Whether you are a traveler or a nature lover, Valley of Flowers will surely be on your list for a must-visit trek. Several visitors suggest the region to be no less than a heaven. Located in Uttarakhand, this monsoon trek is the most mesmerizing between July and October.
The trip will be exceptionally refreshing, aiding you emotionally and mentally. If you are looking forward to this trek and want to know more about it, here is a deep dive into the Valley of Flowers.
What You Should Know About Valley Of Flowers
In the Chamoli district of northern Indian state, Uttarakhand resides the heavenly Valley of Flowers. Found accidentally in 1931 by British mountaineers, they gave the spectacular place its name, “Valley of Flowers.”
With Tibet and Nepal bordering it, the 87 sq km wide area awakens during the monsoons. The valley offers breathtaking landscapes and is famous for its rich alpine meadows, giving life to vivacious fauna and endemic flora verities.
The 300 alpine flower varieties cover the region in bright colors, stunningly juxtaposed with snowbound peaks. Some exotic blooms include poppies, anemones, orchids, marigolds, primulas, and daisies. Some areas of the park are under the blanket of rhododendrons and birch.
The UNESCO World Heritage Site surrounds the Nanda Devi National Park and sits above sea level between 10,500 feet (about 3.2 km) and 21,900 feet (about 6.68 km). The national park’s central valley contains a 3-mile-long glacial corridor, the last destination for travelers commencing the trek via Govindghat.
The valley will captivate your senses through its mind-blowing scenery, such as wild mountain streams and cascading waterfalls. The rare wildlife comprises the flying squirrel, black bear, the lime butterfly, gray langur, and the snow leopard, among others.
The Best Time To Visit Valley Of Flowers
The flora starts peeking from May to October. During this time, the region turns into a nature lover’s paradise. The Valley of Flowers mainly opens up at the start of June. However, most flowers fully bloom during July, August, and September.
However, you should know that the trek changes monthly between these best months.
1. July:
You can expect lush greenery blanketing the valley. The flowers are at the early blooming stage during this time. The peak blooming season begins in mid-July. You may encounter some patches of melting snow and snow bridges. The colorful chaos surrounds the valley during this season. After mid-July, the showers hit the region, washing away the last snow. You will meet a limited number of visitors.
2. August:
The monsoon clouds wash over the valley during August, offering a maximum number of blooming flowers. While Govindghat receives heavy rain, the higher altitudes get lighter showers. The weekdays are not as crowded as weekends, allowing you to explore the blooms in peace. Do watch out for the rare and magical Brahmakamal at the Hemkund Sahib.
3. September:
Since flowers start to wilt after mid-August, very few flowers are visible during September. However, the retreating monsoon has its charm. The skies begin to clear, offering you a serene mountain view. During this time, several pilgrims crowd the valley to visit the Hemkund Sahib Gurudwara.
Different Transportation Options To Reach The Basecamp
Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is 183 miles away and the nearest airport to the Valley of Flowers. The connecting flights come from New Delhi. However, the roads follow up until Govindghat, the starting point of the 16-kilometer (about 9.94 mi) trek to Valley of Flowers.
The Rishikesh railway is another alternative as the closest railhead. This station is 273 kilometers (about 169.63 mi) from the Govindghat. The motor-able roads also connect until Govindghat, from where you must go to Ghangaria.
Things To Do In The Route of Valley of Flowers
The Valley of Flowers is abounding in opportunities from June to October. The valley offers you several activities and exploration opportunities. You should also checkout the best attractions nearby valley of flower. Here are the things to do in the Valley of Flowers route:
Valley Of Flowers Trek:
One cannot forget the famous Valley of Flowers trek. The oldest Indian trail is a top place for hikers worldwide. The moderate hike is a bit challenging and takes longer days. You must have the endurance to climb the steep trails to Hemkund Sahib.
1. Govindghat:
You start your adventure to Hemkund Sahib from Govindghat. You may hire porters or mules on-site. Situated between Lakshman Ganga and Alaknanda, the tourists use this spot as a parking lot.
2. Joshimath:
22 kilometers from the Govindghat is one of the Peethas, Joshimath, founded by Adi Shankaracharya. It is among the most sacred Hindu temples, located 6150 feet (about 1.87 km) high. Moreover, it is where Lord Bardinarayan resided.
3. Hemkund Sahib:
Situated at a 4329 m (about 2.69 mi) altitude, the Gurudwara Hemkund Sahib is very close to the valley. The shrine gets its name from the famous glacial lake bordering the Gurudwara. Dedicated to Sri Guru Govind Singh Ji, it marks the Sikh pilgrimage location.
4. Mana:
The must-see locations when traveling to the Valley of Flowers include Mana. Located on the Tibet border, the breathtaking village is home to the Bhotia, the Indo-Mongolian tribe.
Best Known Trails And Hikes at Valley of Flowers
Besides the Valley of Flowers trek, countless trails surrounding the park are becoming an attraction among travelers.
1. Kunthkhal Trek:
The original route for the Valley of Flowers trek, the trekking route is 9 miles long, beginning from Kunthkhal up to Hanuman Chatti. Ideal for seasoned climbers, you can enjoy the rivers, gorges, waterfalls, and glaciers in this advanced route. To reach the final rock ledge, you will need a fixed rope.
2. Chenab Valley Trek:
Those looking for an extended adventure of nine days can trek 37 miles across the Chenab Valley. Beginners can navigate through its easy slopes as they walk across the Himalayas’s Garhwal Range and encounter the Chenab Lake. Before reaching Dhar Kharak, you may discover daisies, poppies, primulas, marigolds, and orchids.
Conclusion
Valley of Flowers offers breathtaking landscapes, extensive flora in full glory, rare wildlife, enamoring views, and much more. After reaching the Govindghat via flight, train, or road, you can start the trek for Valley of Flowers. You may explore the shrines and temples and soak in the natural beauty. Do not forget to carry waterproof jackets, warm clothing, a backpack, and good sports shoes to support your adventure-filled explorations.
