There are treks that feel beautiful, and then there are treks that make you stop walking and just stand still. Ali Bedni Bugyal belongs to the second category.
Imagine walking onto a carpet of endless green that feels like it’s floating in the sky. As you reach the ridge, the massive white wall of Mt. Trishul suddenly hits you—so close you feel you could touch the snow. This isn’t just another Himalayan hike; the ali bedni bugyal trek is widely considered the most beautiful meadow trek in India.
Whether you’re a beginner looking for your first big mountain view or a pro seeking that perfect 360-degree panorama, these twin meadows offer a scale of beauty that’s hard to beat.
What Makes Ali and Bedni Bugyal So Special?
The Immense Scale of Asia’s Largest High-Altitude Meadows
Ali and Bedni Bugyal are not small alpine clearings. They are among the largest high-altitude meadows in Asia, spread across rolling ridges at over 11,000 feet.
- The openness removes visual barriers
- You can see for kilometers in every direction
- The sense of space is unmatched on most Indian treks
This scale is what makes the ali bedni bugyal view feel truly immersive.
The "Twin Meadow" Experience:
Ali Bugyal and Bedni Bugyal are often called twin meadows, but they feel different in character.
Ali Bugyal welcomes you with sweeping slopes and sunrise light, while Bedni Bugyal feels more elevated and expansive. Walking between them is a rare experience where the scenery keeps unfolding instead of repeating.
Unrivaled Proximity to the Trishul and Nanda Ghunti Massifs
Most treks show you peaks in the distance. Here, Mt. Trishul (7,120m) rises right in front of your campsite. The proximity is so intense that you can see the ridges and ice falls on the mountain with your naked eye.
Where Are Ali and Bedni Bugyal Located?
Geography: Chamoli District, Uttarakhand
These meadows are tucked away in the heart of the Garhwal Himalayas. They fall within the Chamoli district, serving as a high-altitude bridge between the Wan Valley and the higher reaches of the Roopkund trail.
- Base village: Lohajung
- Region: Garhwal Himalayas
- Altitude range: ~11,000–12,500 ft
Which Himalayan Peaks Are Visible from Ali Bugyal and Bedni Bugyal Top?
The Iconic View of Mount Trishul (7,120m)
Trishul is the star of the show. Its three distinct peaks resemble Lord Shiva’s trident, and from the top of the bugyals, it dominates the entire eastern horizon.
The "Veil of the Goddess": Nanda Ghunti Visibility
Standing right next to Trishul is Nanda Ghunti. Known for its gentle, snow-covered slopes, it looks particularly magical during sunset when the light turns the snow into a soft pink hue.
Distant Giants: Chaukhamba, Neelkanth, and Kedarnath Peaks
If you turn 180 degrees, the skyline of the Garhwal range opens up. On a clear day, you can spot the massive four-pillared Chaukhamba and the pyramid-shaped Neelkanth peak in the distance.
Best Time to Experience the Views of Ali Bedni Bugyal
Spring (April - May): Rhododendrons and Crisp Air
This is when the forest comes alive. The trail through the woods is lined with red and pink Rhododendrons, and the air is exceptionally clear, making it great for long-distance photography.
Summer (June): The "Lush Green" Phase
The snow has completely melted by now, revealing the famous “velvet” grass. The weather is pleasant, making it the most comfortable time for beginners and families.
Monsoon (July - August): Floral Blooms and Misty Drama
Warning: expect leeches and rain! However, the meadows become a botanical garden with thousands of tiny wildflowers.
Autumn (September - October): The Sharpest Peak Clarity
My personal recommendation. After the rains wash away the dust, the atmosphere is crystal clear. This is the best time for high-definition views of the 360-degree Himalayan panorama.
Early Winter (November - December): Golden Grass and First Snows
The meadows turn a beautiful golden-brown. It’s colder, but the crowd is gone, and you might get to see the first dusting of winter snow on the grass.
How Difficult Is the Ali Bedni Bugyal Trek for Beginners?
Understanding the Gradient: The Climb from Lohajung
The first two days involve a steady uphill climb through dense forests. While it’s not “rock climbing,” it will definitely test your lung capacity and calf muscles.
Total Trekking Distance and Daily Walking Hours
You’ll be covering roughly 30-35 km over 4-5 days of trekking. Expect to walk for 6 to 7 hours daily, so decent stamina is a must.
Altitude : Reaching the 3,800m
You’ll hit a maximum altitude of around 12,500 feet. It’s high enough to feel the thin air, but low enough that most people acclimatize well if they stay hydrated.
How the Ali Bedni Bugyal Views Compare with Other Meadow Treks
Comparison with Dayara Bugyal trek
Dayara bugyal trek is flatter and easier to reach. However, ali bedni bugyal Trek wins on the “Mountain View” front. The peaks feel much closer and more imposing here than they do at Dayara.
Comparison with Kedarkantha Trek Meadows
Kedarkantha Trek is famous for its winter snow, but its meadows are smaller clearings. For a “true” meadow experience where the grass goes on for miles, Ali Bedni is Best.
Ali Bedni Bugyal Trek Quick Itineary
- Day 1: Drive from Rishikesh to Lohajung (250 km, 9 hrs).
- Day 2: Lohajung to Didna Village (5km Drive, 6km Trek).
- Day 3: Didna to Ali Bugyal (8km Trek, 6-7 hrs).
- Day 4: Ali Bugyal to Bedni Bugyal (4+4km Trek, 6-7 hrs).
- Day 5: Bedni/Ali to Wan, then Drive to Lohajung (12km Trek, 13km Drive).
- Day 6: Drive from Lohajung back to Rishikesh (250km, 9 hrs).
Common Mistakes Trekkers Make While Visiting Ali Bedni Bugyal
Choosing the wrong season for views
Don’t come in January expecting green grass—it will be white. Similarly, May is great for greenery but June can sometimes be hazy.
Rushing the trek without acclimatization
Even if you’re fit, don’t skip the night stay at Didna or Ali. Jumping directly to higher altitudes can lead to headaches or nausea.
Note: follow day wise itineary.
Ignoring weather windows
In the bugyals, the weather changes in minutes. If your guide says “move now” to catch the view, don’t delay—the mist can roll in and hide Trishul in seconds.
Safety and Preparation Tips for Enjoying the Views Comfortably
Physical Conditioning:
Regular walking, stair climbing, and light running help greatly.
Essential Gear:
- Good trekking shoes
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
- Proper layering
Hydration and Nutrition at High Altitude
Drink water even when not thirsty. Eat warm, energy-rich food.
Dealing with Unpredictable Weather in Open Meadows
Always carry rain protection and follow guide instructions.
Ali Bedni Bugyal Trek Package cost
Breakdown of Average Trek Costs
A standard 6-day trek package from Rishikesh/Kathgodam usually ranges between ₹8,000 to ₹13,000. This generally includes food, stay (tents/homestays), and guides.
Hidden Costs: Offloading, Transport, and Tipping
- Mule Offloading: ₹300–500 per day if you don’t want to carry your backpack.
- Tips: Usually ₹1,000–1,500 per trekker for the local staff.
- Personal Gear: Budget for rentals (jackets/shoes) if you don’t own them.
How to Reach the Ali Bedni Bugyal Trek Base Village?
By Bus
From Delhi, take an overnight HRTC or private bus from ISBT Kashmere Gate to Rishikesh. It takes about 6-7 hours.
By Train
Take the Nanda Devi Express or Jan Shatabdi from Delhi to Haridwar/Rishikesh. From the station, shared taxis to Lohajung are available early in the morning.
By Air
Fly into Jolly Grant Airport (DED) in Dehradun. It’s best to arrive a day early as the drive to Lohajung starts at the crack of dawn.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ali Bedni Bugyal Views
Q: Is Ali Bedni Bugyal safe for solo female trekkers?
Absolutely. The trail is well-marked and the local community in Lohajung and Wan is extremely respectful and helpful.
Q: Can I do this trek in winter?
Yes, but it becomes a snow trek. You will need gaiters, micro-spikes, and an experienced guide as the trail gets hidden under snow.
Q: Is there any mobile network on the trail?
You might get BSNL/Jio at Lohajung and certain spots in Ali Bugyal, but expect to be offline for most of the trek.
Q: Do I need a permit for the trek?
Yes, forest permits are required. Most trekking agencies include this in their package, but if you’re going solo, you must obtain them at the forest office in Lohajung.
Q: Which is the best tour operator for the Ali Bedni Bugyal trek?
While many operators run this circuit, Roopkund Heaven is widely considered a top choice due to their deep local roots in Lohajung and expertise in the Chamoli region. Their Ali Bedni Bugyal Trek Package is highly competitive, starting at just ₹7,900 + 5% GST (Lohajung to Lohajung).
They offer a transparent breakdown of costs, allowing you to customize your trek with several add-ons:
- Transport: ₹2,000 (Rishikesh/Dehradun pickup and drop)
- Backpack Offloading: ₹1,600 (if you prefer trekking light)
- Insurance: ₹210 (essential for high-altitude safety)
- Double Sharing: ₹1,000 per person (for those seeking more privacy)
- Jumbo Bag & Rental Gear: Available at approximately ₹2,500 and variable rates respectively.
With a base total of roughly ₹8,295 (including insurance), it is one of the most value-for-money ways to experience the ali bedni bugyal trek with a team that truly knows the terrain.
