Panwali Bugyal Uttarakhand
Offering such unmatched visual treats in every season, Panwali Bugyal is one of the less frequented meadows in Uttarakhand. It is situated at elevation of about 3299m above the sea level on the Gangotri-Kedarnath route. Panwali is known for it’s quite a scenic landscape that is covered with variety of flowering herbs. The Red and Pink Rhododendron orchards offer a vibrant look and the splendid view of the majestic Himalayan Range is certainly a delightful bonus.Each season brings in different shades to the place, in monsoon, the Bugyal becomes lush green and a variety of birds and flowering plants add such beautiful colours that can capture one’s heart at first sight. Winter on the other side may get successful in painting Panwali in monochrome but the beauty of the place seems to increase manifolds.
A Number of winter trekking tours are held in Panwali Bugyal. However, there are opportunities for summer trekking expeditions as well. One of the treks to Panwali Bugyal is along the old pilgrimage route from Gangotri to Sri Kedarnath. Thus, one has the chance to see witness the complete range of Yumnotri- Gangotri- Kedarnath- Badrinath mountain peaks. Prominent snow peaks like Thalay Sagar, Meru, Kirti Stambh, Kedar Dome, Kedarnath, Chaukhambha and Nilkanth, are all visible during the trek to Panwali. The meadow is also home to several high-altitude animals like Bharal (blue sheep) Ghoral, Himalayan bears, weasels and the rare musk deer. Therefore, the trekking expedition here gives an opportunity to sight some of the rare animal species in India.
Location:
On Gangotri-Kedarnath Route, Tehri District, Garhwal Region
Elevation:
3299m above sea level
Highlights:
Summer and Winter Trekking, High-Altitude Species of Animals, View of Himalayan Peaks like Thalay Sagar, Meru, Kirti Stambh, Kedar Dome, Kedarnath, Chaukhambha and Nilkanth
Best Time to Visit:
Panwali can be visited throughout the year; however it is advisable to avoid it during the monsoon season (July-September). For winter trek December end to January, March end till Mid April are ideal, whereas for summer trek, May to June and Sep to November are the best time.