Surya Top
A Summit Climb Amidst Grand Meadows
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TREK DIFFICULTY
Moderate
TREK DURATION
7 Days
HIGHEST ALTITUDE
12,900 ft
TOTAL TREK DISTANCE
31 kms
BASECAMP
Raithal
ACCOMMODATION TYPE
Tents
PICKUP POINT
A Summit Climb Amidst Grand Meadows
In our country, we have some of the grandest meadows to walk on and then some of the finest summits to climb. But there is one trek that combines both of these, and that is the Surya Top Trek.
Surya Top is an extension of our much-loved Dayara Bugyal trek. Trekkers often get teary-eyed upon reaching Dayara meadows on the Dayara Bugyal trek. They're floored by the endless grasslands, not to mention the big mountain views. Such is the setting of the meadows.
What if we told you that this is just the tip of the iceberg?
Surya Top - 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 Dayara 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.
Day 1
Drive From Dehradun to Raithal
Drive Distance: 185 km | Drive Duration: 9 hours | Pick up point for Indiahikes trekkers: Grand Legacy Hotel, Dehradun | Pick up Time: 6.30 am | Location of Indiahikes basecamp: Raithal
Transport will be arranged at 6.30 a.m. This cost has to be borne by trekkers. The cost of the cab will be Rs 1300 (additional 5% GST) per trekker (one-way). The return journey will cost you the same. Please pre-book your transport through the dashboard before your trek.
Day 2
Drive from Raithal to Barsu | Trek from Barsu to Pichkiya
Drive distance: 20 km | Duration: 1 hour | Trek distance: 5.3 km | Duration: 5-6 hours | Altitude loss and gain: 7,142 ft to 9,650 ft
Day 3
Trek from Pichkiya to Siyari
Trek distance: 5.5 km | Duration: 5-6 hours | Altitude loss and gain: 9,650 ft to 11,482 ft
Day 4
Trek from Siyari to Devkund via Surya Top
Trek distance: 9.5 km | Duration: 10 hours | Altitude loss and gain: 11,482 ft to 11,679 ft via 12,900ft
Day 5
Trek from Devkund to Chilapada
Trek distance: 4 km | Duration: 4-5 hours | Altitude loss: 11,679 ft to 10,500 ft
Day 6
Trek from Chilapada to Raithal
Trek distance 1: 7 km | Duration 1: 5-6 hours | Altitude loss 2: 10,500 ft to 7142 ft
Day 7
Drive from Raithal to Dehradun
Drive Distance: 185 km | Drive Duration: 9 hours | Drop off point for Indiahikes trekkers:Hotel Grand Legacy, Dehradun | Drop off Time: 6 pm
The cost of the cab will be Rs 1300 (additional 5% GST) per trekker (one-way). Please pre-book your transport through the dashboard before your trek.
IMPORTANT POINTS
➤Documents required: It is mandatory for trekkers to carry a copy of their photo id along with the mandatory documents of the Medical Certificate and Disclaimer form. This is required for trek permissions. The medical certificate along with the disclaimer form will be part of the Safety Check-in done by the trek leader when you arrive at the base camp.
➤ Stay facility: Your accommodation will be organised in Swiss tents at our Raithal Campus. After getting on the trail, you will be camping in twin-sharing Tents designed for high altitude expeditions by Indiahikes.
➤ 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.).
➤ Thinking of offloading your backpack? Think again: 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. (Read our thoughts here)
Day 1 (Pick-up Day): Drive from Dehradun to Raithal
Drive Duration: 8 hours | Drive Distance: 185 km
Altitude: 7,142 ft
Drive distance: 185 km
Highlights: Watch out for Tingling Point, from where you get to see the astounding views of almost all of Uttarakhand's highest peaks, including Mt Nanda Devi.
Raithal, the base camp for the Surya Top trek, is around 9 hours away from Dehradun.
The drive takes you through lovely forest stretches as soon as you exit Dehradun. Within an hour, you pass through Mussoorie, one of the most popular hill stations of Uttarakhand.
Between Mussoorie and Uttarkashi, you come across a viewpoint, often called the Tingling Point, from where you get astounding views of almost all of the Garhwal Himalayas. Right from the mountains near Himachal (Swargarohini and adjoining peaks) to Mt Bandarpoonch to Mt Srikanth, the Gangotri Peaks, the Chaukhamba massif, all the way to Mt Nanda Devi, you get striking views. This is of course possible only on a very clear day.
Raithal, the base camp for the Surya Top trek, is around 9 hours away from Dehradun.
The drive takes you through lovely forest stretches as soon as you exit Dehradun. Within an hour, you pass through Mussoorie, one of the most popular hill stations of Uttarakhand.
Between Mussoorie and Uttarkashi, you come across a viewpoint, often called the Tingling Point, from where you get astounding views of almost all of the Garhwal Himalayas. Right from the mountains near Himachal (Swargarohini and adjoining peaks) to Mt Bandarpoonch to Mt Srikanth, the Gangotri Peaks, the Chaukhamba massif, all the way to Mt Nanda Devi, you get striking views. This is of course possible only on a very clear day.
The largest town on the route is Uttarkashi, from where you head to Bhatwari.
As you approach Raithal, you witness the brilliant colours of sunset over Mt Bandarpoonch, Mt Srikanth, Mt Jaunli and Draupadi ka Danda peaks.
Day 2: Drive from Raithal to Barsu and then trek to Pichkiya
Trek distance: 5.3 km | Duration: 5-6 hours
Altitude gain: 7,142 ft to 9,650 ft
Difficulty: Moderate. Gradual 5.3 km ascent trail throughout.
At Raithal, you can see Mt. Srikanth and Gangotri 1, 2, and 3 in the distance, along with the mountains mentioned above. These become more prominent as you gain altitude on the trail to Chilapada.
After a hot breakfast from the Indiahikes campus, you start driving to Barsu. Barsu is a famous village adjacent to Raithal. The drive itself will take about 1 hour, and you will be covering a distance of 20 km.
At Raithal, you can see Mt. Srikanth and Gangotri 1, 2, and 3 in the distance, along with the mountains mentioned above. These become more prominent as you gain altitude on the trail to Chilapada.
After a hot breakfast from the Indiahikes campus, you start driving to Barsu. Barsu is a famous village adjacent to Raithal. The drive itself will take about 1 hour, and you will be covering a distance of 20 km.
The trail from Barsu to Pichkiya is a gradually ascending one. The initial trail takes enough time for you to see the villagers going about their day. You then ascend through the village paddy fields spread all over its outskirts. 1 km into the trek is where the fields end.
On this day itself, you will enter one of the thickest forest sections of the trek. You make your way into a forest that consists mainly of green and brown oaks (moru and kharsu) and rhododendrons. Unlike other places, you do not find pines here.
The forest opens up to a huge clearing after trekking on the trail for about 3.5 km. This is Barnala. Quite a famous hiking spot.
As you climb up from Barnala, you start seeing mountains on the other side, which were earlier hidden from view.
The trek to Pichkiya from here is a mix of patchy forest and clearings.
You cross a couple of streams, which may be flowing, dried, or frozen depending on the season. After trekking for 2 hours, you reach your first trek campsite, Pichkiya.
Take good rest here, and acclimatise. You have just gained more than 3,000ft of elevation. The next day towards Siyari will be much more relaxed.
Day 3: Trek from Pichkiya to Siyari
Trek distance: 5.5 km | Duration: 5-6 hours
Altitude gain and loss: 9,650 ft to 11,482 ft
Difficulty: Easy, Gradual ascends and descents of 5.5 km
Today's trek starts with a gradual ascent from Pichkiya. You suddenly find yourself leaving the tree line behind. You walk on this ridge to Siyari for 2 km.
Throughout today's journey, the Yamunotri range and its mountains will be directly in front of you. With the Gangotri range guarding your back.
Today your trail is made up of gradual ascents and descents. Soak yourself completely in the sound of the forest. You will come across several streams running downhill.
Today's trek starts with a gradual ascent from Pichkiya. You suddenly find yourself leaving the tree line behind. You walk on this ridge to Siyari for 2 km.
Throughout today's journey, the Yamunotri range and its mountains will be directly in front of you. With the Gangotri range guarding your back.
Today your trail is made up of gradual ascents and descents. Soak yourself completely in the sound of the forest. You will come across several streams running downhill.
The entirety of Dayara Meadows will unfold on your left side. After descending slightly from the ridge, you will eventually reach the nearest campsite to the Top, Siyari.
From the vantage point of Siyari, your tent will offer a captivating view of the Gangotri ranges.
Layer up as the evening approaches and retire for the night. You will have the longest day of the trek tomorrow.
Day 4: Trek from Siyari to Devkund via Surya Top
Trek distance: 9.5 km | Duration: 10 hours
Altitude gain and loss: 11,482 ft to 11,679 ft via 12,900 ft
Difficulty: Difficult. Steep summit push for 2.5 km. Rest of the day will be long descents and ascents for 7 km
Begin your day by starting out early.
The path to Surya Top involves a steep 2.5-kilometre ascent from Siyari. Retrace your steps back up to the ridge, and from there, climb to the Surya Top. The scent is not easy at all and it will test your true mettle and spirit. But, the effort is rewarded with panoramic views as you conquer the ascent.
As much as you would love to rest at the top, descending on time is crucial as a 7 km trail lies in front of you.
Begin your day by starting out early.
The path to Surya Top involves a steep 2.5-kilometre ascent from Siyari. Retrace your steps back up to the ridge, and from there, climb to the Surya Top. The scent is not easy at all and it will test your true mettle and spirit. But, the effort is rewarded with panoramic views as you conquer the ascent.
As much as you would love to rest at the top, descending on time is crucial as a 7 km trail lies in front of you.
Descend down to Siyari and start your ascent towards one of the grandest ridges in the country. A 4.5 km ridge walk with Gangotri ranges on your left and Yamunotri on your right. During the autumn season, this ridge transforms into a heavenly path filled with vibrant flowers.
As you traverse this expanse, the mountains will play a game of hide and seek, adding an element of excitement to your trek. Descend from the ridge, and you will arrive at the day's campsite, Devkund.
Based on the performance and fitness level of the group, along with weather conditions, the trek leader will make the choice of going through Nayata or Chilapada.
Day 5: Trek from Devkund to Chilapada
Trek distance 1: 4 km | Duration: 4-5 hours
Altitude loss: 11,679 ft to 10,500 ft
Difficulty: Slow paced descent from Devkund covering the Dayara meadows
After yesterday's hustle, today marks a day where you can walk in a relaxed pace. The walk to Nayata, although mostly on a flat gradient, will take between 6-7 hours. This time, you will be going through the vast green meadows of Dayara. During the evening, the meadows are illuminated by beautiful golden rays of light. And yet the best part is that the mountains in the background never leave your sight.
If you decide to take the route to Chilapada, you are in for a shorter trek of 4 km. Chilapada, a small clearing is easily recognisable because of the many chania huts present all around it.
In both the itineraries. You will be walking through the grand Dayara meadows. The entire expanse of the meadows is something you will never get tired of walking on.
After yesterday's hustle, today marks a day where you can walk in a relaxed pace. The walk to Nayata, although mostly on a flat gradient, will take between 6-7 hours. This time, you will be going through the vast green meadows of Dayara. During the evening, the meadows are illuminated by beautiful golden rays of light. And yet the best part is that the mountains in the background never leave your sight.
If you decide to take the route to Chilapada, you are in for a shorter trek of 4 km. Chilapada, a small clearing is easily recognisable because of the many chania huts present all around it.
In both the itineraries. You will be walking through the grand Dayara meadows. The entire expanse of the meadows is something you will never get tired of walking on.
Day 6: Trek from Chilapada to Raithal
Trek distance: 7 km | Duration: 5-6 hours
Altitude loss: 10,500 ft to 7,142 ft
Difficulty: Easy, Gradual descent through forests and clearings
Today, you start descending on a broken trail. 20 mins of descent from Chilapada will bring you to a rain shelter. Going further you cross a couple of streams, which may be flowing, dried, or frozen depending on the season. Soon you reach Gui Thatch. The path from here will be and easy and relaxed now.
Once you start decending from Gui Thatch towards Gui, you start seeing the igloo-shaped structures of the Forest Department near the Chania huts. Beside the shepherd’s hut, you see Forest Department huts in the shape of igloos.
As you climb down to Gui, you notice that the mountain views begin disappearing. You soon enter into a forest that consists mainly of green and brown oaks (moru and kharsu) and rhododendrons. This makes it a very rich forest. Unlike other places, you do not find pines here.
Today, you start descending on a broken trail. 20 mins of descent from Chilapada will bring you to a rain shelter. Going further you cross a couple of streams, which may be flowing, dried, or frozen depending on the season. Soon you reach Gui Thatch. The path from here will be and easy and relaxed now.
Once you start decending from Gui Thatch towards Gui, you start seeing the igloo-shaped structures of the Forest Department near the Chania huts. Beside the shepherd’s hut, you see Forest Department huts in the shape of igloos.
As you climb down to Gui, you notice that the mountain views begin disappearing. You soon enter into a forest that consists mainly of green and brown oaks (moru and kharsu) and rhododendrons. This makes it a very rich forest. Unlike other places, you do not find pines here.
Approaching Raithal, you come to a water point in the form of a hand pump. You pass through the fields and reach Raithal. Rest well at Indiahikes Raithal Campus.
Day 7: Drive from Raithal to Dehradun
Drive distance: 185 km | Duration: 8 hours
Altitude: 6,415ft
Start from Raithal after breakfast. Enjoy the scenic drive back to Dehradun. You are expected to reach Dehradun at around 7 PM on this day
Start from Raithal after breakfast. Enjoy the scenic drive back to Dehradun. You are expected to reach Dehradun at around 7 PM on this day
Moderate Trek
Suitable for Fit Beginners
You will cover a total of around 31 km in five trekking days during which you will gain approximately 5,758 ft (7,142 ft to 12,900 ft). Every day will include ascents and descents. But, they are mostly gradual and steady, except for the summit climb on Day 4.
The Terrain
- The final climb to Surya Top from Siyari is steep. It gets even more challenging in snow during the winters. As you step out of your campsite for the summit push early in the morning, the snow is going to be hard, having frozen overnight. This snow section continues until you get to the top, getting steeper as you approach Surya Top.
- The climb down to Raithal from Nayata is steep. After a bout of rain or snow, it can be extremely slippery as well.
Please note: If you are trekking with Indiahikes, our Trek Leaders and Technical Guides will provide you with all necessary guidance, support, and technical gear such as micro spikes, gaiters, helmets, ropes, etc. wherever required.
Weather
- Rainfall or snowfall, lasting for hours, can change the entire trek dynamic. Rain can flood the trails or make them too slushy to walk safely on.
- Snowfall can obstruct previously made paths, requiring fresh tracks to be cut on the snow.
Please note: The safety of our trekkers is paramount. Our technical team, in conjunction with the Trek Leader, constantly monitors the weather conditions and makes informed decisions about proceeding with or aborting the trek. If the weather deteriorates, the team may need to turn back from any campsite to ensure the safety of all trekkers.
Altitude:
- The trek from Barsu to Pichkiya involves an altitude gain of 2,508 ft within a 5.3 km distance. Stay alert for any signs of Acute Mountain Sickness.
- At altitudes above 10,000 ft, the chances of being hit by Acute Mountain Sickness are real. Altitude sickness can happen to anybody - first-time trekkers as well as experienced trekkers. 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. Here’s a Complete guide to Acute Mountains Sickness, HAPE and HACE
Please Note: The Indiahikes team is equipped with high-altitude medical kits, oxygen cylinders, and stretchers to handle any altitude-related emergencies.
Emergency Exits:
- In case of an emergency at or before Devkund, you will need to return to Barsu.
- If you have crossed over to Chilapada or Nayata, then you have to descend to Raithal. These are long distances and evacuation can take 7-8 hours from the farthest point.
Closest Hospital to the Surya Top Trek:
If a medical emergency occurs, then the District Hospital in Uttarkashi is the closest to you. Uttarkashi can be reached within an hour if you drive from Raithal or Barsu. However, for major medical emergencies, the nearest hospital is in Mussoorie or Dehradun – which is almost 8-9 hours away from the base camp of the trek.
The Indiahikes team will ensure your safety throughout the journey. However, we believe that safety is a shared responsibility. We need your active participation and attention to safety protocols to ensure a safe and successful trek.
The final climb to Surya Top from Siyari is steep and can test your stamina. Photo by Santosh Kardak Climbing to Surya Top in snow makes navigating this steep section significantly more challenging. Photo by Santosh Kardak. This trek involves navigating ledge walks, which become even more challenging with snow and ice, making the trail slippery.. Photo by Santosh Kardak. The Surya Top Trek has several stream crossings. During heavy rain, flooding can make some sections inaccessible, and the trail can become too slushy to walk on comfortably. Photo by Santosh Kardak. The ridgewalk to Surya Top is a breathtaking experience. However, you’ll need to step carefully, as there are steep drops on both sides. Photo by Santosh Kardak.
Please inform your Trek Leader about any pre-existing medical conditions or health concerns, no matter how minor they may seem. This will enable us to take the necessary precautions and ensure your safety throughout the trek.
Best Time to do Surya Top Trek
Surya Top Trek is open for trekking during three seasons of the year - Spring, Summer and autumn. The window period is the best for going all the way to Surya Top.
Since the trek does not go to very high altitudes, you can start slightly earlier compared to our other summer treks of high altitude like Rupin Pass or Buran Ghati.
During spring, the trek can be done from the start of March to the end of June. While in autumn it can be done from mid-September to end of October. These are the best times to do the Surya top trek.
Surya top in Summer (end of April to end of June)
Day Time Temperatue: Between 15 °C to 20 °C | Night Time Temperature: At night, the temperature drops to almost 2 °C
Presence of snow:You will have snow during the late weeks of April towards the Surya Top. During May, snow starts to recede at higher altitudes
No. of warm layers required:3 warm layers
Summers are warm on Surya Top trek. Picture bright green meadows getting toasted under hot sunlight.
There is also a distinct summer fragrance in the air especially as you trek under the shadows of oaks and maples.
The atmosphere also gets hazier as there is a lot of dust and pollen in the air at this time. So, you might not get as sharp views as you get in autumn. But you will see the snow-capped mountains in their grandeur on a clear day.
There’s another plus side to the summers on Surya Top trek. Without the challenges of cold temperatures or snow, this trek is at its easiest in the summers.
Surya top in Autumn (mid-Sept to the end of Oct)
Day Time Temperatue: Between 12 °C to 15 °C | Night Time Temperature: At night, the temperature can drop to 0 °C
Presence of snow:Snow can start during the early weeks of November
No. of warm layers required:4 warm layers
In autumn, the skies are at their clearest. That’s when you witness the sharp mountain views. Imagine the majestic Gangotri range, Bandarpoonch popping up from the golden meadows under brilliant blue skies. Sounds picturesque, doesn’t it?
And if you wish to capture these ranges through your camera lens, autumn is the perfect time to do so.
Other than the brilliant mountain views, Dayara Bugyal in autumn is a riot of colours. You will witness maple leaves turning fiery red. This is a signature sight in the Himalayas, and against the backdrop of meadows turning golden, well, it is a sight to behold.
Witness these as you trek, inhaling the crisp, pine-scented autumn air.
By the end of October or the start of November, if the weather turns bad, there are chances of witnessing the first winter snowfall of the year.
Surya Top in Spring (mid-March to the end of April)
Day time temperature: Between 13 °C and 17 °C | Night time temperature: Will drop to 0 °C.
Presence of snow: Great time to experience the last of the winter snow. The snow starts to recede from the lower campsites when spring sets. The upper reaches of the trek are still under snow.
No. of warm layers required: 3-4 warm layers.
Spring in the Surya Top Trek starts in mid-March and goes on until the end of April. The snow starts to melt in the upper reaches, while the grass begins to turn green in the lower meadows. Tiny flowers make their heads out of the grass, while rhododendrons bloom on the trees.
The upper reaches of the Surya Top trek are usually covered in snow until mid-April.
Spring is a great time to experience colour contrasts on the meadows and the ridge walk. You see snow, greenery, and the colour of flowers altogether.
Raithal is the base camp of the Surya Top Trek.
Nestled amidst the enchanting landscapes of the Uttarkashi district, Raithal is the perfect example of an ancient Garhwali village. It is around 200 km from Dehradun and it takes around 8-9 hours to reach Raithal by road.
On Day 1, our Indiahikes team will pick you up at 6.30 am from the Grand Legacy Beacon Hotel, near Laal Pul, Dehradun.
Arrive in Dehradun by Day Zero, which is one day before Day 1 on the itinerary. For example, if the Day 1 of your trek is 25th August, book your tickets to reach Dehradun by 24th August.
Here is a detailed guide to help you plan your travel to Dehradun:
How to reach Dehradun? Dehradun has its own airport and is well-connected to all major cities. The easiest way to reach Dehradun is to:
- Fly directly to the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun.
- Fly to Delhi and then take an overnight bus to Dehradun.
How to reach Dehradun by Flight:
Pro Tip: If the direct flights to Dehradun are too costly, fly to Delhi and take the overnight bus to Dehradun.
Flying to Delhi may be a lot cheaper than getting to Dehradun. However, If you notice the difference in air ticket prices between Delhi and Dehradun is less than Rs 1000 then book directly to Dehradun. The rest and shorter travel time are worth the difference.
How to reach Dehradun by Train:
We have listed down the most reliable trains running between Delhi and Dehradun.
Pro Tip: If you are reaching Dehradun by train, make sure you reach one day before your pick-up from Rishikesh. You must arrive at Dehradun on Day 0 (one day before your trek starts) and not on Day 1. It will give you the much needed rest before you start the long drive to Raithal the next day.
How to plan your return journey from Dehradun:
You can retrace the same journey back from Dehradun to your city. But keep the following points in mind:
- Book your return ticket only after 8-9 PM on the last day of your trek. However, we recommend that you add a buffer and travel the next day to safeguard your travel plans from unforeseen delays on mountain routes.
- If you’re taking an overnight bus to Delhi, keep enough buffer time to reach the airport. We recommend flights only after 11.00 AM.
If you have not opted for Indiahikes Transport and want to travel to Raithal on your own:
There are no direct buses from Dehradun to Raithal. You first need to reach Uttarkashi and then take a shared jeep to Raithal.
Direct Bus from Dehradun to Uttarkashi and Shared Jeep to Raithal
- There is one direct bus from Dehradun to Uttarkashi which leaves at 5:30 AM.
- You can book seats on this bus online through the UTC Pathik App. Please note that this bus departs from the Dehradun Hill Bus Stand and not from Dehradun ISBT
- It reaches Uttarkashi around 11:30 AM.
- From Uttarkashi Bus Stand, walk to the Taxi Stand.
- The shared vehicles for Raithal leave from Uttarkashi Taxi Stand between 2-4 PM, when villagers return home from work.
Before you purchase any gear, visit the Crosstrek Rental store, where you can rent 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 2000 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)
- 45-55 Ltr Backpack with rain cover (Available on rent)
Warm Layers and Clothes
- 1 fleece
- 1 sweater/fleece/thermal
- 1 padded jacket (Available on rent)
- 3 full-sleeved T-shirts (Wear one, carry two)
- 2 quick-dry trek pants (Wear one, carry one)
- Waterproof gloves (Available for purchase)
- Balaclava/Bandana (Neck Warmer Available for purchase)
- Woollen socks (2 pairs of Dry fit + 1 pair of Woollen) (Waterproof Trekking Socks Available for purchase)
- High Ankle synthetic/cotton socks (carry based on number of trekking days)
Accessories
- Sunglasses (Available on rent)
- Sun cap (Available for purchase), preferably with flaps
- Headlamp (Available on rent)
- Trekking poles (Available on rent)
- Rain jacket + pants / poncho (Rain Jacket Available on rent) (All Weather Shel Jacket Available for purchase)
Toiletries:
- Sunscreen
- 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:
- 1 Steel lunch box (Available on rent)
- 1 Spoon
- 1 Coffee mug (Available on rent)
- Two water bottles or Hydration Pack (Water Bottles Available on rent) (Thermos Flask 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.
Nevertheless, we understand that some gears that cannot be rented due to hygiene issues. So visit our Crosstrek Merchandise Store for exclusive trekking gear, accessories and apparel.
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.
- Original and photocopy of government photo 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: You don't need to print or carry the disclaimer form. Your Trek Leader will give it to you at the base. Just sign and hand it over then and there. However, if you are a minor unaccompanied by your parents, please download this disclaimer, print it, get it signed by your parents/guardian and carry it to the basecamp. – 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
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 a 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.
We recommend walking/jogging/running as the best routine to get fit for any trek. It works on the same muscles you use while trekking—your calves, glutes, quads and hamstrings. It also mimics your foot movement so you are better prepared for sudden twists and turns they may go through on uneven terrain.
It helps increase your stamina gradually if done consistently. It is also an easy routine that does not require any equipment or tools.
Fitness Target
To do the Surya Top Trek comfortably, you must be able to walk, jog or run 5 km in under 35 minutes. This is the minimum recommended fitness level that you must aim for.
Trekking is a sport that primarily uses your lungs, core, calves, glutes, quads and hamstrings. Being fit will help you enjoy the trek and will keep you safe.
To reach any fitness target, there are two things you must work on:
- Cardiovascular endurance
- Muscle strength
If you are not currently active, follow the below schedule to get trek fit in 6 weeks!
A 6-Week Plan to Help You Get Trek-Fit for the Surya Top Trek
Pro Tip: Warming up and cooling down before and after your workout is important. Do not miss that.
| Note: If you are not a regular runner, do not start running all of a sudden.
Strength Training Schedule:
Note:
- Alternatives to 30 Standard Pushups = (3 x 20 = 60 knee pushups) = (3 x 45 = 135 wall pushups)
- Alternative to 48 full squats = (4 x 24 = 96 half squats)
- Alternative to jumping lunges = forward lunges (same count)
- If you are not able to complete 1 full set of any plank, divide it into 2 halves and complete it with a rest break in between. For example: If you are not able to complete 1 minute of a standard plank, divide it into 2 sets of 30 seconds each.
- After completing a few weeks of training, if you can progress, you may increase the number of sets or reps for desired results.
Important note: We accept only running, jogging, or walking workout screenshots as fitness proof. Screenshots of cross-training workouts will not be considered valid. We've suggested cross-training options to help keep your fitness journey engaging and fun, allowing you to explore activities you enjoy and avoid inconsistency.
Note: Use apps like Nike and Strava to record your runs.
What happens if you are not fit:
- You do not enjoy the trek
- You struggle to be a part of the team because you’re slow.
- You miss out on a deep, transformative experience that Indiahikes specially designs for you.
The good part is it is not difficult. All you need to do is start following the fitness routine 6 to 8 weeks before your trek begins.
We are here to help you in this fitness journey. Just start slow and as long as you are committed and consistent with your routine, you are in for an unforgettable trek experience.
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.
Note: Use apps like Nike and Strava to record your runs.
What to upload?
- A minimum of 3 screenshots of your runs/jogs/walks/cycling
- Monthly summary of your routine
The Surya top trek is in the heart of the Garhwal region. The trek starts at Raithal, 43 km from the city of Uttarkashi. The trek takes you close to the Gangotri ranges and Bandarpoonch Mountain massif of the Garhwal Himalayas.
At Raithal you will be staying in the Indiahikes Community Campus. You will be staying in Swiss tents.
Whereas on the campsite, you will be staying in tents. Two people will be sharing a tent.
The accommodation is separate for men and women unless you're a couple or a family.
The Surya Top trek can be done 5 months in a year. During summer and spring, the lush green meadows teeming with blooming wildflowers will take your breath away.
The autumn season gives you the best views of the mountains. The ridge walk and the view from Surya Top will be something to cherish and tell stories about.
Surya Top is classified as a moderate-level trek. It sometimes involves several ascents and descents within a single day, making it physically demanding. The trek has long walking days which requires good physical conditioning.
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.
Snow is typically encountered along this trek during the months of April and early May. Nevertheless, predicting snowfall accurately is challenging due to its nature as a natural phenomenon.
The basecamp at Raithal will have concrete toilets. On Trek days, toilet tents will be set up along each campsite.
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. There will be a room freshener as well. It’s 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
Bhatwari is the last place en route to Raithal where you’ll find ATMs to make some cash withdrawals. However, it has just one ATM which is not always reliable.
Otherwise, in Uttarkashi, all major private and public sector banks have their ATMs and some even have branches in Uttarkashi. However, cash does run out quickly at the Uttarkashi ATMs. Hence, Dehradun is your best bet to make last-minute cash withdrawals.
We advise you to carry around Rs 5000 in cash to pay for your transport to the basecamp, for rental gear deposit and personal expenses en route to the basecamp.
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.
Having more footprint through porters or mules on any 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.
The cost of offloading on the Surya Top trek is Rs 2000 for the trek pre-tax.
There are many treks that have been explored in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand. Raithal is the starting point of yet another famous trek, Dayara Bugyal.
Watch this video by our Experiential Learning team member, Prathima Chhabria, to know how you can prepare your child physically:
Photo Gallery
Surya Top Trek Videos
Highlights
What we like about the Surya Top Trek
1. The grand ridge from Surya Top to Devkund
There are only a handful of treks that have long ridge walks in our country. Surya Top is one of those treks.
When you are on the ridge, it feels like you are trekking next to the most celebrated mountains in our country. The mountains around you play peek-a-boo as you trek. They show up for a moment, then hide behind misty curtains. It's like a game of hide and seek with nature.
Our trek leader, Shravan, who led the first group of trekkers to Surya Top, came back from the trek mind-blown. “This is the grandest ridge walk trek I have done to date. I was awestruck the whole time I was on the ridge. From left to right are the Gangotri range: Bhagirathi I, II, Mt Meru, Thalay Sagar, and Kedardome, and the Yamunotri range, consisting of Bandarpoonch I, II, and Kalanag. There are mountain views everywhere. It was a humbling experience," says Shravan. “The trekkers, too, couldn’t stop talking about the ridge walk," adds Shravan.
The ridge walk from Surya Top to Devkund is the most dramatic one. Photo by Mayank Khare
2. Dev Kund Campsite with views of Mt Bandarpoonch
Camping at Dev Kund is one of the best experiences on this trek, with the Bandarpoonch massif right in front of you.
"When you unzip your tent and step out, you'll see the huge Bandarpoonch massif dominating the landscape. But it's when you're inside the tent that the mountain looks super impressive, like a giant painting right in front of you,” says Indiahikes Trek Leader Vignesh, who led another group of Surya Top. “This is a luxury you rarely get on a trek,” he adds.
In the quietness of the campsite, as you look out from your tent, you'll feel a mix of things. The mountain makes you feel small, but at the same time, you'll feel a strong connection to it. The sunlight and shadows on the peaks, the fresh mountain air, and the sound of leaves create an atmosphere that goes beyond just camping. It's more than sleeping outdoors; it's like being part of a beautiful story that the mountain is telling, and you get a front-row seat from the comfort of your tent.
Mt Bandarpoonch in it's full glory. Photo by Mayank Khare
3. Experiencing the Dayara Meadows in its entirety
The next big reason to do the Surya Top trek is the Dayara Meadows. You trek on the Dayara meadows for a full two days, with Gangotri and Yamunotri ranges accompanying you throughout.
Trekking on the meadows stays in your mind for a long time, even after the trek; they're covered in a bunch of colourful alpine flowers like Himalayan blue poppies, daisies, and primrose. It's like a painting with bright colours all around.
Irrespective of the season you trek in, the settings of the meadows do not fail to mesmerise you. The meadows are lush green in the summer and turn golden brown in the autumn.
Beautiful meadows of Dayara. Photo by Arjun Majumdar
5 Reasons Why Indiahikes
We are known for our pioneering safety practices in trekking. Microspikes, oximeters, and BP checks became standards thanks to us. In the mountains, emergencies don't care who you're with—everyone knows that when trouble hits, you look for the yellow tents of Indiahikes. When you join our treks, we first make our No-Compromise Safety Promise. It’s our unwavering commitment to keep you safe, no matter what.
Our commitment to the environment is relentless. We don’t just encourage responsible trekking; we insist on it. That’s why our Green Trails principles are non-negotiable. They don’t involve just our trekkers or our staff members. Our entire trek processes and policies are designed to favour the environment, even if it is often counterintuitive to our business.
More than 30,000 trekkers trek with us every year. In addition, our outdoor learning division (InSoul) has participants from the who’s of the education organisation in India, from the IIMs to BITS to top international schools. More than 5,000 participants from these institutions trek with us annually. We do not spend a single rupee on advertising to get these participants. Our reputation precedes us.
We are pioneers in trekking. Since 2007, we have documented and brought out most of India’s famous treks: Roopkund, Rupin Pass, Buran Ghati, Kedarkantha, Kashmir Great Lakes, Tarsar Marsar, Phulara Ridge—the list goes on. In 2023-24 alone, we brought out nine new treks in Indian trekking. We know treks better than anyone. This comes directly from the reason why Indiahikes was born: to bring out trek information and enable trekkers to trek on their own. We believe everyone must trek.
We focus on designing transformative experiences. Our trek leaders conduct thought-provoking exercises that help you reflect and contemplate. This impact stays with you for a long time. Trekkers return feeling energised, more confident, or developing abilities to deal with difficulties. Many have changed careers, rethought their core values, become more humble, shown gratitude to others, or started a new fitness journey.
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