When you think of “best summer trek of Uttarakhand,” Surya Top Trek deserves a top spot. The trek starts from Barsu village located in Uttarkashi in Uttarakhand, India. This trek in Uttarakhand is known for alpine meadows, ridge walks, dense rhododendrons forest, oak and pine forest and thrilling summit view — many himalayan peaks are visible, Bandarpunch Kalanag, and Gangotri massif. For those who want peace in summer, Surya top is perfect off beat trek and less crowd trek.
Highlights: What Makes Surya Top Special
Surya Top Ridge
The ridge of the surya top trek is between Devkund to Surya top. Both sides of the ridge have snow-covered mountain peaks. From side Kala nag, Bandar Ponchh are visible and from another side Gangtori massif, Bhagrathi Massif, Meru and Kedar Dome are visible.
Devkund & Devkund Campsite
Devkund is the end of Dayara Bugyal Meadows. It looks like painting here, meadows and mountains and sky several colours in one view. The perfect view comes from the tent.
Entire Dayara Bugyal Meadows
Surya Top meadows is considered as extension of Dayara Bugyal meadows, in the Surya top trek itinerary you spend two whole days in the meadows with wild flowers, blue poppies and daisies.
Barsu Village & Local Culture
The trek starts from Barsu village at an altitude of 7000 feet. Where you can see a glimpse of Gharwali culture. The views of the village from homestays are amazing and people are also very friendly.
Surya Top Summit View
The summit lies at 12900 ft. From here you get 360° views: the Gangotri range, Bandarpoonch, Jaonli, Srikanth, Draupadi Ka Danda.
Itinerary of Surya Top Trek
Day 1: Drive from Dehradun to Raithal
Long drive from Dehradun to Raithal with distance 180 km.
Day 2: Drive from Raithal to Barsu | Trek from Barsu to Pichkiya
It takes 20 km in 1 hour. Then the trek will start from Barsu with a trekking distance of 5 – 6 km and you will reach Pichkiya campsite at altitude 9,650 ft.
Day 3: Trek from Pichkiya to Siyari
On the second day of trekking, the distance is 5 – 6 km. After 5 to 6 hours you will reach the second campsite at Siyari at an altitude of 11,482 ft.
Day 4: Trek from Siyari to Devkund via Surya Top
On the third day of the trek, the distance is 9 – 10 km. After a 10 hours hike you will reach Devkund campsite at 11,482 ft via Surya top summit at 12,900 ft.
Day 5: Trek from Devkund to Chilapada
From Devkund you will descend to Chilapada campsite with a 4 km trek.
Day 6: Trek from Chilapada to Raithal
After 7 km trekking you will reach Raithal from Chilapada campsite.
Day 7: Drive from Raithal to Dehradun.
Drive from Raithal to Dehradun with distance of 185 km
Best Time to Visit Surya Top
The best season for this trek is May to June and September to October. Summer offers lush meadows and clear skies, making it the best summer trek of Uttarakhand. Avoid monsoon months due to slippery trails.
Nearby Attractions & Extensions
Gangotri Temple: Gangotri temple is one of the Char Dham temples on the river bank of Ganga. The temple dedicated to Goddess Ganga
Dodital Lake: Dodital trek is a popular trekking destination. It starts from Agoda near Uttarakashi.
Harsil Valley: Known for its apple orchards and scenic beauty.
Difficulty Level: How Tough Is It?
The difficulty level of Surya Top trek is moderate level.
- The trek has steep climbs and ascents but still not very steep.
- The average trekking distance is 8 km each day.
- The final ascent has steep climb but doesn’t need any specialized climbing technical skills.
- The trek needs good endurance and stamina.
Conclusion
Surya Top Trek is not your typical trekking trail -. If you want one of the best treks in the summer months in Uttarakhand, then you’ve come across a true gem hidden from the typical tourist crowds.. It’s perfect for those who desire solitude, beauty, and an actual Himalayan experience sans extreme hardship. Whether trekking in Uttarakhand for the first time or ticking off your bucket list, Surya Top is a place worth adding to your map.
FAQ: Quick Answers about Surya Top Trek
Q: What is the nearby Surya Top trek?
A: Dayara bugyal trek also sometimes surya tops from dayara bugyal trek..
Q: How many days of the Surya Top Trek?
A: It takes 4 nights and 5 days. If you believe that you can do it in 3 or three days, it can be done with good endurance.
Q: Is it a difficult trek?
A: It is moderate. You’ll need good physical preparation before trekking.
Q: What’s the best season for this trek?
A: May–June and September–mid November are ideal seasons.
Q: What peaks can I see from Surya Top?
A: Himalaya peaks such as Bandarpoonch, Jaonli, Srikanth, Draupadi Ka Danda, and parts of the Gangotri Range.