Overview of Valley of Flowers Trek

Nestled in the heart of the Western Himalayas, the Valley of Flowers National Park in Uttarakhand is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its vibrant alpine flora. When combined with the sacred trek to Hemkund Sahib, this becomes a spiritually enriching and visually stunning experience. Starting from Haridwar, this trek is ideal for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and spiritual travelers.

Quick Facts:

• Location: Nanda Devi Biosphere, Uttarakhand

• Region: Chamoli District, Uttarakhand

• Trek Duration: 6 to 7 Days

• Trek Distance: Approx. 38–40 km round trip

• Altitude Range: 6,000 ft (Govindghat) to 14,100 ft (Hemkund Sahib)

• Trek Difficulty: Moderate

• Best Season: Mid-June to Mid-September (Peak bloom in July-August)

Day-by-Day Itinerary: Valley of Flowers and Hemkund Sahib Trek

Day 1: Haridwar to Govindghat (290 km / 10–11 hours)

• Begin your journey with a scenic drive from Haridwar to Govindghat, passing through Rishikesh, Devprayag, Rudraprayag, and Joshimath.

• Enjoy views of the Alaknanda River and the confluence of Panch Prayags.

• Arrive at Govindghat by evening. Overnight stay at a guesthouse or hotel.

Day 2: Govindghat to Ghangaria via Pulna (13 km trek)

• Drive 4 km from Govindghat to Pulna (roadhead).

• Begin a gradual 9 km trek to Ghangaria, surrounded by lush forests and river streams.

• Arrive in Ghangaria, the base village for both treks.

• Overnight stay in a lodge or camp.

Day 3: Ghangaria to Valley of Flowers and back (10 km round trek)

• Early morning trek to the Valley of Flowers National Park (3,658 m).

• Explore vibrant meadows filled with endemic alpine flowers like Brahma Kamal, Blue Poppy, and Cobra Lily.

• Spot rare Himalayan birds and butterflies.

• Spend 3–4 hours inside the valley and return to Ghangaria by evening.

• Overnight at Ghangaria.

Day 4: Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib and back (12 km round trek)

• Begin a steep ascent to Hemkund Sahib, a revered Sikh pilgrimage site located at 4,329 m.

• Visit the sacred Hemkund Lake, surrounded by seven snow-clad peaks.

• Spend time at the Gurudwara, experience langar, and descend back to Ghangaria.

• Overnight stay in Ghangaria.

Day 5: Ghangaria to Govindghat (13 km descent)

• Trek back down to Govindghat, retracing your scenic route through Pulna.

• Optional: Continue to Joshimath for an overnight stay if returning the next day.

• Overnight at Govindghat or Joshimath.

Day 6: Govindghat to Haridwar (Drive back)

• Early morning departure for Haridwar, concluding your memorable Himalayan adventure.

• Drop-off by evening. Trip ends with unforgettable views and spiritual fulfillment.

Key Highlights of the Valley of Flowers Trek

• UNESCO World Heritage Site

• Hemkund Sahib – A major Sikh pilgrimage site

• Rare Himalayan flora and breathtaking scenery

• Ideal monsoon trek with manageable difficulty

• Well-guided, budget and premium packages by Avada Holidays & Adventure

Important Tips for Trekkers

• Carry rain gear, trekking shoes, and layered clothing

• Always stay hydrated and acclimatize properly

• Respect local customs, especially near Hemkund Sahib

• Entry permits for Valley of Flowers are required (can be arranged by Avada Holidays)

Permits and Entry Rules for Valley of Flowers and Hemkund Sahib Trek

Embarking on the Valley of Flowers and Hemkund Sahib Trek requires adherence to specific permit regulations and environmental guidelines to ensure a safe and responsible journey through these ecologically sensitive areas.

Valley of Flowers National Park Entry Permit

• Permit Requirement: Entry to the Valley of Flowers National Park mandates a permit issued by the Forest Department.

• Where to Obtain: Permits are available at the Forest Department check post in Ghangaria.

• Permit Fees:

  • Indians: ?150 per person for a 3-day pass.

  • Foreigners: ?600 per person for a 3-day pass.

  • Additional Charges: For extended stays beyond 3 days, an extra fee is applicable. Carrying cameras incurs additional charges: ?500 for Indians and ?1,500 for foreigners per day .

• Validity: The permit is valid for 3 days. Extensions require renewal at the check post.

• Park Timings:

  • Opening Time: 7:00 AM

  • Last Entry: 2:00 PM

  • Closing Time: 5:00 PM

  • Visitors must exit the park by 5:00 PM; overnight stays within the park are prohibited .

• Environmental Guidelines:

  • The park is a designated plastic-free zone. Visitors must avoid carrying plastic bags and wrappers.

  • An undertaking is required, affirming that visitors will not harm the flora or fauna within the park .

Hemkund Sahib Trek Entry and Registration

• Permit Requirement: No special permit is required to trek to Hemkund Sahib. However, registration is mandatory.

• Registration Process:

  • Online Registration: Trekkers must register through the official Uttarakhand government portal: registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in.

  • Verification: Post-registration, document verification is conducted at the registration center in Govindghat. Trekkers should carry a government-issued ID and a medical certificate to confirm fitness for the trek .

• Trekking Guidelines:

  • The trek from Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib is approximately 6 km and is considered steep and challenging.

  • Trekkers are advised to start early in the morning to return to Ghangaria before afternoon, as weather conditions can change rapidly.

  • No trekking is allowed after 2:00 PM due to safety concerns .

Additional Tips

• Identification: Always carry a valid government-issued ID for verification purposes.

• Environmental Responsibility:

  • Adhere to the 'Leave No Trace' principles. Dispose of waste responsibly and avoid disturbing the natural habitat.

  • Stay on designated trails to protect the fragile ecosystem.

• Health and Safety:

  • Acclimatize properly to prevent altitude sickness.

  • Carry necessary medications and a basic first-aid kit.

  • Be prepared for sudden weather changes; carry appropriate clothing and gear.

• Accommodation: Overnight stays are not permitted within the Valley of Flowers National Park. Accommodation is available in Ghangaria, including guesthouses and tents. It's advisable to book in advance during peak season .

Inclusions with Avada Holidays & Adventure Trek Package:

• All accommodations (hotels, guesthouses, camps)

• All meals during the trek

• Transportation from Haridwar and back

• Trek leader, permits, guides, and support staff

• First-aid, safety gear, and oxygen support