Trekking Builds Strength and Willpower
We love trekking for the positive transformation it brings about — the rejuvenation it provides from the hustle of modern life.
“Everyone wants to live on top of the mountain, but all the happiness and growth occurs while you are climbing it.”
My Connection with the Himalayas
Every mountain lover has heard about the Valley of Flowers, isn’t it?
What comes to your mind when you think about a road trip in the Himalayas? The snow-clad mountains, the smooth roads, the crystal-clear water streams, right?
If you have grown up in New Delhi, you know how much the mountains mean to us — whether for a quick weekend escape with friends or a family holiday!
I have always been an avid traveller, thanks to my father, who left no stone unturned for me and my siblings. While most of my classmates spent their summer holidays with relatives, I was busy prepping for mountain trips. My father loved driving, and every trip was about traveling, eating, and making memories.
(I’ll save my childhood travel stories for another blog post!)
The Valley of Flowers has been on my bucket list for a long time. But sadly, commercialization and over-tourism are harming such pristine places.
As a travel company owner myself, I feel strongly that awareness about responsible travel is more important than just promoting tours. Trekking should be a mindful choice — not just because of social media pressure or Bollywood films like Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani.
Another thing that disturbed me was seeing tourists carrying loud music systems on treks. For anyone reading this — please don’t do that. It’s not cool at all.
Valley of Flowers
Situated at 12,654 ft (3858 m) in Chamoli’s Bhyundar Valley, the Valley of Flowers spreads over 87.5 sq. km. It forms part of the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve and was declared a National Park in 1982. Today, it is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Blessed with waterfalls, glaciers, and meadows, the valley is home to:
- Asiatic Black Bear
- Snow Leopard
- Blue Sheep & Musk Deer
- Himalayan Monal & Golden Eagle
- Snow Partridge & Pigeon
There are over 650 species of flowers, according to The Valley of Flowers – Myth and Reality. Botanists believe the number may actually cross 1,000 species.
Best Time to Visit
🌸 May–June: Valley remains snow-covered; not open for tourists.
🌸 July–September: Peak blooming season; best time to explore. Expect butterflies, deer, and occasional rainfall.
🌸 October–February: Closed for tourists; valley remains snow-covered.
👉 Ideal time: July–September (especially August).
Why Visit VOF?
Known as Bhyundar Valley or Nandan Kanan – Indra’s Garden, this mystical land is steeped in mythology.
- Lakshman is said to have done penance here after killing Ravana’s son.
- The legendary Sanjeevani herb (which revived him) is believed to have grown in this region.
- Hemkund Sahib, a revered Sikh shrine, is close by.
Recent Environmental Change
In 2022, the flowers bloomed unusually early due to global warming. The Valley opened on 1st June instead of late June.
Things to Do in Valley of Flowers
1. Trekking
Paradise for trekkers, photographers, and nature lovers. Don’t miss Tipra Glacier Point (2-hr hike from the entrance).
2. Village Tours
Stay in Ghangaria (13 km from Govindghat) to experience authentic mountain life.
3. Pilgrimage
Visit Hemkund Sahib, one of Uttarakhand’s most revered Sikh shrines.
Trekking Details
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate (Altitude: 3,352–3,658 m)
- Preparation:
- 30–45 min brisk walk/jogging daily
- Strengthen legs with workouts
- Build stamina before trek
- Duration:
- 2–3 days (fast track)
- 4–6 days (ideal from Delhi)
- 7–10 days (leisurely trip)
Travel Guide
How to Reach from Delhi
- Bus: ISBT → Rishikesh → onward bus
- Train: Nizamuddin → Rishikesh → taxi/shared jeep
- Taxi: Direct hire possible
What to Pack
- Light clothes: track pants, cotton T-shirts
- Woollens: thermals, gloves, socks, cap
- Trekking shoes + slippers/floaters
- Raincoat / poncho
- Knee support, pain relief spray, first-aid kit
- Sunscreen, moisturizer, lip balm
- Dry fruits, energy bars
- Extra plastic bags
- Cash (no ATMs beyond Joshimath except Badrinath)
Stay Options
🏨 Guesthouses & Hotels: ₹300 – ₹5,000 per night
⛺ Tents: ₹500 – ₹3,000 (more peaceful near Ghangaria)
Mobile Network
- No Airtel/Jio/Idea beyond Joshimath
- BSNL may work around Ghangaria (not reliable)
Day-wise Itinerary (Sample)
Day 1: Delhi – Rishikesh – Devprayag (11 hrs drive, stay by Alaknanda River)
Day 2: Rishikesh – Joshimath (visit Kalpvriksha & Narsingh Temple)
Day 3: Govindghat – Ghangaria trek (14 km)
Day 4: Trek to Valley of Flowers (8 km)
Day 5: Ghangaria – Govindghat – Devprayag
Day 6: Devprayag – Delhi
Bonus Tips
✔ VOF opens 1st June every year → book early
✔ Entry timings: 7 AM – 2 PM (last entry)
✔ Carry cash → no ATMs after Joshimath
✔ Strictly no plastic or littering
✔ Parking available at Govindghat & Pulna
Conclusion
If you are a mountain lover and a keen explorer, the Valley of Flowers is a must-visit — even for beginners.
🌸 So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready to witness one of nature’s most magical creations!