Valley of Flowers Trek
Valley of Flowers Trek
Valley of Flowers Trek is a dazzling destination located in the Chamoli District of Devbhoomi Uttarakhand. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with an elevation of 3,3500 meters filled with Brahma Kamal (Uttarakhand State Flower), Marigolds, and other countless beautiful flowers. In addition, it is a moderate 17-kilometer trek that begins from Govindghat and takes 3 to 4 days to reach the pinnacle. The best time to trek in the valley is the spring and summer season when the Garhwal ranges are covered with indigenous flora and fauna. Furthermore, this trek opens in June and the entry time is 7 A.M. to 2 P.M. Whereas the entry fee is Rs 150 for natives and Rs 600 for foreigners.
Valley of Flowers National Park Trek Uttarakhand: Heaven on Earth
Valley of Flowers is a scenic gateway located at the Chamoli district of Devbhoomi Uttarakhand. This site presents the diversity of flora and fauna in its own ecosystem. It’s a beautiful site that can be traced at an altitude of 3,500 Meters covering the green meadows with the state flower: Brahma Kamal. Furthermore, the blooming of the flowers begins from the spring season and continues till November. Until 1931, this destination was unknown to the trekkers then it was explored by the three British mountaineers who lost their way from Mount Kamet. Earlier, there was a myth about the place that there are beautiful fairies who live here and capture people. It was later busted by the travelers. The distance of Valley of Flowers trek is 17 kilometers that begins from Govindghat and ends at the pinnacle. The astounding familiarity of nature connects travelers to visit the site once in a lifetime.
The doorways of the Valley of Flowers open on the 1st of June every year and closes in October or November. Because of the conservation of biodiversity, the entry timing to the site remains between 7:00 A.M. to 02:00 P.M. Additionally, the entry charges for Indians is Rs 150 and Rs 600 for foreigners. While traveling, hiking enthusiasts will bump upon the native flower: Brahma Kamal, Marigold, Orchid, Poppies, daisies, rhododendron and other numerous floral species. The animal diversity comprises the Himalayan Black Bear, Red Fox, Himalayan Weasel, Red Giant Flying Squirrel and Snow Leopard. Because of this reason, this site remains open only for four to five months.
Facts Related of Trek to Valley of Flowers
Travelers ready to set their journey for Valley of Flowers trek are required to be informed of the basic details of the destination. This will assist in the exploration of a dazzling valley filled with beautiful flowers. The details outlined below presents the holistic view of the Uttarakhand Valley of Flowers.
- Location: Chamoli District of Uttarakhand
- Seasonal Blossoms: July to September
- Flora & Fauna Names: Marigold, Daisies, Orchid, Barking Fox and Snow Leopard
- Begins from: Govindghat
- Altitude: 3,500 Meters
- Best Time to explore: May to November
- Trek Distance: 17 Kilometer
- Trek Time: 3 to 4 Days
- Well Known for: UNESCO Site, Trekking, Camping, Eye Catching Flora & Fauna.
- Date of Opening for Tourists: 1st of June
- Closing Date: October of November
- Entry timing: 7:00 A.M. to 02:00 P.M.
- Entry Fees: Natives: Rs 150 and Rs 600 charged from Foreigners.
- Nearest Railway Station: Dehradun Railway Station
- Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport near Rishikesh
- Nearby Attractions: Nanda Devi and Hemkund Sahib
Uttarakhand Valley of Flowers Itinerary
Tourists scheduling for tourist attractions must navigate the comprehensive itinerary given below. It will plan the whole trip of 5 days that begins from Rishikesh and ends at the apex of the valley of flowers. Let us begin our voyage to heaven on earth i.e. Valley of Flowers trek of Uttarakhand.
- The journey to the Valley of Flowers kicked off from Rishikesh. Tourists can reach Rishikesh via bus, flight or train. Thereafter, we will hop into the bus or a small tracker to reach Joshimath.
- It takes 9 to 10 hours to reach joshimath. Here, trekking enthusiasts can adjust with the extreme surroundings. Then we will begin a 12 km trek to Govindghat and then to Ghangaria. Trekkers can reach the destination via bus also that takes 1 hour to reach the destination
- Next day, tourists will proceed to the valley of flowers by completing a trek of 8 km. From the above section, you must have received information regarding entry fees and timings.
- After the summit, hikers will move back to Ghangaria then to Govindghat and Joshimath. The traveling distance and time will be same as it was before
Now, it’s time to move back to the respective places.
- Transportation From Dehradun.
- Meals During the trek (starting day 1 from Dinner & day 4 day Lunch)
- High Quality camping equipment (Tents, sleeping bags, zero degree sleeping Matts, dinning tents, toilet Tent)
- Crampons and Gaiters as per Snow Conditions
- Basic first Aid Kit with Oxygen Cylinders
- Forest permission charges
- Highly experienced team of mountain trek leader and guides
- Experienced Trek Leader/Trip Captain
- Radio Walkie Talkie for communication
- Certificate of trek completion
- Anything not mentioned in inclusion
- Personal insurance
- Meals During transportation
- All personal Expenses, optional tour, extra Meals
- Mules or porter charges to carry private Baggage Offload Charges for Bag 450 per campsite – Bag weight should not be more than 10kg
- Accommodation in dehradun
- Any expense for medical treatment of injury or accident before during and after the trek
- Any early returns travel costs or accommodation except for the days as per the itinerary
- Any cost arising due to natural, calamities, landslide, Road blocking, political disturbance (strikes) etc ( to be borne by the client, which is directly payable on the spot).
Best Time for Valley of Flowers India Trek
Explorers can schedule their trip from April to November. These months are a perfect journey for the Valley of flowers trek in Uttarakhand. The flora diversity of the sites starts to bloom in the spring season and continues till November. The landscape covered with a stunning variety of flowers presents the epitome of the scenic beauty that encapsulates the soul of the traveler. Spring and summer season receives a large number of tourists in this striking destination. The summer temperature remains between 15 Degrees Celsius to 25 Degrees Celsius. Additionally, the weather remains stable, filled with green pastures and alpine trees. After summer starts the monsoon season, which is full of uncertainty that makes the trail difficult. Nevertheless, the winter season comes with a snowfall because of which mountains become white covering the biodiversity of the place. Trekkers must carry the essential items with themselves according to the weather and make their journey comfortable.
Difficulty Level of Valley of Flowers Trek
Once the hikers learn all the information related to the trek then the question arises about the difficulty of the trek. To answer the question, we should first understand the topography of the region. This will make the answer more understandable and comprehensive. The Valley of Flowers trek begins from Joshimath or Gangaria Village. The trekking terrain is a bit challenging and sometimes the uncertainty of weather also makes it difficult. Enthusiastic trekkers who have prior experience might find it thrilling and awe-striking. Nonetheless, beginners may find the 22-kilometer trek difficult. However, when it is compared to other treks, it is moderate and makes it enchanting once submitted to the pinnacle. It is essential to be in appropriate physical and mental well-being. This adds up to the performance of travelers ascending to the peak. It is advised to start running and other physical activities to boost physical stamina. As a result, travelers must work on their physical fitness to make their expedition exciting.
Essentials to carry in the Valley of Flowers Trek India
Travelers can begin the trip plan in the given schedule. In the journey arrangements, they will be required to pack their luggage and book a Valley of Flowers Trek package with HillwayTravels. The list of items they will need to pack for the trip is provided below. Travelers must undergo the essentials and pack them accordingly.
- Comfortable shoes with woolen sock
- Thermal innerwear with insulated jacket include dry pants and waterproof jackets
- Camping tents and sleeping bags
- Flashlights
- First Aid Kit with the necessary medicines
- Keep energy snack like dry fruits and energy bars
- Navigating tools that includes GPS, Compass, and Map
- Sun-screen to protect from UV rays.
- Keep a toiletry kit consisting of toothbrush and paste and soaps.
- Extra phone batteries and power bank to keep the device on.
- Emergency contact number
- Insulated Gloves and trekking hat
Why is it important to trek in the Valley of Flowers?
Valley of flowers trek can be the best trek as trekkers can be experienced. It is filled with mesmerizing bugyals (meadows), stunning flowers, rugged mountain climate and pleasant weather. While trekking, nature will not allow trekkers to dwell in the past or future. Moreover, it will only teach you to stay in the present and accept whatever you have right now. This trek unfolds the passage to be a genuine person with empathy for nature and humans. Also, it releases the toxicity that was accompanying you throughout life. In simple words, this in our trek is a return button which we all are looking for in our life. Here, introspection will help to learn the purpose of life and it will also give direction for it. Furthermore, it builds camaraderie spirit and the sense of achievements that are required to summit the peak.
Nearby Places to Valley of Flowers National Park Trek
Sightseers looking for more sites to visit are also provided in this section. Here, we have listed a few important destinations that can be explored while traveling to the beautiful Valley of Flowers. These destinations have their own uniqueness that can be understood after their visit. Now, let’s move to these sites and grasp details of these locations.
Badrinath Dham
Badrinarayan or Badrinath Temple is one from the Char Dham Yatra site. This divine temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is close to the Vaishnavaites. Also, this place is the abode of one among the 108 Divya Desams that is devoted to every Vaishnava temple. This temple can be traced at the Chamoli district of Devbhoomi Uttarakhand beside the riverside of Alaknanda River. The stories related to hindu cosmology are that the Lord Vishnu meditated in the snow covered site. In addition to that, Goddess Laxmi protected him from cold winds by becoming a Badri tree beside him. Badrinath Temple as the pious place was set up by Adi Shankaracharya in the 9th Century. Many devotees visit the site for heavenly approval between April to November. Following that, its doors are closed by the pandits of the temple till the onset of summer season.
Auli
Auli is a Kingdom of heaven for the skiing adventures and the tourists who love snow covered mountains. It is a beautiful destination located at the peaks of Garhwal mountains in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. The slopes of the mountains are perfect for skiing. Hence, it attracts lots of tourists to ski in the winter season. It is located at the height of 2,800 meters and near to Nanda Devi, Valley of Flowers, and Joshimath. It is a beautiful hill station enclosed by oak trees and other alpine trees. Travelers can directly visit Auli from Joshimath through a cable line connecting the two beautiful tourist destinations of Uttarakhand. The captivating site with some thrill of adventure can make the stay perfect for the beauty seekers. In the summers, these destinations are covered from lively green pastures that have their own beauty.
Hemkund Lake & Hemkund Sahib
Gurudwara Hemkund Sahib is a scenic spot located at the heart of Uttarakhand. The sikh pilgrimage site is located in the Chamoli District of Uttarakhand. This site is committed to the tenth Sikh Guru: Guru Gobind Singh and has a reference in the Dasam Granth. Moreover, it is said that Guru Gobind Singh mediated here. Furthermore, this gorgeous treat is enclosed by seven Himalayan mountains. The holy site is embellished by Nishan Sahib and can be approached via Govindghat route. Additionally, there is a sacred lake near Hemkund Sahib known as Hemkund Lake. It is situated at the 4,572 meters of elevation. In winters, this whole place covers itself from the blanket of snow that starts melting from the onset of Spring season. The distance of Gurudwara Hemkund Sahib from Delhi is 500 Kilometer. Contrastingly, it is almost half i.e. 275 Kilometers from Rishikesh (India’s Capital City of Yoga).
Govindghat
Govindghat is a small town placed at the Garhwal range of Chamoli District of Uttarakhand. It is a confluence site of Alaknanda and Laxmi Ganga river. Also, this town is 14 miles away from Joshimath and charters the way to Badrinath Dham, Valley of Flowers, Hemkund Sahib, Nanda Devi and a charming village Ghangaria. This town is located at the 6,000 feet height and the meeting place of Sikh and Hindu pilgrimages. The right flank of the Alaknanda River presents Gurudwara Hemkund Sahib and accommodates the pilgrimages. The small hamlet also has a market that can be the best place for shopping. Because of this, the economy of the town thrives by the money earned in the tourists shopping.
Nanda Devi Trek
Nanda Devi is a well known 23rd Highest peak in the world and second most in India. Because of its challenging height, it has become an important destination for climbers. In the past, many climbers have submitted the pinnacle and in future also, it holds the achievement of many trekkers. Additionally, it is a 9 to 10 days trek that begins from Munsiyari Village and covers the Nanda Devi National Park. In 1983, this site was named as a UNESCO World Heritage site along with the Valley of flowers. It is one of the toughest treks and the best time to start the expedition is from May to June and September to October. The weather in these months is certain and appropriate for expeditions. By the same token, winters become uncertain and unbearable for human life. Hence, trekking in this month is only done by the skilled climbers.
To bring it all together, trekking in the enchanting Valley of Flowers can be a delightful episode. This site is a testament of natural wonders in one frame of the Garhwal ranges. The diversity of flora and fauna can be painted in the living canvas. In this canvas, Brahma Kamal (Uttarakhand State Flower) can also be located with marigold, daisies and orchids. If you ever visit a valley of flowers in spring then it will be difficult to compare heaven with the lovely landscape. This site is not only visited by trekkers but also by the seekers of natural beauty. In addition, this place has a magic that will never leave you alone. It rejuvenates the tired body and souls that need healing. When the tourists start interacting with the other travelers then it becomes easy to summit the destination. Here, you learn teamspirit, empathy and affection towards nature. In this journey, nature will become the constant companion which is accompanied with melodies of birds, winds and echo of green meadows (Bughyals).
The stillness of the beautiful valley connects us with the deep sense of calmness. This journey is more than reaching the destination but a recreation from the business of life. In addition, this site is the best place for seeking motivation, devotion, solace and inspiration that nature offers at every step. It is a dazzling place worth visiting once in a lifetime. It has all the answers that you are looking for in your life. The above section of the pages have provided all the information that is required in the expedition to wonderland.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Regarding Uttarakhand Valley of Flowers Trek
Tourists can drop by a sightseeing spot: Valley of Flowers from June to October or November. It is necessary to trek 17 kilometers to reach the destination.
Joshimath or Jyotirmath is the nearest city to Uttarakhand Valley of Flowers. It is well known for the doorway to the climbing expedition, adventure sites including Skiing in Auli, route to Char Dham Yatra destinations, and the striking beauty that captivates the travelers to not leave the Himalayan mountains.
The entry fees in Valley of Flowers Devbhoomi Uttarakhand for Indian citizens is Rs 150. On the contrary, foreigners are required to pay Rs 600 for the entry.
It takes 3 to 4 days to trek in the Valley of Flowers. Hence it is important to carry all the essentials necessary in the trek. Also, trekkers must be physically fit and mentally strong to reach the crest.
Thera are a number of villages situated near Valley of Flowers National Park. The name of the villages include Govindghat, Mana Village, Joshimath, Auli, Niiti Valley, Malari and Pandukeshwar