Max Altitude
14,100 FT
Grade
Easy To Moderate
Duration
6 Days
Trekking KM.
37 KM
Suitable for: | 10+ years |
Experience: | First timer can apply, previous trekking experience is more appreciated. |
Fitness: | cover 5 km of distance in 30 minutes without a stress. |
Trek Info
It’s an easy to moderate trek that offers rare access to the Uttarakhand Himalayas which has an expanse of the valley covered with flowers. It is also considered an ideal trek for the first timers even including family and kids. One also gets a chance to visit the highest pilgrimage location of Hemkund Sahib.
The valley itself is about 2km wide and 8 km long and the best time to visit is between July to mid of September. The temperature on this trek usually stays somewhere between 5 to 20 degrees Celsius. And you can expect moderate rainfall even while trekking and the valley usually has a thick cloud cover. The most difficult part of the trek is the climb to Hemkund Sahib on the last day where we cover an altitude of about 4,300 ft in a day and that can be a bit strenuous.
The valley was first discovered accidentally by a group of mountaineers in 1931 who were returning from an expedition to Mount Kamet. Frank Smythe, Eric Shipton, and RL Holdsworth were a part of this team. In 1980, Valley of Flowers has declared a national park and in 2000, Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve added it as the second core zone. It now comes under UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere (MAB) program. There are about 500 varieties of flowers that are found here and some of them even have medicinal properties. Since several plant species are considered threatened, any kind of animal grazing is not allowed in this region. When on the trek, you’ll even get to visit the memorial grave of Joan Margaret.
The visit to Hemkund Sahib i.e. the highest religious place covered in the itinerary is difficult but rewarding and if you happen to have an extra day, you can even visit Badrinath or explore Rishikesh on your last day.
There are well-marked trails and a series of steps laid out at some of the sections of the trek. Mules are available from Govindghat to Ghangaria and Hemkund Sahib but are not allowed to go inside the main valley. You must not expect a luxurious stay while on the trek, there is no camping on this trek and basic lodges are provided where you can expect a bit of seepage smell. There are very high chances of rainfall during the trek days. Also, keep a buffer day in your itinerary as there can be roadblocks due to the rain.
Its a must to carry a good-quality rain jacket or a poncho at all times when on the trails. Weather-resistant backpack covers should be used to keep the insides of the bag dry. Waterproof trekking shoes are recommended and you should always carry several pairs of socks when on monsoon treks.
Health Awareness
Government Employees {SCL}
Government Employees can avail the benefit of Special Casual Leave (SCL) when you join us for a trekking expedition. As per the rules of the Pay Commission, Special Casual Leave can be availed for up to 30 days in a calendar year for trekking/mountaineering expeditions through a registered organization. Trek The Himalayas is a registered adventure tour operator by Indian Mountaineering Foundation (IMF) and Ministry Of Tourism (MOT)
Trekkers have to apply for leave at least 20 days before trek departure date.
Note
• Distance- 200 km, Altitude 1,900m/6,200ft.
• Pick up from Rishikesh TTH office 06:00am
• Driving Time-9-10 hrs.
• Last ATM point available in Pipalkoti.
• Market available in Pipalkoti.
• Networks available all along the way.
• Guest house stay (Shared Accommodation).
Route
• Rishikesh to Devprayag (confluence of Bhagirathi river and Alaknanda river)
• Devprayag to Srinagar
• Srinagar to Rudrapryag (confluence of Mandakini river and Alaknanda river)
• Rudrapryag to Karnprayag (confluence of Pindar river and Alaknanda river)
You will begin your journey with us from Rishikesh. Starting the drive from Rishikesh from the appointed pickup point Rishikesh bus stand or TTH office in Tapovan, we will take the fabled Badrinath Road.
The nine-hour drive to Pipalkoti will surely be long and arduous, but you are never going to run out of mesmerizing views. The great river running with us on parallel will get wilder and more fascinating as we trudge uphill. We will be passing by the 4 of the Panchprayag or the five holy confluence of Ganga—Devaprayag, Rudraprayag, Karnaprayag, and Nandaprayag. So, keep your cameras ready and remain awake for most of the journey!
• 35 km, 1 hour, Govindghat (2,050m/6,800ft). travel included in the cost.
• 5 km 10 minutes, Pulna(2,100m/ 6,900). travel included in the cost.
• 9 km 4 hours, Pulna to Ghangharia (3,000m/9,800ft).
• Gradual ascent on a stone-paved path, all the way along the river.
• Water is available along the route.
• Packed lunch will be given.
• Mule and porter facility is available from Pulna.
• BSNL network available at Ghangaria.
• Helicopter service available from Govind ghat to Ghangaria and fro only if weather allow (Not included).
• Stay in guest house (Shared Accommodation).
Note worthy Site: Govinddham Gurduwara, Govindghat; Hemkund Gurduwara base, Ghangharia; Valley of Flowers Information Center; Ghangharia
From Pipalkoti to Govindghat the distance is 35 km. En route, you can spot the final Vishnuprayag. We will start off on the drive in the morning after breakfast and reach Govindghat by 8 am and then 4 km drive to Pulna which is the starting point, todays travel is included in the cost. It will be a 9 km uphill route along the river, Pushpawati. The entire trail will be crowded most of the time. Many snack shops selling the beverage, hot noodles, omelets with bread, paratha, and the like can be found on this trail.
So, you will never go hungry. The trek will be on a clearly defined stone-paved path, conveniently built with stairs. After 5 km walk, you will arrive at Bhyundar village. This village marks an amazing viewpoint for clear Hathi Parvat sights. Enjoy the wonderful sights as much as you can, because the strainful steep ascent will commence henceforth. You will reach Gangharia before nightfall, attaining an altitude of 10, 000 feet. The stay will be at a guest-house.
• Altitude- 3,500m/11,500ft.
• Distance- 4 km, each way.
• Trek Time- 7 hours.
• The Valley is 6-7 km long, ends with a glacier.
• Mixed incline till the valley followed by level walk on grassland.
• Can refill water bottles from streams on the way.
• Packed lunch will be given, no food available in the valley.
• Camping inside the valley is not allowed, can’t stay after sunset.
• Night stay in Guest house (Shared Accommodation).
Prominent flowers:- Blue Poppy, Snake Foil, White Leaf Hog Foot, Himalayan Rose, Meadow Geranium, Dog Flower, Hooked Stick Seed, and River Anemone.
The journey to Valley of Flowers is a distance of 4 km. The valley is 6-7 km long; the distance travelled in the valley depends on how the trekkers want to explore the valley. Another, factor to be considered is the stamina of the trekkers.
Right, when you start from Ghangaria in 30 minutes forest check post arrives. The check post might not be an attraction but right before check post, there is a gushing waterfall called Laxman waterfall. Another 20 minutes into the greenery and next furious attraction comes. At this point, the Pushpavati river flows furiously below a wooden bridge. It is quite a common yet a unique and mesmerizing capture. The trail is steep and stone paved like the previous day. You can find many bridges and landslide areas when you enter the valley.
The valley is thousand times stupendous than you might have imagined. It truly makes the Himalayan peaks lively and cherishing. Blue Poppy, Snake Foil, White Leaf Hog Foot, Himalayan Rose, Meadow Geranium, Dog Flower, Hooked Stick Seed are the native flowers. These astounding colorful blossoms end after 5 km stretch at a glacier. If the weather is clear the mighty Himalayan peaks of Nilgiri Parvat, Bhyundar Khal, Rattaban, Gauri Parvat etc. in the background. Today’s journey will conclude with your coming back to Ghangaria before nightfall.
• Altitude- 4,300m/14,100 ft.
• Distance- 5.5 km, each way.
• Trek Time- 7 hours.
• Gradual and steep mixed ascent on a stair welled stone-paved path.
• Mule ride service is available till Hemkund Sahib.
• Can refill water from road side dhabas.
• Hot lunch at Gurduwara langar.
• Brahma Kamal, Himalayan blue poppy can be seen on the way to Hemkund Sahib.
• Night stay in Guest house.
Get ready early in the morning to start trekking (6 Km) for \\HEMKUND SAHIB\\. One of the most revered of all Sikh Shrines, The Hemkund Sahib, the World’s Highest Gurudwara, is situated at an altitude of 4,329 meters. There will be porters and mules if you wish to offload your load. The trail today will be similar to previous days stone paved and continuous ascend. There will be shops on the way where you can energize yourself. Watch out for the rare flower Brahmakamal that will be spotted beside pathways.
The Gurudwara is placed magically beside the mirror like glacial lake Hemkund. During clear skies, one can witness the flawless reflections of the adjoining Saptrishi peaks. The lake is fed by melting glaciers of Hathi Parvat and Saptrishi peaks. Religious Laxman temple is also found near the lake. In the afternoon trek down to reach Ghangariya for an overnight stay. The evening is free for rest & relaxation.
• Distance to Govind Ghat- 13 km
• Trek Time-5 hours
• Driving Time- 1 hour
• Packed lunch
• Guest house stay
Note- GovindGhat to Badrinath is landslide prone area in monsoon time so if our leaders find that your safety is in risk due to weather condition/ landslide or road blockage then we shall skip Badrinath altogether and drive to Pipalkoti directly.
After your breakfast in the morning, we descend to Govindghat and then drive to Pipalkoti. From this place, Badrinath is 25 km away and takes 1 hrs to reach. You can visit Badrinath only if road and weather condition permits us.
Note: Govindghat to Badrinath is a landslide-prone area in monsoon time so if our leaders find that your safety is at risk due to weather conditions/landslide or road blockage we shall skip Badrinath altogether and drive to Pipalkoti directly.
On arrival, check into the hotel. Overnight: Hotel
• After Morning Tea/Coffee, Depart to home.
• you’ll reach Rishikesh between 5 -6:00 pm. You can book further travel any time after 7:00 pm
The ride will commence at 6 am and you will reach Rishikesh around 5 - 6 pm. Your Breakfast and Lunch will be on the way at a roadside inn, exclusive of charges, after having your morning tea/coffee you can leave for your next destination. We advise you to book further travel after 7 pm.
At first you have to reach Rishikesh, after that TTH will take care of your further travel plan.
Our Pick-up place
Trek The Himalayas Head office, Tapovan Laxmanjhula, Landmark -Nainital Bank opposite Shiv Vilas Hotel
Options to reach Rishikesh
1. Take overnight train/bus to Rishikesh.
2. Take overnight train/bus to Haridwar and drive to Rishikesh (35 min drive with normal traffic).
We always recommend to go for the govt. Buses over the private ones outside the bus station as based on the experience we have found that there are very high chances of delay involved with private buses. Also, govt. Buses are always more reliable. Whichever bus you choose, just make sure to reach Rishikesh at least by 05:30 am positively.
3. Take the flight to Dehradun airport (Jolly Grant Airport) and drive to Rishikesh (20 km, 30 min), if coming by flight then come one day early.
1. Accommodation. (Guesthouse).
• Pipalkoti on Day 1 and Day 5
• Ghangharia on Day 2, Day 3 and Day 4
2. Meals while on trek (Veg. + Egg).
• from the Day 1st Dinner to the Day 5th Dinner
3. Support:
• 1 Mountaineering qualified & professional trek Leader
• Guide (Number of guides depend on the group size)
• 1 High Altitude chef
• Support staff
4. First aid:
• Medical kits
• Stretcher
• Oxygen cylinder
5. All necessary entry fees and permits.
6. Porters/mules to carry central equipment.
7. Transport Rishikesh to Pipalkoti and return as per the Itinerary
8. Transport Pipalkoti to Govindghat, Pulna & Badrinath and return as per the itinerary
1. Food during the transit.
2. Any kind of personal expenses.
3. Mules or porter to carry personal luggage.
4. Any kind of emergency evacuation charges.
5. Anything not specifically mentioned under the head Price Includes.
Things can be provided on demand and availability (participant has to pay extra for these things)
1- Satellite phone/setphone - is a type of mobile phone that connects via radio links via satellites orbiting the Earth instead of terrestrial cell sites like cellphones. Therefore, they can operate in most geographic locations on the Earth's surface.
2- Gamow/PAC HAPO Bag (Portable Hyperbaric Bag) - is a unique, portable hyperbaric chamber for the treatment of acute mountain sickness (AMS), also known as altitude sickness.
3- AEDs (Automated External Defibrillators) - are portable life-saving devices designed to treat people experiencing sudden cardiac arrest, a medical condition in which the heart stops beating suddenly and unexpectedly
INR 1000/- if you make an online payment, 10 days in advance
• INR 1200/- if you inform us after reaching Joshimath
• The backpack cannot weigh more than 11 kgs.
• Backpack should have waterproof cover.
• Suitcases/strolleys/ bags will not be allowed.
To book a Trek/ adventure program please use our online booking form or, alternatively, you can call us on the given for confirmation of tour you have to wire a deposit and initial deposit.
Special Offers
Make a single payment and trek the number of times you want.
If you book a trek with Trek The Himalayas and are unable to complete the same or you have successfully completed that trek and want to do it again, you can repeat it multiple times without paying the cost of the trek.
Terms and conditions
The fee can be paid by online transfer/Check deposit/Cash deposit/Demand draft. Instruction for
payment will be forwarded along with your confirmation email. When your transfer is done, please
e-mail us a confirmation mail with your transfer details, so that we can follow up your reservation efficiently.
Cancellation terms:
For the cancellation of services due to any avoidable/unavoidable reasons, Trek The Himalayas must be notified of the same in writing at [email protected] At the time we receive your written cancellation, refunds based on the total fare are as follows.
Cancellations prior to 25 days from the start of the Trip
Refund options
Cancellation between 24 days and 15 days to the start of the Trip
Refund options
Cancellation between 14 days and 10 days to the start of the Trip
Refund options
Cancellation less than 9 days to the start of the trek
Refund options
If by a rare consequence TTH calls off/cancels a trek:
At TTH, we almost never call off or cancel our treks. But in the rare event that we do call off or cancel a trek due to any unforeseen circumstances or natural catastrophes like continuous rain or snow, thunderstorms, snowstorms, landslides, floods, earthquakes, or any other natural calamity that prevents us from carrying out a trek in a safe manner, unforeseeable circumstances like local riots, curfews, pandemics, lockdowns, government orders, or any such situations that prevents a safe trekking experience, TTH will issue a voucher summing up to the same amount as your trek fee. The voucher can be redeemed on any of the treks over a period of the next year.
Note
In the rare event that TTH shifts a trek:
As we mention always, weather conditions at high altitudes are extremely unpredictable and can change at any time of any day. Also, situations like natural calamities or political unrest, pandemics and lockdowns, etc are out of our control and if an event cannot run under any such circumstances that we do not directly have control over then we will try to give you an alternative trek, which means your trek will be shifted from one trek to another, which will be safer and more favourable.
In these cases, a voucher is issued to mitigate the difference in cost between the two treks. You can redeem the voucher at any time over a period of one year from the date of issue. A refund fee or refund of the difference is not applicable.
Note:
Cash Voucher Terms:
Itineraries are based on information available at the time of planning and are subject to change. "Trek The Himalayas" reserves the right to change expedition dates, people or itineraries as conditions warrant. If a trip must be delayed or the itinerary changed due to bad weather, road conditions, transportation delays, government intervention, airline schedules, sickness, or other contingency for which TTH or its agents cannot make provision, the cost of delays and/or other changes are the responsibility of the participant. TTH reserves the right to decline, or accept, any individual as a trip member for any reason whatsoever.
Back pack & rain cover | (50 - 60 ltr) with comfortable shoulder straps |
Day pack + rain cove | 20 - 30 ltr (If hire a mule or porter) |
Walking stick | Advisable (At least one) |
Water bottle/Hydration pack | 2 bottles of one liter each, People who use hydration pack 1 hydration pack and 1 bottle of one liter, Carry at least one thermos flask. |
Personal Medical Kit | Consult your doctor |
Snacks | Energy bars, dry fruits, electral/ors |
T-shirts | 4 Full sleeves (Non-cotton) |
Fleece T-shirts | 1 Nos. |
Fleece jacket | 1 Nos. (Alternative: a woolen sweater) |
Down feather / Hollofil jacket | 1 Nos. |
Wind & waterproof (jacket & pant) | 1 Pair |
Trek pants | 3 Synthetic (avoid shorts, fitting denims, capris) |
Fleece/woolen gloves | 1 Pair |
Poncho | 1 Nos. |
Sunscreen cream | Moisturiser |
Hand sanitizer | Antibacterial powder |
Toothbrush and toothpaste | Lip balm / Chapstick |
Toilet Paper & wipes | Quick dry towel |
Head torch | 1 Nos. (Avoid Hand torch) |
Woolen cap | 1 Nos. |
Balaclava | 1 Nos. (Optional) |
Neck-gaiters | 1 Nos. |
Sunglasses | Dark with side cover, it should be U/V protected, People who wear spectacles- (A)- Use contact lenses. (B)- Photo chromatic glasses. |
Trekking shoes | 1 Pair (Waterproof, high ankle with good grip) |
Floaters/flip-flops | 1 Pair |
Cotton socks | 6 pairs |
Woolen socks | 1 pairs |
Gaiters | 1 Pair (TTH will Provide) |
Fitness regime for:
Easy To Moderate |
Calculate Your BMI :
Congratulations, your body is in good conditions!
BMI Range | Category |
---|---|
Less than 16.5 | Serverely Underweight |
16.5 - 18.5 | Underweight |
18.5 - 25 | Normal |
25 - 30 | Overweight |
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Valley of Flowers is a wonderful trek where nature truly comes alive. The flowers bloom in vibrant profusion, and where beauty knows no bounds. The Valley of Flowers Trek begins with a mesmerizing trail that winds its way through lush forests, pristine meadows, and rugged terrains. As you lace up your boots and set foot on this captivating path, prepare to be captivated by the ever-changing landscape. The journey itself is an adventure, with each step revealing new vistas and natural wonders.
Valley of Flowers Trek is a 6-day long trek.
Valley Of Flowers Trek is an easy to moderate grade trek.
The best time to do Valley Of Flowers Trek is in monsoon (Jul - Aug) and autumn (Sep - Mid Nov).
Yes, it is advisable to be physically fit to undertake the Valley of Flowers Trek. While the trek is considered moderate in difficulty, it does require a certain level of physical endurance and stamina.
The cost of the Valley of Flowers Trek is 10,900 INR.
Yes, a permit is required to undertake the Valley of Flowers Trek. The Valley of Flowers National Park is a protected area, and obtaining a permit is necessary to regulate the number of visitors and ensure the preservation of the fragile ecosystem. When you trek with us, we obtain the permit for you.
During the Valley of Flowers Trek the stay is arranged in guesthouses and camps (twin-sharing).
Here are some of the essentials you should pack for the trek:
1. Trekking shoes: A good pair of trekking shoes is essential for a comfortable trek. Make sure your shoes are well-fitted, sturdy and provide good grip on the trail.
2. Warm Clothing: The weather can be unpredictable in the mountains, so it's important to carry warm clothing, including thermal innerwear, fleece jackets, down jacket, and waterproof jacket.
3. Trekking pants: Carry comfortable and quick-drying trekking pants that are suitable for the weather conditions.
4. Backpack: A good quality backpack with a capacity of 40-50 liters is ideal for carrying your essentials during the trek.
5. Sleeping bag: A good quality sleeping bag is essential for a comfortable stay during the camping nights.
6. Headlamp/Flashlight: Carry a good quality headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries for trekking during early morning or late evening hours.
7. Water bottle: Carry a reusable water bottle and stay hydrated throughout the trek.
8. Snacks: Carry energy bars, dry fruits, and snacks for instant energy during the trek.
9. First aid kit: Carry a basic first aid kit, including band-aids, antiseptic cream, pain relief spray, and medicines for altitude sickness.
10. Sun protection: Carry sunscreen lotion, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the harsh sun rays.
11. Trekking poles: Trekking poles can help in maintaining balance and reduce the strain on your knees while trekking.
It is highly recommended to hire a professional trekking expert for the trek. The Valley Of Flowers Trek can be quite challenging to do alone. Experienced guides, and support staff to ensure the safety and well-being of trekkers. Hiring an expert trekking organization can provide many benefits, including safety, specialized gear and equipment, and logistics and support.
Valley Of Flowers is surrounded by some beautiful destinations that are worth visiting including the Hemkund Sahib Gurudwara, Badrinath Dham, Auli, and Joshimath.