The Valley of Flowers is a kaleidoscopic experience for flower lovers and trekkers. This national park is a part of Nanda Devi Biosphere Zone and has an amazing variety of flora and fauna.
This trek is considered moderate-level and requires a good fitness level. It also involves high altitude trekking, which may cause altitude sickness in some people.
Colors of the Valley
The Valley of Flowers is a paradise for flower-lovers, botanists and trekkers. It has 520 different types of flowers with rare ones such as Cobra Lily, Brahmakamal and Blue Poppy. Moreover, it is home to endangered animals such as snow leopard, Himalayan black bear, musk deer, and wild boar.
You can also find native flowers such as white leaf, meadow geranium, hog foot and Himalayan rose. It is best to visit this breathtakingly beautiful national park during monsoon season as that is when the flowers are in full bloom.
The Valley of Flowers was discovered accidentally in 1931 by Frank Smythe, Eric Shipton and RL Holdsworth while returning from an expedition to Mount Kamet. It was declared a national park in 1980 and is under the UNESCO’s Man and Biosphere Reserve. Make sure to acclimatize properly before attempting this trek as the altitude can be quite taxing on your body. Also, it is important to carry enough water and food during this trek.
Wildflowers
The Valley of Flowers is a nature lover’s paradise. The meadows are brimming with exotic wildflowers such as saxifrages, sediams, lilies, daisies and others. These vibrant flora can be seen all around the area including the slopes of mountains.
While the Valley of Flowers can be enjoyed all year round, the best time to visit is from June to September. This is when the flowers bloom in all their glory.
The trek isn’t easy and requires a high fitness level. It’s best to acclimatize in Joshimath and Govindghat before starting the trek. Cottages and homestays are available in Govindghat and Joshimath, offering a more family-style experience and better value than hotels. The Valley of Flowers and Hemkund Sahib are also crowded with Sikh pilgrims during this season. Therefore, it’s advisable to book accommodations in advance. Also, don’t forget to carry your own packed lunches as there are no restaurants or shacks inside the national park.
Birds
A trek to the Valley of Flowers is more than just a hike. It’s an experience that will leave you awe-struck by its beauty and wonder. The flowers will fill your lungs with fresh air and soothe your soul.
The valley is a mesmerizing display of endemic and rare alpine flowers, lush meadows, and some endangered animals and birds. Snow leopards, musk deer, Himalayan monal, pheasant, and the colorful brahma kamal can be found in the region.
The Valley of Flowers is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and National Park. It is the perfect place to explore nature and spirituality, as it offers a glimpse of heaven on earth. The trek begins from Govindghat, a small village near Joshimath. From here, tourists have to trek steadily to Ghangaria to reach the base camp of the Valley of Flowers. Upon reaching Ghangaria, tourists can stay in camps or hotels that offer food and accommodations. The trek is considered moderate-level and requires proper preparation.
Waterfalls
The gushing waterfalls and tiny streams on the Valley of Flowers trek are a feast for the eyes. It’s a treat for those who love nature and are looking for a way to recharge their batteries. The gentle cheeping of birds, the uplifting air, and the eye-catchy views are sure to give you an experience that will last forever.
The best time to visit Valley of Flowers is from the last week of July to mid-August when the flowers will be in full bloom. These months also bring fewer tourists and will give you the opportunity to see the waterfalls, which are a sight to behold during this season.
Many reputable tour companies offer guided multi-day tours to the Valley of Flowers. For example, Blue Poppy Holidays runs premium fixed-departure trips with tented camps and cottage stays. Thrillophilia, another popular adventure company, offers several different Valley of Flowers Trekking Tours with varying levels of accommodations and included activities.