Bugyals are extensive pasturelands generally found at heights of over 2,744 m. They are usually flat lands with undulating slopes carpeted in a patchwork of green and floral patterns. Sometimes the bugyals are green lawns, of different hues, fringed with clusters of dense conifers or they can be covered in different kinds of flowers, which bloom throughout the year. Generally the snow-capped mountains stand in bold relief against the skyline, but sometimes the bugyals are so high, they seem to dwarf the mountains. For recreation and adventure, there is nothing like a trek through these bugyals and camping out under the stars.

Auli and Gorson Bugyals : These two bugyals are near Joshimath and are perhaps the easiest to approach from Rudraprayag. It is an interesting trek from Joshimath, via Auli, to Gorson. Altitudes at Auli ranges from 2,591 m to 3049 m and beyond. Auli is 14 kms from Joshimath by road and a further 4 kms is Gorson. Auli is also connected to Joshimath by cable car.

Bedni Bugyal : The base for Bedni Bugyal is Tharali, which is on Karanprayag-Gwaldam road. Bedni is at a height of almost 3,354 m an one is captivated by the scintillating beauty of the landscape. The trek to Roopkund passes through this bugyal.

Panwali Bugyal : Located on the old pilgrim trail from Gangotri to Kedarnath, the Panwali Bugyal lie at a height ranging from 2,745 m to 3,963 m. With the advent of summer, when the snow melts, flowers and herbs blossom forth to carpet the bugyal in a riot of colours.

Kush Kalyani : An extensive bugyal, at a height of 3,820m, in an idyllic setting truly blessed by nature. Lies opposite Panwali on the Gangotri-Kedarnath trail.