The Valley of Flowers trek is one of India's most renowned Himalayan treks. The trek is famous among people who have spanned the stretch and those who aspire to embark on the tread. It is one of India's oldest known treks and naturally imbibes much history. The Valley of Flowers National Park was established in 1980 by the Indian government and was later designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2002. It is important to note that although the trek is on the bucket list of adventurers worldwide, it is rather challenging work. Classified as a moderate-level trek, it demands preparation and features longer trekking days and a challenging ascent to Hemkund Sahib that will test your endurance. In our comprehensive trek guide, you will find detailed insights into the trek's difficulty and all the necessary information for this adventure. Embark on an adventure with our 6-day Valley of Flowers itinerary and turn it into a memory of a lifetime.
When you reach Govindghat, the designated base camp for the Valley of Flowers trek, you will notice that the town is located in the Chamoli district, where the Alaknanda and Lakshman Ganga rivers meet. It's recommended that you take some time to rest and acclimatise to the altitude after checking into your accommodation. A gentle walk around Govindghat will allow you to explore the beautiful surroundings and prepare for the upcoming trekking adventure.
Begin your trek in the morning from Govindghat to Ghangaria, covering a distance of approximately 14 km, which usually takes 6-7 hours to complete. During the journey, enjoy the breathtaking landscapes, especially the captivating confluence of the Alaknanda and Bhyundar rivers. You should arrive in Ghangaria, also known as "Gobind Dham," by evening. It is a picturesque village nestled at an altitude of approximately 3,050 metres. Upon arrival, settle into your accommodation for a well-deserved rest.
Embark on your morning trek to the renowned Valley of Flowers, covering a distance of approximately 5 km. This usually requires 3-4 hours to complete. Spend the afternoon immersing yourself in the enchanting beauty of the valley, famous for its diverse flora, including rare and endangered species. As evening approaches, trek back to Ghangaria, where you will spend the night and reminisce about the day's adventures.
Begin your journey in the morning from Ghangaria to the revered Sikh pilgrimage site of Hemkund Sahib, which is about 6 km away and typically takes around 4-5 hours to traverse. Spend the afternoon exploring the peaceful surroundings of Hemkund Sahib Gurudwara and the tranquil Hemkund Lake, which is surrounded by majestic snow-capped peaks. As the evening approaches, make your way back to Ghangaria, where you can relax and reflect on the memorable trek of the day.
Begin your descent from Ghangaria to Govindghat in the morning. The journey usually takes several hours. Once you arrive at Govindghat in the afternoon, your trek will conclude. In the evening, you can depart from Govindghat or stay an additional night if necessary.
When preparing for a trek, it is essential to have the appropriate gear. You should have durable trekking shoes and warm clothing with multiple layers to adjust to varying weather conditions. Remember to bring rain gear, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. Do not forget trekking poles, water bottles or a hydration system, and snacks and energy bars for quick replenishment. It is also important to carry a first aid kit with necessary medications, a camera or smartphone to capture the breathtaking scenery, personal toiletries, and hygiene products. If you plan to camp, you should also bring a sleeping bag for added comfort.
Air: Jolly Grant Airport is the nearest to Govindghat at a distance of 292 km.
Rail: The nearest railhead to Govindghat is the Rishikesh railway station at 273 km.
Road: Govindghat is well connected to the major cities nearby such as Haridwar, Rishikesh, Srinagar, Delhi and others.