Jat Yatra. Ring the temple bell here for a safe trek before going back to the ascending trail to the ridge – Ranaka Dhar. It takes 30-45 minutes to ascend from Wan to Ranaka Dhar. At Ranaka Dhar, take in the view of Lohajung, Wan and the valley below!
From here, it is a short descent to the iconinc Neel Ganga. The bridge on Neel Ganga is an idyllic location to take a breather. Trees overhang the river and the water trips and fall over boulders in the shade. The water here is cool and refreshing.
From here begins the beautiful continuous ascent to the first campsite, Gehroli Patal. The trail now winds through Oak and Rhododendron forests and the path is strewn with dry leaves that crunch and crackle beneath your trekking shoes. There are walnut, pear, Himalayan roses and other flora you can find on this climb. You may even spot birds like a flycatcher, and magpies. Keep a lookout.
This is a trek of about 3 hours that brings you to a clearing with a green trekker’s hut and the welcome sight of Trishul. This is Gehroli Patal.
On a clear day, you get astounding views of Mt Trishul commandeering over the area. Set up camp here.
You’ll start by taking a vehicle from Lohajung to Wan. It’s a drive of about 45 mins.
The initial trail from Wan is cemented through a cluster of houses. 15 minutes into your trek, you will find a cluster of centuries-old Cypress trees. It would take four people to circumvent the tree! Try hugging it.
From here, there are two trails you can spot. One goes straight ahead to the ridge. The second one acts as a deviation from the Latu Devta temple. Latu Devta is a local deity, who is believed to protect the area. The mountain folk pay obeisance to him before ascending higher on the Nanda Devi Jat Yatra. Ring the temple bell here for a safe trek before going back to the ascending trail to the ridge – Ranaka Dhar. It takes 30-45 minutes to ascend from Wan to Ranaka Dhar. At Ranaka Dhar, take in the view of Lohajung, Wan and the valley below!
From here, it is a short descent to the iconinc Neel Ganga. The bridge on Neel Ganga is an idyllic location to take a breather. Trees overhang the river and the water trips and fall over boulders in the shade. The water here is cool and refreshing.
From here begins the beautiful continuous ascent to the first campsite, Gehroli Patal. The trail now winds through Oak and Rhododendron forests and the path is strewn with dry leaves that crunch and crackle beneath your trekking shoes. There are walnut, pear, Himalayan roses and other flora you can find on this climb. You may even spot birds like a flycatcher, and magpies. Keep a lookout.
This is a trek of about 3 hours that brings you to a clearing with a green trekker’s hut and the welcome sight of Trishul. This is Gehroli Patal.
On a clear day, you get astounding views of Mt Trishul commandeering over the area. Set up camp here.
Day 3: Trek from Gehroli Patal to Abin Kharak via Bedni Bugyal
Trek Duration: 4 hours | Trek Distance: 5.60 km
Altitude gain: 10,350 ft to 11,145 ft via 12,550 ft
Difficulty: Easy-Moderate. Short climb with rolling meadows followed by a slightly steep ascent to Bedni Top and a gradual descent to Abin Kharak.
Water sources: Carry sufficient water. No water sources on the way.
Start your day with a climb through the oak and Rhododendron forest. The trail takes a steep ascent and crosses the tree line, leading you straight to Bedni Bugyal. Far ahead, hundreds of meters is the famous Bedni Kund.
From here, just 800 metres away is the highest point on the trek, the Bedni Top. You get the best views from the top. Mt Trishul and Mt Nanda Ghunti appear right in front of you.
The weather fluctuates in these parts and you can have moments of wild sunshine followed by anxious cloud cover. Keep your raincoat handy. Sometimes it rains for a few minutes leaving you frustrated, at times it could rain for a few hours.
From Bedni Top, descend down to the main trail. You need to stick to this main trail. This is the trail which takes one to the famous trek of Roopkund.
The opposite side is Ali Bugyal and takes the gradual descent. Takes a sharp turn on the ledge hugging the mountains.
Now leisurely walk your way to Ali Bugyal, 2 km away and more or less at the same level.
Clouds drift in from below, glide over the ridge and slide down either side, all in a slow, swift motion. You watch countless horses grazing on the bounty of nature. Foals tearing themselves across the turf in an uninhibited abandon, just being themselves.
From Ali Bugyal, Abin Kharak campsite is on the left side of the ridge and in a depression in the bugyal. Stay the night here.
Start your day with a climb through the oak and Rhododendron forest. The trail takes a steep ascent and crosses the tree line, leading you straight to Bedni Bugyal. Far ahead, hundreds of meters is the famous Bedni Kund.
From here, just 800 metres away is the highest point on the trek, the Bedni Top. You get the best views from the top. Mt Trishul and Mt Nanda Ghunti appear right in front of you.
The weather fluctuates in these parts and you can have moments of wild sunshine followed by anxious cloud cover. Keep your raincoat handy. Sometimes it rains for a few minutes leaving you frustrated, at times it could rain for a few hours.
From Bedni Top, descend down to the main trail. You need to stick to this main trail. This is the trail which takes one to the famous trek of Roopkund.
The opposite side is Ali Bugyal and takes the gradual descent. Takes a sharp turn on the ledge hugging the mountains.
Now leisurely walk your way to Ali Bugyal, 2 km away and more or less at the same level.
Clouds drift in from below, glide over the ridge and slide down either side, all in a slow, swift motion. You watch countless horses grazing on the bounty of nature. Foals tearing themselves across the turf in an uninhibited abandon, just being themselves.
From Ali Bugyal, Abin Kharak campsite is on the left side of the ridge and in a depression in the bugyal. Stay the night here.
Day 4: Trek from Abin Kharak to Didna
Trek Duration: 6 hours | Trek Distance: 9.3 km
Altitude loss: 11,145 ft to 8,150 ft
Difficulty: Easy-Moderate. A level walk on an undulating meadow to begin with and gradual descent through the forest setion.
Water sources: Carry sufficient water. You will cross streams intermittently where you can refill your water bottles.
Take some time in the morning to soak in the mesmerizing sight of the undulating meadows of Ali Bugyal. If you are tempted to take off your shoes and allow the feel of the carpet on your toes, just go ahead and do it!
You are on the top of a ridge that spreads in every direction. Acres and acres of green meadow scooped out of the mountainside.
Today's trek is all about descending from Abhin Kharak and reaching Didna.
Start your day and about 1.5 km later, the landscape suddenly opens up. Walk for about 1.5 - 2 km, you'll see Mt Chaukhambha behind you on the right. Though far away, you can identify the peak. Don't miss to turn back and see the view as you are trekking down. From here, you will further descend down to Tolpani. The forest continues to flaunt the trail on either side.
You reach Tolpani, a cluster of shepherds’ huts 3 km away and 1,000 ft lower. Continue to walk on the ridge through the forest section. You need to take the trail to the right.
The descent, however, is a good one through some of the densest oak and rhododendrons you’ll see. Under you is a never-ending brown carpet of leaves. The forest keeps changing every half an hour and perhaps is one of the most untouched sections until you reach Didna.
Didna is an ideal campsite with a clear stream running down to its right. This campsite gives you the experience of camping in one of the most remote villages of Uttarakhand. The campsite gazes across the valley. Lohajung, Kulling and Wan span left to right in a sweep.
Take some time in the morning to soak in the mesmerizing sight of the undulating meadows of Ali Bugyal. If you are tempted to take off your shoes and allow the feel of the carpet on your toes, just go ahead and do it!
You are on the top of a ridge that spreads in every direction. Acres and acres of green meadow scooped out of the mountainside.
Today's trek is all about descending from Abhin Kharak and reaching Didna.
Start your day and about 1.5 km later, the landscape suddenly opens up. Walk for about 1.5 - 2 km, you'll see Mt Chaukhambha behind you on the right. Though far away, you can identify the peak. Don't miss to turn back and see the view as you are trekking down. From here, you will further descend down to Tolpani. The forest continues to flaunt the trail on either side.
You reach Tolpani, a cluster of shepherds’ huts 3 km away and 1,000 ft lower. Continue to walk on the ridge through the forest section. You need to take the trail to the right.
The descent, however, is a good one through some of the densest oak and rhododendrons you’ll see. Under you is a never-ending brown carpet of leaves. The forest keeps changing every half an hour and perhaps is one of the most untouched sections until you reach Didna.
Didna is an ideal campsite with a clear stream running down to its right. This campsite gives you the experience of camping in one of the most remote villages of Uttarakhand. The campsite gazes across the valley. Lohajung, Kulling and Wan span left to right in a sweep.
Day 5: Trek from Didna Kulling. Drive to Lohajung
Trek Duration: 4-5 hours | Trek Distance: 6 km
Altitude gain: 8,150 ft to 7,550 ft
Difficulty: Easy-Moderate. Starts with a descent from Didna to Ramganga river followed by an ascent to Lohajung
Water sources: Carry sufficient water. You will cross streams intermittently where you can refill your water bottles.
Today's trek starts with a steep zig-zag descent from Didna.
Stick to the trail that goes around the village on the outer periphery — they lead directly from the Didna campsite, a clearing 200 ft below the village. The descent is steep and your legs can tire easily. Your next stop is to reach the iron bridge over the river. All along your walk to Raun Bagad, you hear the whistles of the thrushes and the soft chirps of the swallows among the rhododendrons.
This is Raun Bagad, a grassy bank on the river – a good place to camp. Below, the Wan river tumbles about as it rushes to meet the Bedni Ganga and seemingly out of the depths of the river, you’ll spot Lammergeiers, their massive wings stretched out catching the eddies. From the iron bridge, Lohajung is two hours away from here.
From here, you have one trail that goes to Kulling and the other one takes you to Lohajung.
The route of Kulling village is quite an ascent from the Wan river. This is a shortcut one can take. However, the trail is very much exposed and steep. You gain elevation very rapidly and you don’t like it. Kulling is a cluster of 20-odd houses set against the emerald green of stepped hills. You take a vehicle to Lohajung from here.
The other trail some trekkers take to Lohajung is a well-marked trail with a gradual ascend through mixed forests. Have lunch in one of the clearings on your way to Lohajung. This is a much more gradual ascent to reach Lohajung.
You are expected to reach Lohajung by 2-3 pm.
Today's trek starts with a steep zig-zag descent from Didna.
Stick to the trail that goes around the village on the outer periphery — they lead directly from the Didna campsite, a clearing 200 ft below the village. The descent is steep and your legs can tire easily. Your next stop is to reach the iron bridge over the river. All along your walk to Raun Bagad, you hear the whistles of the thrushes and the soft chirps of the swallows among the rhododendrons.
This is Raun Bagad, a grassy bank on the river – a good place to camp. Below, the Wan river tumbles about as it rushes to meet the Bedni Ganga and seemingly out of the depths of the river, you’ll spot Lammergeiers, their massive wings stretched out catching the eddies. From the iron bridge, Lohajung is two hours away from here.
From here, you have one trail that goes to Kulling and the other one takes you to Lohajung.
The route of Kulling village is quite an ascent from the Wan river. This is a shortcut one can take. However, the trail is very much exposed and steep. You gain elevation very rapidly and you don’t like it. Kulling is a cluster of 20-odd houses set against the emerald green of stepped hills. You take a vehicle to Lohajung from here.
The other trail some trekkers take to Lohajung is a well-marked trail with a gradual ascend through mixed forests. Have lunch in one of the clearings on your way to Lohajung. This is a much more gradual ascent to reach Lohajung.
You are expected to reach Lohajung by 2-3 pm.
Day 6: Drive from Lohajung to Rishikesh
Duration: 10-11 hours | Drive distance: 260 km
Reach Rishikesh; 10-11 hours drive from Lohajung. Transport will be organized by Indiahikes. Cab cost – Rs. 7,000 per vehicle, for an SUV and Rs. 11,000 per vehicle, for a Tempo Traveller which is to be paid by trekkers directly to the driver.
Reach Rishikesh; 10-11 hours drive from Lohajung. Transport will be organized by Indiahikes. Cab cost – Rs. 7,000 per vehicle, for an SUV and Rs. 11,000 per vehicle, for a Tempo Traveller which is to be paid by trekkers directly to the driver.
Moderate
Suitable for Fit Beginners
At Indiahikes, while rating a trek difficulty we consider several factors. These include altitude gained every day, length of a trek every day, highest altitude, nature of the terrain, weather etc. Based on this we rate a trek as easy or difficult or somewhere in between.
Ali Bedni trek has slightly longer trekking days and has steep ascents and descents. So, it is rated as a moderate trek because it requires good endurance.
Getting to the details, this 6-day trek climbs from 7,550 ft to 12,550 ft. That’s almost an altitude gain of 5,000 ft. This climb is one of the major challenges on the trek.
Cardiovascular endurance – Target 5 km in 35 minutes before the start of the trek
On the Ali Bedni Bugyal trek, you have to ascend for almost 5,000 ft and descend an equal amount over 4 days. This requires a good amount of endurance. You can begin by jogging every day. Start slow and increase your pace every day. Including swimming and cycling as an alternative to running can help too.
To be prepared for a high altitude trek, you should have a combination of distance and speed targets.
How Safe Is Ali Bedni Bugyal Trek
Ali Bedni Bugyal is a high altitude trek that takes you beyond 12,000 ft. The trek climbs rapidly and your safety depends a lot on the preparation you put in for the trek.
Ali Bedni Bugyal trek is safe where the trail is concerned. The entire trail is well laid out. No special skill or help is required for navigation.
The trek is, however, strenuous. It also climbs quickly. Although the prior experience of trekking in the Himalayas is not required, it helps in accustoming you to the hardship.
Ali Bedni Bugyal trek is perfect for beginners. You may even treat it as a pre-trek to get used to the rigours of high altitude trekking. Almost like an appetizer. It does not have tricky or technical sections, but a couple of sections on the trek can get challenging.
Two sections will test your endurance. And for these sections, you need to train and have basic endurance and stamina.
From Lohajung to Didna
On the first day of the trek from the base camp to Didna, there is a steep climb. Many people struggle during this section because their legs are still not warmed up as it’s just the beginning. This is where your preparation and endurance come in.
Climb to Bedni Bugyal and Bedni Top
From Abin Kharak to Bedni Bugyal, there is a short and steep climb. This is not as steep as the previous day but it still tests your stamina and endurance because now you have crossed the 10,000 feet mark and your body starts registering the strain of being at a high altitude.
While climbing the steep sections in snow, wear your Microspikes. Hard snow is extremely prone to slips. A small slip can result in injuries like a ligament tear, a sprained ankle or even a fracture. Always put your foot on footholds made by earlier trekkers. Look out for deep footholds. Do not try to make new paths of your own.
Note: If you are trekking with Indiahikes, your Trek Leader will tell you when to wear the Microspikes. Indiahikes' technical team will lead in this section to make the footholds required for trekkers to step on.
At altitudes above 10,000 ft, the chances of being hit by Acute Mountain Sickness are real. Altitude sickness does not distinguish between a first timer and an experienced trekker. Even experienced trekkers can get affected. Fitness helps in making your trek easier. But do not forget that even a fit person climbing too high too soon runs an equal risk of developing AMS.
Some symptoms to watch out for: (a) Persistent headache (b) Feeling fatigued or weak (c) Feel nauseous or vomit (d) Feeling dizzy or lightheaded, often while sitting up or standing suddenly (e) You don’t feel like eating, you have a loss of appetite (f) You don’t sleep very well at night.
The itinerary of the Ali Bedni Bugyal trek allows you to acclimatize well. And yet, you must stay alert for any signs of AMS.
Here’s a Complete guide to Acute Mountains Sickness, HAPE and HACE:
Exit Points
Weather plays a big role in your safety on the trek. Here are some of the weather-related issues that can play an important role in your Ali Bedni Bugyal trek.
At altitudes above 10,000 ft, snowfall can happen anytime. A spell of rain on the lower slopes almost usually leads to light or heavy snow in the upper regions.
It can rain or snow abruptly at any time at such high altitudes. A rainfall or snowfall that lasts more than four hours can change your trek plans. Rain can flood the trails or make them too slushy to walk safely on. Some normal sections can become very slippery.
On the Ali Bedni Bugyal trek, snowfall is a distinct possibility near Bedni Top Especially in the winter months. Snowfall can obstruct previously made paths. This means fresh tracks have to be cut on the snow.
The Indiahikes technical team along with the Trek Leader takes a call on when to proceed with the trek and when to stay back. A team may have to turn around from the highest camp if the weather turns worse.
Ali Bedni Bugyal in Spring (March-April)
During Spring, the mountain views are at their sharpest and clearest, as the air is still crisp and clean from the winter months. The blue sky seems to stretch on forever. The landscape is unmarred by the haze and smog that can often plague the plains. The snow-capped peaks glisten in the sunlight.
This trek is known for its commanding views of Mt. Trishul and Mt. Nanda Ghunti. The peaks tower over the landscape, their snow-capped summits piercing the sky. The view is particularly striking when the air is clear and the mountains seem to be within arm's reach.
Ali Bedni Bugyal in Summer (May-June)
The best time to do the Ali Bedni Bugyal trek would be in summer, for lush greenery in the meadows and wildflowers growing in abundance. You see the best of this in June.
Ali Bedni Bugyal Post-Monsoon (September-November)
Another good time to do the Ali Bedni Bugyal trek is in the post-monsoon season. After the monsoon clouds are washed away, the skies are squeaky clean and you get the best views of mountains only in these months. If you’re one for photographs of big mountains in the region, choose the post-monsoon season.
Ali Bedni Bugyal in Winter (December-March)
We have 7 winter treks — and all of them are great. But the Ali Bedni winter trek is the one with the most beautiful snow cover.
In the forests, the snow settles softly under the boughs of the oaks and rhododendrons. What makes it more special on the Ali Bedni trek is that the slope faces the west. Early in the morning when you are trekking up the slope, the sun slants through the trees hitting the snow at magical angles.
1. Here’s a quick view of how to plan your travel
Day 1: Book your air ticket to Dehradun. Drive from Rishikesh to Lohajung. Reach Lohajung (This is a 10-11 hours drive from Rishikesh). Transport will be arranged from Live Free Hostel, Rishikesh at 5.00 am.
Here are 8 Things You Must Do in Rishikesh that No One’s Heard Of
Day 2 to Day 5: Trek days
Day 6: Depart from Lohajung. You will reach Rishikesh between 6.00 pm and 7.00 pm
Important points to note
Buffer Day: Keep a buffer day for emergencies. Your trek is 6 days long, but keep an extra 7th day as your buffer day. This is outside the itinerary. You cannot predict bad rain, landslides or a political situation on a trek.
Always book your return flight/train tickets after including the buffer day in your itinerary.
2. Planning your onward flight/train booking
If you are travelling from Bengaluru, Chennai, Pune, Mumbai or any other city, book your air tickets for Day Zero, which is the day before Day 1 on the itinerary. If your trek start day is 25 August, book your air tickets for 24 August to either Delhi/Dehradun.
There are two options for your flight booking.
1. Fly directly to Dehradun: We recommend taking a flight to Dehradun. It gives you an added rest day at Rishikesh. Most metros are directly connected to Dehradun. From Dehradun, it takes one hour by bus to Rishikesh.
2. Fly to Delhi: Reach Delhi before 09.00 PM, one day before your pick-up date, and take a bus from there.
Note: The last metro from airport to New delhi is 23:15. Metro fare is Rs 60.
Here are the options for your train booking.
1. Take the Dehradun Shatabdi (Train no: 12017): From New Delhi Railway Station at 6:45 am and reach Haridwar at 11:30 am. From Haridwar take a bus to reach Rishikesh. There are buses which ply at frequent 10-15 minute intervals to Rishikesh. It takes about 1 hour to get there. Note: Do not take a train to Dehradun, it longer to reach Rishikesh from Dehradun railway station. Take the train only up to Haridwar.
2. Take the Dehradun Jan Shatabdi (Train no: 12055): From Hazrath Nizamuddin station, which leaves at 3.20 pm and reaches Haridwar at 7:33 pm. Stay overnight in a hotel at Rishikesh and join the team vehicle the next morning. Note: Live Free Hostel is a good place to halt for the night. The place is decent and clean.
If you don’t get the train, there are regular overnight Volvo AC buses from Delhi.
1. Take an overnight bus from Delhi’s ISBT Kashmiri Gate to Rishikesh. Buses are frequent and not usually crowded. You can get a bus almost every half hour. It takes 8-9 hours to get to Rishikesh from Delhi. AC bus tickets cost about Rs.900. Take a bus that reaches 5:30 AM.
Note
Whichever mode of transport you choose make sure you reach Rishikesh a day earlier, Day 0
3. Planning your return flight/train booking
Booking your return tickets requires some thought. First, always book your return ticket keeping in mind the buffer day. The buffer day must be included in your itinerary. If your trek ends on day 6, you can book your flight/train tickets for day 7.
Sometimes trekkers worry if they can book an early morning flight out of Delhi on Day 7. Yes, you can. But book flights that depart only after 8 am. Do not book any flight between 6.00 and 8 am. You may not reach Delhi in time.
4. Planning your hotel/stay
Hotel options at Rishikesh
1. Hostel Live Free
Hostel Live Free is situated on the prominent Laxman Jhula Road in Rishikesh. It offers decent accommodation options in dorms and also in private rooms.
Contact number: 099990 20248
Book online: Book online through Booking.com or Trip Advisor
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/9H8Xakmt8p2TpYFS6
2. Zostel, Rishikesh
Zostel is a modern backpackers hostel, excellent for women travelling alone. It has basic amenities such as bunk beds, towels, good bathroom. The entire premises is quite hygienic. Bathrooms are shared. The average cost is Rs 400 – 800 per bed. Rooms start at about Rs 1,200
Book Online: https://www.zostel.com/
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/ugqLXUBcbgxnFt638
3. Joey's Hostel is another good option. The bunk beds cost Rs 550. The rooms cost Rs 2,800.
Location: https://g.page/joey-s-hostel-rishikesh?share
Phone : +91 - 7217482824
4. Shiv Shakti Hostel is another good, decent option at a similar price range to Zostel. This is a hostel like Zostel. They also have rooms.
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/qLs5wAThyyP8cmfR8
Hotel options near Jolly Grant Airport
1. Sun n Soil Backpackers hostel is a great option, if you want to stay near Jolly Grant airport. It's a great place for the backpackers and travellers as it has a different ambience. Bunk beds start at Rs 450, rooms start at Rs 1,000.
Location: https://g.page/sun-n-soil-backpacker-hostel?share
Phone: +91 - 9634570743
Hotel options at Haridwar
1. Hotel Famous is a good option for a stay at Haridwar. It's very close to the railway station. It's a descent hotel with good amneties.
Phone: +91-8273158441
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/8BFpDFz3asN5cMjUA
2. Hotel Rahi, a government-owned GMVN property is fairly decent. Spacious but old building. Almost opposite the Haridwar railway station, just past the bus stop. Prices start at around Rs 700 for a room.
Phone: +91-135-2431793
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/bH25Zp8Di9SE3p757
5. What if you miss the Indiahikes pickup? Getting to Lohajung on your own
If you miss the Indiahikes pick up from Rishikesh. Here is how you can get to Lohajung base camp on your own.
Option 1: Delhi → Lohajung (24 hours)
There is a direct bus from Delhi to Mundoli/Lohajung. It leaves Delhi Anand Vihar terminal at 9.15 pm. You will reach Kathgodam at 4.00 am and Lohajung at 5.30 pm.
Note: This is an extremely long and tiring journey.
Option 2: Delhi → Rishikesh/ Dehradun→ Lohajung (cab)
From Delhi, get to Rishikesh/Haridwar and hire a shared cab to Lohajung. The route: Devprayag – Srinagar – Rudraprayag – Karnaprayag – turn right to Tharali – Debal – Mundoli – Lohajung. Usually the shared taxi goes till Debal and you would have to switch to another shared cab from Debal.
There are even shared cabs available from Dehradun, which goes via Rishikesh.
You can also hire a personal vehicle as well from Rishikesh, but this would be expensive.
Note: Most taxi operators may not have heard of Lohajung. So, you’ll have to show them the direction given above. (If you are booking a cab for yourself)
Option 3: Delhi → Rishikesh/Dehradun → Karanprayag → Tharali → Lohajung (bus)
From Rishikesh Bus Stand., take any bus on the Joshimath/Badrinath route and buy a ticket to Karanprayag. It is a 6-7 hour journey from Rishikesh to Karanprayag. Take a bus that leaves as early in the morning as possible, preferably around 6.00 am. From Karanprayag Bus Stand, take a shared Jeep to Tharali (47 km). The road to Tharali runs along the Pindar river.
From Tharali, take a shared taxi to Debal (14 km). Once you reach Debal, you can arrange onward transport to Lohajung (24 km).
Option 4: Kathgodam/Haldwani → Almora → Baijnath → Gwaldam (cab)
You can also travel from different parts of the Kumaon region to Lohajung by shared cab. The idea is that you have to reach Baijnath or Gwaldam. From there, you will get shared cabs to Debal. From there, in a similar way, you can head for Lohajung.
What To Pack For Your Trek
These are documents required for legal purposes by Indiahikes and the forest department. Without any of these, you will not be allowed to trek.
- Original and photocopy of identity card. Anything such as a driver’s license, Aadhar Card, or passport will do. This is required by the forest department for your identification.
- Disclaimer certificate: There are two sections in this. The first part is a personal medical record. The second part is a legal requirement. Download the PDF, read carefully, fill in and sign it. This must be handed over to your Trek Leader during registration at the base camp. – Download disclaimer certificate
- Medical certificate: The medical certificate needs to be filled out by an MBBS doctor, without which the forest department will not issue permissions for your trek. It is also a requirement by Indiahikes – Download medical certificate.
Note: Indiahikes has a panel of doctors who can help you with a medical certificate. They are available for online consultation. To get in touch with them, please write to trekmedicalcertificates@gmail.com. They will respond to you within 24 hours.
Consultation fee: Rs 300
PRO TIPS
Keep important documents in a clear plastic cover and slide them into the inner pocket at the back of your backpack. This keeps them from getting wet. Please note there is no facility to get printouts and photocopies at Sari.
Before you purchase any gear, make sure you visit the Crosstrek Rental store, where you can get custom-made high quality gear at 5% of the buying cost.
You can rent trekking shoes, backpacks, padded jackets, trekking poles, rainwear and headlamps for less than Rs 1400 for the entire duration of your trek. Visit our Crosstrek Rentals store here.
Here is a list of everything you need for your trek.
Shoes and backpack
- Trekking shoes with ankle support (Available on rent)
- Backpack with rain cover (Available on rent)
Warm Layers and Clothes
- Warm layers (Padded jackets available on rent)
- 3 layers if you're trekking in spring, summer and monsoon (1 woollen sweater, 1 fleece, 1 padded jacket)
- 4 layers if you're trekking in autumn (1 woollen sweater, 2 fleece, 1 padded jacket)
- 5 layers if you're trekking in winter (1 pair of thermals, 1 woollen sweater, 2 fleece, 1 padded jacket) - 3 Collared T-shirts (Wear one, carry two)
- 2 quick-dry trek pants (Wear one, carry one)
Accessories
- Sunglasses (Available on rent)
- Sun cap, preferably with flaps (Available for purchase)
- Waterproof gloves (Available for purchase)
- Balaclava
- Woollen socks (2 pairs of Dry fit + 1 pair of Woollen)
- Headlamp (Available on rent)
- Trekking pole (Available on rent)
- Rain jacket + pants / poncho (Poncho is available on rent)
Toiletries:
- Sunscreen
- Moisturiser
- Light towel
- Lip balm or vaseline
- Toilet paper (Wet wipes are strictly not allowed on our treks)
- Toothbrush
- Toothpaste
- Reusable plastic covers (for used clothes)
Cutlery:
- Steel lunch box, spoon and a coffee mug (Lunch box is available on rent)
- Two water bottles or Hydration Pack (Water bottles are available on rent)
Once you run through this list, don't miss this ultimate guide on what gear to take on a trek. It contains tips on what gear to choose, where to get it from and how much to spend on it.
Our only tip: Keep your backpack light. Indiahikes practices low impact sustainable trekking in every aspect of the trek. Carrying your own personal backpack reduces your impact on the mountains by 20%. We expect all our trekkers to carry their own backpacks unless they have a justifiable reason not to.
Carry these medicines with you, easily accessible at all times. Do not take any medicine unless you have consulted your trek leader.
- Diamox (1 Strip): It is important to carry Diamox as part of the Live Saving Drugs. Read more about Diamox here on how it reduces the chances of Acute Mountain Sickness on the trek.
- Dolo 650 (5 tablets): This is a paracetamol. It helps to tackle fever, mild pain
- Avomine (4 tablets): Carry this especially if you are prone to motion sickness. Pop one-half hour before the start of your road journey.
- Combiflam (5 tablets): Take a combiflam if you get a sudden twist of the leg or a muscle strain. It is a pain reliever. It also contains paracetamol.
- Digene (4 tablets): Take it if you feel the food that you’ve taken is undigested. Alert your trek leader immediately. It could be a sign of AMS.
- ORS (6 packs): Consume a pack of ORS water at least once a day, usually mid-day when you are in the middle of your trek. It replenishes essential salts lost while trekking. Tip: It also makes cold water easier to drink.
- Knee Brace (optional): Carry this if you are prone to knee injury or have known issues of knee pain.
Our trek leaders carry a high altitude medical kit with them which also consist of Life Saving Drugs. If there is an emergency our trek leaders know how to tackle it. Meanwhile, contact your trek leader before consuming any of these medicines listed here.
| Pro tip: We find that these medicines by trekkers are rarely used. But you cannot do away with them. At the end of the trek please donate unused medicines to your trek leader. Some of these medicines get distributed to villages on the trek and some are added to the Indiahikes medical kit.
Ali Bedni Bugyal is an alpine meadow in the state of Uttarakhand. It lies directly North of popular hill stations like Nainital, Kausani, Almora and Gwaldam. You’ll see these meadows at an elevation range of around 10,000 ft – 11,000 ft. These meadows are famous for being beautiful landmarks on the Roopkund trail.
It takes two days of climbing to reach Ali and Bedni Bugyal from Lohajung. If you’re approaching Ali and Bedni Bugyal from Didna, it takes slightly longer (a rough distance of 15 km). Being just south of the Nanda Devi Sanctuary, these meadows have striking views of the peaks within the sanctuary — Mt Nanda Ghunti, Mt Trishul, Maiktoli and Mrigthuni. You also see the Chaukhamba massif from these meadows.
Bugyal (pronounced boog-yaal) is a Hindi word that refers to alpine pasture lands or alpine meadows that grow above around 10,500 ft and below 13,000 ft. These alpine meadows are always found above the treeline, so they’re vast open lands, usually with great scenic views of the mountains and valleys around them.
Ali Bugyal and Bedni Bugyal are two of the most famous bugyals in our country. Dayara Bugyal and Gidara Bugyal are other examples of bugyals in India.
Ali Bedni Bugyal trek is open throughout the year except in monsoons. Spring is the best time to do the trek if what you want is clear skies and grand mountain views. Summer will give you lush greenery in the meadows and wildflowers growing in abundance. But the Ali Bedni winter trek is the one with the most beautiful snow cover in the entire country. For more detailed information, please refer to this section.
The Ali Bedni Bugyal trek covers around 30 km in 4 days. (6 days including the drive to and from the trek). The altitude ranges from 7,550 ft in Lohajung all the way to 12,550 ft.
Ali Bedni Bugyal has the grandest of mountain views among the meadow treks in our country. You witness the majesty of Mt Trishul and Mt Nanda Ghunti throughout the trek. It has vast meadows and rhododendron forests. For a more detailed guide, you can watch these Ali Bedni Bugyal trek reviews by experts.
Ali Bedni trek has slightly longer trekking day on Day 1 compared to other Easy moderate treks. So, it is rated as a Moderate trek because it requires good endurance.
Getting to the details, this 6-day trek climbs from 7,550 ft to 12,550 ft. That’s almost an altitude gain of 5,000 ft. This climb is one of the major challenges on the trek. However, The entire trail is well laid out. No special skill or help is required for navigation.
Although the prior experience of trekking in the Himalayas is not required, it helps in accustoming you to the hardship.
A Himalayan trek like Ali Bedni requires a good fitness level. The trek has long climbs and walks daily. As a measure of your fitness, we need you to:
Run at least 5 km in 35 minutes before your trek. Consistency of your workout also matters, so aim to jog 20 km a week or 80 km in a month. It's a minimum mandatory requirement if you wish to trek with us
OR
Alternatively, cycle for at least 22 km in 60 minutes. Aim to cycle 110 km a week or 440 km in a month. However, running is better suited for your trek preparation.
Once you get confirmed for your trek, we will diligently follow up on your fitness routine. Our team will also assist in putting you through a fitness plan. It will ultimately help you have a safe trek experience.
Ali Bedni Bugyal is a 6 day trek. The stay on Day 1 and Day 5, at Lohajung, will be in a guest house, where you will share rooms with fellow trekkers. Stay on all other days of the trek in tents. Each tent accommodates 2 trekkers. A sufficient number of toilet tents will be set up for the convenience of trekkers.
You are likely to find snow on this trail in December, January and February. Sometimes, you can get lucky and find snow well into March.
Ali Bedni Buygal is a moderate trek and requires trekkers to be physically fit. The minimum age for eligibility is 10 years. If your child meets this criterion and is physically fit, you can take her/him along.
The guest house at Lohajung will have concrete toilets.
During the trek, toilet tents will be set up along each campsite. There will be 2 to 4 of these toilet tents depending on the size of the group. A toilet tent will have a deep pit, where one can answer nature’s call. There will be a mound of soil and a shovel to cover it up. These are dry toilets, where you’ll have to use toilet paper. This is the most hygienic and convenient way to answer nature’s call in the wild.
Please use plain toilet paper and refrain from using wet wipes since these are not biodegradable.
What Happens To Your Poop in the Mountains? | Green Trails | Indiahikes
Our campsites are pitched near water sources. For your day’s trek, two litres of water should be enough. On Day 2 and Day 5, you will find one water source to refill your water bottles. Your trek leader will brief you about these before starting the day’s trek.
You will get mobile signals at Lohajung for most networks. Signals will be intermittent in the mountains. So finish all your important calls at Lohajung and inform anxious family members about limited phone connectivity.
As per electricity, The last charging point would be at our basecamp in Lohajung. However, come prepared for the possibility of power cuts at Lohajung.
Rishikesh is your best bet to make last-minute cash withdrawals.
We advise you to carry around Rs 4-5k in cash to pay for your transport to the basecamp, for rental gear deposit and personal expenses en route to the basecamp. If you are planning to visit other attractions after the trek, we advise you to carry more.
If you’re an Indiahikes trekker, there is no major need for cash as once you arrive at the base camp. All meals, accommodations, permits, and related expenses are taken care of by Indiahikes.
Since you will be starting and returning to the guest house at Lohajung, it is possible for you to leave some luggage behind, if required. However, make sure you do not leave any valuables - Indiahikes is not responsible for loss or damage to any belongings.
You can spend time exploring tourist attractions around Rishikesh, Bhimtal, or Kausani. Please note that these are suggestions and Indiahikes does not make any arrangements for visiting them.
Yes you can!
If you are above the age of 58 years, you’ll need to submit a Treadmill Test (not older than 12 months) within a week of completing your trek registration. Apart from this, you should also be able to jog 5 km in 45 minutes.
Having too many mules on a trail isn’t good for the ecosystem. This is why, at Indiahikes, we do not encourage offloading. A trekker carries his/her own backpack in the true spirit of trekking.
But if — due to a medical condition — you are unable to carry your own backpack, you may offload your backpack. It'll cost you Rs 1,680 for the trek. You can reach out to the Experience Coordinator once you have the registration done. Find details about the offloading process here.
We recommend jogging as the best routine to get fit for a trek. It works on the same muscles that you use while trekking — your calves, glutes and hamstrings. It helps increase your stamina day by day. It is also an easy routine that does not require any equipment or tools.
Fitness target:
To do this trek comfortably, you must be able to cover 5 km in under 35 minutes. This is the minimum fitness required for this trek.
How to achieve this fitness?
- Start jogging at least 4 days a week
- If you cannot run 5 km immediately, start with 2 km and increase to 5 km over 2-3 weeks.
- Once you’re able to run 5 km, increase your pace day by day.
- Gradually increase your pace and bring it down to 5 km in less than 35 mins.
- You must be able to run 5 km in 35 mins consistently for at least 2 weeks before the trek.
This trek requires at least 6-8 weeks of preparation. The longer, the better. So plan your trek soon and start preparing.
Here's a complete guide to get you trek fit.
Strength training tips:
How to get Fitness Approval from the Indiahikes team:
Every trekker needs fitness approval from the Indiahikes team 20 days before the trek date. Without this, you will not be allowed on the trek.
What to upload?
- A minimum of 3 screenshots of your runs/jogs/walks/cycling
- Monthly summary of your routine
Why fitness matters:
Every high-altitude trek comes with a set of challenges. Steep ascents and descents, uneven terrain, snow walks, stream crossings, pass crossings, and summit climb. Even the easiest of treks have some of these challenges if not all of them. Without fitness, trekkers struggle, get injured easily, lag behind, or simply fail to complete the trek.
At Indiahikes, we take pride in the fact that our trekkers are among the fittest in the country. Those who do not meet the fitness requirements are often sent back. Our philosophy is that trekking and fitness go hand in hand. Without fitness, there’s no trekking.
Photo Gallery
Expert Speak
Arjun Majumdar, Founder, CEO
Arjun Majumdar, Founder, CEO
Here is Arjun Majumdar, Founder and CEO of Indiahikes talking about Ali Bedni Bugyal. Arjun is an entrepreneur by profession and a trekker by passion, Arjun started Indiahikes in 2008 with a vision to explore and document new trails, solve problems in the mountains and implement sustainable ways of trekking.
What I Like About the Ali Bedni Bugyal Trek
What I Like About the Ali Bedni Bugyal Trek
Arjun Majumdar, Founder, CEO
Here is Arjun Majumdar, Founder and CEO of Indiahikes talking about Ali Bedni Bugyal. Arjun is an entrepreneur by profession and a trekker by passion, Arjun started Indiahikes in 2008 with a vision to explore and document new trails, solve problems in the mountains and implement sustainable ways of trekking.
1. Grand Mountain Views From The Most Beautiful Meadows Of Our Country
You see Mt Trishul and Mt Nanda Ghunti in their grandest of views. They are jutting out. By jutting out I mean you see their full face, like the entire 6,000-7,000 feet of Mt Trishul right in front of you. Imagine the grandiosity with the sun setting on it.
You haven’t seen such grand views on any trek. Forget about any meadow trek.
To add to it, you are at around 11,500 feet with the evening rays on Mt Trishul, especially from Bedni Bugyal. It is a powerful sight. I have seen trekkers standing in these meadows with tears in their eyes.
And I want you to watch this.
The views of Mt Trishul and Mt Nanda Ghunti on the Ali Bedni Bugyal trek are incomparable to any other trek. Picture by Dhaval Jajal.
2. Unforgettable sunrises and sunsets while camping at Abin Kharak
You may not know this, but we have an extra camp near Ali Bugyal called Abin Kharak. This is just off the meadows. You can get in and out of the meadows quickly from here.
Watch out for this campsite. You won’t get a more rewarding experience on a trek. Now you have the opportunity to not just see the sunsets but also the sunrise from these meadows.
Early morning rays touching Mt. Trishul Photo by Sudarshan Jaganathan.
3. A unique experience of trekking through ancient and dense forests
The oak and rhododendron forest on the Ali-Bedni Bugyal trek are the densest I have trekked in. Perhaps, they are also the rarest because most of these trees are easily a thousand years old.
They are so grand and so old. And you are meandering through these trees with their roots all over the ground. It’s not something you will experience on most treks.
Especially if you do it early in the morning, as we are going to be doing it.
In many places, you see sunlight falling from spectacular angles. It’s a photographer’s delight to catch these sun rays falling through the leaves at charming angles. It creates lovely lighting.
Evening light in the forests of Gheroli Patal. Picture by Arvind Kumar
Trek Trivia
Things Nobody Tells You About Ali Bedni Bugyal
The Unheard Pahadi Myths of Shiva and Parvati
The Ali Bedni Bugyal trek has seeped into the Shiva-Parvati mythology. While such mythological stories find their way into every household as bedtime stories, theaw pahadi stories are rarely heard of.
The entire trail of Ali Bedni marks the journey of Shiva and Parvati and their children between Kumaon valley, Parvati’s home, and Kailash Manasarovar, where Shiva and Parvati lived after their marriage. The entire route does exist and covers an aerial distance of around 155 km.
It is said that all of them carried out this journey every four years to visit Parvati's maternal home and then return to Manasarovar.
The peaks of Nanda Ghunti, Trishul, Bethartoli and Bethartoli south symbolise Shiva, Parvati and their children. Today, when the sky clears and these four peaks can be seen, the Pahadis believe the four of them to have reached back to their home.
Nanda Devi Raat Jaag Yatra (pilgrimage), which occurs roughly every 12 years, is carried out on the same path in remembrance and honour of this grand journey. One of the biggest Pahadi festivals, it has a participation of 1.5 Lakh people, who hike together barefoot through this trail.
The Myths and Facts around Laatu Devta
The temple of Laatu Devta in Wan is one of the most sacred temples. No one except one chosen priest is allowed to step inside it. The priest too, cannot go into the inner sanctum of the temple, except for a specific day and time. It is said that Laatu Devta still resides in the temple, and hence these rules.
Surrounding this temple are huge coniferous trees which are said to be a thousand years old. Their trunks are so massive that it would take 7 to 8 people to hug one of them.
This Devta and its temple play into the story of Shiva and Parvati's journey from Kumaon valley to Kailash Manasarovar and the Yatra (pilgrimage) along with it today. A four-horned goat, called Khaadu, symbolising Laatu Devta, not only walks along the trail covering this pilgrimage but leads it too. So, whenever a four-horned goat is born, it is raised to one day lead the Yatra.
On the trail, all the pilgrims end their journey at Homkund lake. The Khaadu, however, walks ahead on its own, towards Manasarovar, and disappears into the mountains.
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