Surya Top Trek
Overview
- Starts from Raithal or Barsu Village in Uttarakhand and follows scenic trails through dense oak and rhododendron forests toward the famous Dayara Bugyal region.
- Reaches Surya Top at approximately 12,900 ft (3,930 m), offering a rewarding Himalayan summit experience.
- Passes through the spectacular Dayara Bugyal and Siyari Bugyal, featuring vast alpine meadows and high-altitude grazing landscapes.
- Features diverse terrain including forest trails, rolling meadows, open ridges, rocky sections, and occasional snow-covered slopes.
- Offers spectacular panoramic views of Bandarpoonch, Black Peak (Kalanag), Srikanth, Draupadi Ka Danda, Jaonli, and the Gangotri Range.
- The long ridge walk is one of the trek's major highlights, providing expansive views on both sides of the Himalayan landscape.
- Includes scenic campsites such as Dayara Bugyal, Siyari Bugyal, and Devkund, surrounded by alpine wilderness.
- The summit day involves a sustained climb along rocky ridges and can become more challenging in snowy conditions.
- Generally rated Easy to Moderate/Moderate, making it suitable for fit beginners as well as trekkers looking for a step up from the standard Dayara Bugyal Trek.
- Best seasons are generally April to June and September to November, offering pleasant weather, green meadows, and clear Himalayan views.
- Considered a beautiful and relatively offbeat Himalayan trek because it combines Dayara Bugyal's vast meadows, a genuine summit climb, long ridge walks, remote campsites, and spectacular Garhwal Himalayan panoramas.
About Trek
Surya Top Trek is a scenic Himalayan trek located in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand. The trek follows the beautiful trails of the Dayara Bugyal region and continues towards Surya Top, offering a rewarding summit experience.
The journey begins from Raithal village and gradually moves through dense forests of oak, maple, and rhododendron. The trail eventually opens into the spectacular alpine meadows of Dayara Bugyal.
From the meadows, trekkers continue towards higher ridges and Surya Top. The summit offers panoramic views of major Himalayan peaks, including Bandarpoonch, Black Peak, Srikanth, and Draupadi Ka Danda.
The trek is known for its combination of forests, meadows, mountain campsites, and accessible summit views.
Major Attractions
• Raithal Village
Traditional Himalayan village and the starting point of the trek.
• Gui Campsite
A scenic campsite surrounded by forests and mountain landscapes.
• Chilapada
Beautiful forest campsite located along the trekking route.
• Dayara Bugyal
One of India's most famous alpine meadows with wide Himalayan views.
• Bakaria Top
A high-altitude viewpoint offering panoramic mountain views.
• Surya Top Summit
The highest point of the trek at approximately 13,600 ft.
• Himalayan Peak Views
Spectacular views of Bandarpoonch, Black Peak, Srikanth, and Draupadi Ka Danda.
Itinerary
Eligibility
Participants should:
• Have good cardiovascular fitness
• Be comfortable walking 5–7 hours daily
• Be able to manage gradual ascents and descents
• Maintain healthy blood pressure and pulse rate
• Avoid trekking with serious heart, kidney, liver, or respiratory conditions
• Consult organizers regarding asthma, epilepsy, or other medical concerns
How to Reach
Starting Point
Raithal Village, Uttarakhand
Nearest Airport
Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun
Nearest Railway Station
Dehradun Railway Station
Most trekkers travel to Dehradun and continue by road towards Raithal Village before beginning the Surya Top Trek.
Trek Essentials
Clothing
-
2 full and 2 half-sleeve synthetic quick-dry T-shirts
-
1 fleece T-shirt
-
1 wind stopper/fleece jacket
-
1 windproof jacket
-
1 down feather/hollow jacket
-
1 pair thermal innerwear (upper & lower)
-
3 synthetic quick-dry trekking pants
-
Wind stopper/fleece pant not required
-
Waterproof gloves not required
-
1 pair fleece/woollen gloves
-
1 poncho/waterproof jacket and pants
Head Gear
-
1 head torch
-
Sun cap not required
-
1 woollen cap
-
Balaclava not required
-
2 synthetic buff/neck gaiters
-
Sunglasses with UV protection and side cover
(Contact lenses are preferable; photochromatic glasses can also be used.)
Footwear
-
1 pair water-resistant trekking shoes with good ankle support and grip
-
1 pair floaters/flip-flops
-
7 pairs cotton socks
-
1 pair woollen socks
-
1 pair gaiters (provided when required)
-
1 pair micro spikes (provided when required)
Backpack & Basic Gear
-
50–60 L backpack with rain cover and comfortable shoulder straps
-
20–30 L daypack if your main luggage is being offloaded
-
At least 1 walking stick
-
2 one-litre water bottles or hydration pack
-
Small tiffin/lunch box
-
Energy bars, dry fruits and electrolytes/ORS
-
Personal medical kit as advised by your doctor
Personal Essentials
-
Sunscreen
-
Moisturizer
-
Chapstick/lip balm
-
Toothbrush and toothpaste
-
Toilet paper and wipes
-
Soap/hand sanitizer
-
Antibacterial powder
-
Quick-dry towel
Tip: For monsoon treks, rain protection, quick-dry clothing, good-quality trekking shoes with proper grip, and protection from changing weather conditions are essential.
Cancellation Policy
Refund percentages vary depending on cancellation timing:
- Earlier cancellations receive higher refunds/vouchers.
- Emergency situations may qualify for special refund consideration.
FAQs
Is Surya Top Trek beginner friendly?
Yes, the trek is suitable for beginners with good physical fitness and proper preparation.
What is the highest altitude?
Surya Top stands at approximately 13,600 ft.
Does the trek include Dayara Bugyal?
Yes, the trek passes through the beautiful Dayara Bugyal meadows.
Does the trek have snow?
Yes, snow is commonly experienced during the winter months, especially from December to February.
Are permits required?
Yes, required forest and trekking permissions are generally arranged by trekking organizers.