To promote tourism in the beauteous Dayara Bugyal of Uttarkashi, the local dwellers of nearby villages annually organizes 'Butter festival'. The festival is also popular by the name of Anduri Utsav.
Traditional Value of Butter Festival
Dayara Buyal is one the largest meadows or pasture land in the high altitude of Garhwal Himalayas. Local villagers leave their cattle at these bugyals during monsoon season so that they can eat healthy green grass/herbs which helps in keeping their cattle healthy. When they return to get their cattle back to home, as a gesture of grattitude to this magical land, local people celebrate butter festival. They believe that it is because of this land that their cattles are producing good milk in high amount. By organizing this festival they also thank God for the safety of their cattle.
Highlights of Butter festival, Dayara Bugyal :
- The villagers and tourists especially visit this place during the festivity of Butter Holi.
- Local dwellers dance to the beats of Pahari musical instruments called 'Dhol-Damao'.
- People also smear butter and milk on each others face to celebrate the festival.
About Dayara Bugyal
Dayara Bugyal is a high alpine meadow situated at an astonishing height of 10,000 ft. above sea level. This lush green pastures of Himalayas exhibits a wide variety of flowers, herbs and other wild plants. The picturesque land of Dayara Bugyal also offers a picturesque 360 degree view of snow-capped Himalayan peaks.
Where is Dayara Bugyal Situated?
Far away from the hustle-bustle of the city, the two quaint villages of Raithal and Barsu are situated in the lap of spellbinding mountains of Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand. These two villages are also the base camps for awe-inspiring Dayara Bugyal where Butter festival is held ever year. From Raithal village Dayara is situated at a moderate trekking distance of 10km.
How to Reach Dayara Bugyal?
Nearest railway station is located at Dehradun and the nearest airport is at Jolly Grant from where one can hire taxis(Tata Sumo or Max) to Raithal village of Uttarkashi. Public transport like daily buses from Rishikesh and Dehradun to Uttarkashi are also available. From Uttarkashi you can hire Tata Sumo or Max to Raithal village of Uttarkashi.Delhi - Dehradun - Chamba via Mussoorie road - Uttarkashi - Raithal Village - 11km trek - Dayara Bugyal
Where to Stay?
Accommodation is available at GMVN Tourist Rest House. There is also two budget hotels in Raithal village. Tourists can also stay in their own tents or you can hire a guide who can arrange everything for you.
