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Valley-of-Flowers
Location
Chamoli district in Garhwal region of Uttarakhand state, India.
Distance
National Capital Delhi: 515 km State Capital Dehradun: 342 km
Altitude
3,658 meters (12,000 feet) above sea level.
Best Season To Visit
July to September
Facts About Valley-of-Flowers
The Valley of Flowers, located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, India, is a breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant alpine flowers, and rich biodiversity. Situated at an altitude ranging from approximately 3,200 to 6,675 meters (10,500 to 21,870 feet) above sea level in the Western Himalayas, the valley is nestled amidst snow-capped peaks, lush green meadows, and cascading waterfalls, creating a paradise-like setting that captivates visitors from around the world.
The Valley of Flowers is famous for its colorful floral displays, which bloom in abundance during the monsoon season, typically from July to September. The valley is home to over 600 species of flowering plants, including rare and endemic species such as the blue poppy, brahma kamal, and cobra lily, which paint the landscape with hues of pink, blue, yellow, and purple, creating a mesmerizing spectacle that stretches as far as the eye can see.
In addition to its floral beauty, the Valley of Flowers is also home to a diverse range of fauna, including several species of mammals, birds, and butterflies. Visitors may encounter wildlife such as the Himalayan musk deer, snow leopard, and various species of birds and butterflies while exploring the valley's trails and meadows.
The Valley of Flowers is a popular destination for trekking enthusiasts, offering several trekking routes that allow visitors to explore its natural wonders. The trek to the valley typically begins from the village of Govindghat, from where visitors embark on a scenic journey through picturesque villages, dense forests, and alpine meadows before reaching the valley itself. The trek is relatively moderate in difficulty, making it accessible to both novice and experienced trekkers.
Apart from trekking, visitors to the Valley of Flowers can also enjoy camping amidst nature, photography opportunities, and birdwatching. The valley's serene ambiance, fresh mountain air, and panoramic views of the surrounding peaks create a tranquil environment ideal for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Due to its remote location and fragile ecosystem, the Valley of Flowers is protected as a national park and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors are required to obtain permits from the forest department before entering the valley and are encouraged to practice responsible tourism to preserve its natural beauty for future generations to enjoy.
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Valley-of-Flowers :- Famous Visiting Places
1. Hemkund Sahib
Hemkund Sahib is a revered Sikh pilgrimage site located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, near the Valley of Flowers. Situated at an altitude of 4,632 meters (15,197 feet) amidst the majestic Himalayan peaks, this sacred shrine is dedicated to Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh Guru. The site holds significant spiritual importance for Sikhs, who undertake a challenging trek to reach the shrine. The journey to Hemkund Sahib is both arduous and rewarding, with trekkers traversing through dense forests, scenic meadows, and picturesque landscapes. The pilgrimage season is typically between June and October, when the weather conditions are more favorable. Hemkund Sahib is also known for its serene surroundings, with a crystal-clear lake adjacent to the gurudwara, surrounded by snow-capped mountains, making it a serene and spiritually uplifting destination.
2. Badrinath
Badrinath is one of the four Char Dham pilgrimage sites in Uttarakhand and is located in the town of Badrinath, near the Valley of Flowers. The Badrinath Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is an important Hindu pilgrimage site and one of the 108 Divya Desams, sacred shrines for Vaishnavites. The temple is situated at an altitude of 3,133 meters (10,279 feet) along the banks of the Alaknanda River, surrounded by the snow-clad peaks of the Himalayas. The temple's architecture features intricate carvings and sculptures, and it attracts thousands of devotees each year. The region around Badrinath is rich in natural beauty, with lush green valleys and majestic mountains, offering stunning views and a serene environment for spiritual reflection.
3. Nanda Devi National Park
Nanda Devi National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand. The park, which covers an area of approximately 630 square kilometers, is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and rich biodiversity. It encompasses the Nanda Devi and Nanda Devi East peaks, which are among the highest mountains in India. The park is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including rare and endangered species such as the Himalayan tahr, bharal (blue sheep), and the elusive snow leopard. The diverse landscape includes alpine meadows, dense forests, and rugged terrains. The park is also noted for its unique ecosystem and pristine natural environment, making it a prime destination for trekkers, wildlife enthusiasts, and nature lovers.
4. Hemkund Lake
Hemkund Lake is a serene and sacred high-altitude lake located near the Hemkund Sahib Gurudwara, at an elevation of 4,632 meters (15,197 feet). The lake is a major attraction for pilgrims and trekkers visiting Hemkund Sahib. The pristine waters of the lake are surrounded by towering snow-covered peaks, which create a stunning reflection in the lake’s surface. The lake is believed to be the place where Guru Gobind Singh meditated in his previous life. The journey to the lake involves a challenging trek through rugged terrain, dense forests, and beautiful meadows. The tranquil environment, combined with the spectacular natural beauty, makes Hemkund Lake a serene and spiritual destination, providing a perfect backdrop for meditation and introspection.
5. Kuari Pass
Kuari Pass is located in the Garhwal Himalayas, is a popular trekking destination offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks. The pass is situated at an altitude of approximately 3,660 meters (12,008 feet) and is part of the Nanda Devi National Park. The trek to Kuari Pass takes you through diverse landscapes, including dense forests, lush meadows, and rugged mountain terrains. Trekkers are rewarded with stunning views of some of the highest peaks in the region, including Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Dronagiri. The trek is considered moderate to challenging and is ideal for experienced trekkers looking for a memorable adventure. The route also offers glimpses into the traditional lifestyle of the local Garhwali people, enhancing the overall trekking experience.
6. Gurudwara Gobind Dham
Gurudwara Gobind Dham is a significant Sikh shrine located in the picturesque region of Uttarakhand, nestled amidst the scenic beauty of the Himalayas. The gurudwara is dedicated to Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh Guru, and is an important place of worship for Sikhs. The shrine is situated in a serene environment, surrounded by lush green forests and snow-capped peaks, creating a tranquil and spiritually uplifting atmosphere. Gurudwara Gobind Dham is known for its peaceful ambiance and the warm hospitality extended to pilgrims and visitors. The gurudwara serves as a spiritual retreat and a place of reflection, where visitors can immerse themselves in prayer and meditation while enjoying the stunning natural beauty of the surrounding landscape.
How to Reach
By Road
Govind ghat is well connected by road network. Bus services are available from Delhi to Haridwar, Rishikesh and Mussoorie after that one can hire taxi and other public or private transport services then you have to cover approximately 15 km to reach to Valley of flowers.
By Train
Rishikesh is the nearest railway station. After reaching Rishikesh one can take bus, taxi and shared jeep services to Govind ghat and then you have to cover approximately 15 km to reach to Valley of flowers.
By Air
Jolly Grant Airport is the nearest airport to Valley of Flowers. Daily flight services are available from Delhi to Dehradun. After that one can pick bus or taxi services to Govind Ghat and then commence a distance of 15 km approximately to reach to Valley of Flowers.
Climate & Weather
summer
Summer (April to June): The Valley of Flowers is accessible in late June, with temperatures ranging from 12°C to 20°C. The snow starts to melt, and the valley begins to bloom with a variety of flowers. The cool and crisp air adds to the beauty of the region.
monsoon
Monsoon (July to September): Monsoon is the peak season for the Valley of Flowers, with temperatures between 10°C and 15°C. The valley is in full bloom, with a carpet of colorful flowers. However, the rains can make the trek challenging, and landslides are common.
autumn
Autumn (October to November): The Valley of Flowers is closed to tourists by October due to the onset of winter. The temperatures begin to drop, and the flowers start to wither, leaving the valley covered in frost.
winter
Winter (December to February): The Valley of Flowers is covered in snow during winter, and the region is inaccessible. The temperatures drop below freezing, and the valley remains dormant until the next summer.
Hotels Around Valley-of-Flowers
In the vicinity of the Valley of Flowers, accommodation options are limited due to its remote and protected location. Visitors typically stay in nearby towns and villages and travel to the valley for day trips. Here are some options for accommodation near the Valley of Flowers:
1. Joshimath: Located approximately 20 kilometers from Govindghat, Joshimath offers a range of hotels, guesthouses, and lodges for travelers. Some popular options include The Tattva Resort, Himalayan Abode Homestay, and Hotel Mount View.
2. Govindghat: Situated at the base of the trekking route to the Valley of Flowers, Govindghat has several guesthouses and budget accommodations catering to pilgrims and trekkers. GMVN Tourist Rest House and Shree Chardham Tourist Lodge are some options to consider.
3. Ghangaria: The last settlement before the Valley of Flowers, Ghangaria offers basic guesthouses and tents for overnight stays. Due to its proximity to the valley, it's a popular choice for trekkers. Some options include Ghangaria Camps and GMVN Tourist Rest House.
4. Rudraprayag: Located further away from the Valley of Flowers, Rudraprayag offers a wider range of accommodation options including hotels, resorts, and guesthouses. Rudraprayag is approximately 100 kilometers from Govindghat and serves as a convenient stopover for travelers.
5. Chamoli: Another option for accommodation is Chamoli, which is about 80 kilometers from Govindghat. Chamoli offers a variety of hotels and guesthouses for travelers exploring the region.
It's important to note that accommodation options near the Valley of Flowers may be basic and facilities may vary. It's advisable to book accommodations in advance, especially during the peak tourist season, to ensure availability. Additionally, travelers should be prepared for basic amenities and rustic accommodations due to the remote nature of the region.: