How Difficult Is the Ali Bedni Bugyal Trek?

How Difficult Is the Ali Bedni Bugyal Trek?

If you look at the terrain of the Ali Bedni Bugyal trek, it doesn’t scream “difficult.” It’s a gorgeous walk — lush forests, dreamy meadows, and views of Mt Trishul peeking through the trees. No dicey sections. No exposed ridgelines.

We classify it as a easy-moderate trek.

You might wonder — why?

Watch this quick video to get a good overview of the trek. But don’t stop there — the article dives much deeper. I’d definitely recommend giving it a read. Towards the end, you’ll also find answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about the trek

Why Is This Trek Considered Easy-Moderate?

There’s no snow to battle (unless you’re trekking in December or March), no boulders to scramble over, no threats of rockfall. But this isn’t an easy trek either.

The challenge lies in the gradients — especially during the first and last legs of the trail.

That’s why understanding where these tricky sections are can help you train better and pace yourself right.

Day 1: The Steep Climb from Wan to Gheroli

The trek begins with a sharp reality check.

The climb from Wan to Gheroli hits you immediately, and it’s steep — one of the toughest sections of the trail.

Many trekkers struggle here, not because they’re unfit, but because they start too fast. It’s easy to get carried away when your legs are fresh. But this is where you need to slow down and pace yourself.

Day 2: The Ascent to Bedni Bugyal

The climb to Bedni Bugyal isn’t as steep as Day 1. But now you’re trekking above 10,000 ft. The air is thinner, your body is still adjusting, and even gentle slopes start to feel harder.

So slow down. Breathe deep. Let your body catch up with your spirit.

The Meadows: A Gentle Walk Through Beauty

Once you step into Ali Bugyal and Bedni Bugyal, everything changes.

The trail flattens out. You're walking across vast, undulating grasslands, with Trishul and Nanda Ghunti towering beside you.

This is the part everyone dreams about — and rightly so.

Gradual Altitude Gain Means Less Risk

One reason the Ali Bedni Bugyal trek is beginner-friendly is because of its gradual altitude gain.

You start from Lohajung (7,800 ft) and climb to Bedni Bugyal (around 11,500 ft) over two days — a comfortable gain of around 3,500 ft.

This reduces the risk of altitude sickness, making it a great choice for first-time Himalayan trekkers.

Then Comes the Descent — And It’s a Long One

Here’s where your body really gets tested.

Over the last two days, you’ll descend almost 4,000 ft — from Abin Kharak back to Lohajung. Add to that long walking days (6–7 km per day), and your knees and thighs will feel the impact.

This is why fitness preparation becomes crucial. You want your legs strong and your endurance up before you step onto the trail.

How to Prepare for the Ali Bedni Bugyal Trek

Start your fitness training at least a month before your trek.

• Walk 5 km in 35–40 minutes, at least 4 times a week
  
• Include strength workouts for legs and core: squats, lunges, planks
  
• Do some stair climbing or downhill walking to prepare your knees
  

Bonus tip: If you’re trekking in winter (December to March), be prepared for snow on the trail and colder temperatures — pack at least 5 layers. Click on this link to view a detailed guide to get ready for the trek.

In Conclusion

The Ali Bedni Bugyal trek isn’t just a meadow walk — it’s an experience that quietly grows on you, step by step. It’s not overly demanding, but it’s not to be underestimated either.

Prepare well, pace yourself, and you’ll unlock the magic of one of Uttarakhand’s most beautiful trails.

We have an expert team of Trek Advisors to help you choose the right trek. So if you have questions like, "Can I do this trek?" or "Who else is trekking?", please get in touch. Click here to talk to our Trek Advisors.

Some Frequently Asked Questions about the Ali Bedni Bugyal trek:

1. Where is Ali Bedni Bugyal located?

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.

2. What is the total distance of the Ali Bedni Bugyal trek?

The Ali Bedni Bugyal trek covers around 28 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.

3. What is the best time to visit Ali Bedni Bugyal?

The Ali Bedni Bugyal trek can be done in all months of the year except the Rainy season (July-August).
Spring (Mar - Apr): Crisp views, good weather
Summer (May - Jun): Best time to do the trek. Grand meadows
Autumn (Sep - Nov): Clearest views
Winter (Dec - Mar): Huge meadows covered in snow

4. Is the Ali Bedni Bugyal trek a winter trek?
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. 

5. What’s special about the Ali Bedni Bugyal trek in March?
It is a very famous time to trek in these meadows. You might find patches of snow in the higher reaches. The weather is not too cold and the air is crisp. It is a season of fantastic mountain views.

6. Is the Bedni Bugyal trek the same as the Ali Bedni trek?
Ali and Bedni Bugyal are the largest twin alpine meadows in the country. They are part of the same itinerary of the Ali Bedni Bugyal trek.