Valley of Flowers
A Spiritual Journey to the Abode of Lord Shiva
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Region
Uttarahand
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Trek Distance
42km
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Max Altitude
12,140 ft
- Duration: 6 Days | 5 Nights
- Highest Altitude: 12,140 ft
- Starting Point: Rishikesh
- Experience: Beginner to Intermediate
- Best For: Group and Solo Travellers
Embark on an unforgettable journey to the Valley of Flowers and Hemkund Sahib with our 6-day trekking itinerary. Witness stunning scenery and experience the natural beauty of the Garhwal region.
Trek Overview
Know more about India’s Most Popular Winter trek
The Valley of Flowers is a stunning national park situated in the Chamoli district of the Garhwal region in Uttarakhand, India. It is located at an altitude of 3,658 meters above sea level and covers an area of 87.5 square kilometers.
The valley is renowned for its picturesque landscape, colorful flowers, and diverse flora and fauna. It is home to over 500 species of wildflowers, including Himalayan bellflowers, Himalayan cobra lilies, Himalayan blue poppies, and Himalayan primroses. The valley also has a variety of medicinal plants, such as Himalayan yew and Himalayan blue pine, which are used in Ayurvedic medicine.
The Valley of Flowers is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, as it is home to rare and endangered species like the Asiatic black bear, Himalayan musk deer, and snow leopard.
In this trek we will also cover, The Hemkund Sahib, which is a popular pilgrimage site for Sikhs. It is located at an altitude of 4,633 meters above sea level. The gurudwara is believed to be the place where Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh guru, meditated and attained enlightenment.
The best time to visit the Valley of Flowers is from mid-July to mid-August, when the flowers are in full bloom. The park is open to visitors from June to October, and a permit is required to enter the park.
Overall, the Valley of Flowers is a natural wonder that is sure to mesmerize anyone who visits it. Its stunning scenery, diverse flora and fauna, and trekking routes make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike.
Embark on an unforgettable journey to the Valley of Flowers and Hemkund Sahib with Shiva Adventures. Our expert team of guides and trek leaders will take you through the picturesque trail, offering stunning views of the Himalayas and a chance to witness the exotic flora and fauna of the region.
Trek Itinerary
Detailed Day-By-Day Trek Schedule
Our team from Shiva Adventures will pick you up from the Haridwar Railway Station at 6:30 am, and we’ll start our journey towards Joshimath via Rishikesh by Tempo Travellers. The journey is long and takes about 10-11 hours, but it is worth it as you’ll pass through some of the most breathtaking views of the Himalayas. The route includes the famous Devprayag, where the rivers Alaknanda and Bhagirathi converge to form the holy river Ganges. We’ll take breaks on the way for refreshments and to enjoy the scenery. Upon arrival at Joshimath, we’ll check into a hotel and rest for the night.
After breakfast, we’ll take a taxi from Joshimath to Govindghat, which is a short 18 km drive and takes about an hour. From Govindghat, we’ll begin our trek to Ghangaria, which is around 9 km and takes 5-6 hours. The trail follows the river Lakshman Ganga, and you’ll pass through small villages and bridges. You’ll also come across a beautiful waterfall called the Bhyundar Ganga waterfall. Ghangaria is a small village that serves as the base camp for both the Valley of Flowers and Hemkund Sahib treks. We’ll check into a hotel in Ghangaria for the night.
Today, we’ll trek from Ghangaria to the Valley of Flowers, which is around 10 km and takes 7-8 hours. The Valley of Flowers is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it is a natural botanical garden that is home to exotic flowers like the Himalayan Blue Poppy, Himalayan Bellflower, and Himalayan Cobra Lily. You’ll also come across a variety of fauna like Himalayan black bears, musk deer, and snow leopards. The altitude at the Valley of Flowers is 12140 feet, and we’ll spend the day exploring the region’s beauty. After an eventful day, we’ll trek back to the Ghangaria hotel for some well-deserved rest.
On this day, we’ll trek from Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib, which is around 12 km and takes 7-8 hours. Hemkund Sahib is a sacred pilgrimage site for Sikhs, and it is located at an altitude of 14,100 feet. The Hemkund Sahib Gurudwara is situated near a serene lake, and it is surrounded by seven peaks. The trek to Hemkund Sahib is challenging but worth it as the scenery is stunning. After seeking blessings at the Gurudwara, we’ll trek back to the hotel in Ghangaria.
After breakfast, we’ll trek from Ghangaria to Govind Ghat, which is around 9 km and takes 5-6 hours. The trek is downhill, and it is comparatively easy. From Govind Ghat, we’ll take a taxi to Joshimath, which is around 18 km and takes an hour. We’ll check into a hotel in Joshimath for the night and rest after a long day of trekking.
On the final day of the trip, we’ll take a taxi from Joshimath to Haridwar via Rishikesh, which is around 258 km and takes around 9-10 hours. We’ll pass through beautiful landscapes and make stops on the way to enjoy the scenery. We’ll reach Haridwar in the evening by 7:00 pm, and our trip to the Valley of Flowers and Hemkund Sahib with Shiva Adventures comes to an end.
Dates
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Customized dates available.
Package Option:
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Inclusion/Exclusion
Find out what is included in your package
Inclusion:
- Transport Ex. Haridwar / Rishikesh / Dehradun
- All meals: Breakfast, packed lunch, tea, coffee, snacks, Dinner
- Accommodation in Hotels on twin/tripple sharing basis
- All forest Permit and entrance fee
- Highly experienced team of mountain trek leader and guides
- Experienced Trek Leader/Trip Captain
- Basic First Aid medical kit
Exclusions:
- Anything not mentioned in inclusion
- All personal Expenses, optional tour, extra Meals, food during travel
- Bagpack offloading, Helicopter Charges
- Any unplanned Transport expenses
- Travel insurance, medical insurance, mineral water charges
- 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)
Important Info
Trek Package related details
If you are planning to go for the Kedarnath Yatra, it is essential to carry the following items:
Appropriate Clothing: The weather in mountain can be unpredictable, and it is advisable to carry warm clothes like a sweater, jacket, and gloves, especially during the winter season. During summers, light cotton clothing can be carried.
Good Quality Trekking Shoes: The trek to Valley of Flowers is an 44 km journey, and it is essential to wear comfortable and sturdy trekking shoes. It is advisable to break into the shoes beforehand to avoid any discomfort or blisters during the trek.
Rain Gear: The valley of flowers is located in the Himalayas, and it is common to experience rain or snowfall during the journey. It is advisable to carry rain gear like a poncho, raincoat, or umbrella to avoid getting wet and to protect your belongings.
Basic Medicines: It is advisable to carry basic medicines like pain relievers, antiseptics, cough and cold medicines, and medicines for altitude sickness as a precautionary measure.
Water Bottles: It is essential to stay hydrated during the trek, and it is advisable to carry water bottles and refill them at regular intervals.
Personal Care Items: It is advisable to carry personal care items like sunscreen, lip balm, hand sanitizer, wet wipes, and tissue papers.
Torch: A torch or a headlamp is a must-have item to carry during the trek.
ID Proof: It is important to carry a valid ID proof like Aadhar Card, Driving License, or Passport for identification purposes.
Cash: It is advisable to carry enough cash for the journey as there may be limited access to ATMs or card payment facilities.
In conclusion, it is important to pack light and carry only the necessary items during the Trek. It is advisable to carry a backpack that is easy to carry and comfortable.
Any cancellation made 30 days prior to the date of departure, would levy 20% of the total tour cost as cancellation charges.
Any cancellation made 15-30 days prior to the date of departure, would levy 30% of the total tour cost as cancellation charges.
Any cancellation made 7-15 days prior to the date of departure, would levy 50% of the total tour cost as cancellation charges.
Any cancellation made 0-7 days prior to the date of departure, would levy 100% of the total tour cost as cancellation charges.
Due to any restrictions such as sudden government policies or regulations, or unprecedented weather conditions, activities and tours may be nonoperational and be cancelled.
In cases such as these, operators will attempt to cater to the traveller an alternative that is feasible in nature. However, any refund would not be catered.
Any refund applicable will be processed within 7 business days.
FAQs
Frequently asked quetsions by trekkers
The best time to visit Valley of Flowers is from mid-July to mid-August, when the flowers are in full bloom. The park is open from June to October.
The trek to Valley of Flowers usually takes around 4-5 days, depending on the itinerary chosen.
The Valley of Flowers trek is considered moderate to difficult, as it involves steep ascents and descents. Trekkers need to have a good level of fitness and stamina.
Yes, it is safe to trek to Valley of Flowers. However, trekkers need to follow the instructions of their trek leaders and be aware of the risks associated with high-altitude trekking.
Basic medical facilities are available in Ghangaria, but it is recommended to carry a first aid kit and any necessary medication. Trekkers should also inform their trek leaders of any medical conditions they have.
