Valley of Flowers is a moderate trek in Chamoli district, Uttarakhand, to a UNESCO World Heritage national park at about 3,650 m, usually combined with Hemkund Sahib at 4,300 m. The park is open from June to October, and the flowers are at their peak from mid-July to mid-August.
About the Valley of Flowers trek
From Govindghat the trail climbs to Ghangaria, the base for both the valley and Hemkund Sahib. The valley itself is a few kilometres beyond, a glacial corridor carpeted with hundreds of flower species in the monsoon.
The highest point listed here is Hemkund Sahib, visited on a side trip; the valley floor is about 3,650 m.
When to go
Best months: Jul, Aug
- Jannot recommended
- Febnot recommended
- Marnot recommended
- Aprnot recommended
- Maynot recommended
- Junnot recommended
- Julrecommended
- Augrecommended
- Sepnot recommended
- Octnot recommended
- Novnot recommended
- Decnot recommended
Open June to October. Mid-July to mid-August is peak bloom; September has fewer flowers but clearer skies.
How difficult is it?
- Easy
- Easy–Moderate
- Moderate
- Moderate–Difficult
- Difficult
The trails are well built, but days are long and the climb to Hemkund Sahib is steep. Monsoon rain is common during the flowering season.
How to reach
- Nearest city
- Joshimath
- Nearest railway
- Rishikesh
- Nearest airport
- Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun
- Permits & rules
- Entry to the national park is controlled at the forest checkpost; confirm current fees and timings.
Common questions
When is the best time for Valley of Flowers?
Mid-July to mid-August for peak bloom. The park is open June to October.
How high is Hemkund Sahib?
About 4,300 m (around 14,100 ft).