Valley_of_flowers,_Garhwal_Uttarakhand_I

A UNESCO Heritage Trek

Valley of Flowers Trek

with Hemkund

₹7999 + 5% GST

June to October

Valley of Flowers Trek

with Hemkund Sahib (4,389 m)

₹7999+ 5% GST

Govindghat to Govindghat

+ ₹. 330 Outdoor Insurance
+ ₹ 2000 Haridwar to Haridwar

Difficulty Level - 3

Uttarakhand - 6 Days - 36 kms

Up to 15% off in May-Jun batches for a limited period! ✨

June to October 2023

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More than 500 species of flowers bloom in the World Heritage Valley of Flowers located in the Chamoli district. The valley was discovered in 1932 by the British mountaineer and botanist Franksmith.

Valley of Flowers National Park

The Valley of Flowers National Park is a protected area located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, India. The park is a part of the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve and has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park is known for its stunning alpine meadows of colorful flowers, which bloom during the monsoon season from July to September.

The Valley of Flowers National Park is spread over an area of 87.5 square kilometers and is situated at an altitude of 3,500 to 6,500 meters above sea level. The park is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including several rare and endangered species such as the Himalayan black bear, snow leopard, musk deer, and Asiatic wild dog.

The park is accessible only by foot, and the trek to the valley starts from the village of Govindghat. The trek is about 17 km long and takes around 4-5 days to complete. Along the way, trekkers can also visit the Hemkund Sahib, a Sikh shrine located at an altitude of 4,300 meters, which is a popular pilgrimage site.

The Valley of Flowers National Park is also a paradise for birdwatchers, with over 500 species of birds found in the park, including the Himalayan monal, western tragopan, and Himalayan griffon. The park also offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, including Nanda Devi, which is the second-highest peak in India.

Overall, the Valley of Flowers National Park is a stunning destination that offers a unique experience to nature lovers and trekking enthusiasts. The park's natural beauty and biodiversity make it a must-visit place in Uttarakhand.

Hemkund Sahib

Hemkund Sahib is a Sikh shrine located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, India, at an altitude of 4,300 meters above sea level. It is a popular pilgrimage site and is visited by thousands of devotees every year. The shrine is situated near the Valley of Flowers and is accessible only during the summer months from June to October.

Hemkund Sahib is believed to be the place where Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh guru, meditated in his previous life. The shrine is also associated with the story of King Pandu, a character from the Hindu epic Mahabharata. According to the legend, King Pandu retired in the valley and practiced penance, which pleased Lord Vishnu, who appeared before him and granted him a boon.

The main attraction of Hemkund Sahib is the gurudwara, a Sikh place of worship, which is situated on the banks of a glacial lake known as Hemkund. The gurudwara is built in white marble and is surrounded by snow-capped mountains. The lake is believed to have healing properties, and many devotees take a dip in its icy waters.

The trek to Hemkund Sahib is challenging and requires a high level of physical fitness. The trek starts from the village of Govindghat and is about 19 km long.

Valley of Flowers Trek

The Valley of Flowers trek is a popular trekking route in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, India. The trek takes visitors through the beautiful alpine meadows of the Valley of Flowers National Park, which is known for its vibrant display of wildflowers during the monsoon season.

The trek starts from the village of Govindghat, which is located at an altitude of 1,800 meters above sea level. The trek is about 17 km long and takes around 4-5 days to complete. Along the way, trekkers will pass through picturesque villages and scenic landscapes, including lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and stunning mountain vistas.

The trail to the Valley of Flowers is moderate in difficulty, with some steep ascents and descents. However, the trek is suitable for beginners and can be completed by anyone with a basic level of fitness. There are also several camping sites along the way, where trekkers can spend the night under the stars.

The Valley of Flowers trek is best undertaken during the monsoon season from July to September when the flowers are in full bloom. During this time, the valley is covered with a carpet of colorful flowers, including blue poppies, Himalayan bellflowers, primulas, daisies, and many others. The valley is also home to several rare and endangered species of plants and animals, making it a biodiversity hotspot.

Overall, the Valley of Flowers trek is a beautiful and serene experience that offers a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the Himalayas. The trek is a must-do for anyone visiting Uttarakhand and is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Valley of Flowers Trek Itinerary

Here is a detailed itinerary for the Valley of Flowers Trek:

Day 1: Arrival at Govindghat

On day 1 of the Valley of Flowers Trek, you will arrive at Govindghat, which is the starting point of the trek. Govindghat is well connected by road and can be reached by bus or taxi from the nearby towns of Rishikesh or Haridwar. The distance from Rishikesh to Govindghat is around 275 km, and the journey takes around 10 hours.

Upon arrival, you can check into a hotel or guesthouse and freshen up. Govindghat is a small village located at an altitude of 1,800 meters above sea level and offers basic accommodation options. You can spend the rest of the day exploring the village and its surroundings, visiting the local market, and preparing for the trek.

It is advisable to pack all the necessary items for the trek, including warm clothing, comfortable trekking shoes, a raincoat or poncho, a sleeping bag, and a backpack. You should also carry sufficient food and water supplies, as there are limited options for food and water along the trail.

In the evening, you can attend a briefing session by team Walking The Himalayas, where you will be briefed about the trek route, safety measures, and other important details. You can also interact with other trekkers and exchange experiences and tips. After the briefing, you can have dinner and retire for the night, as the real adventure starts the next day.

Day 2: Govindghat to Ghangaria (Distance: 13 km, Duration: 6-7 hours)

On day 2 of the Valley of Flowers Trek, you will start your trek from Govindghat to Ghangaria, which is the base camp for the Valley of Flowers trek. The trek distance is around 13 km, and it takes around 6-7 hours to reach Ghangaria.

The trail from Govindghat to Ghangaria is well-defined and follows the river Alaknanda. You will pass through dense forests of oak and pine and cross several bridges over streams and waterfalls. The trail is moderately steep and requires a good level of fitness.

Along the way, you will come across several tea stalls and small shops where you can rest and refresh yourself. You can also enjoy the beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Ghangaria is located at an altitude of 3,049 meters above sea level and is a small village with basic accommodation options.

Upon reaching Ghangaria, you can check into a hotel or guesthouse and rest for the night. Ghangaria is also the last point where you can purchase any necessary items for the trek. You can explore the village and interact with the locals, who are known for their warm hospitality. You can also prepare yourself for the next day's trek to the Valley of Flowers National Park.

Day 3: Ghangaria to Valley of Flowers and back (Distance: 6 km, Duration: 4-5 hours)

On day 3 of the Valley of Flowers Trek, you will trek from Ghangaria to the Valley of Flowers National Park and back. The trek distance is around 6 km, and it takes around 4-5 hours to complete the trek.

You will start early in the morning to make the most of the day and to avoid any afternoon rain or bad weather that is common in the region. The trail from Ghangaria to the Valley of Flowers is well-defined and passes through beautiful meadows of wildflowers, including Himalayan blue poppies, daisies, primulas, and many others.

As you trek through the valley, you will be mesmerized by the colors and fragrance of the flowers, and the peacefulness of the surroundings. You can spend some time exploring the valley, taking photographs, and enjoying the views of the surrounding mountains.

The Valley of Flowers National Park is home to several species of rare and endangered flowers, including the Himalayan bellflower and Himalayan cobra lily. It is also a habitat for several species of birds and butterflies.

After exploring the valley, you will return to Ghangaria in the afternoon. You can spend the rest of the day resting, exploring the village, or interacting with other trekkers. You can also prepare for the next day's trek to Hemkund Sahib.

Day 4: Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib and back (Distance: 12 km, Duration: 6-7 hours)

On day 4 of the Valley of Flowers Trek, you will trek from Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib and back. The trek distance is around 12 km, and it takes around 6-7 hours to complete the trek.

Hemkund Sahib is a sacred Sikh shrine located at an altitude of 4,329 meters above sea level. The trek to Hemkund Sahib is steep and requires a good level of fitness. The trail passes through dense forests of oak and pine, and several waterfalls and streams.

As you trek higher, you will see the landscape change to alpine meadows and rocky terrain. The last 2 km of the trail is steep and requires a slow and steady pace. Upon reaching Hemkund Sahib, you will be mesmerized by the serene surroundings and the pristine waters of Hemkund Lake.

Hemkund Sahib is one of the most sacred places for Sikhs and is also revered by Hindus and Buddhists. You can visit the Gurudwara and pay your respects, and also take a dip in the holy lake. You can also enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

After spending some time at Hemkund Sahib, you will start your return trek to Ghangaria. The descent is steep, and you should take care while trekking down. Upon reaching Ghangaria, you can rest and relax and also prepare for the next day's trek back to Govindghat.

Day 5: Ghangaria to Govindghat (Distance: 13 km, Duration: 4-5 hours)

On day 5 of the Valley of Flowers Trek, you will trek from Ghangaria to Govindghat, which is the last leg of your trek. The trek distance is around 13 km, and it takes around 4-5 hours to complete the trek.

The trail from Ghangaria to Govindghat is mostly downhill, and you will pass through the same forests and bridges that you encountered during the first leg of the trek. You can enjoy the beautiful views of the mountains and valleys, and also take some time to rest at the tea stalls and small shops along the way.

Upon reaching Govindghat, you can check into a hotel or guesthouse and rest for the night. You can also explore the town and interact with the locals, who are known for their warm hospitality. You can also visit the nearby temples and holy shrines, and take some time to reflect on your trekking experience.

The Valley of Flowers Trek is a unique experience that offers a perfect blend of adventure, nature, and spirituality. The trek is best done between June and September when the valley is in full bloom. With proper preparation, gear, and guidance, you can make the most of your trek and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Day 6: Departure

On day 6 of the Valley of Flowers Trek, you will depart from Govindghat and head back to your home or onward destination. You can take a shared taxi or bus from Govindghat to reach the nearest railway station or airport, which is usually located in Haridwar or Dehradun.

Before leaving, make sure to double-check that you have all your belongings and have settled any outstanding bills with your hotel or guesthouse. You can also interact with the locals and shop for souvenirs or local products to take back home.

As you leave Govindghat, you can look back at the majestic mountains and valleys that you trekked through, and reminisce about the beautiful memories you created during your trek. The Valley of Flowers Trek is a challenging but rewarding experience that will stay with you for a lifetime, and inspire you to explore more of the beauty and diversity of the Indian Himalayas.

Note: The itinerary may vary depending on weather conditions and other factors. It is advisable to consult a professional trekking agency like Walking The Himalayas before embarking on the trek.

Included in the package

Certified Trek Leaders are provided to you by Walking The Himalayas.
All the trekking essentials like Tents, Sleeping Bags, Gaiters, Crampons, Liners, Cutlery, etc.
All the staff members from the team Walking The Himalayas are experienced that includes Guides, Cooking Staff, Helpers, and Porters.
We promise our travelers to provide delicious, hygienic & nutritious meals during the trek that includes morning tea, breakfast, lunch, evening snacks & dinner).
Fully equipped medical kit, oxygen, and safety equipment.
All forest permits and camping charges.

Not included in the package

Transport to and from Govindghat – Walking The Himalayas will arrange shared taxis for trekkers. These shared taxis will pick you up from Haridwar Railway Station Airpot. Taxi from Haridwar to Govindghat costs around Rs. 6000 - 8000 per taxi and Rs. 9000 - 11000 per tempo one way.
Food during transit to and from the base camp – Walking the Himalayas doesn't include meals purchased during the journey to Govindghat and back.
Backpack offloading charges – If you wish to offload your backpack, there will be an additional charge of Rs. 2100 - 2500. The backpack cannot weigh more than 9 - 10 kgs. Walking The Himalayas does not allow Suitcases/Strollers/Duffel bags during the trek, so if you are bringing these then you have to take care on your own. These charges can vary for last-minute offloading in case you decide to offload your bag after reaching Govindghat (Rs.350 per day inclusive of taxes).
Personal expenses - Your trekking package doesn't include any kind of personal expenses.

Cancellation

If your trek gets called off at the last moment due to a natural calamity/unforeseen circumstances (like rains, snowfall, earthquake, landslides, strike, bandh etc.) we will not refund your money. Instead of money, Walking The Himalayas will issue a trek voucher for the full amount. You can easily redeem that voucher for the same amount for any of the treks available at the same price.

In case you wish to cancel your trek please email us at help@walkingthehimalayas.com

Cancellation charges are based on the total trek fee, irrespective of the amount paid either full or partial.

The cancellation policy of Walking The Himalayas is based on the original booking time and the original start date of the trek.

If you cancel a trek before 30 days of trek start date and get a full refund after deduction of 1.99% payment processing fee.
If you cancel a trek before 15 days of the trek start date and get a refund after a deduction of 20% of the total trek fee.
If you cancel a trek before 10 days of the trek start date and get a refund after a deduction of 40% of the total trek fee.
If you cancel a trek before 5 days of the trek start date and get a refund after a deduction of 60% of the total trek fee.
The Trek fee is non-refundable if you cancel within 4 days before the trek start date.

Trek cancellation due to weather:

In case of an incomplete trek due to weather conditions, you can opt for the same trek again throughout your lifetime on all our fixed departures for the same trek.
This attempt only covers the trek fee and will not include any rentals or the transportation amount paid earlier.
This is non-transferable.

Q&A

What is the best time to visit the Valley of Flowers?

The best time to visit the Valley of Flowers is from mid-July to mid-August, which is when the flowers are in full bloom and the valley is at its most colorful. During this time, the valley is covered with a carpet of wildflowers, making it a beautiful sight to behold.

However, the Valley of Flowers National Park is open for visitors from June to October, and each season offers a different experience. In June, the snow starts melting and the valley starts turning green. By July, the flowers start blooming and the valley is at its most beautiful. In September, the flowers start withering and the valley turns golden, creating a different kind of beauty.

It is important to note that the Valley of Flowers remains closed during the winter months from November to May due to heavy snowfall, and it is not safe to visit during this time.

How do I reach the Valley of Flowers?

The Valley of Flowers is located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand in India. Here are the different ways to reach the Valley of Flowers:

1. By Air: The nearest airport to the Valley of Flowers is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is about 292 km away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Govindghat, the base camp for the Valley of Flowers Trek.

2. By Train: The nearest railway station to the Valley of Flowers is Haridwar, which is about 273 km away. From Haridwar, you can take a taxi or bus to reach Govindghat.

3. By Road: Govindghat is the base camp for the Valley of Flowers Trek, and it is well connected by road to major cities in Uttarakhand. You can take a bus or hire a taxi from Rishikesh, Haridwar, or Dehradun to reach Govindghat.

Once you reach Govindghat, you have to trek for around 13 km to reach Ghangaria, the base camp for the Valley of Flowers Trek. From Ghangaria, you can trek to the Valley of Flowers and Hemkund Sahib.

What is the entry fee for the Valley of Flowers?

The entry fee for the Valley of Flowers National Park is INR 250 for Indian nationals and INR 1500 for foreign nationals. The fee is payable at the entry gate of the national park.

In addition to the entry fee, you may also need to obtain a permit from the forest department to enter the Valley of Flowers, which costs INR 150 per person per day for Indian nationals and INR 600 per person per day for foreign nationals. The permit is required to ensure the conservation of the national park and its delicate ecosystem.

It is recommended to carry a government-issued ID card, such as an Aadhaar card, passport, or driver's license, as it may be required to obtain the entry fee and permit.

What is the duration of the Valley of Flowers trek?

The duration of the Valley of Flowers trek depends on your itinerary and how much time you want to spend in the valley. Typically, the Valley of Flowers trek takes around 5-6 days, including the time taken for travel to and from the valley.

Here is a sample itinerary for the Valley of Flowers Trek:

Day 1: Arrival at Govindghat
Day 2: Govindghat to Ghangaria (13 km, 6-7 hours)
Day 3: Ghangaria to Valley of Flowers and back (6 km, 4-5 hours)
Day 4: Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib and back (12 km, 6-7 hours)
Day 5: Ghangaria to Govindghat (13 km, 4-5 hours)
Day 6: Departure

You can choose to extend or shorten your trek depending on your preferences and fitness level.

What is the difficulty level of the Valley of Flowers trek?

The Valley of Flowers trek is considered to be a moderate-level trek, with some challenging sections. The trek involves a steep ascent from Govindghat to Ghangaria and a steep descent on the return journey.

The trek to the Valley of Flowers is around 6 km and takes around 4-5 hours to complete. The trail is well-defined and not very challenging, but there are some sections where you have to cross streams and negotiate narrow paths. The trek to Hemkund Sahib, which is around 12 km, is more challenging and involves a steep climb, with some sections of the trail being rocky and steep.

Overall, the Valley of Flowers trek is a beautiful and rewarding experience, but it requires a moderate level of fitness and some prior trekking experience. It is important to prepare well before embarking on the trek, with proper gear and physical training.

Can I visit the Valley of Flowers with kids or elderly people?

Yes, it is possible to visit the Valley of Flowers with kids or elderly people, but it is important to take certain precautions and plan your trip accordingly.

The trek to the Valley of Flowers involves a steep ascent from Govindghat to Ghangaria, which can be challenging for elderly people and young children. It is important to take frequent breaks and walk at a slow pace to avoid altitude sickness and exhaustion.

The trek to the Valley of Flowers is around 6 km and takes around 4-5 hours to complete, which can be tiring for some people. It is advisable to carry enough food and water and take breaks at regular intervals.

The trek to Hemkund Sahib, which is around 12 km, is more challenging and may not be suitable for elderly people or young children. It involves a steep climb, with some sections of the trail being rocky and steep.

Overall, it is possible to visit the Valley of Flowers with kids or elderly people, but it is important to plan your trip well and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety and comfort.

What are the accommodation options available in and around the Valley of Flowers?

There are limited accommodation options available in and around the Valley of Flowers, but there are a few options that you can consider.

In Ghangaria, which is the base camp for the Valley of Flowers trek, there are several budget guesthouses and hotels. These accommodations provide basic amenities like comfortable beds, hot water, and meals. You can also find a few luxury hotels in Ghangaria that offer more amenities and facilities.

During the trek to the Valley of Flowers, you can also opt for camping. There are several camping options available along the trekking route, and you can either bring your own camping gear or rent it from the local vendors.

If you prefer to stay closer to nature, there are several homestays and campsites in the nearby villages. These accommodations offer a unique experience of staying with the locals and learning about their culture and way of life.

It is advisable to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak season, as the availability of accommodation can be limited.

What are the documents required to visit the Valley of Flowers?

To visit the Valley of Flowers, you do not require any specific documents. However, you may need to carry some identification proofs for various purposes such as obtaining a permit, booking accommodation, etc.

If you are an Indian citizen, you will need to carry a valid government-issued photo ID proof like Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, Passport, Driving License, etc. Foreign tourists will need to carry their passports and visas.

To trek to the Valley of Flowers, you need to obtain a permit from the forest department, and for this, you may be required to submit a copy of your identification proof.

It is also advisable to carry a copy of your medical certificate if you have any pre-existing medical conditions or if you are above a certain age, as this may be required for insurance and other purposes.

In addition to these documents, you should also carry a copy of your itinerary and booking confirmations to avoid any hassles during your trip.

What are the precautions that I need to take during the Valley of Flowers trek?

The Valley of Flowers trek is a moderate-level trek that involves walking on uneven terrain and ascending to high altitudes. Therefore, it is important to take certain precautions to ensure your safety and enjoy the trek to the fullest. Here are some precautions that you should take during the Valley of Flowers trek:

1. Acclimatize well: Take at least one day to acclimatize in Ghangaria before starting the trek. This will help your body to adjust to the high altitude and reduce the risk of altitude sickness.

2. Carry enough water and snacks: Carry enough water and snacks with you during the trek as it may not be easy to find food and water along the way.

3. Dress in layers: Wear comfortable clothes and dress in layers to stay warm and protect yourself from the cold weather.

4. Wear sturdy shoes: Wear comfortable and sturdy shoes with good grip to avoid slipping on uneven terrain.

5. Carry a first-aid kit: Carry a basic first-aid kit with essentials like bandages, antiseptic creams, pain relief medicines, etc.

6. Follow the trekking rules: Follow the trekking rules and regulations, and do not disturb the flora and fauna of the region.

7. Hire a local guide: Hiring a local guide can be helpful as they have better knowledge of the terrain and can guide you safely through the trek.

8. Respect the environment: Respect the environment and do not litter or leave behind any waste on the trekking route.

By following these precautions, you can ensure your safety and have an enjoyable trekking experience in the Valley of Flowers.

What are the other nearby attractions that I can visit along with the Valley of Flowers?

The Valley of Flowers is located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand and there are many other nearby attractions that you can visit along with the Valley of Flowers.

Here are some of the popular attractions:

1. Hemkund Sahib: Hemkund Sahib is a Sikh pilgrimage site located close to the Valley of Flowers. The Gurudwara here is situated at an altitude of 4,329 meters and is surrounded by beautiful snow-capped mountains.

2. Badrinath Temple: The Badrinath Temple is one of the most popular Hindu pilgrimage sites located in the Chamoli district. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is located on the banks of the Alaknanda River.

3. Auli: Auli is a famous skiing destination located in the Chamoli district. The place is known for its beautiful views of the Himalayas and is a popular destination for adventure enthusiasts.

4. Joshimath: Joshimath is a town located in the Chamoli district and is the winter seat of Lord Badrinath. The place is known for its beautiful views of the Himalayas and is a popular base for trekkers.

5. Nanda Devi National Park: The Nanda Devi National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site located close to the Valley of Flowers. The park is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna and is a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts.

By visiting these nearby attractions, you can explore the beauty of the Chamoli district and make the most of your trip to the Valley of Flowers.