Moila Top Chakrata: “Gateway to Budher Caves”

Moila Bugyal, also known as Moila Top Chakrata, is a pristine Himalayan Alpine Meadows located in the Dehradun district of Uttarakhand.  This place lies  approximately 40 km from Chakrata town.  it is is famous for hiking and camping. Despite some contradictory information about its highest elevation (Moila Top Chakrata Height 2759m).  , offers a stunning landscape surrounded by numerous Deodar trees.

Budhers Caves in Uttarakhand
Budhers Caves in Uttarakhand

Here are some quick facts about Moila Top:

  • Average Temperature: During the day, temperatures range from 12 to 28 degrees Celsius, while at night, they drop to between -2 and 8 degrees Celsius.
  • Best Time for Moila Top Trek: The ideal months for trekking Moila Top Chakrata  are from September to February.
  • Location: Moila Top is situated in Chakrata, Uttarakhand.
  • Base Camp: Chakrata serves as the base camp for treks to Moila Top.
  • Nearest Railway Station: The nearest railway station is Dehradun Railway Station.
  • Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is the closest airport.
  • Last ATM: The last ATM before heading to Moila Top is located in Manalil.
  • Mobile Connectivity: 4G network coverage is available from providers such as Jio, Airtel, and BSNL, ensuring good connectivity in the area.
Suggested Read: Chakrata in Uttarakhand: How to spend 4 days?
Trek to Molia Top Chakrata
Trek to Molia Top Chakrata

Trek to Moila Top Chakrata

The trek to Moila Bugyal spans about 3 km and commences from Budher Forest Rest House, roughly 20 km from Chakrata. Alongside the Bugyal, visitors can explore Budher Caves, which are said to have been constructed by the Pandavas, adding to its historical allure. Additionally, at the heart of Moila Bugyal lies a historic temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, serving as a spiritual center amidst the natural beauty.

From Moila Bugyal, one can enjoy magnificent vistas of the Garhwal Himalayas, making it a captivating destination for nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike.

Suggested Read: Tiger Falls in Chakrata, don’t miss while staying in Chakrata
Shiva Temple Molia Top Chakrata
Shiva Temple Molia Top Chakrata

Moila Top Chakrata Hotels

Budher Forest Rest House, located in Chakrata Forest Division, was built in 1868 and is the oldest in northern India. Situated at 2523m elevation, it’s 20km from Chakrata. Surrounded by Japanese cedar, it exudes tranquility, but heavy snowfall (up to 9 feet) can block access in winter.

From here, a 3km trek leads to Moila Top Chakrata’s alpine meadows, offering stunning views of major Himalayan peaks. Nearby, primitive caves await archaeology enthusiasts. Additional treks to Deoban, Indroli, and Mundali are also accessible.

The area boasts well-preserved deodar forests cultivated through traditional methods. Wildlife sightings include the state bird, Himalayan Monal pheasant, as well as the vulnerable cheer pheasant, Koklas pheasant, and Himalayan mountain weasel during early hours.

Author

Namaste! I am Om. I am a licensed Tourist Guide ( Approved by Ministry of Tourism, Government of India), I’m originally from Varanasi. Now, I am living in Rishikesh. I set up this blog to share my tips and experiences for traveling to inspire and help you to travel more. Hari Om

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