Valley of Flowers Trek & Hemkund Sahib

ACCOMMODATION TYPE
Tent
PICKUP POINT
Rishikesh to Rishikesh
HIGHEST ALTITUDE
15000 Ft
TOTAL TREK DISTANCE
42 Km
BEST SEASON MONTH
July | August | September
DESTINATIONS
Uttarakhand
TRIP TYPE
Treks
TREK DIFFICULTY
Easy-Moderate

Frequently Asked Questions

Day 01 :

Rishikesh to Joshimath/Pipalkoti (253 Kms, 8 Hrs Drive)

Assemble at the pickup point in Rishikesh by 6:30 AM.
Begin a scenic drive along the Badrinath Highway.
Witness the four holy confluences of the Ganga River:
Devprayag, Rudraprayag, Karnaprayag, and Nandprayag.
Enjoy views of the Alaknanda River throughout the journey.
Reach Joshimath/Pipalkoti by evening.
Overnight stay in hotel with dinner.

Day 02 :

Joshimath/Pipalkoti to Pulna (22 Kms, 1 hour Drive) | Trek to Ghangaria (9 Kms, 5 Hrs trek)

After breakfast and a trek briefing session, drive to Pulna, the trek starting point.
Start trekking along a well-laid trail toward Ghangaria (9,800 ft). Trail follows a river with plenty of shops and dhabas for refreshments.
Gradual ascent and relatively easy hike.
Reach Ghangaria village by afternoon/evening.
Overnight stay in hotel with dinner.

Day 03 :

Ghangaria to Valley of flowers | Back to Ghangaria (10 Kms, 7 Hrs trek)

After breakfast, trek to the Valley of Flowers National Park.
Enter through the forest check-post (entry tickets required).
Gain altitude from 9,600 ft to 11,500 ft, mostly on a flat trail.
Explore the enchanting meadows of blooming flowers—home to over 300 species.
View stretches of glacier-fed streams, waterfalls, and panoramic mountain backdrops.
Spend peaceful hours in nature (no camping or food allowed inside the park).
Return to Ghangaria for dinner and overnight stay.

Day 04 :

Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib (14 Kms, 9 Hrs) | Back to Ghangaria

Begin steep ascent early in the morning toward Hemkund Sahib (15,200 ft)—world’s highest Gurudwara.
Gain 4,000 ft elevation on a stone-paved path.
Mule/porter services available; refreshment stops along the way.
Visit the sacred Hemkund Sarovar and glimpse the Saptarishi Peaks.
Enjoy chai and khichdi at the Gurudwara.
Descend to Ghangaria by evening.
Dinner and overnight stay in hotel.

Day 05 :

Ghangaria to Pulna (9 Kms, 5 Hrs) | Drive to Joshimath/Pipalkoti (22 Kms, 1 hour Drive)

After breakfast, descend to Pulna, an easy downhill hike.
Drive to Joshimath/Pipalkoti and check-in to your hotel.
Evening at leisure, rest and relax.
Dinner and overnight stay in hotel.

Day 06 :

Joshimath/Pipalkoti to Rishikesh (253 Kms, 8 Hrs drive)

After morning tea, begin your return journey to Rishikesh.
Arrive by evening.
Trip ends with lifelong memories and certificates.

UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE & WORLD HIGHEST GURUDWARA

Discover the ethereal beauty of the Valley of Flowers, a UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, India. This trek offers an unparalleled experience, combining vibrant alpine meadows, rich biodiversity, and spiritual serenity.

A Glimpse into History
The Valley of Flowers remained hidden from the outside world until 1931 when British mountaineer Frank S. Smythe stumbled upon it during an expedition to Mt. Kamet. Captivated by its beauty, he documented over 250 species of flowers and later authored the book The Valley of Flowers, bringing global attention to this floral paradise. In 1982, the Indian government declared it a national park, and in 2005, UNESCO recognized it as a World Heritage Site, acknowledging its unique ecological significance.

Location & Accessibility
Situated in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, the Valley of Flowers lies at an altitude ranging from 3,352 to 3,658 meters (11,000 to 12,000 feet). The journey begins from Rishikesh, leading to Govindghat via Joshimath. From Govindghat, a trek of approximately 16 kilometers through Pulna and Ghangaria leads adventurers to the valley.

Floral and Faunal Diversity
The valley boasts over 500 species of wildflowers, including rare varieties like the Brahma Kamal (Saussurea obvallata), Blue Poppy (Meconopsis aculeata), and Cobra Lily (Arisaema species).
Beyond its floral splendor, the park is home to endangered fauna such as the Asiatic black bear, snow leopard, musk deer, and various species of butterflies and birds, including the Himalayan monal pheasant.

Major Attractions

1. Valley of Flowers National Park

A 87.5 square kilometer expanse of alpine meadows, the valley transforms into a colorful tapestry during the monsoon months, offering breathtaking views of blooming flowers against a backdrop of snow-clad peaks.

2. Hemkund Sahib

Located at an altitude of 4,633 meters (15,200 feet), Hemkund Sahib is the world’s highest Gurudwara. It holds immense religious significance for Sikhs, believed to be the meditation site of Guru Gobind Singh in a previous life. The trek to Hemkund Sahib is challenging but spiritually rewarding.

3. Ghangaria Village

Serving as the base camp for treks to both the Valley of Flowers and Hemkund Sahib, Ghangaria offers basic accommodations and eateries. It’s the last human habitation on the route, providing a serene environment to acclimate before the trek.

Essential Notes

Best Time to Visit: Mid-July to mid-August, when the valley is in full bloom.
Permits: Required for entry into the Valley of Flowers National Park; obtainable at Ghangaria.
Accommodation: Available in Ghangaria; camping inside the valley is prohibited.
Food: No eateries inside the valley; carry packed meals and water.
Altitude Sickness: Be aware of symptoms; ascend gradually and stay hydrated.

Valley of Flowers Trek FAQs

Expand all

How is the Valley of Flowers weather?

While the summers here are a bit scorching, the Valley of Flowers is best known for its spring season. With an annual mean temperature of 18 degrees celsius, this place has usually tolerable climatic conditions. However, the winters here can be really chilly due to its height, which can act as a spoilsport for various different activities.

Do I need a permit to do the Valley of Flowers Trek?

Yes, a permit is required to enter the Valley of Flowers National Park. These permits can be obtained at the Forest Department checkpoint in Ghangaria. Trekkers should carry valid identification, such as a government-issued ID, along with passport-sized photographs. Additionally, a medical fitness certificate and a disclaimer form may be necessary, depending on the trekking agency’s requirements.

Is it safe to travel to the Valley of Flowers?

Yes, traveling to the Valley of Flowers is generally considered safe. The trek is well-established, and local communities are welcoming and supportive. However, as with any high-altitude trek, it’s essential to be prepared for changing weather conditions and to ensure proper acclimatization. Carrying necessary gear and following safety guidelines will enhance your trekking experience.

What type of shoes is appropriate for Valley of flowers trek?

Valley of flowers trek is one of the most beautiful Himalayan treks. It is a 47 Km long trek that starts from Haridwar, Uttrakhand. You need to strictly carry trekking shoes, which are water proof and they must be high ankle and must also have high grip.

What are the important things to remember while going for the Valley of flowers trek?

Bringing proper IDs and some loose cash can really come in handy at various times.

Water is usually limited, thus wasting it is not appreciated.

Since the Valley of Flowers is a protected area, littering and disposing of garbage are strictly prohibited.

Bringing an extra pair of clothes, undergarments, and socks will be a safe option.

At all times you are required to follow the rules and all the guidelines given by the instructor.

Check for your luggage and respite carrying unnecessary items so that you can go easy on your baggage.

You might not find charging options at various places, thus make sure that you carry a power bank.

Valley of Flowers Trek & Hemkund Sahib

Trek Info

Itinerary

Overview

Inclusions And Exclusions

Best Time To Do

What To Pack

How Difficult

Frequently Asked Questions

Itinerary

UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE & WORLD HIGHEST GURUDWARA

Major Attractions

Essential Notes

Includes/Excludes

Cost Includes

Cost Excludes

Best Time To Do the Valley of Flowers Trek

What To Pack For Your Valley of Flowers Trek

How Difficult Is the Valley of Flowers Trek?

Valley of Flowers Trek FAQs

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

Trek Info

Itinerary

UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE & WORLD HIGHEST GURUDWARA

Major Attractions

Essential Notes

Includes/Excludes

Cost Includes

Cost Excludes

Best Time To Do the Valley of Flowers Trek

What To Pack For Your Valley of Flowers Trek

How Difficult Is the Valley of Flowers Trek?

Valley of Flowers Trek FAQs

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

Related trips you might interested in