Valley of Flowers Trek Overview
Quick Facts of Valley of Flowers Trek
- Maximum altitude – 14,107 feet
- Grade – Easy to Moderate
- Duration – 6 days & 5 nights
- Trekking distance – 38 kilometres
- Trail Type – Walking trail with well-defined pathways and steep ascents and descents at some points.
- Rail Head – Rishikesh Railway Station, Uttarakhand.
- Airport – Jolly Grant Airport of Dehradun, Uttarakhand. An alternate method is landing at Delhi’s IGI Airport and taking a bus or train to Haridwar.
- Base Camp – Govindghat
- Best Season – From July to September
- Region – Located in Chamoli district of Uttarakhand in the Himalayan Mountain ranges.
- Who can participate – Anyone with good fitness levels.
Short Itinerary for Valley of Flowers Trek
Valley of Flowers Trek Detailed Itinerary
Reaching the base camp at Govindghat
Distance: 300 kilometres
Duration: 10 hours
Elevation: 6,215 feet
- Assemble at the pre-decided location in Haridwar as per your Valley of Flowers trek package, from where your guide will provide a short overview of the journey ahead.
- Embark on a 10-hour drive up to Govindghat from Haridwar. Food will be available aplenty on this route so no need to carry some.
- Drive along the stunning Alaknanda River and also experience the beauty of Devprayag, where the Bhagirathi and Alaknanda rivers meet to form the holy River Ganges.
- Pass through Joshimath, which is one of the most popular destinations en route to religious pilgrimages.
- Stay at Govindghat for the night. Govindghat is the final point where mobile networks are available before the trek, hence make all the calls you need to before starting your journey.
General Trivia About Valley of Flowers Trek
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.
Know Before You Go to 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.
- It is advised that you rest for at least a night at Haridwar before starting your Valley of Flowers trek. This would help you be well-rested and acclimated to the high altitude before your trek.
- Much of the essentials, like shoes, backpacks, padded jackets, and rainwear, are available for rent at the stores near the base camp, in case you miss out on carrying any of the items.
- Remember to carry the necessary medications and do not consume any general medications without consulting your trek leader. Also, trek leaders carry a plethora of life-saving drugs in case you need immediate care during the trek.
- It is always recommended that you wear a minimum of three layers of light woollens on your trek. Carrying and wearing one thick woollen is tiresome and at times inadequate, hence layers are a better solution.
- Ensure that your belongings are water-resistant or can withstand rains and snow, as the Valley of Flowers trek package offers a monsoon trek, with heavy rains lashing the valley throughout the trekking season.
- It is highly recommended that you stay hydrated at all times throughout the trek. Carry a few ORS packets and an insulated water bottle so you don’t experience dehydration during the long day hours of the Valley of Flowers trek.
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