Valley Of Flowers &
Hemkund Sahib

VALLEY OF FLOWERS TREK OVERVIEW

The Valley of Flowers  is one of the most famous and scenic treks in Uttarakhand, India.
This high-altitude Himalayan valley, located in the Chamoli district at an elevation of approximately 3,658 meters (12,000 feet) above sea level, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty. Hundreds of different species of wildflowers bloom during the monsoon season. This area changes every year from mid-June to mid-September into a colorful carpet of alpine flowers encircled by snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and waterfalls.
Trekkers are drawn to the Valley of Flowers National Park not only because of its breathtaking scenery but also because of its peaceful atmosphere, lack of cell service, and unadulterated connection to nature. This valley’s ecological significance and biodiversity are so exceptional that it has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a part of the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve.

To reach the Valley of Flowers, you’ll first travel to Govindghat, which is accessible by road from Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Dehradun. From there, you’ll trek via Pulna to the small settlement of Ghangaria, which serves as the base camp for both the Valley of Flowers and Hemkund Sahib, the highest Gurudwara in the world. The trek from Ghangaria to the actual valley is around 3.5 to 4 km one way, and though the route is not too steep, it can be slippery during rains, so proper trekking shoes are important.

The Valley of Flowers Trek is a fantastic choice for novices, families, and nature enthusiasts because it is rated as easy to moderately difficult. This trek is unique because you’re walking through beauty rather than to a summit. You’ll see tiny glaciers, cross wooden bridges, go by the Pushpawati River, and take in an unspoiled natural setting that varies in hue each week based on the flowers that are in bloom.

DETAILED ITINERARY FOR VALLEY OF FLOWERS TREK

Day 1:Rishikesh to Govindghat/Pandukeshwar (262 Kms, 10 Hrs Drive Approx)

Travel itinerary: Rishikesh to Devprayag, Rudraprayag, Pandukeshwar, Govindghat

Accommodations: Simple hotel/guesthouse

Leave early from Rishikesh or Haridwar. The drive is lengthy but beautiful. You will traverse numerous mountain bends and river confluences. To get to Govindghat before sunset, it is best to depart between 5 and 6 AM.
In Govindghat, lodging is basic but adequate. Here, stock up on necessities.

Day 2: Govindghat/Pandukeshwar (2Kms, 10 Min Drive) | Trek to Ghangaria (10-11 km Kms, 6 Hrs trek Approx)

Gain in elevation: about 4,000 feet

Stay: Ghangaria Lodge/Guesthouse

After breakfast, begin your hike. The trail begins in Pulna village, which is three kilometers away by car from Govindghat. You then stroll alongside the Lakshman Ganga River. The route combines natural terrain with paved trails.

If you don’t want to carry a backpack, there are porters and mules available. There are food stands dotted along the way, and the ascent is gradual.

By the afternoon, you arrive at Ghangaria, a tiny seasonal community that serves as the starting point for Hemkund Sahib and the Valley of Flowers. Here, mobile networks are inconsistent.

Day 3: From Ghangaria to the Valley of Flowers and Back
6 km one way is the trek distance.

Elevation: approximately 12,000 feet

Time: six to seven hours total

The highlight is today. Get your permit (available at the forest check post), start your hike, and get up early.

Gradually, the trail climbs into Valley of Flowers National Park. Following a first steep area, the valley spreads out, encircled by peaks and teeming with blooming wildflowers.

The valley is divided into several sections; continue on to the grave of Joan Margaret Legge, a botanist who passed away here in 1939.

By late afternoon, return to Ghangaria. The majority of hikers claim that this day alone makes the entire journey worthwhile.

Day 4: Hemkund Sahib to Ghangaria and Back (Optional but Valuable)

6 km one way (steep climb) is the trek distance.

14,100 feet is the highest point on the journey.

Time: seven to eight hours total

Today is more difficult. The 6 km hike to Hemkund Sahib entails a steep ascent of roughly 4,000 feet.

Go slowly and drink plenty of water. There is a Sikh shrine at Hemkund, a high-altitude glacial lake. There are plenty of pilgrims. Take breaks if you feel like you’re having trouble breathing.

The Gurudwara serves a straightforward and substantial langar (community meal).

By evening, head back down to Ghangaria. Although it is the most physically taxing day, it is also the most spiritually potent.

Day 5: Govindghat/Pandukeshwar TO RISHIKESH (262 Kilometers, 8 Hours Drive Approx)

Duration: four to five hours

Though it’s easier going downhill, the trail is identical to Day 2. You can arrive in Govindghat by lunchtime even if you start late in the morning.

For better accommodations, some groups choose to stay in Govindghat/Pandukeshwar. Logistics will determine that.

Day 6: 10-hour drive from Govindghat to Rishikesh

Trek’s End Make a stop for the night in Rishikes to break up this journey if you’re exhausted.

How to Reach Valley Of Flowers Trek ?

Although getting to the Valley of Flowers isn’t difficult, it does require preparation, perseverance, and a lengthy drive. The main base, Govindghat, must be reached before the trek officially begins in the small village of Pulna.

Let’s clearly divide it up by mode of transportation

BY ROAD: THE MOST COMMON AND EFFECTIVE

To get to Govindghat, you must first travel to Haridwar or Rishikesh, both of which have excellent connections.

Route: Copy Edit Haridwar/Rishikesh → Devprayag → Rudraprayag → Karnaprayag → Joshimath → Govindghat

Distance: approximately 275–300 km

Driving time: nine to ten hours

Mountain roads are winding but generally well-maintained.

Choices:
Shared Jeep: Available in the morning from Rishikesh or Haridwar (from the GMOU bus stop or the Natraj Chowk stand).

Private taxi: ₹6000–₹8000 (comfortable for 4–5 people, one-way)

Bus: There aren’t many government buses, mainly to Joshimath; you’ll still need to take a taxi to Govindghat.

Expert advice: To get to Govindghat before nightfall, depart Haridwar or Rishikesh early in the morning (around 4 or 5 AM).

BY FLIGHT—PARTIAL, NOT DIRECT

Although there isn’t a direct airport to Valley of Flowers, you can still do the following:

Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is the closest airport.

flights every day from places like Bangalore, Mumbai, and Delhi.

+ Make plans to fly to Dehradun (DED)

Take a taxi or drive the approximately 300 kilometers (10 hours) to Govindghat.

Note: Air taxis and helicopters are not allowed.

BY TRAIN: A FINDING CHOICE

Haridwar is the closest major station.

Another option is Rishikesh (Yog Nagari Rishikesh station), a new station near the roadhead with fewer trains.

Proceed to Govindghat (as above) by road from here.

Expert advice: Begin your road trip early the following morning after taking an overnight train from Delhi to Haridwar.

FINAL LEG: FROM GHANGARIA TO GOVINDGHAT

Your trekking adventure starts once you arrive at Govindghat:

From Govindghat, take a motorable road to Pulna Village (2 km). There are shared jeeps available.

Trekking 10 km from Pulna to Ghangaria:

Mules use the paved trail.

Porters and mules are on hand to help with luggage and other tasks.

The entire hike takes four to six hours, depending on the weather and pace.

Step	Action
Step 1	Reach Haridwar/Rishikesh via train or flight
Step 2	Drive or take shared transport to Govindghat (10 hrs)
Step 3	Short ride to Pulna (2 km)
Step 4	Trek 10 km to Ghangaria (your base camp)
Step 5	Trek to Valley of Flowers & Hemkund Sahib

THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND

• No ATMs after Joshimath – withdraw cash early

• Fuel up in Joshimath – no petrol pump at Govindghat

• Carry snacks/water – long stretches with no shops

• Mountain roads close early in monsoon – start early every day

FINAL TIP

If you’re coming from Delhi NCR, a good route is:

Overnight train → Haridwar
Cab/share jeep → Govindghat (10 hrs)
Night stay → Start trek next morning

Or join a group tour where all logistics—stay, permits, transport—are pre-arrange

Inclusions:

• Transportation (According to Itinerary)

•  Accommodation. (Guest house, Home stay, Camping)
  

•  Meals while on trek (Veg.+ Egg)
  

•  All necessary permits and entry fees.
  

•  First aid medical kits, stretcher and oxygen cylinder.
  

•  Mountaineering qualified & professional trek Leader, guide and Support staff.
  7. 5 % GST.

Exclusions:

• Any kind of personal expenses.

•  Food during the transit.
  

•  Insurance.
  

•  Mules or porter to carry personal luggage.
  

•  Anything not specifically mentioned under the head.
  

•  Any kind of emergency evacuation charges.

Note:

Normally Trip on Himalaya expect to carry your personal luggage on your own; however, if you wish to offload your backpack, you can give it to a Mule.
Charges of offloading backpack:-
INR 1200/- if you make an online payment, 10 days in advance
The backpack cannot weigh more than 11 kgs. Backpack should have waterproof cover.
Suitcases/strolleys/ bags will not be allowed.

Paying the Trek/ Adventure activity fee:

The fee can be paid by online transfer/check deposit/ demand draft. Instruction for payment will be forwarded along with your confirmation email. When your transfer is done, please email us a confirmation mail with your transfer details, so that we can follow up your reservation efficiently.

When to Book:

• It is wise to make your booking at least two months in advance. However, if you want a good deal on your domestic/international flight, we recommend organising your trip at least five months in
  advance. 

• Customer is suppose to make a full payment in advance for the confirm bookings. If in case a confirmed booking needs to be cancel than below are the refund policies Terms for Cancellation & Refund:

• Prior 30 days of the confirmed date, 50% of the total amount would be refunded

• Prior 25 days of the confirmed date, 40% of the total amount would be refunded

• Prior 20 days of the confirmed date, 30% of the total amount would be refunded
  

• Prior 15 days of the confirmed date, 20% of the total amount would be refunded
  

• Prior 10 days of the confirmed date, 0% of the total amount would be refunded

• Trek Essentials 

Trekking Gear

1. Ruck sack bag with rain cover. Qty -1

2. Day Pack Bag – Recommended for treks with summit day
   

3.  Head Torch with spare Batteries. Qty -1
   

4.  U V protection sunglasses. Qty -1
   

5. Water Bottles: 2 bottles of 1 liter each

Footwear

1. Non-skid, deep treaded, high-ankle trekking shoes Qty -1

2.  Pair of light weight Slipper/Sandals Qty -1

Clothing

1. Quick Dry Warm lower or Track Pants. Qty – 2

2.  Full sleeves T-shirts/ Sweatshirts. 1 for every 2 days of trekking
   

3. Pair of thick woolen socks. 1 pair for every two days of trekking
   

4.  Thermal Body warmer Upper & Lower. Qty-1
   

5.  Undergarments. Qty – 1 for every day of trekking
   

6.  Warm jacket closed at wrist & neck .Qty-1
   

7.  Full sleeves sweater. Qty -1
   

8. Rain wear ( Jacket & Pants ) . Qty-1
   

9. Pair of waterproof, warm gloves. Qty-1
   

10.  Woolen cap. Qty-1
    

11.  Sun shielding Hat. Qty -1

Toiletries

1. Personal toiletries kit (Small Towel, Toilet paper, paper soap, Bar soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, cold cream etc.)

2.  Sun screen lotion small pack . Qty -1
   

3. Lip Balm small pack. Qty-1

Utensils

• Small size, Light weight & Leak proof lunch box. Qty-1

• Plate. Qty- 1
  

• Spoon.Qty-1
  

• Tea/Coffee (plastic) Mug.Qty-1

Miscellaneous

1. Camera (Optional)
2. Carry your medicines in plenty in case you have any specific ailment. Consult your doctor before joining the trek.
3. Dry fruits, Nuts, Chocolate bars (Optional)

TREK ESSENTIALS – WHAT YOU REALLY NEED (AND WHAT YOU DON’T)

Packing for a trek is where most people either under-prepare or overdo it. You either forget key items like rain protection—or you carry five jackets, three jeans, and end up needing a mule just for your bag.

So here’s a clear breakdown of what to carry, why it’s needed, and what you can skip without worry.

FOOTWEAR: THE MOST CRUCIAL ITEM

• Trekking Shoes (Ankle-high, good grip)
  This is your most important gear. Slippery, muddy, and rocky terrain is common. Sports shoes won’t last here. Go for Quechua or similar trekking shoes.

• Extra Pair of Floaters/Sandals (Optional)
  For walking around in the evening at campsites like Ghangaria. Helps your feet breathe.

Don’t carry: Heavy boots unless you already own them. Casual sneakers won’t survive.

CLOTHING: FOLLOW THE 3-LAYER RULE

• 2–3 quick-dry T-shirts (Avoid cotton; gets cold when wet)

• 1 fleece layer or sweatshirt

• 1 windproof + waterproof outer jacket

• 1 thermal top (for night use only)

• Track pants or trek pants (2 pairs max)

• Thermal bottoms (Only for night at Hemkund/Ghangaria)

• 1 pair of shorts or light lower (for travel days)

• Woolen Cap

• Sun Cap or Hat

• Gloves (woolen or waterproof)

Don’t carry: Jeans or heavy cotton pants. They take too long to dry and are uncomfortable when wet.

BAGS: CARRY SMART, NOT HEAVY

• 1 backpack (20–30L)
  For your daily essentials during the trek: water, snacks, jacket, rainwear.

• 1 duffel or rucksack (if porter/mule is carrying)
  If you’re hiring a porter, pack your main stuff here. Wrap it in a plastic liner or garbage bag inside to prevent water seepage.

Extras: Rain cover for your bag is a must. Or line your backpack with plastic from inside.

MONSOON ESSENTIALS: YOU WILL GET WET

• Rain Poncho or Waterproof Jacket

• Quick-dry towel

• Extra plastic bags or dry sacks
  For keeping clothes, electronics, and documents dry.

Tip: Avoid umbrellas. They’re useless during treks and high winds.

TOILETRIES AND PERSONAL CARE

• Toothbrush + toothpaste

• Soap strip/sheet or small liquid soap

• Toilet paper / tissues

• Small quick-dry towel

• Hand sanitizer

• Lip balm (cold air = cracked lips)

• Sunscreen (SPF 30+)

• Sanitary products (if needed)

Keep it light. Only carry what you’ll use in 6–7 days.

BASIC MEDICAL KIT

• Paracetamol

• Diamox (for altitude – only if recommended by your doctor)

• ORS (for dehydration)

• Antacid

• Motion sickness tablet (if sensitive during travel)

• Band-aids

• Antiseptic cream

• Any personal medicine with prescription

ELECTRONICS

• Power bank (Ghangaria has limited or no charging)

• Torch or headlamp (especially useful at night)

• Mobile + charger

• Offline maps/downloads

Network Note: No mobile signal at Valley of Flowers or Hemkund Sahib. Some network at Govindghat.

DOCUMENTS & PERMITS

• Government-issued photo ID (Aadhar, Voter ID, DL)

• 2–3 passport-size photos (optional, for permits or emergencies)

• Trek booking receipt if going with an organizer

FOOD AND WATER

• Water bottle (1L, reusable)

• Light snacks: trail mix, energy bars, glucose biscuits, dry fruits

• Electrolyte powder / salt candy

Avoid: Junk food, plastic packaged junk. Pack light, stay hydrated.

OPTIONAL BUT NICE TO HAVE

• Camera (weather-sealed preferred)

• Trekking pole (helps with descent and balance)

• Small notebook or journal

• Lightweight book or Kindle

WHAT NOT TO BRING

• Jeans

• Fancy clothes

• Extra shoes

• Hair dryer, straighteners

• Big towels

• More than 2–3 T-shirts

You’re not going on vacation—you’re going on a real Himalayan trek. Every gram you carry matters. And trust us: lighter is always better.

FINAL WORD – PACK LIGHT, PACK RIGHT

You don’t need branded gear to trek the Himalayas. You just need gear that works.

This is not about being fashionable on a mountain trail. It’s about being prepared, staying warm, and moving comfortably through some of India’s most fragile and beautiful terrain.

If you’re unsure whether to carry something—don’t. You’ll thank yourself later when you’re climbing toward Hemkund Sahib at 14,000 feet and realize you’re not dragging unnecessary weight.

Q1: What is the best time to visit valley of flowers?

Ans: We recommend one to visit during the rainy season to enjoy the maximum species of flowers. The best time to visit is July to August.

Q2: What is the age limit to visit valley of flowers?

Ans: Since it’s a trek, kids below 5 years should be avoided. As per the maximum age, anyone who is capable of doing the trek and is healthy can go to the valley of flowers 

Q3: How safe is the Valley of Flowers trek?

Ans: The Valley of Flowers trek is quite safe. However, one needs to practice daily walking at least a month before the trek, so that they can cope better with the trek. 

Q4: What are the attractions nearby to valley of flowers? 

Ans: The nearby attractions include Shree Hemkund Sahib, Shree Badrinath Ji, Auli, Tapovan, Mana Village etc.

Q5: Is the Valley of Flowers trek open now?

Yes. The official opening date for 2025 is June 1, and the park remains open until early October. The best flower bloom usually peaks between July 15 to August 25.

Q6: Can I do this trek without a guide or group?

Technically, yes. However, you would require:
Ghangaria forest department permits
The majority of people would rather join a group than handle logistics alone in order to avoid problems with bookings, permits, and mules.

Q7: Do I need any trekking experience?

No. The trek is suitable for beginners. However:

Begin walking four to five kilometers every day two weeks prior to

Wear worn-out shoes, stretch, and drink plenty of water.

You can complete this trek if you can climb stairs for 20 to 30 minutes.

 Q8: Is Hemkund Sahib part of the Valley of Flowers trek?

It’s optional but highly recommended. Hemkund Sahib is a steep 6 km climb from Ghangaria, with spiritual and scenic rewards at 14,100 ft. You can skip it, but most people say it was the highlight.

 Q9: How do I reach the starting point?

Start at Govindghat (near Joshimath).
✅ From Rishikesh/Haridwar:

• Shared taxis, buses, or pre-booked cabs

• Takes 9–10 hours

The trek begins from Pulna (2 km from Govindghat), which is motorable now.

Q10: Is there mobile signal on the trek?

❌ No signal inside the Valley of Flowers
✅ Limited BSNL and Jio network in Ghangaria (unstable)
📵 Hemkund Sahib and the valley are completely off-grid

Q11: What kind of accommodation is available in Ghangaria?

• Basic hotels and guesthouses

• Shared rooms with 2–4 beds

• No luxury or resorts

• Hot water is chargeable

• Power cuts are common—carry a power bank.

  Q12: Can senior citizens do this trek?

  Yes, with caution and a basic level of fitness. We have witnessed people over 65 finish it.

  If necessary, hire a porter or mule.

  Don’t rush or exert too much effort.

  Before making a reservation, speak with your physician.

Fitness For Trekking for the Valley of Flowers Trek 

Yes, it’s a dream of most of us to go on a trek – but before we do, you must train your body and become fit for the trek. One should be strong enough to enjoy the entire trek without any body aches. 

Why should one train oneself before a break?

• It promotes aerobic fitness.

• It improves blood circulation 

• It makes the heart strong

• It helps in toning legs.

• Muscles get build-up which is very beneficial.

Thus, one must practice beforehand to gain all the benefits. Let us look at some factors that must be kept in mind to practice before trek. 

Importance of Stretching

One should indulge in stretching, as that makes the body flexible. It helps to make the joints, such as shoulders, elbows, hips, and knees, stronger so as to prevent any mishap. Also, if you are going on a trek, then you must practice stretching way before the hike. 

Sleep like baby

It is said that one must sleep like a baby. It means to sleep without any worries on mind. This makes one have an adequate amount of sleep, which is a very good factor in daily life. So, practice sleeping right before your trek so that you can gear up for the trek. 

Good Shoes-Good Trek

If one is going on the Valley of Flowers trek, then they should have a good pair of trekking shoes. Practice walking by wearing your boots before the trek to get used to them. In fact one can keep an extra pair of shoes in the bag while trekking, as that will help one during the trek.