Nestled in the quaint Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, Gurso Bugyal is a vast meadow offering vibrant colours of nature. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains and pastures, Gurso Bugyal is a popular spot among trekkers. Popularly called Heaven’s Terrace, surrounded by unending snow covered, this place is a short yet memorable trek. It is a popular spot for skiing and experiencing 360 degrees of nature. Surrounded by stunning tall oak and deodar trees, you will enjoy the views of Mount Nanda Devi, Mana Parvat and many other snow-covered peaks of the Himalayas. Break free from the hustle and bustle of the city in the beauty of Gurso Bugyal.
About Gurso Bugyal
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Gurso Bugyal, one of the famous tourist attractions in Uttarakhand, is a high-altitude meadow 10,000 feet above sea level. In the Garhwal Himalayas, Gurso Bugyal is a mix of green pastures, forests and rocky terrains. It is a well-known spot for experiencing snow and trekking up amidst the Himalayas. You can enjoy a walk or even camp in this stunning location. There are no settlements here, which makes it an untouched, captivating beauty.
Absorb in the pristine surroundings as you watch this never-ending landscape before you. In spring, bright flowers bloom, adding to nature’s canvas. In winter, a cold sheet of white snow covers everything, making it an icy beauty.
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Auli Gorson Bugyal Trek
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The Auli Gurso Bugyal trek is a mesmerising short trek in the Himalayas. Surrounded by conifers, oak trees, vibrant rhododendrons and unending green meadows, it is nature’s paradise. Suitable for beginners, you can head on this beautiful trek with your friends and family.
Starting from Rishikesh, you can enjoy a cable car ride to Auli and trek further to reach Gurso Bugyal. Wildflowers surround the meadows and offer unrestricted views of mountain Nanda Devi, Dunagiri and many others. You can camp in the versant meadows and soak in nature. You can start the trek early in the morning and return by afternoon.
Gurso Bugyal: Nearby Attractions
The surrounding area boasts several charming attractions, including scenic trekking routes and vibrant local flora and fauna. Visitors can explore the nearby enchanting forests, pristine lakes, and traditional villages that enrich the overall experience.
1. Chenab Lake
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Located 2 km from Gurso Bugyal, Chenab Lake is a crystallised lake in Auli. As a water source for the people of Auli, Chenab Lake is an unexplored beauty. The water is a result of the melting of glaciers; it serves as a mirror to the mountains. You can take the challenge of trekking through the rough trail and reach here to get rewarded by the splendour of nature. No vehicles go up to the lake as the roads are poorly constructed.
Best time visit: May to October
Ideal trip duration: 3 hours
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2. Valley Of Flowers National Park
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Located 20 km from Gurso Bugyal, Valley of Flowers is a tapestry of blooming flowers surrounded by mountains. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site of Chamoli. With over 300 rare species, like alpine flowers, the park is spread over 805 square kilometres. Many kinds of plants are found in different regions of the park, making it a unique experience. The park also serves as a home to many rare species, like the Asiatic black bear, snow leopard, blue sheep, and many others.
Visiting hours: 7 AM to 5 PM
Ideal trip duration: 3 hours
3. Hemkunt Sahib
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Located 17 km from Gurso Bugyal, Hemkunt Sahib is dedicated to Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh Guru. The Gurudwara is surrounded by seven snow-clad peaks, which add to the serenity of this pilgrimage site. The Gurudwara is accessible only by a 19 km trek on a steep trail. The trek begins from Govindghat and passes through pristine waterfalls, forests and the holy waters of Ganga. The Gurudwara is built in a simple, elegant style highlighting the pillars of Sikhism. Seek blessings of the divine and enjoy the chants of the site.
Best time visit: May to September
Ideal trip duration: 1 day
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4. Vasudhara Falls
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Located 29 km from Gurso Bugyal, Vasudhara Falls is a stunning waterfall descending 400 feet from the mountain and merging with the Alaknanda River. To reach Vasudhara Falls, you must start the trek 6 km from Mana village near Badrinath. The trail offers unparalleled views of nature and is well-marked, making it accessible to beginners. Enjoy your trek, interacting with the locals and exploring Uttarakhand’s undisturbed flora and fauna. The waterfall is surrounded by mountains and contrasting forests, making it the ideal nature painting. You can dip in the refreshing cold water, which will rejuvenate you and allow you to explore more of the landscape.
Visiting hours: 6 AM to 6 PM
Ideal trip duration: 4 hours
Best Time To Visit Gurso Bugyal
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The best time to visit Gurso Bugyal is in the summer, from April to June. The temperature ranges from 10 degrees to 20 degrees Celsius. With vast stretches of green meadows and the flowering season of the wildflowers, you will enjoy the pleasant weather and clear skies. Gurso Bugyal weather offers a refreshing experience with cool temperatures and clear skies, which are especially ideal for trekking during the summer months and crisp, cold conditions in winter.
You can also plan a trek in the Gurso Bugyal during the winters from December to February. With temperatures ranging from -5 degrees to 10 degrees Celsius, the landscape transforms into a snow-covered landscape. The chilly temperature is difficult to trek, but the views are worth it. The majestic white landscapes and snowfalls have earned it the name of the mini Switzerland of India. The monsoon season is unsuitable as most roads are blocked due to landslides.
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How To Reach Gurso Bugyal Uttarakhand
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By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport Dehradun. It is 280 km from Gurso Bugyal and can be covered by bus, cab or helicopter. You can take a helipad at the nearest.
Badrinath helipad, which is only 58 km from Auli Gurso Bugyal.
By Train: The nearest railway station is at the Haridwar railway junction. You can take a shared cab or taxi to reach Joshimath. After 10 to 13 hours on the road, you will get mesmerising views of Auli.
By Road: You can ride from nearby cities to reach Joshimath. From there, you can go on a cable car ride and get breathtaking views of the place. You may also trek your way up to the spot.
Auli Gorson Bugyal Trek: Travel Tips
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Auli Gurso Bugyal trek would leave a magical imprint on you forever. Here are a few tips for your trek in the Gurso Bugyal:
- Wear warm clothes. The weather can change rapidly; hence, be prepared for the changes.
- Wear comfortable trekking shoes. These shoes will help you trek up the sloping surfaces and uneven terrain of the forests.
- If you are a beginner, you can take a local guide on the way up. With a tour guide, you will get a better experience of the trail and the views you might have missed on your own. Porters are available to carry you above as well.
- You can spend a day in Auli to adapt to the cold climate. This will help you enjoy your trek without any health issues.
- Avoid leaving garbage on your way above Gurso Bugyal. Admire the beauty and take steps to maintain it.
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Escape into nature, wandering in the wilderness of Uttarakhand. With the pristine Ganga flowing and the Himalayas adorning it, you will be surrounded by nature on all sides. If this guide about Gurso Bugyal motivates the nature lover, here are some of the best packages for a trip to Uttarakhand . Soak in nature and you make your way through the forests and uneven terrains making a memory for a lifetime.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Gurso Bugyal
How much time is required for a trek to Gurso Bugyal?
You must trek for around 4 to 6 hrs in the Gurso Bugyal. Enjoy the view of snow-clad mountains and landscapes.
Which is the largest Bugyal in Uttarakhand?
The largest Bugyal in Uttarakhand is Ali Bedni Bugyal. It is around 3300 metres to 3600 metres above sea level.
What is the difficulty level of the Gurso Bugyal trek?
The Gurso Bugyal trek is ideal for a beginner. Someone with an intermediate fitness level can do it. But take proper precautions while trekking.
What is Gurso Bugyal's height?
Gurso Bugyal is situated at an elevation of approximately 3,519 metres (about 11,545 feet) above sea level.
Why is Auli called the mini Switzerland of India?
Auli is considered the mini Switzerland of India for its majestic snow-covered landscapes. The high mountain peaks and steep slopes make it a unique destination.
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