Valley of Flowers Trek 2024
Price for one tour per person
INR 12,000/-
Region
Uttarakhand | India
Duration
6 Days
Max Altitude
14100 Ft.
Trekking Km
37 KM
Grade
Easy to Moderate
Fixed Departure Dates
Fixed Departure Dates
+5% GST (Goods and Services Tax) applicable.
Services Rishikesh to Rishikesh | Included Transport.
Meeting Point( Pickup/ Drop Point ): Trek The Himalayas Office, Rishikesh
Reporting Time: 6:00 am
Drop-off Time: Between 6:30 pm and 7:30 pm (subject to change based on weather and road conditions).
To ensure timely arrival, it is recommended to reach Rishikesh a day in advance.
Trek overview
The Valley of Flowers trek is an easy to moderate adventure that grants rare access to the stunning Himalayan landscape in Uttarakhand. This trek is perfect for beginners, including families and children, as it features a beautiful journey through a vast, flower-filled valley. A key highlight of the trek is the opportunity to visit Hemkund Sahib, the highest Gurudwara in the world.Stretching about 2 km in width and 8 km in length, the Valley of Flowers is best visited from July to mid-September. During this period, temperatures range from 5 to 20 degrees Celsius, and trekkers can expect moderate rainfall and frequent thick cloud cover. The most challenging part of the trek is the climb to Hemkund Sahib on the final day, involving an ascent of approximately 4,300 feet, which can be strenuous.
Renowned for its rich biodiversity, the Valley of Flowers is a haven for naturalists and wildlife enthusiasts. The region is home to around 13 species of mammals and showcases an impressive array of 520 plant varieties. This unique blend of flora and fauna makes the Valley of Flowers a testament to the incredible biodiversity of the Himalayas, providing trekkers with an unforgettable experience in the natural world.
Why Dayara Bugyal Winter Trek is a Must-Do Trek ?
The Valley of Flowers trek is an easy to moderate adventure that grants rare access to the stunning Himalayan landscape in Uttarakhand. This trek is perfect for beginners, including families and children, as it features a beautiful journey through a vast, flower-filled valley. A key highlight of the trek is the opportunity to visit Hemkund Sahib, the highest Gurudwara in the world.Stretching about 2 km in width and 8 km in length, the Valley of Flowers is best visited from July to mid-September. During this period, temperatures range from 5 to 20 degrees Celsius, and trekkers can expect moderate rainfall and frequent thick cloud cover. The most challenging part of the trek is the climb to Hemkund Sahib on the final day, involving an ascent of approximately 4,300 feet, which can be strenuous.Renowned for its rich biodiversity, the Valley of Flowers is a haven for naturalists and wildlife enthusiasts. The region is home to around 13 species of mammals and showcases an impressive array of 520 plant varieties. This unique blend of flora and fauna makes the Valley of Flowers a testament to the incredible biodiversity of the Himalayas, providing trekkers with an unforgettable experience in the natural world.
Details Itinerary
Altitude: 1,340 m (4,400 ft)
Drive Distance: 200 km
Driving Time: 9-10 hours
Pickup: Rishikesh TTH office, Tapovan at 6:00 am
Last ATM: Pipalkoti
Market Availability: Pipalkoti
Network Coverage: Available throughout the route
Accommodation: Shared guest house stay
Route Overview:
The journey begins from Rishikesh, where you will depart from the TTH office in Tapovan, taking the scenic Badrinath Road. The drive, lasting around nine to ten hours, leads to Pipalkoti and, while long and challenging, is full of breathtaking views. The river that parallels your route becomes more dynamic and captivating as you ascend.Along the way, you will pass four of the revered Panch Prayag—the sacred confluences of the Ganges. The route includes:
- Rishikesh to Devprayag (where the Bhagirathi and Alaknanda Rivers meet)
- Devprayag to Srinagar
- Srinagar to Rudraprayag (confluence of Mandakini and Alaknanda Rivers)
- Rudraprayag to Karnaprayag (confluence of Pindar and Alaknanda Rivers)
Keep your cameras handy and stay alert for stunning scenery that will unfold throughout the journey!
Altitude:
- Pulna: 2,100 m (6,900 ft)
- Ghangharia: 3,000 m (9,800 ft)
Drive Details:
- Distance from Pipalkoti to Govindghat: 52 km (approximately 2 hours)
- Local transport from Govindghat to Pulna: 4 km (15 minutes)
Trek Details:
- Trek from Pulna to Ghangharia: 9 km (approximately 4 hours)
- Trail: Gradual ascent on a stone-paved path, following the Pushpawati River
- Facilities: Water sources are available along the route, and a hot lunch will be provided during the trek
- Mule and porter services are available from Pulna
Connectivity and Services:
- Mobile networks: BSNL, JIO, and AIRTEL available in Ghangharia (network may be erratic)
- Helicopter service: Available from Govindghat to Ghangharia, subject to weather conditions (not included in cost)
- Accommodation: Shared guest house stay
Noteworthy Sites:
- Govinddham Gurudwara, Govindghat
- Hemkund Sahib base, Ghangharia
- Valley of Flowers Information Center, Ghangharia
Detailed Journey: After breakfast, the journey begins from Pipalkoti to Govindghat, covering 52 km and passing the final holy confluence, Vishnuprayag. Arriving at Govindghat by 8:00 am, a short 4 km drive to Pulna marks the start of the trek. The 9 km hike follows the Pushpawati River on a stone-paved path, which is often bustling with trekkers and lined with snack shops offering beverages, noodles, omelets, and parathas, ensuring you won’t go hungry.The first 5 km leads to Bhyundar village, an excellent viewpoint for taking in the impressive Hathi Parvat. The trail then becomes steeper, challenging trekkers as they ascend toward Ghangharia. The day concludes with reaching Ghangharia before nightfall at an altitude of 9,800 ft, where the stay is in a guest house.
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Altitude: 3,500 m (11,500 ft)
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Trek Distance: 4 km each way (approximately 7 hours round trip)
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Valley Length: 6-7 km, ending at a glacier
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Trail: Mixed inclines followed by a level grassland walk
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Water: Streams available for refilling bottles
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Meals: Packed lunch provided; no food available in the valley
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Camping: Not allowed; exit required before sunset
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Accommodation: Shared guest house stay
Notable Flowers: Blue Poppy, Snake Foil, White Leaf Hog Foot, Himalayan Rose, Meadow Geranium, Dog Flower, Hooked Stick Seed, River Anemone**Journey Overview**:
The trek from Ghangaria to the Valley of Flowers spans 4 km each way. The total distance trekked in the valley depends on the exploration pace and stamina of the trekkers. The journey begins with a 30-minute walk to a forest check post, near which the beautiful Laxman Waterfall can be seen. After another 20 minutes through lush greenery, trekkers will cross a wooden bridge over the surging Pushpawati River, an unforgettable sight. The path is steep and stone-paved, dotted with bridges and sections prone to landslides.Upon entering the valley, trekkers are greeted by breathtaking scenery, surpassing expectations with its vivid landscape and stunning Himalayan backdrop. The trail showcases a colorful array of native flowers such as Blue Poppy, Himalayan Rose, and Meadow Geranium, and continues for about 5 km until it meets a glacier. On clear days, the towering peaks of Nilgiri Parvat, Bhyundar Khal, Rattaban, and Gauri Parvat create an impressive panorama. The day’s journey concludes with the return to Ghangaria before nightfall.
- Altitude (Dayara Top): 3,700 m/ 12,100 ft | (Nayata): 2,800 m/ 9,200 ft.
- Trek Distance: Chilpada – Dayara Top: 5 km | Duration: 5-6 hr | Dayara Top – Nayta: 6 km | Duration: 3-4 hr.
- Easy to moderate trail.
- Packed lunch on the way.
- Carry enough water, only one water source near the top.
- Massive views of many peaks and Dodital Range from the top.
- Stay in a tent.
Summit day is finally here. Today you will go all the way to the Dayara top and return to the campsite. It’s an easy-to-moderate trail. Carry enough water for the way as there is only one water source near the top. With the first few steps under the forest, the trail gradually opens up leading to vast meadows. Hereafter, you will find yourself trudging on the meadows blossomed with colors. Chilpada is quite close to the Dayar Meadows, which gives almost the entire day to explore the meadows. As you enter the meadows, you will spot some shepherd’s huts again on the edge of the meadow. In summer, the Dyara Meadows serve as pasturelands, and the shepherds shelter their cattle and livestock in these huts.
Walking on such beautiful terrain with stunning views of Bandarpoonch and other peaks, you won’t even know that you are finally closer to the top. You might also spot a sparsely filled water stream.
The final climb is steep but it is worth the physical strain because you will end up witnessing stunning views of the Dodital range. The trail then takes you to the Gidara pass that distinguishes ways to Pichkiya and Gidara Bugyal. Miles and miles of rolling meadows stretch in every direction. Give yourself some time to savor in the serenity of the landscape, to return to the campsite thereafter. If you are doing the trek in the early season, of late spring or summer, you will see lines of violet and yellow wildflowers adorning the meadow. There’s a packed lunch on the way. We will descend all the way to Nayata campsite. The Nayata campsite is surrounded beautifully by Maple and Rhododendron trees. Spend the night at Nayata campsite.
- Trek Distance (Ghangharia to Pulna): 9 km (4-5 hours)
- Drive Distance (Pulna to Govindghat): 4 km (15 minutes)
- Drive Distance (Govindghat to Badrinath): 25 km (1 hour)
- Drive Distance (Badrinath to Pipalkoti): 75 km (3-4 hours)
- Meals: Packed lunch provided
- Accommodation: Overnight stay in a guest house or hotel
Important Note: The route from Govindghat to Badrinath is prone to landslides during the monsoon season. If weather conditions, landslides, or road blockages pose a safety risk, the visit to Badrinath will be skipped, and the group will proceed directly to Pipalkoti.
Journey Summary: After breakfast, the descent from Ghangharia to Pulna begins, followed by a short drive to Govindghat. From there, the trip to Badrinath covers 25 km, taking about an hour, and is contingent on road and weather conditions. Upon arrival in Badrinath, check into the hotel for an overnight stay. If conditions do not permit, the journey will continue directly to Pipalkoti, bypassing Badrinath to ensure safety.
- Drive Distance: 200 km (approximately 9-10 hours)
The journey begins at 6:00 am, and arrival in Rishikesh is expected around 5:00 to 6:00 pm. Breakfast and lunch will be at a roadside inn during the journey (cost not included). After enjoying your morning tea or coffee, you can proceed to your next destination.
Who Can Participate
12 years and above.
First-time trekkers are welcome; however, previous trekking experience is advantageous.
should be physically fit and possess enough stamina to cover 5 km in 32 minutes or 10 km in 80 minutes without undue strain.
- Pulse rate at rest must be in between (60 to 90 beats per minute).
- Blood Pressure Reading must be in between (DIASTOLIC 70 – 90, SYSTOLIC 100 – 140 mm Hg).
- Respiratory rate at rest must be in between (12 to 20 breaths per minute).
- Should not have Liver and kidney issues.
- Should not have Diabetes Mellitus, Bronchial Asthma, Heart problems, Hypertension, etc.
- No pacemaker implant.
- People with Sinus issues, Epilepsy please contact to trek coordinator before booking the trek.
- If your BMI is not normal, Please contact our Trek coordinator before Trek booking.
- Government Employees can avail the benefit of Special Casual Leave (SCL) when they join us for a trekking expedition. As per the rules of the Pay Commission, Special Casual Leave can be availed for up to 30 days in a calendar year for trekking/mountaineering expeditions through a registered organization. Lets Go UbEx is a registered adventure tour operator by the Indian Mountaineering Foundation (IMF) and the Ministry Of Tourism (MOT).
- Trekkers have to apply for leave at least 20 days before the trek departure date.
- This service is exclusive to Indian government employees and is applicable only for treks within India.
- Do mail at info@letsgoubex to apply and mention your booked trek date and trek name.
- Junior trekkers (below 15 years) should have a company of parents/guardians.
- Trekkers between 15 to 18 years can come solo with the disclaimer form signed by parent/guardian.
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Pick-Up Information
It is essential for everyone to arrive at Rishikesh (06:00 am).
Pick-up Location – Tapovan, Landmark – Nainital Bank opposite Shiv Vilas Hotel.
Once you have reached Rishikesh, LET’S GO UbEx will manage the rest of your travel arrangements. If you have opted for LET’S GO UbEx’s pick-up service, you can select this option during the booking process by adding it as an add-on.Options to Reach Rishikesh
- Take an overnight train/bus to Rishikesh.
- Take an overnight train/bus to Haridwar and drive to Rishikesh (25 km | 35 min drive with normal traffic).
- Take an overnight train/bus to Dehradun and drive to Rishikesh (50 km | 1 hr 20 min drive with normal traffic).
(We always recommend going for the government buses over the private ones outside the bus station, as based on experience, we have found that there are very high chances of delays with private buses. Government buses are always more reliable. Whichever bus you choose, make sure to reach Rishikesh at least by 05:30 am.)
- Board a flight to Dehradun airport (Jolly Grant Airport) (21 km, 30 min). If arriving by air, come one day in advance.
Drop-Off Information
The designated drop-off point is Tapovan, Rishikesh.
Reach Rishikesh between 6:30 and 7:30 pm.
Please plan your subsequent travel arrangements after 10:00 pm.
Note – In July and August, always have a buffer day in your itinerary due to the monsoon.It is highly advisable to keep a buffer day in your travel plan. If the buffer day is not used, you can explore Rishikesh.
(If you prefer to travel independently to the base camp and do not wish to take LET’S GO UbEx’s pick-up service, you can take a government bus or book a private cab from Rishikesh. Your trek coordinator will provide guidance on arranging bus or cab bookings.)LET’S GO UbEx offers comfortable transportation through Tempo Traveler, Bolero, or equivalent vehicles. If you wish to upgrade your mode of transportation, please contact your trek coordinator for further assistance.
Cost Terms
1. Accommodation (as per the itinerary):
- Day 1 and Day 5: Guest house in Pipalkoti.
- Day 2, Day 3, and Day 4: Accommodation in Ghangharia
2. Meals (Veg + Egg):
- All meals, including tea, soup, snacks, etc., from dinner on Day 1 to dinner on Day 5.
3.Support:
- A versatile base camp manager who oversees communication and deploys additional manpower during emergencies.
A trek leader qualified in mountaineering and first aid. - An experienced high-altitude chef.
- Local, seasoned guides (with the number of guides based on group size).
- Adequate support staff.
4. Trek equipment:
- A versatile base camp manager who oversees communication and deploys additional manpower during emergencies.
- A trek leader qualified in mountaineering and first aid.
- An experienced high-altitude chef.
- Local, seasoned guides (with the number of guides based on group size).
- Adequate support staff.
5. First aid:
- Medical kit, stretcher, oxygen cylinder, blood pressure monitor, oximeter, and stethoscope.
6. Transportation (as per the itinerary):
- Transportation from Rishikesh to Pipalkoti and back (as per the itinerary).
- Transportation from Pipalkoti to Govindghat, Pulna, and Badrinath, and return (as per the itinerary).
- Mules/porters for carrying central luggage.
- Cloakroom facility available at the base camp for additional luggage.
- All necessary permits and entry fees, up to the amount applicable for Indian citizens.
- Trek completion certificate.
- Insurance (mandatory).
- Food during transit.
Any kind of personal expenses. - Mule or porter for carrying personal luggage.
- Emergency evacuation, hospitalization charges, etc.
- Anything not explicitly mentioned under “Inclusions.”
- Items available on demand and subject to availability (participants will need to pay extra for these).
1. Satellite phone/set phone – a type of mobile phone that connects via radio links through satellites orbiting the Earth rather than terrestrial cell sites, enabling it to function in most geographical locations on the Earth’s surface.
2. Gamow/PAC HAPO Bag (Portable Hyperbaric Bag) – a specialized, portable hyperbaric chamber used for the treatment of acute mountain sickness (AMS), also known as altitude sickness.
3. AEDs (Automated External Defibrillators) – portable, life-saving devices designed to treat sudden cardiac arrest, a medical condition in which the heart stops beating unexpectedly.
Cancellation terms:
Cancellations prior to 25 days from the start of the Trip
Refund options
- 5% deduction of trek fee
- 100% cash voucher for any trip till one year
- Transfer your trek (any trek, any date) to your friend
Cancellation between 24 days and 15 days to the start of the Trip
Refund options
- 30% deduction of trek fee
- 100% cash voucher for same trip till one year
- 85% cash voucher for any trip till one year
- Transfer your trek (same trek, any date) to your friend
Cancellation between 14 days and 10 days to the start of the Trip
Refund options
- 50% deduction of trek fee
- 80% cash voucher for same trip till one year
- 70% cash voucher for any trip till one year
- Book the same trek, in the same season, with any other batch
- Transfer your trek (same trek, any date) to your friend
Cancellation less than 9 days to the start of the trek
Refund options
- No cash refund
- 20% cash voucher for the same trip till one year
- 10% cash voucher for any trip till one year
- Transfer your trek (same trek, same date) to your friend
Note: If a booking is made using a voucher or discount code, the policies related to vouchers and discounts cannot be modified.
In the unlikely event that LET’S GO UbEx cancels a trek prior to the scheduled departure date:
While it is extremely rare for LET’S GO UbEx to cancel a trek, we understand that unforeseen circumstances or natural disasters may occasionally require us to do so before the scheduled departure. These circumstances could include continuous rain or snow, thunderstorms, snowstorms, landslides, floods, earthquakes, or any other natural calamity that poses a risk to the safety of our trekkers. Additionally, unforeseeable events such as local riots, curfews, pandemics, lockdowns, government orders, or any similar situations that compromise the safety of the trekking experience may also necessitate a cancellation.
In the event of such a cancellation, LET’S GO UbEx will provide you with a voucher equivalent to the amount you paid for the trek. This voucher can be redeemed for any of our treks within the next year, allowing you to still enjoy an adventure with us at a later date.
Note:
The issuance of a voucher is not applicable in situations where you are required to descend from the trek for any reason. The trek leader may make the decision to send you down from the trek due to factors such as insufficient fitness level, symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), high blood pressure, exceeding the designated turn-around time, health concerns, or if you are found smoking, drinking, or violating the rules set for the trek. In such cases, the provision of a voucher does not apply.
In the rare event that LET’S GO UbEx shifts a trek:
We would like to emphasize that weather conditions in high-altitude areas are highly unpredictable and can undergo sudden changes at any time, irrespective of the day. Additionally, circumstances beyond our control, such as natural disasters, political unrest, pandemics, and lockdowns, may impact the feasibility of conducting a trek. In cases where we are unable to proceed with an event due to such circumstances that are beyond our direct control, we will make every effort to provide you with an alternative trek that is safer and more suitable.
In such situations, we will issue a voucher to offset the cost difference between the originally scheduled trek and the alternative trek. This voucher can be redeemed at any time within one year from the date of issue. Please note that a refund fee or reimbursement of the cost difference is not applicable in these cases.
Note:
- Change of trek batch is dependent on the availability of seats in the batch.
- In case of transferring a trek to a friend, he/she should satisfy all the mandatory requirements put forward by LET’S GO UbEx.
- LET’S GO UbEx holds the right to change/cancel the policies without prior notice.
- Cash refund is applicable only in case of bookings made without using any promotional offer code or vouchers.
Cash Voucher Terms:
- This is a non-transferable voucher.
- The voucher cannot be merged with any other offer of LET’S GO UbEx.
- The voucher is valid for treks booked directly with LET’S GO UbEx in India.
- To avail the voucher, please use your registered phone number or email ID.
- All other terms of booking a trek with LET’S GO UbEx are applicable to the voucher.
- LET’S GO UbEx holds the right to add/remove any of the terms and conditions without prior notice.
Itineraries are based on information available at the time of planning and are subject to change. LET’S GO UbEx reserves the right to change expedition dates, participants, or itineraries as conditions warrant. If a trip must be delayed or the itinerary changed due to bad weather, road conditions, transportation delays, government intervention, airline schedules, sickness, or other contingencies for which LET’S GO UbEx or its agents cannot make provision, the cost of delays and/or other changes are the responsibility of the participant. LET’S GO UbEx reserves the right to decline or accept any individual as a trip member for any reason whatsoever.
Trek Essentials
Personal Equipments
| Backpack with rain cover | (50 – 60 ltr) with comfortable shoulder straps |
| Day pack with rain cover | 20 – 30 ltr (If off-load opted) |
| Walking stick | Advisable (At least one) |
| Water Bottle / Hydration pack | 2 bottles of one liter each, People who use hydration pack 1 hydration pack and 1 bottle of one liter, Carry at least one thermos flask. |
| Small size tiffin/lunch box | 1 Nos |
| Snacks | Energy bars, dry fruits, electral/ors |
| Personal Medical Kit | Consult your doctor |
| T-Shirt (Synthetic quick dry) | 1 Full & 2 Half sleeves |
| Fleece T-shirt | 1 Nos |
| Wind stopper / Fleece jacket | 1 Nos |
| Windproof Jacket | 1 Nos |
| Down feather / Hollow jacket | 1 Nos |
| Thermal inner (Upper and Lower) | 1 Pair |
| Trek Pant (Synthetic quick dry) | 2 Nos |
| Wind stopper / Fleece Pant | 1 Nos |
| Waterproof gloves | 1 Pair |
| Fleece / woollen gloves | 1 Pair |
| Poncho / waterproof Jacket and pant | 1 Nos |
| Head torch | 1 Nos. (Avoid Hand torch) |
| Sun Cap | Not required |
| Woolen cap | 1 Nos. |
| Balaclava | Not required |
| Buff / Neck-gaiters | Synthetic |
| Sunglasses | UV with dark side cover, People who wear spectacles – (A)- Use contact lenses | (B)- Photo chromatic glasses |
| Trekking shoes | 1 Pair (Waterproof, high ankle, good grip) |
| Floaters / flip-flops | 1 Pair |
| Cotton socks | 6 pairs |
| Woollen socks | 1 pairs |
| Gaiters | 1 Pair ( LET’S GO UbEx provides when required) |
| Micro spikes | 1 Pair ( LET’S GO UbEx provides when required) |
| Sunscreen | 1 Nos |
| Moisturiser | 1 Nos |
| Chap-stick / Lip balm | 1 Nos |
| Toothbrush and toothpaste | 1 Nos |
| Toilet paper & Wipes | 1 Nos |
| Soap / hand sanitizers | 1 Nos |
| Antibacterial powder | 1 Nos |
| Quick dry towel | 1 Nos |
Equipment Provided By Lets Go UbEx
100% Secure Payments
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ)
The Valley of Flowers trek is a 6-day adventure covering a distance of approximately 37 km.
The Valley of Flowers Trek is an easy to moderate grade trek.
Yes, it is recommended to be physically fit before undertaking the Valley of Flowers Trek. Although the trek is classified as moderate in difficulty, it demands a good level of physical endurance and stamina.
Yes, a permit is required to undertake the Valley of Flowers Trek. As the Valley of Flowers National Park is a protected area, permits are necessary to manage visitor numbers and safeguard the delicate ecosystem. When you trek with us, we take care of obtaining the permit for you.
During the Valley of Flowers Trek, accommodation is provided in guesthouses on a sharing basis (Triple/Quad rooms), with separate arrangements for males and females.
Here are some essential items to pack for the trek:
- Trekking Shoes: A comfortable, well-fitted, and sturdy pair of trekking shoes with good grip is essential for a smooth trek.
- Warm Clothing: The weather in the mountains can be unpredictable, so pack thermal innerwear, fleece jackets, a down jacket, and a waterproof jacket to stay warm.
- Trekking Pants: Choose comfortable, quick-drying trekking pants suitable for the varying weather conditions.
- Backpack: A 40-50 liter backpack is ideal for carrying your essentials throughout the trek.
- Sleeping Bag: A high-quality sleeping bag will ensure comfort during camping nights.
- Headlamp/Flashlight: A reliable headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries is essential for trekking in the early morning or late evening hours.
- Water Bottle: Stay hydrated by carrying a reusable water bottle.
- Snacks: Pack energy bars, dry fruits, and other snacks for quick energy during the trek.
- First Aid Kit: A basic first aid kit, including band-aids, antiseptic cream, pain relief spray, and altitude sickness medication, is important.
- Sun Protection: Protect yourself from the sun with sunscreen lotion, sunglasses, and a hat.
- Trekking Poles: Trekking poles help maintain balance and reduce strain on your knees during the trek.
It is strongly advised to hire a professional trekking expert for the Valley of Flowers Trek, as it can be quite challenging to navigate on your own. Experienced guides and support staff play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and well-being of trekkers. Opting for a specialized trekking organization offers numerous advantages, including expert guidance, access to proper gear and equipment, as well as logistical support throughout the journey.
The Valley of Flowers is surrounded by several stunning destinations that are definitely worth exploring, such as Hemkund Sahib Gurudwara, Badrinath Dham, Auli, and Joshimath.
The ideal time to explore the Valley of Flowers is from mid-July to September, when the flowers are in full bloom. The onset of the monsoon season triggers their blossoming. Since the Valley of Flowers is a monsoon trek, you can expect rainfall during your journey, so it’s important to prepare with appropriate clothing for wet conditions. Alternatively, for clearer skies and less rainfall, visiting during the autumn months, from September to mid-November, is a great option.
The Valley of Flowers is a safe destination, with locals known for their politeness and humility. However, it’s important to check the road and weather conditions before you travel to ensure your safety. If you’re trekking with us, rest assured that we are one of the safest trekking organizations in the country. We prioritize your safety and implement strict safety protocols throughout the trek.
Camping is prohibited on the Valley of Flowers Trek due to its location in an ecologically sensitive area. No camping is allowed within the valley or anywhere along the trek. However, you can find hotels and lodges in Ghangaria for overnight stays. Please note that while on the trek, luxury accommodations are not available, as the base camp is situated in a remote Himalayan region. The hotels in Ghangaria are clean and offer basic amenities.
The Valley of Flowers trek is perfect for beginners, including families and children. Rated as easy to moderate, the trek features well-marked trails and manageable terrain, making it an ideal choice for novice trekkers. It offers a fantastic opportunity to explore the stunning beauty of the Uttarakhand Himalayas.
The Valley of Flowers trek involves an altitude gain of about 4,300 feet, especially during the climb to Hemkund Sahib on the final day. Although this ascent can be challenging, it is manageable for most trekkers who maintain a reasonable level of fitness.
The Valley of Flowers boasts around 500 different species of flowers, many of which possess medicinal qualities. Its rich floral diversity enhances its allure, making it a true paradise for nature lovers and botany enthusiasts alike.
Accommodation during the Valley of Flowers trek generally includes basic lodges or guesthouses along the trail. Camping is not allowed within the valley, but trekkers can find simple lodging options with essential amenities like beds and blankets.
Essential items to pack for the Valley of Flowers trek include a good-quality rain jacket or poncho, weather-resistant backpack covers, waterproof shoes, and several pairs of socks. Additionally, trekkers should carry sufficient water, snacks, and sunscreen to stay hydrated and protected from the sun.
Mobile phone reception may be limited or absent in remote areas along the trek, though occasional pockets of network coverage might be available depending on the location and service providers. Trekkers should be prepared for intermittent connectivity and plan ahead for any communication needs.
Trekkers can travel from Rishikesh to the starting point of the Valley of Flowers trek, usually Govindghat, by road. Common transportation options include private vehicles, shared taxis, or organized tour buses. The journey takes about nine hours, offering picturesque views of landscapes and sacred confluences along the route.
Mules are available for hire to help carry luggage during the Valley of Flowers trek, particularly on the route from Govindghat to Ghangaria and Hemkund Sahib. Trekkers can choose to offload their gear and use mules for added convenience, especially during the ascent to higher altitudes.
Notable landmarks along the Valley of Flowers trek include the picturesque confluence at Vishnuprayag, the enchanting Laxman Waterfall, and the revered Hemkund Sahib Gurudwara. Trekkers also have the chance to explore the valley’s rich floral diversity and breathtaking natural landscapes.
The Valley of Flowers trek is classified as easy to moderate, making it suitable for trekkers with a decent level of fitness and stamina. Although the terrain is generally manageable, it involves long walking hours, steep ascents and descents, and fluctuating weather conditions. Maintaining regular exercise and improving cardiovascular fitness can boost trekking endurance and overall experience.
