Valley Of Flowers Trek: Date, Itinerary, Cost, Best Time

VALLEY OF FLOWERS TREK

Duration

6 Days/ 5 Nights

Pickup/Drop

Rishikesh

Region

Uttarakhand

Age Group

12yrs-60yrs

Max. Altitude

14,100 ft.

Best Time

July - September

Know About Valley Of Flowers

The Valley of Flowers Trek is one of India’s most breathtaking and best-known monsoon treks, located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand within the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Renowned for its vibrant alpine meadows, rare Himalayan flora, and stunning glacial landscapes, this moderate trek attracts nature lovers, botanists, photographers, and adventure seekers from across the world.

Why is the Valley of Flowers Famous?

From mid-July to early September, the entire valley bursts into a kaleidoscope of colors as over 500 species of wildflowers bloom across the meadows. The trail offers panoramic views of snow-clad Himalayan peaks, gushing waterfalls, and the serene Pushpawati River flowing through the valley. This unique blend of natural beauty, mythology, and biodiversity makes it one of the top treks in India.

Key Details About Valley of Flowers Trek

Trek Duration 6–7 days (including travel)
Trek Distance ~38 km round trip
Altitude Range 6,000 ft (Govindghat) to 14,100 ft (Hemkund Sahib)
Trek Difficulty Easy to Moderate – ideal for fit beginners
Best Season July to early September (peak bloom season)
Start/End Point Govindghat (via Joshimath)
Permit Required Yes – entry permit for Valley of Flowers National Park

What Makes Valley of Flowers One of the Best Treks in India?

Rare & Endemic Flora: Spot species like blue poppies, brahma kamal, cobra lilies, and primulas.
Spiritual Extension: Combine the trek with a visit to Hemkund Sahib, one of the world’s highest gurudwaras.
Photographer’s Paradise: Ideal for macro and landscape photography.
UNESCO World Heritage Site: Part of the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve.
Wildlife Encounters: You may spot Himalayan tahr, snow leopard tracks, or musk deer.

Valley Of Flowers Trek Itinerary

Day 1. Rishikesh To Govindghat

Distance : 270 kms
Time : 9 Hours

You’ll begin your journey early in the morning with a long but scenic drive from Rishikesh or Haridwar to Govindghat, covering approximately 270 to 290 kilometers. The route takes about 9 to 10 hours by road and gradually ascends from around 300 meters to 1,828 meters above sea level. The drive follows the Alaknanda River and passes through several spiritual and scenic towns including Devprayag, Rudraprayag, and Karnaprayag.

Day 2. Govindghat To Ghangeria

Distsnce : 13 km Trek
Time : 6 Hours

The trek officially begins today. After a short 4 km drive to Pulna, you will start the 13 km trek to Ghangaria. The trail follows the Pushpawati River and takes you through green valleys, cascading waterfalls, and small hamlets. The path is mostly uphill, with an altitude gain from 1,828 meters to about 3,050 meters. This portion of the trek typically takes 5 to 6 hours at a steady pace.

Day 3. Ghangeria To Valley of Flowers

Distance :8 kms
Time :6–7 Hours

Start your day early and head toward the majestic Valley of Flowers National Park, located 3.5 to 4 kilometers from Ghangaria. The trail ascends gently to about 3,658 meters and offers mesmerizing views of thousands of blooming alpine flowers. You’ll spend a few hours exploring the valley at your own pace before returning to Ghangaria by afternoon. The total walking distance for the day is around 8 km, and you can expect the full excursion to take 6 to 7 hours.

Day 4.Ghangeria To Hemkund Sahib

Distance : 12 kms
Time : 8 Hours

This is an optional but highly recommended day trek to Hemkund Sahib, located at an altitude of 4,329 meters. The trail is steep and physically challenging, but it offers stunning views and spiritual significance. You’ll pass scenic waterfalls and may spot the rare Brahma Kamal flower. The total trekking distance is about 12 kilometers round trip, and it usually takes 6 to 8 hours depending on fitness level.

Day 5. Ghangeria To Govindghat

Duration : 13 kms Trek
Time : 5 Hours

On the final trekking day, you’ll descend 13 kilometers from Ghangaria back to Pulna. This downhill trek takes approximately 4 to 5 hours. From Pulna, a short drive brings you to Govindghat.

Day 6. Govindghat To Rishikesh

Distace : 270 kms
Time : 9 Hours

It will be the departure day too return back to Dehrasun. The drive back takes about 9 to 10 hours, concluding your incredible Himalayan experience.

PACKAGE COST INCLUDES

Rishikesh to Rishikesh transportation
All night stay in hotel/homestay/camp
Breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks
Trek permit and fees
Expert guide and supporting team
Trekking all central equipments: tent, sleeping bags, etc
Team 24*7 Support

PACKAGE COST EXCLUDES

Any kind of personal expenses
Porter to carry personal luggage
Any kind of travel insurance
Any kind of emergency evacuation charges
Days extended will be charged extra for further services
Anything not mentioned in above inclusion

BOOKING POLICY

REFUND POLICY

BOOKING POLICY

REFUND POLICY

If tour cancels 30 days prior to arrival/ travel date then 25% cancellation will be charged of total tour cost.
If tour cancels 20 days prior to arrival/ travel date then 50% cancellation will be charged.
If tour cancels 15 days prior to arrival/ travel date then 75% cancellation will be charged.
If tour cancels within 15 days of arrival/ travel date then 100% cancellation will be charged.
No refund will be given in case of no show, natural hazards, flight cancellations, accident, breakdown of machinery or equipments, breakdown of transport, weather, sickness, landslides, political closures, untoward incidents or acts of God or acts beyond the control.

Valley Of Flowers FAQ's

Where is the Valley of Flowers located?

The Valley of Flowers is located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, India, inside the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve. It lies at an altitude of about 12,000 feet in the Western Himalayas, near Joshimath and Govindghat.

What is the best time to visit the Valley of Flowers?

The best time to visit the Valley of Flowers is between mid-July and early September, when the valley is in full bloom. This is the peak season to witness thousands of Himalayan wildflowers and lush alpine scenery.

How difficult is the Valley of Flowers trek?

The Valley of Flowers trek is rated easy to moderate and is suitable for fit beginners. The trek involves gradual ascents and well-defined trails but requires stamina due to the altitude.

How do I reach Valley of Flowers from Rishikesh or Haridwar?

Start from Haridwar or Rishikesh and drive to Govindghat via Joshimath (approx. 10–11 hours). From Govindghat, trek to Ghangaria (9–10 km), and then hike 4 km to the Valley of Flowers the next day.

Do I need a permit to visit the Valley of Flowers National Park?

Yes, visitors must obtain an entry permit from the forest check post at Ghangaria. The permit is valid for 3 days and includes a nominal fee for Indian and foreign tourists.

What is the altitude of Valley of Flowers and Hemkund Sahib?

Valley of Flowers: Approx. 12,000 feet (3,658 m)
Hemkund Sahib: Approx. 14,100 feet (4,298 m)
Both treks require good acclimatization due to high altitude.

Waterproof trekking shoes
Rain jacket/poncho
Warm clothing (nights are cold)
Water bottles, snacks, energy bars
First aid kit, sunscreen, and walking stick
ID proof and medical fitness if visiting Hemkund Sahib