Moila Top Trek

Moila Top Trek – Overview

Looking for the ultimate weekend escape from Dehradun? The Moila Top Trek near Chakrata is an absolute hidden gem. Offering an enchanting blend of dense pine-oak forests, mystical limestone caves, and a magnificent summit meadow sitting at nearly 9,500 feet, this beginner-friendly trek is curated by Himalayan Derive for nature lovers and weekend adventurers alike.

Quick Overview

• Duration: 2 Days / 1 Night
• Starting & Ending Point: Dehradun
• Trek Distance: ~5 to 6 km total (Round trip)
• Max Altitude: Approx. 9,200 to 9,500 feet
• Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate (Beginner & Family-friendly)
• Best Season: Year-round (Spring for blooming meadows, Winter for snow trekking)

Moila Top Trek – Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Dehradun to Koti / Chakrata via Chakrata Road

• Morning Drive: Begin your journey early from Dehradun to beat the city traffic, driving via the scenic Yamuna Bridge and Vikasnagar up toward the lush hills of Chakrata.
• Breakfast Stop: Pause at a local dhaba or market area near Chakrata/Koti for a warm, traditional breakfast and fresh mountain tea.
• Scenic Drive to Base: Continue your drive toward Koti Kanasar and Lokhandi, the gorgeous base area near the historic Budher Forest Rest House.
• Arrival & Lunch: Arrive at your campsite, homestay, or resort near Koti/Lokhandi, check in, and savor an authentic local Uttarakhand lunch.
• Afternoon Exploration: Take a short, refreshing drive to Chirmiri Neck or wander through the pristine, centuries-old deodar forests around Koti Kanasar to watch the sunset over the valley.
• Night: Gather around a cozy bonfire under clear skies, enjoy dinner, and rest early for the summit trek ahead.
• Overnight Stay: Campsite or homestay near Koti/Lokhandi.

Day 2: Koti to Moila Top Trek & Return to Dehradun

• Morning Preparation: Fuel up with a hearty breakfast, pack light snacks and water bottles, and head straight to the trek starting point near the Budher Forest Rest House.
• Trek Ascent: Begin your 2.5 to 3 km one-way trek. The trail winds through whispering thick green pine and oak forests before dramatically opening up into expansive alpine meadows (Bugyals).
• Explore Budher Caves: On your way or near the ridge, step inside the mysterious underground limestone Budher Caves (Pandava Gufa), steeped in local folklore and ancient mythology.
• Summit Success at Moila Top: Arrive at the Moila Top summit (approx. 9,500 ft). Visit the peaceful small shrine at the top and take in uninterrupted, breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan ranges.
• Descent & Lunch: Enjoy an easy, leisurely downward trek back to your base parking spot at Lokhandi, followed by a drive down to the local market for a well-deserved hot lunch.
• Return Journey: Pack your bags, check out, and enjoy a comfortable evening drive back down to Dehradun, concluding your refreshing mountain getaway.

Rental Gear List (Pre-booking required)

• Trekking Poles: ₹200 (adjustable) / ₹150 (fixed)
• RainPoncho: ₹200
• Flask: ₹300
• Gloves: ₹150/₹250
• LunchBox&Tiffin Boxes: ₹250
• Headlamps: ₹150
• Extra WarmJackets: ₹550
• Trekking Shoes: ₹550
• Trekking Pants: ₹450

Note: Reserve rental gear in advance. Rental fees may apply.

Inclusions

• Transport: Dehradun – Harsil – Gangotri – Dehradun
• Accommodation: 2 nights in Harsil Cottage, 3 nights in tents (Double/Triple sharing)
• Meals as per itinerary (veg only)
• Certified trek leader, guides, support staff
• Camping gear: tents, sleeping bags, mattresses
• All necessary permits and forest fees
• First aid kit, oxygen cylinder
• Mules/porters for common gear

Exclusions

• Personal expenses (tips, shopping, etc.)
• Bottled water or aerated drinks
• Insurance, emergency evacuation, and rescue
• Any meals not mentioned above
• Personal trekking gear (available on rent)
• Porter for personal luggage (available at extra cost)
• Anything not mentioned in ‘Inclusions’

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1. How difficult is the Moila Top Trek for beginners?

The Moila Top trek is classified as Easy to Moderate. With a total trekking distance of only about 5 to 6 km round trip and a gradual incline, it is ideal for beginners, families, and first-time trekkers.

Q2. What are the major highlights along the Moila Top trail?

Key highlights include driving through the scenic forests of Chakrata, exploring the ancient underground Budher Caves (Pandava Gufa), walking through dense deodar and oak canopies, and reaching the sweeping meadow summit of Moila Top with its 360-degree views.

Q3. Can we visit Moila Top during the winter months?

Yes! Moila Top is one of the most accessible weekend snow treks near Dehradun and Chakrata during peak winter (December to February), offering a magical white wonderland landscape.

Q4. Where does the trek officially start?

The trek officially commences near the Budher Forest Rest House / Lokhandi area, which is a short drive past Koti Kanasar in the Chakrata region.