Valley of Flowers

A Legendary Trail the World Wants to Trek

A Legendary Trail the World Wants to Trek in

The Valley of Flowers trek is among the most famous treks in India. Even if trekking isn’t your thing, you’ve likely heard of it. Trekkers from all over the globe come to the valley—particularly during the monsoon season, when wildflowers of every hue come to life. Some of these flowers are so unique that you won’t find them blooming like this anywhere else on the planet.

At aawaragang, we believe the valley deserves far more recognition than merely for its flowers. Even in the absence of blooms, the valley exudes pure enchantment. It is tucked away between towering mountains, with the Pushpavati River coursing through it. The path meanders alongside this river, guiding you to a breathtaking viewpoint of a glacier at the far end. You can dip your toes in the chilly streams and simply enjoy the tranquility. During the monsoon, vibrant colors appear at every turn. The flowers appear to be perfectly groomed. Yet, it’s all completely natural.

The cultural essence of the trek is truly enchanting. You ascend to Hemkund Sahib, a holy lake located over 14,000 feet above sea level. The ascent is challenging. However, as you rise, breathtaking views of Ghangaria and the Valley of Flowers unfold far below. It offers a perspective on how much ground you’ve covered. The landscape transforms as you ascend. Trees become sparse, and alpine meadows start to emerge. If you’re trekking in August, you might encounter the sacred Brahma Kamal along your path. At Hemkund Sahib, you find yourself at the edge of a vast glacial lake, with the dome-roofed Gurudwara nestled by the water’s edge. It’s a tranquil moment that lingers in your memory. The sight of pilgrims climbing the steep path or dipping into the frigid waters of the lake adds a spiritual richness to your journey.

Nonetheless, the Valley of Flowers Trek does come with its difficulties. The ascents to the Valley of Flowers and Hemkund Sahib from Ghangria are quite steep. The trekking days are lengthy and demand a good level of stamina.

However, if you arrive ready, it’s an experience you won’t forget. Hiking to the Valley of Flowers offers a unique opportunity to see a natural marvel that people all over the globe aspire to witness.

The Discovery of the Valley of Flowers: The tale of how this remarkable trek was uncovered is as captivating as the valley itself. In 1931, the renowned British mountaineer Frank Smythe and his team were making their way back from an expedition to Mt Kamet when they became disoriented. They stumbled upon a concealed valley nourished by the Pushpavati Nala. What they encountered was enchanting—an unending expanse of colorful wildflowers flourishing in every direction. Smythe was so impressed by the view that he referred to it as the “Valley of Flowers” in his publication, thereby permanently placing this enchanting location on the map.

n 1980, the region was designated as the Valley of Flowers National Park. Subsequently, in 2002, it was acknowledged as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Since that time, its name has circulated extensively. Currently, the trek is recognized worldwide and is included in the bucket lists of trekkers from various corners of the globe.

TREK DIFFICULTY

Moderate

TREK DURATION

6 days

HIGHEST ALTITUDE

14,107 ft

SUITABLE FOR

11 to 62 years

TOTAL TREK DISTANCE

34 kms

BASECAMP

Karchi

ACCOMMODATION TYPE

Homestay/Lodges

PICKUP POINT

rishikesh

PICKUP TIME

5.15 AM

DROPOFF TIME

6.00 PM

CLOAKROOM

Available

OFFLOADING

Available

5 Things We Love About the Valley of Flowers Trek

1) The Waterfalls Along the Trail
Not many individuals connect the Valley of Flowers trek with waterfalls. However, during the peak monsoon season, they become visible shortly after Poolna. Numerous rain-fed streams tumble down the steep sides of the valley into the Pushpavati Nala. One of the most remarkable among them is seen immediately upon entering the Valley. You find yourself on a wooden bridge spanning the Pushpavati, observing the waterfall plunge into the stream with tremendous force. Another breathtaking waterfall is located just above Ghangria, along the route to Hemkund Sahib. It is just beyond this waterfall that the winding ascent to Hemkund commences. While we typically associate the Valley of Flowers with its blooms and lush greenery, these streams and waterfalls introduce an entirely new aspect to the trek.

2) View from the Blue Poppy Point
As you ascend towards the Valley of Flowers from Ghangria, prior to entering the valley itself, you will arrive at the Blue Poppy Viewpoint. This location offers a breathtaking aerial perspective of the entire valley — a verdant landscape that meanders alongside the Pushpavati Nala. In the background, the majestic peaks of Gauri Parvat and the Tipra Bamak Glacier become visible. This view elegantly establishes the mood for the journey that lies ahead.

3) The Valley of Flowers
The Valley of Flowers stands as the highlight of this trek. Upon entering the valley, one is welcomed by a vivid expanse of wildflowers that spans for kilometres. As you venture further into the valley, the remarkable diversity of plant life becomes apparent. The astonishing variety in shapes, sizes, and colours is truly impressive. With every few steps, new flowers come into view, and the refreshing mountain breeze wafts their distinct scents. The valley is vibrant, a natural work of art that seems almost enchanting.

4) Climb to Hemkund Sahib
The ascent to Hemkund Sahib presents a formidable challenge, yet it is immensely gratifying. Spanning a distance of 6 km, you rise nearly 4,000 ft, immersing yourself in the core of the alpine region. The pathway provides stunning vistas of Ghangaria and the Valley of Flowers from an elevated viewpoint, allowing you to appreciate the journey you have embarked upon. As you ascend further, the scenery transforms. The treeline recedes, giving way to alpine meadows, while the air becomes increasingly rarefied. Upon arrival at Hemkund Sahib, the unspoiled glacial lake and the encircling peaks inspire a sense of wonder. The lake mirrors the Gurudwara and the majestic mountains, fostering a tranquil and spiritual ambiance. For numerous individuals, this experience serves as a moment of quiet contemplation and thankfulness.

5) A Cultural Journey
The Valley of Flowers Trek provides an insight into the remarkable faith and resilience of individuals. The pilgrimage to Hemkund Sahib is embarked upon by devotees of all ages, ranging from young children to senior citizens. While some opt for ponies or porters, many depend solely on their unwavering determination to arrive at the sacred destination. The spirit of service at Hemkund Sahib Gurudwara is equally uplifting. Volunteers work diligently to maintain the trails and offer food and warmth to visitors in frigid conditions. Enjoying a hot cup of tea at Hemkund Sahib Gurudwara after a challenging ascent is an unparalleled experience.

The Valley of Flowers trek leads you to one of the most breathtaking wonders of nature. It is no surprise that it is regarded as a favorite destination for travelers from across the globe.

Trek Fee

11,950

₹

+5% GST

+₹180 Trek Insurance

+₹3,000 for transport to and from basecamp

Optional Additions

₹750

₹800 Backpack Offloading

Valley Of Flowers – Complete Trek Information

We have consistently aimed for trekkers to be thoroughly informed prior to embarking on a Himalayan trek. Understanding is what distinguishes a secure trek from a perilous one. It also differentiates a fulfilling experience from a mere superficial one. Utilize this section to gain insights into the Valley of Flowers trek. It contains comprehensive details regarding each day of the trek, what to anticipate, and how to adequately prepare for it. This content is the result of many years of expertise. Trekkers find it to be exceptionally beneficial.