Located in Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, the Valley of Flowers National Park officially reopened to tourists on June 1 and will remain accessible until October 31. This seasonal wonder, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is widely known for its sweeping alpine meadows blanketed in vibrant wildflowers.
Spanning 87 sq km within the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve and perched at an altitude of 3,600 metres, the Valley of Flowers welcomed 62 visitors on its opening day. Tourists were greeted warmly by forest officials at the main gate, marking the beginning of another enchanting season in the Himalayas.
The valley is home to more than 300 species of Himalayan flora, including orchids, poppies, marigolds, daisies, primulas, and the revered Brahma Kamal—Uttarakhand’s state flower. Wildlife enthusiasts may also encounter rare species such as the Himalayan black bear, red fox, and the elusive snow leopard.
How to Reach
Travel to the Valley of Flowers begins at Govindghat. From there, a moderate trek leads to Ghangaria, the base camp for visitors. A further three-kilometre trek from Ghangaria takes travellers into the heart of the valley. Entry permits are required and can now be conveniently obtained online through the official tourism website, which makes the process easier for both domestic and international tourists.
Best Time to Visit
While the valley remains open until October, the peak blooming season is between July and September. During this period, the monsoon rains transform the landscape into a vivid canvas of colour, offering the best views and photo opportunities.
What to Do in the Valley of Flowers
Trek Through Flower-Covered Trails: A scenic three-kilometre trail from Ghangaria takes visitors through a lush floral expanse bursting with endemic Himalayan blooms. During peak bloom (July to September), you can witness orchids, poppies, daisies, and Brahma Kamal.
Flora and Fauna Spotting: Nature lovers can witness rare alpine plants and possibly spot high-altitude wildlife, including several bird species.
Visit Hemkund Sahib: A popular extension from Ghangaria, the sacred Sikh pilgrimage site of Hemkund Sahib sits at 4,329 metres and involves a challenging six-kilometre trek. The steep trek is about six kilometres one way and takes around six to seven hours round trip.
Photography and Nature Walks: Ideal for photographers, the valley offers mesmerizing views and macro opportunities, especially during early morning and late afternoon hours.
Explore Ghangaria Village: Immerse yourself in local culture by exploring the village, sampling traditional Garhwali cuisine, and interacting with the welcoming locals.
With its unmatched natural beauty, rich biodiversity, and spiritual significance, the Valley of Flowers continues to be one of India’s most treasured seasonal getaways—earning a top spot on every nature enthusiast’s bucket list.
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