Valley of Flower Trek

Valley of Flowers Trek- Complete Information About the Journey Through the Color Palette

TREK DIFFICULTY : Moderate, TREK DURATION: 6 Days, HIGHEST ALTITUDE: 13,780 Feet, GROUP SIZE: 12 People, TOTAL TREK DISTANCE: 38 Km, BASECAMP: Uttarakhand, BEST TIME: July-August, PICKUP POINT: Dehradun

Valley of flowers is an amazing destination for nature lovers who loves to enjoy a mystical walk through the valley that is blooming with thousands of colorful flowers with peaks and glacier all around.

Located high in the Western Himalayas, at an altitude of 3,600 meters, the Valley of Flowers Trek in Uttarakhand is one of India’s most scenic treks. It’s beginner-friendly 6-day trek that offers breathtaking views of wildflowers, waterfalls, and snow-covered mountains. The best part? It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is filled with a variety of flowers and rich in myth and history. According to legend, it is the place where Hanuman found the Sanjeevani herb from the Ramayana.

The trail leads to Hemkund Sahib which is a sacred Sikh shrine at 14,400 feet. Along the way, you will be surrounded by colorful wildflowers like poppies, lilies, and primulas. You will feel like you are stepping into a living painting. Are you someone who loves nature, history, and a spiritual experience? Just check the detailed insights and this trek will leave you speechless.

Valley of Flowers Trek Highlights

Ghangaria Waterfalls: On your way to the Valley, you will pass several beautiful waterfalls near Ghangaria. The sound of water crashing over rocks, mixed with lush greenery, really creates a peaceful vibe. Here, you can stop for a moment, take a breath, and snap some photos.

Blue Poppy Point: This spot is a favorite for many trekkers. At 3,500 meters, you will get stunning views of the Garhwal Ranges during the early morning. The sight of the Himalayas lit up in golden hues with blue poppies blooming in the mist feels almost magical.

The Valley That Blooms: Imagine walking through a valley filled with 600+ species of flowers. That’s the Valley of Flowers for you. The vibrant color of beautiful flowers, and the smell of orchids, primulas, and zinnias fills the air. During the monsoon it’s especially stunning that will surely leave you in awe of the beauty around you.

The Sacred Hemkund Sahib Climb : This 6-kilometer climb up to Hemkund Sahib is a spiritual journey for many trekkers. The place sits surrounded by snow-covered peaks and is home to a glacial lake and a gurdwara. So, no matter, whether you are religious or not, the peaceful energy and vibes of this spot is incredible to make you feel happy.

A Cultural Experience: This trek isn’t just about nature but also about the local people and the culture too. You will walk through small villages, hear spiritual chants, and learn about the local way of life. So, you can talk to the locals about the various things around you.

Your Valley of Flowers Adventure – A Quick Look:

Day 1: Dehradun to Karchi

Drive: ~300 km (about 12-13 hours)

Pickup: Dehradun Railway Station/ISBT Dehradun at 5:30 AM

Transport Cost: Cost will vary from Dehradun (please confirm with organizer); pre-booking is essential!

Day 2: Karchi to Poolna, Trek to Ghangaria

Drive: 38 km (about 1.5 hours)

Trek: 9 km (about 5-6 hours)

Altitude Gain: 7,785 ft to 10,520 ft

Enjoy a short drive followed by a gentle riverside trail. This path is well-maintained and popular with both trekkers and pilgrims.

Day 3: Ghangaria to Valley of Flowers and back

Trek: 3.7 km each way (about 6 hours)

Altitude Gain: 10,520 ft to 11,550 ft

Get ready for a truly rewarding trek into the Valley of Flowers, with blooms surrounding you on both sides of the trail.

Day 4: Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib and back

Trek: 6 km each way (about 8-9 hours)

Altitude Gain: 10,520 ft to 14,107 ft

This challenging climb involves a series of switchbacks, but the Gurudwara and serene lake at the top are a magnificent reward.

Day 5: Trek from Ghangaria to Poolna, Drive to Dhak

Trek: 9 km (about 4 hours)

Altitude Loss: 10,520 ft to 6,215 ft

Drive: 35 km (about 1 hour 15 minutes)

Descend back to Poolna, and then enjoy a short drive to Dhak for a well-deserved rest.

Day 6: Dhak to Dehradun

Drive: ~297 km (about 11-12 hours)

Drop-off: Dehradun Railway Station/ISBT Dehradun by 6:00 PM

Best Time to Visit Valley of Flowers

The best months for the Valley of Flowers trek are from June to September. During this time, the flowers are in full bloom, and the weather is pleasant for trekking. As during these months, it is also the monsoon season, so you can expect a bit of rain, which only adds to the charm of the valley.

And, it is recommended to avoid visiting in winter, as the area gets covered in snow which makes trekking impossible.

Difficulty Level of Valley of Flowers Trek

The Valley of Flowers trek is moderately difficult. While the ascent is gradual, but there are some steep sections as well, so it is good to start it with good physical fitness. As long as you are prepared and take it slow, most trekkers can complete it comfortably.

What to Pack For Valley of Flowers Trek?

Clothing: Waterproof jacket, Thermal layers and fleece, Quick-dry t-shirts and pants, Woolen cap, muffler, and sun hat,Extra socks and gloves (especially for Hemkund Sahib)

Footwear: Sturdy trekking shoes with good grip,Light sandals for campsite use, Extra insoles and anti-blister socks

Gear: 40–50L backpack with rain cover, Daypack for shorter hikes, Trekking poles, Headlamp with extra batteries, Water bottles

Essentials: Rain poncho and backpack rain cover, Sunscreen, lip balm, and moisturizer, Personal medication and first aid kit

Customize Your Trek with Thin Air Expedition!

At Thin Air Expedition, you can make your trek even more special by customizing it to fit your needs. Whether you are trekking solo, with friends, or family, we can design an itinerary just for you that too at the most affordable prices. This means we will handle everything according to your specific needs for transportation, accommodation, meals, and any other premium facilities you might want during your trek. And the best part? No other participants will be added to your group.

FAQs

How difficult is Valley of Flowers trek?

It’s considered moderately difficult. You’ll need decent fitness, but most people who are reasonably fit can manage it just fine.

What is the best time to do Valley of Flowers trek?

The best time is from June to September, especially mid-July to mid-August, when the flowers are in full bloom after the monsoon rains.

What is the altitude of Valley of Flowers Hemkund Sahib?

The Valley of Flowers is around 11,550 feet (3,500 meters), and Hemkund Sahib is higher, at about 14,100 feet (4,329 meters).

How long is the trek from Govindghat to Valley of Flowers?

From Govindghat, you first trek about 9 km to Ghangaria, which is the base. Then, it’s another 3.7 km (one way) to the Valley of Flowers. So, in total, about 12.7 km one way from Govindghat to the Valley.

How far is Valley of Flowers from Dehradun?

The driving distance from Dehradun to Govindghat (the starting point) is about 310 km, which takes around 10-11 hours by car. The trek starts after that.

Which river flows through Valley of Flowers National Park?

The Pushpawati River flows through the Valley of Flowers National Park.

What are Valley of Flowers opening dates in 2025?

The Valley of Flowers opened on June 1st, 2025, and usually closes around October 31st, depending on the weather.

Which gurudwara is near Valley of Flowers?

Gurudwara Hemkund Sahib is very close to the Valley of Flowers, and many trekkers visit both.

Is there any temple near Hemkund Sahib’s Gurudwara?

Yes, there’s a Lakshman Temple (also called Lokpal Temple) right on the shore of Hemkund Lake, near the Gurudwara.

How far is Hemkund Sahib from Ghangaria?

It’s a steep 6 km trek (one way) from Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib.

Which River originates from Valley of Flower?

The Pushpawati River originates from the glacier near the Valley of Flowers.

How many species of flora are found in the Valley of Flowers trek?

Over 600 species of wildflowers have been recorded in the Valley of Flowers.

Where is the Valley of Flowers located?

It’s located in the Western Himalayas of Uttarakhand, India, specifically in the Chamoli district.

Why is it called the Valley of Flowers?

It’s called the Valley of Flowers because, well, it’s a valley that truly bursts with hundreds of different species of colorful flowers, especially during the monsoon season, creating a stunning floral carpet.

Is Valley of Flowers a UNESCO World Heritage Site?

Yes, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

What wildlife can be spotted in the Valley of Flowers?

You might spot rare and endangered animals like the Asiatic black bear, snow leopard, brown bear, and blue sheep, among others.

How to reach the Valley of Flowers?

You first need to reach Govindghat by road (from places like Rishikesh or Dehradun). From Govindghat, you trek to Ghangaria, and then a shorter trek takes you into the Valley of Flowers.

What is the total trekking distance of the Valley of Flowers?

The total trekking distance for the main Valley of Flowers trek (including the return) is about 3.7 km each way from Ghangaria. If you count from Govindghat to Ghangaria (9 km one way) and then to the Valley, it adds up. A typical entire trip, including the Hemkund Sahib visit, spans about 42 km of trekking.

Is there snowfall in the Valley of Flowers?

Yes, the Valley of Flowers is covered in snow from around November to February and is closed during this time.

Is photography allowed in the Valley of Flowers?

Yes, photography is allowed in the Valley of Flowers. It’s a photographer’s paradise!

When does the Valley of Flowers open?

The Valley of Flowers typically opens on June 1st each year.

How many days does it take to complete the Valley of Flowers trek?

It usually takes about 5 nights and 6 days to comfortably complete the Valley of Flowers trek, including travel to and from the starting point and the visit to Hemkund Sahib.