Introduction
When you think of a journey, you likely picture yourself traveling over rocky mountain slopes that are occasionally punctuated by lakes or waterfalls and covered in either snow or forest. However, the walk through the valley of flowers is nothing like that; although you will need to ascend through the same slopes as on other treks, the destination will enthrall you with its great diversity of flora. The most unusual flowers can be found here. This is undoubtedly the reason why this walk is among the most well-liked treks in the Himalayas. Even people who don’t hike have heard about this valley. Valley of Flowers is a stunningly beautiful and remote area in the Himalayas, located in the northern part of India. It is home to some of the most exquisite and vibrant flowers in the world, and has been declared a National Park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Every summer, travelers from around the world flock to this area to witness its unparalleled beauty.
THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT
The hike is located at a height of about 15000 metres. The hike is a little challenging, and people typically need more days to finish it. This trek requires considerable experience, and the steep hills could test your stamina and energy. The walk must be completed in its entirety in roughly 6 days. Make sure to pack the right hiking equipment.
Things to see in VALLEY OF FLOWERS
The Valley of Flowers is a stunning national park located in the Indian Himalayas, in the state of Uttarakhand. It is home to a wide variety of endangered and rare species of mountain flowers, including the Himalayan brahmakamal, the cobra lily, and the blue poppy. It is also home to a wide variety of animals, including the endangered Asiatic black bear, snow leopard, Tibetan antelope, and Himalayan musk deer.
The Valley of Flowers is renowned for its unique combination of meadows, marshland, and alpine flower pastures. It also offers stunning views of the majestic peaks of the western Himalayas, including Nanda Devi, Kamet, and Rataban. The best time to visit the Valley of Flowers is during the monsoon season, when the valley is blanketed with a colorful array of wildflowers. During the rest of the year, one can find patches of wildflowers blooming among the lush green meadows and alpine pastures.
HISTORY
This trip has a fascinating history and is the oldest in India. According to legend, Guru Govind Singh, the tenth guru of the Sikhs, meditated on this peak until he attained unity with God. Frank Smythe made the discovery of this valley. The Valley of Flowers National Park was established by the Indian government in 1980, and in 2002, UNESCO designated it a World Heritage site.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
The rainy season, which lasts from June to August, is the ideal time to go hiking in the valley, particularly in the months of May and June when the sky is still clear. Temperatures during this season range from 6 to 10 degrees at night and 10 to 15 degrees during the day, making for a chilly but comfortable atmosphere. The valley is at its best to astound you with its flora during the monsoon season. And you will witness the meadows and a wide variety of flowers.
THINGS TO SEE
As is seen, this valley is home to a great variety of plants. And flowers as well as endangered animal species. It is also home to certain endangered wildlife including the snow leopard. Musk bear, Asiatic black bear, blue sheep, and red sheep, among others. You may find lovely flowers like blue poppies and snake foils there.
During your ascent, you will be able to see enormous gorges. And streams that are flowing in the direction you are travelling. In this area, there are many of Himalayan alpine meadows and bushes.
Visit Hemkund Sahib ji, the 4500-meter-high Gurudwara that holds the record for highest gurdwara in the world.
The extremely uncommon Brahma Kamals can be found growing on the banks of the Hemkund Lake, which is behind the gurudwara.
Things to carry for VALLEY OF FLOWERS trek
The Valley of Flowers trek is a beautiful, yet challenging adventure. It’s important to be well-prepared with the right gear to make sure you enjoy the trek to its fullest. Here are some of the essential items to bring with you:
First, you’ll want to bring the right clothing and hiking gear. Waterproof jackets, breathable and quick-drying clothes, and a good pair of hiking boots or shoes are a must. Additionally, it’s also a good idea to bring a hat, scarf, and gloves for the cooler days.
BUDGET
Numerous travel agencies offer trekking packages starting at about $7,500. Not including the cost of transportation to and from the base. They cover the costs of the trained hikers and mountaineers who will help you. Often 2 meals per day, and the rental of hiking equipment. They often assist you from the base camp or may transport you there from other nearby meeting places.
SHORT ITINERARY
The Haridwar railway station is the one closest to the base camp and is also the busiest. The trek’s base camp is in Joshimath.
You must first travel from Haridwar to Joshimath. You can do this by hiring a car or joining a tour group on a Tempo traveller. It takes about six hours to drive.
Start your trek the following day early from Joshimath, preferably by cab to Govindghat. From here, you can hike the same day along the route to Ghangaria.
Last but not least, hike from Ghangaria to the last goal, the valley of flowers. It’ll take 7-8 hours to do this. If necessary, prepare some refreshments in advance to take with you.
The following day, depart from Gangaria towards Govind Ghat or Hemkund Sahib. From here, you may drive to Joshimath.
THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND
You might need to build up your stamina in advance because the walk is not very easy. Try to start running or doing other aerobic exercises a month before the walk.
A backpack with a rain cover, energy bars, a water bottle, sunscreen, a small first aid kit. Hand sanitizer, wind and waterproof coats, gloves, etc. are the items you should preferably have with you.
Joshimath or Govindghat will be your last options for finding a decent network. Throughout the voyage, the network is not the finest, thus problems might arise. Therefore, finish your vital tasks in advance and try to stay free during this time.
We hope that after reading this, all of your questions have been answered and you are prepared to hike.
