About This Trek
Ali Bedni Bugyal is one of the finest high-altitude meadow treks in Uttarakhand — and one of the lesser-known ones, which is part of its appeal. The route climbs steeply from Lohajung through dense forests to reach Ali Bugyal, then traverses across rolling meadows to Bedni Bugyal — one of the most expansive and beautiful bugyals in the Garhwal Himalaya.
The views from Bedni Bugyal are exceptional: Trishul (7,120m), Nanda Ghunti (6,309m), and on clear days, the Nanda Devi massif. In May–June, the meadows bloom with wildflowers; in September–October, the grass turns golden and the skies are crystal clear.
This is also the approach route to Roopkund — a longer expedition for another season. As a standalone trek, Ali Bedni offers everything a bugyals trek should: forest trails, dramatic meadow camps, and peaks that fill the horizon.
Who Is This For
- Trekkers with moderate fitness looking for their first proper alpine meadow experience
- Those wanting a less-crowded alternative to Dayara or Brahmatal
- Groups wanting panoramic Kumaon Himalayan views without extreme altitude
- Families with fit teenagers (15+)
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Drive from Kathgodam (nearest railhead) through Almora and Kausani to Lohajung — a small village that serves as the base for multiple Roopkund-area treks. ~8 hrs drive. Briefing and gear check in the evening.
Trek begins with a steep climb through forest and past terraced fields to Didna — a traditional Garhwali village. The views of the surrounding ridges open as you gain height. Walk: ~5 hrs.
Climb through forest that gradually opens into the lower reaches of Ali Bugyal — vast, rolling alpine grasslands stretching across the ridgeline. First views of Trishul and Nanda Ghunti. Camp in the meadow. Walk: ~6 hrs.
Traverse across the ridge from Ali to Bedni — a landscape of open meadows, glacial lakes, and panoramic Himalayan views. Bedni Bugyal is wider and more dramatic than Ali, with the Trishul-Nanda Ghunti-Nanda Devi arc filling the horizon. Walk: ~4 hrs.
A free day at Bedni — explore the upper meadows, walk to the Bedni Kund (glacial lake), watch the light change on Trishul. One of the most peaceful campsites in the Uttarakhand Himalaya.
Full descent back to Lohajung through meadows and forest. The same route in reverse, but different light, different mood. Walk: ~7 hrs.
Drive back to Kathgodam. Trek ends. ~8 hrs drive.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Included
- Trek leadership by Karan throughout
- Support staff & porters
- All camping accommodation & meals
- Forest permits
- First aid kit
- Kathgodam–Lohajung–Kathgodam transport
Excluded
- Transport to Kathgodam
- Travel insurance (recommended)
- Personal trekking gear
- Personal snacks, tips