VALLEY OF FLOWERS

Haridwar to Haridwar

VALLEY OF FLOWERS

Why is Valley of Flowers a Must-Do Trek in Uttarakhand?

The Valley of Flowers Trek is a once-in-a-lifetime experience located in the majestic Himalayas of Uttarakhand, India. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this alpine national park is famous for its vibrant meadows, rare Himalayan flora, and spiritual ambiance.

1. Geography and Location
Situated in the Western Himalayas near Joshimath (approx. 300 km from Rishikesh).
Part of the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve, featuring peaks like Nanda Devi and Nilgiri Parbat.
Accessed by trekking from Govindghat via Ghangaria village.

2. Flora and Fauna
More than 500 species of wildflowers bloom here, including rare varieties like:
Blue Poppy (Meconopsis betonicifolia)
Brahma Kamal (Saussurea obvallata)
Cobra Lily, Marigold, Primula, and Gentiana
Home to diverse wildlife such as the Himalayan monal, musk deer, black bears, and snow leopards.

3. Ecological Significance
Part of the Nanda Devi National Park – a vital area for research, conservation, and Himalayan biodiversity.
Important habitat for endangered and endemic species.

4. Climate and Best Time to Visit
Ideal time: July to September for full bloom.
Closed from October to June due to snow and weather hazards.
Monsoon rains enrich the landscape with lush greenery and floral diversity.

5. Trekking and Accessibility
Moderate trek: approx. 17 km from Govindghat to Ghangaria + 3-4 km to the valley.
Stunning views of waterfalls, alpine forests, and meadows along the route.
Ghangaria is the last inhabited stop before the park gate.

6. Spiritual and Cultural Significance
Close proximity to Hemkund Sahib, an important Sikh pilgrimage site.
Associated with mythology and local legends tied to Nanda Devi and spiritual practices.

7. Conservation Challenges
Tourism pressure, climate change, and waste pose risks to the delicate ecosystem.
Strict regulations help preserve the park through limited entry and guided tours.

8. UNESCO World Heritage Recognition
Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005 for its exceptional natural beauty and ecological significance.

Basic Info

Trek Details

Highlights

Who Can Participate
  • Age; 10 years +.
  • First timers can apply; previous trekking experience is more appreciated.
  • The climber must be fit and have sufficient stamina to cover 5 km of distance in 35 min or 10 km in 80 min without stress.

Travel Tips 

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking and trekking.
  • Carry water and some snacks, as this Trek requires trekking.
  • Be mindful of the weather conditions, as this is a higher altitude trek.

Grade
Moderate

Distance
16

Group Size 
10

Duration
6 Days

Itinerary

Day 1: Rishikesh to Joshimath / Pipalkoti (260 Km Drive)

  • Group assembly at 6:30 AM – Pickup at Natraj Chowk / Tapovan Chowk (tentative).
  • Scenic drive via Devprayag, Rudraprayag, Karnaprayag & Nandprayag – the sacred Ganga confluences.
  • Alaknanda river accompanies most of the drive.
  • Evening arrival at Joshimath or Pipalkoti. Check-in, dinner, and overnight stay in a guest house.
  • Mobile network is available throughout the journey.

Day 2: Pipalkoti – Govindghat – Pulna – Ghangaria (Trek 10 Km)

  • Briefing after breakfast, then drive to Pulna – the trek starting point.
  • Start 10 km trek to Ghangaria (9,800 ft). Path follows river stream and forests.
  • Govind Dham Gurudwara and Hemkund base visible en route.
  • Helicopter services available from Govindghat (subject to weather; extra cost).
  • Overnight stay at hotel in Ghangaria village.

Day 3: Ghangaria to Valley of Flowers & Return (Trek 8 Km Round Trip)

  • Altitude: 11,500 ft | Distance: 4 km one way.
  • Entry at forest check post;
  • More than 300+ species of wildflowers: blue poppy, brahma kamal, orchids, primulas.
  • Trek along meadows, glacier view at end of valley.
  • No food or camping allowed inside the valley – return to Ghangaria for dinner and rest.

Day 4: Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib & Back (Trek 12 Km Round Trip)

  • Altitude: 15,200 ft – World’s highest Gurudwara.
  • Challenging trek with steep ascents. Distance: 6 km one way.
  • Views of Brahma Kamal, Himalayan Blue Poppy & Saptarishi Peaks.
  • Refreshments and khichdi served at Gurudwara.
  • Return to Ghangaria for night stay.

Day 5: Ghangaria – Pulna – Drive to Pipalkoti

  • Descend 10 km to Pulna after breakfast.
  • Drive back to Pipalkoti / Joshimath.
  • Check-in, dinner and night stay at the guest house.

Day 6: Pipalkoti to Rishikesh (Drive Back)

  • Depart early with packed memories and reach Rishikesh by evening (6:30 – 7:30 PM).
  • Dispersal – ensure onward bookings after 8:30 PM for safety.

Inclusions

Stay: Homestays and Tented accommodation at individual campsites.
Meals: Uttara Hikes will provide freshly cooked meals during the trek.
Trek Equipment: Sleeping bag, Sleeping tents, Kitchen tent, Dining tent, Toilet Tent.
Amenities: All utensils, sleeping mattresses (Black foam mats), Crampons, and Gaiters for snow.
Health & Safety: First Aid Box, Oxygen Cylinders, Stretchers, Oxi meters, BP Machines, health.
Permits: Forest Permits and Camping Permission Fee.
Trek Crew: High Altitude Chef, Helpers, Trek Leader & Guides, and other support teams.
Potters & Mules: Potters and Mules are to carry all trekking equipment, ration, and vegetables.

Exclusion

  • Any Meals/accommodation beside the itinerary or not mentioned in the program.
  • Any Bus / Airfare to/from trek start/end point
  • Personal Medical expenses do carry your medication.
  • Any personal services such as Laundry, phone calls, liquors, mineral water, etc.
  • Any still / video camera fee
  • Mules or porter charges to carry private baggage.
  • Any emergency evacuation charges.
  • Any services that are not mentioned in the cost inclusion section.

Cancellation Policy

  • If the cancellation is made more than 30 days prior to the start of the trek, a full refund will be provided.
  • If the cancellation is made between 15-30 days prior to the start of the trek, 50% of the trek fee will be refunded.
  • No refund will be provided for cancellations made within 15 days of the trek start date.
  • The trek fee is non-transferable and cannot be adjusted against any other trek.
  • Refunds, if any, will be processed within 7-10 working days of the cancellation request.

Note: In case of emergencies or unforeseen circumstances, the trek organizer may provide rescheduling options, subject to availability.

Terms & Conditions

Please read the following terms and conditions carefully before booking the RoopKund Trek.

Booking and Payment

Book your Trip with Booking amount 1000 rupees per person. Full payment must be made at the time of PickUp.

Cancellations made 30 days before the trek start date will receive a full refund. For cancellations made within 15-30 days, a 50% refund will be provided. No refunds are available for cancellations made less than 15 days before the trek.
All participants must be in good health and fitness. Medical conditions must be disclosed during registration. The trek operator reserves the right to deny participation if a participant is deemed unfit.
The trek operator is not responsible for injuries, accidents, or loss of personal belongings during the trek. Participants undertake the trek at their own risk.
The trek itinerary is subject to change based on weather conditions or unforeseen circumstances. The operator reserves the right to make necessary modifications for the safety and comfort of participants.

Note: By booking the trek, participants agree to abide by these terms and conditions.

Who Can Participate

  • Age; 10 years +.
  • First timers can apply; previous trekking experience is more appreciated.
  • The climber must be fit and have sufficient stamina to cover 5 km of distance in 35 min or 10 km in 80 min without stress.
Early Bird Discount

Book your trek 60 days in advance and get a flat 10% discount on the trek fee.

Group Discount

Get a 10% discount when booking for a group of 5 or more trekkers.

Loyalty Bonus

Returning trekkers get an additional 10% off on their next adventure.

Note: These trekking offers are valid for a limited time and subject to availability. Terms and conditions apply.

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