Reaching the base camp at Govindghat
Distance: 300 kilometres
Duration: 10 hours
Elevation: 6,215 feet
Valley of Flowers is among the most popular attractions of Uttarakhand and is the epitome of Himalayan exquisiteness. From lush greenery to vibrant blooms, experience nature at its finest as you trek through the valley and witness snow-clad peaks, tall mountains, and flowing rivers amidst a sea of flora.
It was in 1931 that a group of British mountaineers, lost on their way to Mt Kamet, stumbled upon a valley full of alpine flowers, and named it ‘The Valley of Flowers’. Locals, however, knew of the valley as a land of the gods and fairies.
The legend also mentioned how when one went to the valley, they were captured by the fairies and never came back. By 1980, the Indian government had recognised this abode of nature as a National Park, and it was in 2002 that the site got its most prestigious tag, that of being a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
While the traditional trek route is known to be the Govindghat – Ghangaria route, there once existed another route that has recently been reopened to visitors. It was in 1970 that the alternate route, known as the Kunthkhal – Hanuman Chatti route, was closed for visitors due to the rising popularity of the Ghangaria route.
After a long period of no human contact, the Kunthkhal route is more adventurous and has stunning visual treats that can’t be found on the traditional route. So, if you are looking for a trek that indulges your explorer instincts, try out this alternate route for your Valley of Flowers trek.
Valley of Flowers trek package offers an easy to moderate trekking experience, but it's not that simple! From amateurs to senior trekkers, all those opting to embark on this trek need to remember a few important tips to ensure they make the best out of this journey to the crowning jewel of Himalayan treks.