Valley of Flowers National Park, Uttarakhand

The Valley of Flowers National Park, set against the stunning backdrop of the mighty Himalayan ranges, offers an ethereal view and an unforgettable experience for visitors. Covering an area of 87 square kilometres in the Chamoli district, this park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and part of the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve, which includes two core zones: the Valley of Flowers and the Nanda Devi National Park.

The valley is believed to have been discovered in 1931 when three British mountaineers, led by Frank S. Smythe, lost their way and stumbled upon this spectacular location. Enchanted by its beauty, they named it the “Valley of Flowers.”

True to its name, the Valley of Flowers is a destination where nature flourishes, providing a breathtaking experience. It is home to over 600 species of exotic flowers, including orchids, poppies, primulas, marigolds, daisies, and anemones, creating a stunning visual spectacle. Sub-alpine forests of birch and rhododendrons also cover parts of the park. The trek to the valley reveals captivating sights such as cascading waterfalls and wild streams.

Located at an altitude of around 3,600 meters above sea level, the valley is also a habitat for rare and fascinating wildlife species, including the grey langur, flying squirrel, Himalayan weasel, black bear, red fox, lime butterfly, snow leopard, and Himalayan monal, among others.

When to visit

The flowers here can be best viewed between May and October, a time when the area turns into a botanical wonderland although the maximum abundance of flowers is from July to September.

Attractions near Valley of Flowers

Hemkunt Lake

Hemkunt Lake, located near the Valley of Flowers, is a mesmerizing glacial lake at an altitude of 4,633 meters, offering breathtaking views of its crystal-clear waters surrounded by towering peaks. Renowned for its spiritual significance, the lake is home to Hemkunt Sahib Gurudwara, attracting Sikh pilgrims and trekkers who brave the challenging yet rewarding journey to experience its serene beauty.

Hemkund Sahib

Hemkunt Sahib, perched near Hemkunt Lake, is one of the highest Sikh gurudwaras in the world, dedicated to Guru Gobind Singh Ji. This sacred site, surrounded by snow-clad peaks, offers a tranquil retreat for pilgrims and trekkers, blending spirituality with the awe-inspiring beauty of the Himalayas.

Govind Ghat

Govindghat, situated at the confluence of the Alaknanda and Lakshman Ganga rivers, serves as the base for treks to Hemkunt Sahib and the Valley of Flowers. This small yet bustling town offers facilities for pilgrims and trekkers, with scenic surroundings that set the tone for an adventurous and spiritual journey ahead.

Joshimath

Joshimath, a picturesque town in Uttarakhand, is a significant gateway to sacred sites like Badrinath, Hemkunt Sahib, and the Valley of Flowers. Located around 14 km away, Joshimath is the winter seat of Lord Badri, with the idol from Badrinath temple ceremoniously brought down to the Narsingh temple, dedicated to an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The town also serves as the gateway to Auli, a renowned ski destination, and is connected to it by a popular cable car (ropeway), offering breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks.

Mana

Mana, the last village of India near the Indo-Tibetan border, is located just 30 km from the Valley of Flowers and can be reached from Govindghat by taxi in about two hours. Renowned for its cultural and historical significance, Mana is home to ancient sites such as the Vyas Gufa and Ganesh Gufa, where it is believed the Mahabharata was written. Surrounded by majestic Himalayan peaks, the village offers a unique blend of spirituality, folklore, and stunning natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for pilgrims and trekkers alike.

Pandukeshwar

Pandukeshwar, a sacred place located en route from the Valley of Flowers to Badrinath, is believed to be the spot where King Pandu, father of the Pandavas, worshipped Lord Shiva. The town is home to two famous temples: the Yogadhyan Badri Temple, one of the Sapta Badri or seven shrines of Lord Vishnu in the state, and the Lord Vasudev Temple. It takes about 4 hours of trekking to reach this peaceful and spiritual destination, offering a serene experience amidst the majestic Himalayan landscape.

Nanda Devi National Park

Adjacent to the Valley of Flowers is the Nanda Devi National Park, established as a National Park in 1982. An expanse of natural beauty, the Nanda Devi peak looms over the park, increasing its magic and grandeur. Covering 630 square kilometres, the park is home to diverse wildlife, including the snow leopard, Himalayan tahr, and bharal, and offers a challenging yet rewarding experience for trekkers and nature enthusiasts. Its pristine environment and awe-inspiring landscapes make it a must-visit destination for those seeking adventure and tranquillity in the heart of the Himalayas.

Ghangharia

Ghangaria is a scenic hamlet perched at an altitude of 3,050 meters above sea level, located at the confluence of the rivers Bhyundar Ganga and Pushpawati, which form the Lakshman Ganga before merging with the Alaknanda River at Govindghat. It can be reached after an easy 13 km trek from Govindghat and is the last human habitation on the way to Hemkund Sahib and the Valley of Flowers. Surrounded by lush forests and towering peaks, Ghangaria serves as a base camp for pilgrims and trekkers, offering a peaceful stop before continuing the journey to these revered destinations.