valley of flowers
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A Glimpse of the Valley of Flowers
Pic's of the Valley
About the Valley
General Info..
Flowers in the Valley
Pic's of Valley in Bloom
The Valley of Flowers
The valley of flowers national park is located in the chamoli district of Uttarakhand and the park is spread over an area of 87 sq kms. The valley of flowers national park is a UNESCO world heritage site and forms one of thr two core zones (the other being nanda Devi national Park) of the Nanda Devi Biosphere reserve. The valley located at an altitude of 3,600 mts is famous for its more than 300 species of wild flowers and butterflies. The valley with its natural beds of multicolored wild flowers and the icy watered mountain streams meandering through the valley provides amazing views that is soothing to the eyes of onlooker and leaves an everlasting impression on his mind.
The valley is surrounded by the marvelous and magnificent snow clad majestic himalayan peaks. The waterfalls falling down from great heights add to the beauty of this pristine valley. The most visited places in the valley are the grave of Joan Margaret Legge and the pushpawati river bed.
Joan margaret Legge was a british botanist who in 1939 after reading a book titled "The Valley of Flowers" written by Frank Smythe (a mountaineer who stumbled upon this valley while returning from the Kamet peak expedition) came to the valley of flowers to conduct a detailed study on the flora of the valley. Unfortunately this lady while collecting seeds of flowers fell from a ridge in the valley and died there. A grave has been built in the valley amidst a large bed of multicolored flowers to honor the work of Joan Margaret Legge. Visitors to the valley of flowers never forget to vist this grave and pay homage to the lady.
The pushpawati river originates from the tipra glacier near rataban and flows through the valley of flowers. As per 'Mahabharata' the pandavas during their exile came to the lower reaches of this valley and saw flowers flowing in the river. They named this river pushpawati and sent Bhima to find the source of the flowers flowing in the river.
At about 5 kms inside the valley the pushpawati river bifurcates the valley and the large and wide stretch of the riverbed is adorned with beautiful red colored flowers. In the first fortnight of august the whole stretch of riverbed is adorned with flowers so systematically laid that the mind of the onlooker is compelled to believe that the 'Celestial Gardner' is an expert and never misses the minute details to glorify the nature.
Itinerary: Journey to the Valley of Flowers and Hemkund Sahib
Starting Point: Rishikesh | Duration: 6 Days | Main Station: Joshimath
Day 1: Rishikesh to Joshimath
- Distance: ~265 km | Time: 6–8 hours drive
Begin your journey with the serene vibes of Rishikesh. After an early breakfast, hit the road towards Joshimath, the gateway to the Garhwal Himalayas. - Route Highlights:
- Witness the confluence of the Bhagirathi and Alaknanda rivers at Devprayag.
- Stop at Rudraprayag, where the Mandakini meets the Alaknanda.
- Enjoy mesmerizing views of snow-capped peaks and lush valleys.
Reach Joshimath by evening. Take a leisurely stroll through this quaint Himalayan town, and visit the Narsingh Temple, an ancient shrine with deep mythological roots. Spend the night in a cozy hotel or homestay, rejuvenating for the trek ahead.
Day 2: Joshimath to Pulna via Govindghat and Trek to Ghangaria
- Drive: 26 km to Pulna vai Govindghat | Trek: 10 km to Ghangaria
Start early and drive to Govindghat and reach Pulna, the starting point of your trek. From here, trek along the scenic trail that follows the Lakshman Ganga River. - Trail Highlights:
- Cross picturesque bridges over gushing streams.
- Walk through dense oak and pine forests, accompanied by the soothing sound of flowing water.
Arrive at Ghangaria, a charming base camp for both the Valley of Flowers and Hemkund Sahib. Check into a guesthouse, savor a hearty meal, and rest.
Day 3: Ghangaria to Valley of Flowers and Back
- Trek: 8 km round trip
Dedicate this day to exploring the breathtaking Valley of Flowers, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As you trek into this enchanting valley, be prepared to lose yourself in a riot of colors. - Valley Highlights:
- Over 500 species of blooming flowers, including blue poppies and Himalayan orchids.
- Snow-capped peaks in the backdrop and serene streams cutting through the meadows.
- The fragrance of wildflowers and the surreal atmosphere rejuvenate your senses.
Spend ample time soaking in the valley's beauty, capturing photographs, and reflecting on nature’s grandeur. Return to Ghangaria for the night.
Day 4: Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib and Back
- Trek: 12 km round trip | Altitude: 4,632 m
Today, gear up for a steep yet rewarding trek to the sacred Hemkund Sahib, nestled amidst towering peaks. The trail is steep but adorned with vibrant Brahma Kamal flowers. - Hemkund Sahib Highlights:
- The Hemkund Lake, a glacial marvel reflecting the surrounding peaks.
- The serene Gurudwara Hemkund Sahib, where you can partake in the divine langar.
- Experience tranquility and spirituality at this high-altitude haven.
Descend back to Ghangaria by late afternoon and rest.
Day 5: Ghangaria to Govindghat and Joshimath
- Trek: 10 km to Pulna | Drive: 26 km to Joshimath
Bid farewell to the mountains as you trek back to Pulna. Drive back to Joshimath, arriving by evening. - Optional: Take a detour to Auli and ride the ropeway to enjoy panoramic views of the Nanda Devi peak.
Spend the night in Joshimath, sharing stories of your adventure.
Day 6: Joshimath to Rishikesh
- Distance: ~265 km | Time: 6–8 hours drive
Wrap up your journey with a drive back to Rishikesh. Relive the unforgettable memories of the vibrant valley, serene lake, and sacred shrines as you make your way home.
Best Time to Visit
- Valley of Flowers: July to September (peak bloom season)
- Hemkund Sahib: June to October
Tips for the Journey
- Fitness: Ensure good physical fitness for trekking.
- Clothing: Pack layers, rain gear, and sturdy trekking shoes.
- Permits: Obtain permits for the Valley of Flowers at the entrance.
- Hydration: Stay hydrated and carry energy snacks for the trek.
This meticulously planned itinerary promises a mix of adventure, spirituality, and unparalleled natural beauty, leaving you with cherished memories for a lifetime!