The Valley of Flowers National Park in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand is one of nature's most extraordinary spectacles. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this alpine valley blooms with over 600 species of wildflowers from July to September, painting the landscape in every color imaginable.
Our 6-day trek also includes a visit to Hemkund Sahib — a revered Sikh shrine at 4,329m above sea level, surrounded by a glacial lake and seven mountain peaks. This is one of the most accessible and rewarding Himalayan treks, perfect for first-timers and families.
UNESCO World Heritage Site
One of only a handful of World Heritage Sites in India — an ecologically irreplaceable landscape.
600+ Wildflower Species
From Brahma Kamal to blue poppies — the rarest and most beautiful Himalayan flora all in one valley.
Hemkund Sahib — 4,329m
Visit the highest Gurudwara in the world, perched beside a glacial lake surrounded by seven peaks.
Himalayan Wildlife
Spot Blue Sheep, Himalayan Monal (state bird), and if lucky — the elusive Snow Leopard tracks.
Pushpawati River
Trek alongside the Pushpawati (Flower River), which flows through the heart of the valley.
Photographer's Paradise
Unparalleled macro and landscape photography opportunities in peak bloom season (Jul–Aug).
Arrive Haridwar / Rishikesh — Drive to Joshimath
Arrive at Haridwar or Rishikesh. Drive to Joshimath (250km, approx. 9 hrs) via Devprayag, Rudraprayag, and Chamoli — a stunning river valley drive. Overnight in Joshimath.
Joshimath → Govindghat → Ghangaria
Drive to Govindghat (20km), then trek 13km to Ghangaria through dense pine forests alongside the Pushpawati river. Ghangaria is the base for both Valley of Flowers and Hemkund Sahib.
- 7:00 AM: Breakfast at Joshimath
- 8:00 AM: Drive to Govindghat (45 min)
- 9:00 AM: Trek begins at Govindghat
- 12:00 PM: Reach Pulna, rest stop
- 2:00 PM: Continue to Ghangaria
- 4:30 PM: Reach Ghangaria, check in
- 5:00 PM: Evening briefing on Valley
- 7:30 PM: Dinner at camp
Valley of Flowers — The Bloom Day
The crown jewel of the trek! Walk 3km into the Valley of Flowers (3,500–3,658m). Spend 4–5 hours exploring this UNESCO paradise — 600+ species of wildflowers in full bloom. Photography, picnic, and pure wonder.
- 6:00 AM: Early breakfast
- 7:00 AM: Enter Valley of Flowers National Park
- 8:00 AM: Trek into the valley (3km to entry meadow)
- 8:30 AM – 1:30 PM: Explore the valley, photography
- Common flowers: Brahma Kamal, Blue Poppy, Cobra Lily
- Possible wildlife: Blue Sheep, Himalayan Monal
- 2:00 PM: Packed lunch in the valley
- 4:00 PM: Return to Ghangaria
Hemkund Sahib — Sacred Lake at 4,329m
Trek 6km uphill from Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib (4,329m) — the world's highest Gurudwara, perched beside a star-shaped glacial lake. The climb is steep but the experience is utterly transcendent.
Ghangaria → Govindghat → Joshimath
Final descent from Ghangaria back to Govindghat (13km). Drive back to Joshimath. Celebrate the trek completion with a group dinner. Rest overnight for the drive back tomorrow.
Joshimath → Haridwar / Rishikesh Departure
After breakfast, the long scenic drive back to Haridwar or Rishikesh (approx. 9 hrs). Drop at railway station or hotel. You leave having witnessed one of Earth's most extraordinary natural spectacles.
Included
Not Included
I am not exaggerating when I say this is the most beautiful place I have ever stood. The valley in August looks like someone painted every possible color across the ground. Our naturalist guide could name every flower — that added so much depth to the experience. MilesNPeople handled everything seamlessly.
We did this with our 11-year-old daughter — the easy difficulty made it perfect for families. She loved collecting flower names in the booklet MilesNPeople provided. Hemkund Sahib on day 4 was deeply moving. An unforgettable family experience from start to finish.
The Valley blooms from late June to September. July and August are the absolute peak — the valley is a riot of color with thousands of flowers in full bloom. Late June sees the early species begin, while September features autumn tones and fewer crowds. The valley is completely closed October to May due to snow.
Yes! The Valley of Flowers trek is rated EASY and is one of the most family-friendly Himalayan treks. The daily trekking distances are moderate, the trails are well-marked, and the maximum altitude (3,658m) is manageable with acclimatization. Children aged 8+ and seniors up to 65 have completed this trek comfortably. Hemkund Sahib (day 4) is steeper and optional.
Yes, personal photography is permitted and encouraged! The Valley of Flowers is one of the world's great photography destinations. Please stay on designated trails as the ecosystem is fragile and protected under national park rules. Drones are not permitted. Our naturalist guide will help you identify and photograph the rarest species.
The Govindghat to Ghangaria stretch (13km) is a gradual uphill walk — not steep, but long. It takes 4–6 hours at a comfortable pace. Those who find it difficult can hire a mule or take the helicopter service (Pawan Hans, subject to availability, ~₹3,500 one way). We accommodate all fitness levels.
Over 600 species! Highlights include: Brahma Kamal (the state flower of Uttarakhand), Himalayan Blue Poppy, Cobra Lily (Arisaema), Marsh Marigold, Primula, Geranium, Campanula, Aconitum (Monkshood), and dozens of orchid species. Each visit offers a different palette depending on the week and season.