The Valley of Flowers is a beautiful national park located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand state in India. It is a part of the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve and is known for its vibrant alpine flowers that bloom during the summer season. The park is spread over an area of around 87.50 square kilometres and is situated at an altitude of around 3,658 meters above sea level.
The Valley of Flowers is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including several endangered and rare species. Some of the popular flowers that can be seen here include Himalayan blue poppy, Himalayan bellflower, Himalayan cobra lily, and Himalayan primrose. The park is also home to several species of birds, butterflies, and mammals, including the Asiatic black bear and the snow leopard. The park is open to visitors from June to October and can be reached by trekking from the nearby town of Govindghat. Visitors are required to obtain a permit from the Forest Department before entering the park. The Valley of Flowers was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005.
The Valley of Flowers trek is a moderate level trek that usually takes around 4-5 days to complete. The trek starts from Govindghat, which is about 22 km from the town of Joshimath. There is good road connectivity for Govindghat from cities- Dehradun, Haridwar and Rishikesh with driving time of approx 9-10 hrs from Dehradun/Haridwar/Rishikesh to Govindghat. The local jeep has to be rented from Govindghat to Pulna. Govindghat to Ghangaria is 10 Kms trek which can be completed 5-6 hrs depending on walking pace. Further from Ghangaria to Valley of flower is 6 Kms trek. Valley of flower is moderate trek with steep ascent and level walk in some stretch. Trek passes through beautiful meadows, dense forests, and gushing streams. The trail is well-marked and offers stunning views of the Himalayan range. Valley of flower is approx 30 Kms trek and can be completed in 3 days from Ghangaria to Ghangaria. Valley of flower trek require 5 days Ex Dehradun/Haridwar/Rishikesh.
General Itinerary for Valley of Flower National
Day 01: Pulna (Govindghat) - Ghangaria (Trek 10 Kms)
Day 02: Ghangaria – Valley of flower – Ghangaria (Trek 12 Kms)
Day 03: Ghangaria – Pulna (Trek 10 Kms)
Best time to visit Valley of Flowers- The best time to visit the Valley of Flowers is from mid-July to mid-September when the flowers are in full bloom. During this time, the valley is transformed into a paradise of colorful flowers, and the weather is pleasant for trekking.
How do I get to the Valley of Flowers - The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, and the nearest railway station is Rishikesh. From there, you can take a taxi or bus to reach Govindghat, from where you have to trek for around 16 km to reach the Valley of Flowers.
Essential to plan a trip to Valley of Flowers
Choose the right time to visit: The Valley of Flowers is open from June to October. The best time to visit
is from mid-July to mid-August when the flowers are in full bloom.
Decide on the length of your trip: The Valley of Flowers can be visited in 3 days from Govindghat, but it is
recommended to spend more days by adding few days to explore the surrounding famous places like Auli,
Badrinath, Hemkund Sahib.
Book your accommodation: There are several options for accommodation in and around the Valley of Flowers,
including guesthouses and hotels. You can choose the one that suits your budget and preferences.
Book your transport: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, and the nearest railway station
is Rishikesh. From there, you can take a taxi or a bus to Govindghat, which is the starting point for the
trek to the Valley of Flowers.
Get the necessary permits: To enter the Valley of Flowers, you need to get a permit from the Forest
Department. You can get the permit from the Forest Department office in Joshimath or at the entry point of
the Valley of Flowers.
Prepare for the trek: The trek to the Valley of Flowers is moderate, and it takes around 5-6 hrs average
trek time each day to complete the trip. You need to be physically fit and carry essential items like a
first-aid kit, water bottle, snacks, and sunscreen.
Places to visit near to Valley of Flowers
Hemkund Sahib: Hemkund Sahib is a famous pilgrimage site for Sikhs and Hindus located at an altitude of 4,633 meters. It's also home to a stunning glacial lake surrounded by snow-clad mountains.
Badrinath: Badrinath is a holy town and a major pilgrimage site for Hindus. It's located at an altitude of 3,133 meters and is known for its ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
Auli: Auli is a popular ski destination located at an altitude of 2,800 meters. It's surrounded by the snow-clad peaks of the Himalayas and offers breathtaking views of the Nanda Devi range.
Joshimath: Joshimath is a quaint town located at an altitude of 1,890 meters. It's known for its ancient temples, including the Adi Guru Shankaracharya Math and the Narasimha Temple.
Valley of Flowers Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1: What is the entry fee for Valley of Flowers?
To explore Kedarnath properly, it is recommended to stay for at least 2-3 days. This will allow you to visit the main temple, trek to nearby attractions, and experience the serene environment.
2: Do I need a permit to visit the Valley of Flowers?
Yes, you need a permit to visit the Valley of Flowers. You can obtain the permit from the Forest Department in Ghangaria or from the check post at the entrance of the Valley of Flowers.
3. How long is the trek to the Valley of Flowers?
• The trek to Valley of Flowers in Uttarakhand, India is approximately 10 kms (one way) long from the base camp in Govindghat. The trek can be completed in 2-3 days, depending on the fitness level of the trekker and the pace at which they choose to trek.
• The first day of the trek involves a 10 kms hike from Govindghat to Ghangaria, which is the base camp for both Valley of Flowers and Hemkund Sahib. The second day of the trek is a 6-kilometre hike to Valley of Flowers, where one can spend a few hours exploring the valley. The third day is typically reserved for the return trek from Ghangaria to Govindghat.
4. Is it safe to visit the Valley of Flowers?
Yes, it is safe to visit the Valley of Flowers, but you should be cautious while trekking as the terrain can be challenging.
5. What should I carry with me to the Valley of Flowers?
You should carry comfortable trekking shoes, warm clothing, rain gear, a sun hat, sunscreen, a first aid kit, and sufficient water and snacks.
6. Can I camp in the Valley of Flowers?
No, camping is not allowed in the Valley of Flowers. You have to stay in Ghangaria or Govindghat and trek to the valley for a day trip.
7. What are the precautions I should take while visiting the Valley of Flowers?
You should be cautious while trekking, stay on the marked trails, and avoid disturbing the flora and fauna. You should also avoid littering and carry back all the trash with you. Additionally, you should be prepared for sudden weather changes and carry warm clothing and rain gear.
8. Is Valley of Flowers a difficult trek?
• The Valley of Flowers trek can be considered moderate to difficult, depending on your fitness level and previous trekking experience. The trek involves hiking for around 10 Kms (each way) in a high-altitude terrain with steep ascents and descents.
• The trail includes rough and rocky terrain, narrow and steep paths, and gushing water stream crossings. The altitude gain is also considerable, with the trek starting from 3,500 meters and reaching up to 4,300 meters at its highest point.
• However, the difficulty level of the trek can be mitigated by taking sufficient breaks, maintaining a steady pace, and acclimatizing to the high altitude. It is always advisable to consult with a medical professional before planning a high altitude trek to ensure that you are physically fit for the adventure.
9. How many days does it take for Valley of Flowers?
The duration of the trek to the Valley of Flowers can vary depending on the starting point and the pace of the trekker. Typically, it takes about 3-4 days to complete the trek, including the time spent in the valley. However, this can vary depending on the fitness level of the trekker and the weather conditions
10. Can we take kids to Valley of Flowers
• While children are allowed to visit the valley, it's important to note that it's a moderate to difficult trek and may not be suitable for very young children (especially below 5 yrs). The trek to the Valley of Flowers is about 18 kilometers long and involves steep ascents and descents, as well as narrow paths. It can take anywhere from 10-12 hours to reach the valley, depending on your fitness level and pace.
• If you plan on taking children to the Valley of Flowers, it's important to ensure that they are physically fit and able to handle the demands of the trek. It's also essential to carry sufficient food, water, and warm clothing, as the temperature in the valley can drop significantly.
• Additionally, it's essential to take all necessary precautions to ensure the safety of children while trekking. This includes staying on designated paths, carrying a first aid kit, and being aware of potential hazards such as slippery rocks and steep drops.
• Overall, taking children to the Valley of Flowers can be a rewarding experience, but it's crucial to plan and prepare appropriately to ensure their safety and enjoyment.
11. Can I do Valley of Flowers trek on my own?
• Yes, it is possible to do the Valley of Flowers trek on your own. However, it is important to note that it is high altitude trek and can be challenging. It is recommended that trekkers have prior trekking experience and are physically fit.
• Additionally, trekkers are required to obtain a permit from the Forest Department to enter the Valley of Flowers National Park. This permit can be obtained in the town of Ghangaria, which is the base camp for the trek.
• It is also advisable to have a basic understanding of the trail and the surrounding areas.
• If you are planning to do the trek on your own, it is important to do your research and prepare well in advance. It is recommended to carry appropriate trekking gear, sufficient food and water supplies, and to have a first-aid kit with you.
12. Can we go to Valley of Flowers without trekking?
• No, the Valley of Flowers can only be reached through a trekking trail and can only be accessed on foot. The trek to the Valley of Flowers starts from Pulna (Govindghat), which is around 22 km from the town of Joshimath. From Govindghat, one has to trek for around 10 km to reach the Ghangaria.
• The trek is considered moderately difficult, and it takes around 4-5 days to complete the round trip. The trail passes through rugged terrain, dense forests, and steep climbs, making it challenging for people who are not accustomed to trekking.
• Therefore, it is not possible to visit the Valley of Flowers without trekking. However, if you are not comfortable with trekking, you can hire a local guide or porter to assist you during the trek.
13. Is there helicopter services for Valley of Flowers?
• Yes, there are helicopter services available for Govindghat to Ghangaria which involves about 10 Kms. However from Ghangaria to Valley of flower, there is no heli services.
• You can book a helicopter ride from private helicopter service providers and this service is available from Dehradun.
• However, it's important to note that helicopter rides are subject to weather conditions and may be canceled or delayed due to bad weather. Also, the cost of helicopter services can be quite high, so it's advisable to check the prices beforehand.
• Hire a guide: It is recommended to hire a guide to help you navigate the trek and provide information about the flora and fauna in the Valley of Flowers.
14. How far is Ghangaria from Valley of Flowers trekking?
Valley of flower from Ghangaria is 6 Kms one way. Trekker has to do trek both ways from Ghangaria to Valley of flower and back to Ghangaria same day. Hence in total it is 12 Kms trek both ways.
15. Can old people visit Valley of Flowers
• Yes, old people can visit the Valley of Flowers, but it is important to take certain precautions and plan the trip carefully.
• The trek to the Valley of Flowers is moderately difficult, and the altitude may pose some challenges for elderly people. Therefore, it's important to consult a doctor before planning the trip and take necessary precautions such as carrying essential medicines and keeping hydrated throughout the journey.
• It's also recommended to plan the trip during the months of July to September, when the weather is mild and the flowers are in full bloom. The trek can take up to 5-6 hours, so it's advisable to take regular breaks and walk at a comfortable pace.
• Additionally, there are options for hiring a mule or a porter to carry luggage or provide support during the trek. This can be especially helpful for elderly people who may have difficulty carrying heavy bags or walking long distances.
• Overall, with proper planning and precautions, old people can definitely visit the Valley of Flowers and enjoy the natural beauty of the place.
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