Valley of Flowers National Park is a renowned UNESCO World Heritage site located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, India. It is famed for its exceptional natural beauty, rich biodiversity, and endemic alpine flowers and fauna. This park spans over an area of 87.50 km² and is nestled in the West Himalayas at an altitude ranging from 3,658 meters to 3,962 meters above sea level.
The best time to visit the Valley of Flowers is from June to October when the valley is in full bloom with a variety of flowers. The park is open for tourists from 1st June to 31st October every year. The monsoon season, particularly July and August, is when the flowers are most abundant, making it the most picturesque time to visit.
Valley of Flowers National Park is accessible by a trek that starts from Govindghat. Govindghat is well connected by road to major cities in Uttarakhand. From Govindghat, travelers need to trek to Ghangaria, which is the base camp for the trek to the Valley of Flowers. It's roughly a 14 km trek from Govindghat to Ghangaria, followed by another 3 km trek to the Valley of Flowers.
Yes, you need a permit to enter the Valley of Flowers. The permit can be obtained from the Forest Department at Ghangaria, and it is valid for three consecutive days. Additional charges are applicable for extra days, and there are separate entry fees for Indian nationals and foreigners.
Hemkunt Sahib, also known as Gurudwara Shri Hemkunt Sahib, is a prominent Sikh place of worship in Uttarakhand, India. It is situated at an altitude of 4,633 meters above sea level near the Valley of Flowers. Hemkunt Sahib is dedicated to the tenth Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh Ji, and is only accessible by trekking, as it is surrounded by seven snow-capped peaks and a glacial lake.
Yes, it is common for tourists and pilgrims to visit both the Valley of Flowers and Hemkunt Sahib in one trip, since they are located close to each other. One can start the trek from Govindghat to Ghangaria, which serves as the base camp for treks to both destinations. After visiting the Valley of Flowers, you can trek to Hemkunt Sahib on a separate day.
Trekking to the Valley of Flowers and Hemkunt Sahib is a moderate to strenuous activity. It requires good physical fitness due to the high altitudes and long walking distances involved. It is recommended that tourists acclimatize to the altitude and are prepared for weather changes. Carrying medication for altitude sickness and having prior trekking experience or a good level of stamina is beneficial.
Trekkers should carry essential items such as a valid ID, permit, warm clothing, trekking shoes, rain gear, water bottles, snacks, a basic first-aid kit, a flashlight or headlamp, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. It is also recommended to carry a map or guidebook and have a local guide accompany you.
Accommodation facilities are available in Ghangaria, the base camp for both destinations. There are options ranging from budget guesthouses to hotels and campsites. However, amenities are basic due to the remote location and travelers should not expect luxury facilities. Prior booking, especially during peak season, is recommended as the place gets crowded.
Yes, many travel agencies offer guided tours to Valley of Flowers and Hemkunt Sahib which include transportation, permits, accommodation, and a professional guide. These tours are ideal for those who prefer an organized trip without the hassle of planning the logistics themselves.
