Valley of Flowers Trek
Valley of flowers trek
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- Adventure And Sports
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All About It
- 6 Days 5 Nights
- Difficulty - Moderate
- For 18+ years
The Valley of Flowers Trek is nestled in the vicinity of the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve and its multitude of blooming flowers covering the vast expanse of land makes the valley of flowers one of the most beautiful Himalayan treks our country has to offer
Stretched to an expanse of 87.5 square kilometers with an altitude of 15,200ft, the valley of flowers trek is popular among all kinds of trekkers. The sheer beauty that the rich biodiversity offers attract many avid nature lovers and the steep ascents and descents allow trekkers to relish in the experience of commencing this Himalayan trek and ticking it off of their bucket list. With the Hemkund Sahib awaiting on the other side of the trek, many pilgrims embark upon the valley of flowers trek as well.
Being one of the oldest known treks, The valley of flower trek came on every trekker's radar all over the world when it was declared a world heritage site by UNESCO in 2002. The valley is home to more than 520 species of flowers that come together to form a tapestry of colors in front of you with dominating shades of pink, blue and purple. The valley of flowers national park is located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand and along with being home to a diverse range of flora, it is also home to many endangered animals including snow leopard and red fox.
Nestled at an altitude of approx 12,000ft, The Valley of Flower National park along with Nanda Devi National park come together to form a transition zone between the mighty Himalayas and the Zanskar range of mountains
The valley of flowers trek comes under the easy to moderate category when it comes to grading the difficulty level and is considered to be a perfect trek for beginners and even a great trek for families. The hardest climb is the one to Hemkund Sahib Gurudwara which is the highest Gurudwara in the world and one of the most important pilgrim sites in Uttarakhand.
The valley itself stretches to a length of almost 10 kilometers, with colors of rainbows speckled across the patchwork of grass, compelling you to stop and look at them closely. The scent of flora lingers in the air and is hard to miss as you keep traversing through the valley, walking on the narrow path that cuts across the flower beds to make way.
In this valley of flower trek itinerary, we start our journey with an 8-hour drive from Rishikesh to Joshimath which is the basecamp for the Valley of flowers trek. Though the drive can seem strenuous, the beautiful scenery that accompanies you provides you a glimpse at four of the Panch Prayag which are five holy sites of the confluence of the river Ganga namely - Devprayag, Rudraprayag, Karnaprayag, and Nand Prayag will surely this drive a visual treat for your eyes. Upon reaching Joshimath, we will check in to our lodgings and retire for the night
The next day, we drive from Joshimath to Pulna village which is the starting point for the valley of flower trek. Upon reaching there, we start trekking to Ghangaria. We gradually ascend on a stretch of a 9-kilometer route with the Pushpawati river flowing alongside. The trek is considered to be of the easy to moderate category with the uphill route consisting of stone carved paths and steep ascents testing your endurance slightly as you walk up to your next campsite, Ghangaria village which is located at an altitude of 10,000ft. The trail is lined with many small dhabas so you will have plenty of resources to refill your water bottles and get snacks as you move forward. After walking for almost half of the distance, you will be able to see the Hathi Parvat ranges in front of you. From there on the climb is steep and you’ll be required to maintain proper footing until you reach your campsite
The next day you will be able to traverse through the valley of flowers. But before that, you have to cover at least a stretch of 4 kilometers of land. As you keep walking for at least 10 minutes, you will stumble upon the Laxman waterfall which gushes streams of sparkling water, the sight of which will surely refresh you. After a few minutes, you will reach the forest check post, from where you can buy tickets. The check post signifies your proximity to another marvel of nature in the form of a wooden bridge that is perched upon the Pushpavati river. No sooner after you have crossed the bridge, mountains will start peeking from behind. Every direction that you take will seem like a natural paradise because all colors of the rainbow are now on the ground in the form of blooming flowers. The difficulty level of the valley of flowers trek becomes easier here as you have to walk flatly throughout the valley.
Adorning the Himalayan peaks with different hues belonging to native flowers like poppies, Himalayan roses, geraniums, etc. The flowery carpet will end after a 5-kilometer stretch at a glacier but the sight of the majestic Himalayan peaks of Nilgiri Parvat, Bhyundar Khal, Rattan, Gauri Parvat, etc still make the view picturesque with a cold stream of water flowing throughout. Eating and camping in the valley aren’t allowed so you will have to head back to Ghangaria and retire for the night
The hardest part of the valley of flowers trek commences the next day as you head out for Gurudwara Hemkund Sahib, nestled at an altitude of 15,200 ft, it is the highest Gurudwara in the world. The six-hour-long trek from Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib is challenging in more than one way, the first one being that in a matter of a few hours, you gain an altitude of 5,000ft and the scenic views are replaced by steep descents making the climb rather strenuous. As you keep walking, you will be able to look over the entire valley of flowers and soon a cascading waterfall will come into view. You’d be able to feel the low oxygen levels as you gradually ascend, and that is your cue to keep drinking water as much as you can. After traversing on stone paved pathways and stumbling upon melting glaciers, Gurudwara Hemkund Sahib will bless you with the Hemkund lake right by its side, mirroring its pristine beauty. All your efforts will feel worth it once you have a cup of hot piping chai and a mouthful of khichdi that is distributed during the Langar.
As you stroll on the premise, you’d feel a sense of peace that you won’t find anywhere else. The lake, which is formed by the melting glaciers of Hathi Parvat and Saptarishi peaks, reflects the grandeur of the mountain as well. When the skies are crystal clear, you get a view of the Saptarishis peaks beckoning you closer while on the lakeside, rare flowers like the Brahma Kamal add more charm to the beauty of Hemkund lake. On a clear day, you will be able to glimpse at Himalayan peaks of Nilgiri Parvat, Bhyundar Khal, and Gauri Parvat as well. A temple dedicated to Laxman, Lord Rama’s brother is also situated near the lake and you can pay your respects there as well. You will soon have to descend and the 7-kilometer walk can put a strain on your muscles.
The next day is relatively easier as the descent to Pulna village would feel easier than the steep uphill climbing of the previous day. The trail is lined with enough dhabas and snack shops making it even easier to descend and in no time you’d have reached the base from where we’d be driving to Joshimath commencing our valley of flowers trek
Being one of the most well-known treks in the Indian Himalayas, the Valley of Flowers trek is quite safe. It has well-laid trails frequented by pilgrims. However, one needs to be careful on the slippery sections of the trail, especially during the rainy season
The best time to do the Valley of Flowers trek is in July and August when the blooming of flowers is at its peak. The prominent species of flowers that avid nature lovers find here are Brahmakamal, Blue Poppy, Cobra Lily Anemone, Geranium, Marsh Marigold & Primula. Also, the valley has to offer much more than flowers. There are waterfalls, glaciers, towering mountains, gushing rivers, and quaint villages, not to mention an abundance of peace
Highlights
Rishikesh to Joshimat
Joshimath to Pulna Drive | Ghangaria Tre
Ghangaria to Valley of Flowers Trek and bac
Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib Trek and bac
Ghangaria to Pulna | Drive Joshimat
Joshimath to Rishikesh
The group will assemble at the pickup point at 06:00 AM. Afterward, you'll be introduced to the whole group and a small briefing session would also be provided
On our journey from Rishikesh to Joshimath, we’d be traversing the Badrinath road with a picturesque view of the four confluence of the Ganga river, which include Devprayag, Rudraprayag, Karnaprayag, and Nand Prayag
You’d also be seeing the Alaknanda river flowing alongside, making your long journey ten times better.
Upon reaching Joshimath, we will have dinner and spend the night at our designated hotel
Note: The pickup point is Rishikesh ISBT (tentative).
After early morning breakfast, a small briefing session would be provided where all the necessary details about the Valley of flowers trek would be shared. After which, we will head towards Pulna which is the starting point of this trek
Upon reaching Pulna, which is 22 kilometers from Joshimath, we will start trekking towards Ghangaria village which is nestled at an altitude of 9,800ft.
It takes almost five hours to reach the campsite and you are walking along the river for most of the trek. Dhabas and shops line the trail, making it easier for trekkers to refill their water bottles and get refreshments as well
The trail soon becomes tabular, signifying that you are about to reach your destination. Upon reaching Ghangaria village, we will stay in the village and have dinner before retiring for the night.
Post breakfast, we'll head towards Valley of flowers national park. All the necessary details about the trekking trails for the rest of the day will be shared by the trek leader
The trekking trail from Ghangaria is long and you attain a significant amount of altitude as you go from an elevation of 9,600 ft to 11,500 ft and yet the trek is relatively easier because of the flat walk
Upon reaching the forest check post, you will get tickets to enter the valley and from there on you will get to witness the beauty of more than 300 species of bloomed flowers in front of you. The valley stretches up to 6-7 kilometers of land ending with a glacier
Since camping isn’t allowed and neither is eating, after spending a considerable amount of time relishing in the beauty of nature, we will head back to Ghangaria where we will have dinner and stay the night.
After breakfast we will head out for a trek to the Hemkund Sahib, which is the world's highest Gurudwara. You gain an altitude of 4,000ft in just seven hours.
The trail is steep and consists of a stone-paved uphill route making this part of the trail harder to walk upon. However, some porters and mules will offload your baggage for you, and shops lining the trail make it easier for you to get refreshments as well
Upon arrival, we will pay our respects at the Hemkund Sahib Gurudwara and visit the Hemkund Sahib Lake as well. You will get to glimpse at the Saptarishi peaks and experience the spiritual peace in the premise
Sip on hot piping chai and devour the khichdi that is served in the Gurudwara. Afterward, we will descend to Ghangaria again where we will spend the night after having dinner.
After early morning tea and breakfast, we will prepare for our descent to Pulna.
The descent is the easiest part of the trek and soon you will reach the base. From here on we will drive back to Joshimath.
Upon arrival, we will check into our designated lodgings where we will have dinner and spend the night.
Post breakfast, we will start the return journey to Rishikesh and will reach there by evening
The group will disassemble and part their ways with fond memories
End of tour.
Hosted by
Just Wravel
- Verified Host
- Logout's Trusted
- Traveler's Choice
“Main akela hi chala tha janib-e-manzil magar, log judte gaye aur karwaan banta gaya.” - Majrooh Sultanpuri Every brand starts off with a dream and as you walk the path of turning your vision into a reality, overcoming every hurdle and road block the journey has to offer you, you grow in irrevocable ways. Back when we first started JustWravel in 2015, we knew that no matter how high we might fly, we will never forget our roots and today, even after becoming a family of more than 25k people, our core values remain the same and we will make sure they will stay the same for years to come. The reason behind starting this venture was simple, to give people a chance to explore all the wonders this beautiful country has to offer and that meant unraveling hidden nooks and corners that are not as mainstream as other travel destinations. To make sure that passionate adventurers of our country could have a reliable platform that provided them the best traveling experience, be it fixed departure group tours, road trips to Ladakh, or the best treks in India.
Reviews
Shouri Piratla
Spiti trip has been amazing. All the accommodations and services provided by JustWravel were really great and comfortable. Will definitely pick JustWravel for my future expeditions.
Kelay Shah
views. There will be some places that'll make you speechless and you'll want to just sit and appreciate the beauty of nature. Would definitely plan next trips with Piyush and justwravel! :D
Brijesh Daiya
Great Experience! We took Justwravel's road trip package to Spiti Valley. The package is well organized covering main sightseeings and places to visit. All the accommodations and travel arrangements were comfy and included most of the promised amenities. Special thanks to Piyush Rawat, our coordinator, he managed and acted his best in all the situations. His jolliness added more fun to the trip. Although many destinations were covered in a short period of time, the trip was relaxing. Thanks for such memorable moments of our lives.
Pratik Chheda
Spiti valley was a life time experience. Justwravel had been a good choice for the trip. It had managed professionally with minor ups and downs. Most of the places were covered. The hotels and homestays had good hygienic facilities and conditions. Overall it was a good experience!
Priya Chopra
It was my first solo trip with Justwravel and I couldn't Have asked for anything more. They gave me everything beyond expectations. The food, the people, the travel everything was superb. Once I came back I felt like I left my home and family there. Looking forward to more exciting trips with them :)
Shubhra Bharadwaj
I had the pleasure of visiting spiti this time with justwravel accompanied by Mr.Nishant Bhardwaj from the company .It was a nearly organised,well crafted trip where even small things were taken good care of.They add a personal loving touch in addition to the services they provide.I would recommend this to everyone ,whether going on a solo trip like me or going with friends / family .
Inclusions
Accommodation: 2 Nights Accommodation in a hotel in Joshimath. 3 Nights Accommodation in a hotel in Ghangaria.
Transportation: Surface transfer from Joshimath - Pulna - Joshimath.
Meals: All veg meals from day 1st lunch to day 6th breakfast.
Snacks: Morning / Evening Tea / Coffee with light snacks.
Trek Leader: Qualified and Experienced Trek leader and support staff.
Permits: All necessary fees and permits.
Safety Equipment: Basic First Aid kit with Oximeter and Oxygen Cylinder and stretcher.
Guide ratio: 1:10
Exclusions
Any expenses of personal nature.
Meals during transit.
Insurance of any kind.
Any fees and permits (For Foreigners).
Unscheduled delay due to a landslide.
Cost Escalation due to “Force Majeure and Evacuation charges”.
Anything not mentioned explicitly in the above program.
THINGS TO CARRY
Backpack (Min 55 Ltrs with rain cover): You must pick a good quality backpack with a comfortable fit and straps that won’t give you shoulder pain. You can check out your nearest Decathlon store for a good trekking backpack.
Day backpack (20 – 30 Ltrs): When you head towards the summit, you are required to carry only a few necessary items and for that, you need a day backpack as you will leave your bigger one on the campsite.
Floaters or Sandals: Although the entire trek requires a good quality shoe, you still need to let your feet breathe to avoid chafing and blisters. When you are at the camp, a good pair of sandals and floaters will help you to move freely.
Trekking Shoes: A good trekking shoe is comfortable, provides ankle support, and has a good grip as well. They shouldn’t be chunky, instead, they should be lightweight and sturdy.
3 Quick Dry Tees: You must keep at least three pairs of quick dry tees so that you can wash them in between stops for proper hygiene.
2 Track Pants: A good pair of track pants made of polyester will let your skin breathe. They’re lightweight, dry easily, and are comfortable to walk around in. You can easily avoid chafing and rashes by investing in a good pair of track pants.
3 Pair of Cotton Socks: Cotton socks are extremely comfortable to move around in and are lightweight as well which is why you can always count on a good pair of cotton socks while trekking. However, keep in mind to change them and avoid wearing them when they are wet.
1 Pair of Woolen Socks: A good pair of woolen socks, especially merino, are comfortable, limit odors and provide adequate insulation from the cold so you can wear them at night.
1 Poncho: A poncho is an evolved form of a raincoat that provides coverage to your body as well as your bag and ensures total water protection from the rain.
1 Heavy Jacket: It’s emphasized that you need to carry proper layers so you can avoid getting cold which is why you need to carry a heavy jacket that you can put on over your other clothes.
1 Pair of Thermal: Thermal is a piece of garment that helps in keeping your body warm in cold temperatures. It is a necessary item that you need when going on a high-altitude trek.
Quick-dry towel: A quick dry towel will help in maintaining proper hygiene. It must dry quickly because the wet fabric will only increase the chance of bacterial growth.
Windproof Jacket: As you ascend towards high altitude, you get hit by chilly winds and a windbreaker jacket is designed to resist them. They are lightweight and are made of synthetic fibers.
Woolen Cap: A woolen cap will help prevent cold when you ascend to high altitude. You can also cover your ears to avoid any pain and discomfort you might face when going to high altitudes.
Gloves: Insulated gloves help in maintaining proper body heat in your hands and also provide a better grasp on trekking poles.
Sun Cap: A lightweight sun cap with side flaps is perfect to keep your head cool and avoid sunburns on a sunny day.
1 Scarf or Balaclava: Along with sun rays and chilly winds, you also get hit by dirt and grime during treks which is why it's important to carry a scarf or balaclava so you can cover your face when needed.
Lip Balm: Your lips can become chapped due to the harsh cold winds so it's important to keep them moisturized.
Cold Cream & SunScreen (SPF 40+): To avoid sunburns and chafing, you need to put on sunscreen as well as cold cream.
Antibacterial powder: To avoid rashes that develop from a bacterial infestation in your armpits and other parts of your body.
Water Bottle 1 Lt.: Hydration is extremely important when it comes to trekking. To carry a water bottle that you can refill with Himalayan water is a must.
Headlamp or torch: You can’t rely on moonlight when you are in the mountains. A torch or even a headlamp with a fresh pair of batteries is always a good idea to bring along.
Bag for all your Toiletries: A bag with all your essentials including napkins, toothpaste, sanitizers, paper soap, etc should be carried in a ziplock bag.
PICKUP LOCATIONS
Go to Google Maps
Policy and Terms
No cancellations will be taken over phone calls or WhatsApp messages. Please reply to the email with the payment receipt that you have received at the time of booking.
Free Cancellation up to 45 days before the departure date
44 Days to 30 days of Departure date. 10% of the total trip cost. (Booking amount is non-refundable)
29 Days to 20 Days of Departure date. 25% of the total trip cost.
19 Days to 10 Days of Departure date. 50% of the total trip cost.
9 Days to 6 Days of Departure date. 75% of the total trip cost.
5 Days to Trip Departure date. 100% of the total trip cost.
No Show. No refund.
In case of government orders, harsh weather conditions, protests, landslides, or any other unforeseen circumstances, we work out the best possible alternate plans or trips/treks. At times even if certain activities are canceled, the organization provides the best alternative but no refunds are provided.
If a trek is called off at the last moment due to a natural calamity/unforeseen circumstances (like rain, snowfall, earthquake, landslides, strike, etc.), JustWravel will issue a trek voucher for the full amount and if possible will provide an alternate trek.
The voucher can be redeemed up to the same amount for the same trek or another trek in the next 365 days from the trek departure date. But no refund would be provided.
Any extra expense due to any natural calamity/unforeseen circumstances (like rain, snowfall, earthquake, landslides, strike, bandh, etc.), will be borne by the customer. The company will not be liable.
Cancellations policy will differ during the peak season and for popular destinations.
Terms and Conditions
Vouchers are non-transferable and valid only for the services mentioned herein.
Any services not specifically requested, confirmed and noted on vouchers will not be rendered.
All extras are to be paid directly to the hotels/the service providers.
Please stick to itinerary, anything extra shall be chargeable (at the location itself.)
Any service unused is non-refundable. The company shall not be liable for damages/charges incurred by travelers if any of the following reasons apply: Natural disaster, war, civil unrest, and alteration or cancellation of tour itinerary due to such causes.
Accidents during transportation or accommodations, damage by fire.
Orders of either Indian governments or immigration regulations, isolation resulting from infectious diseases, and tour itinerary alteration or cancellation owing to such causes.
Accidents occur during the travelers free activities.
Food poisoning.
Theft
Frequest Questions
Q. What will be the group size for Valley of Flowers Trek?
Usually, we take a maximum of 15-18 people in one group. We believe bigger groups have less fun and less coordination so that’s why we prefer smaller groups.
Q. Who all will go along with us on the Valley of Flowers trek?
All our treks are led by professional trek leaders who are certified, mountaineers. Apart from them, there will be one local guide, cook, helper, porters and other staff.
Q. I am the only girl in the group, is it safe to travel/trek solo?
Yes definitely it is, the safety of girls is most important for us. All our guides and other staff are carefully chosen for trips/treks. They are honest and reliable but we also advise you to take care of your personal belongings.
Q. What are the things that we need to carry on for Valley of Flowers trek?
Once you confirm the trek and done with the booking, we will send you the packing list according to the trip/trek.
Q. What type of ground transportation will be used on the trip?
We hire taxis such as Innova, Tempo Traveller, Bolero, Tata Sumo, etc. from our vendors.
Q. I cannot carry my rucksack/bag on the trek, can I offload it?
We always recommend that you carry your rucksack during the trek because it helps in maintaining your body posture. In case if you cannot, then we can provide you a mule/porter to carry your rucksack. You will have to tell us at least 1 week before the trek. The charges for offloading would be INR 300 per person per day.
Q. Which shoes should I buy for Valley of Flowers Trek?
Shoes are your lifeline on the trek. It is highly advisable to buy trekking shoes of a good and known brand. You can consider companies like Quechua, Columbia, etc. Waterproof shoes with ankle support will work well.
Q. What are the washroom/toilet facilities like on the Valley of Flowers trek?
For Valley of Flowers trek, we will be staying in Hotel and Hotel stay/Guesthouse so proper running water washrooms will be available on the trek.
Q. What will be the type of accommodation?
We will be staying in the Hotel and Homestay/Guesthouse.
Q. Will you provide sleeping bags and mattresses?
Yes, we will provide sleeping bags and mattresses during the trek. Our sleeping bags can withstand temperature as low as -10 degree.
Q. How many trekkers will be in one tent?
It totally depends on group dynamics. If there is a couple, we can give them a separate tent or if there are odd number of people, then there would be triple sharing.
Q. How can I book Valley Of Flowers trek/trip with you?
After selecting the trek, you can book by clicking on the book now button or you can contact us and we will guide you in the booking.
Q. What type of food is served during the trek?
We provide nutritious and healthy food during the treks. We always serve Indian vegetarian food and eggs.
Q. How to get safe drinking water on the trek?
Himalayan water is considered the purest water and safe to drink. But for safety purpose, we sometimes boil the water and then use it for drinking and cooking.
In case you find any clean water on the trek, always fill your water where the water is running not where the water is stable or is in rest.
Q. Can we change the itinerary?
Yes, you can give suggestions. We will look into that and if we find it feasible then we will apply it.
Q. Can you customize the Valley of Flowers trek?
Yes, we can customize any trek as per your needs and as per the feasibility.
Q. Will the doctor accompany us on the trek?
No, but our trek leaders are certified in Wildlife First Aid course and they always carry first aid kit and oxygen cylinders on high altitude treks.
Q. Do you prefer I should bring some medicines with me?
Yes, it is advisable that you carry your own medication on the trek.
Q. Diamox is advisable or not?
Well, it totally depends on person to person. Usually, there are no side effects of Diamox but if you are having any prior medical conditions then it is better to consult your doctor.
Our itinerary is designed in a way that we take sufficient time to get acclimatized. In case if you are having problem on the trek then tell your trek leader about your condition as soon as possible.
Q. Can I take my child along on this trek? What is the age limit?
It depends on the difficulty level of the trek. Minimum age for eligibility is 14 years.
Q. What will we do if it rains?
If it starts raining slowly while trekking then we will continue our trek as per the plan. Your poncho will keep you dry. In case if it is raining heavily then we will try to find any shelter and wait for the rain to stop or slow. If it rains at the campsite then there would not be any problem because all our living tents, kitchen tents and toilet tents are waterproof. You will stay dry inside.
Q. Why is the trekking pole necessary?
It differs from person to person. If you think that it would help you maintaining balance while trekking then do bring the pole. Some people think that trekking pole disturbs the walking rhythm. So it’s up to you.
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