🌸 Introduction: A Trek Into Paradise
The Valley of Flowers Trek is one of India’s most beautiful high-altitude treks, nestled in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. Known for its vibrant alpine blooms, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is best visited between July and September, when over 300 species of flowers blanket the valley.
This blog offers the complete Valley of Flowers itinerary 2025, practical travel tips, a cost breakdown, permit information, and answers to all your questions—making it a must-read before you pack your bags.
📅 Valley of Flowers Trek 5-Day Itinerary (2025 Edition)
🚌 Day 1: Haridwar to Joshimath / Govindghat
- Distance: 290 km | 10–12 hrs by shared Tempo Traveller
- Meals: Dinner included
- Stay: Budget hotel in Govindghat (double/triple sharing)
🥾 Day 2: Govindghat to Ghangaria via Pulna
- Drive to Pulna (4 km) by shared taxi
- Trek 10 km to Ghangaria (approx. 5–6 hours)
- Stay in guesthouse/dormitory
- Meals: Lunch and Dinner
🌺 Day 3: Trek to Valley of Flowers and Back
- 7 km one-way to Valley of Flowers
- Permit required (₹150 for Indians)
- Optional guide available (shared)
- Meals: Breakfast, packed lunch, dinner
- Stay: Ghangaria
⛰️ Day 4: Ghangaria to Govindghat + Drive to Joshimath
- Trek back 10 km to Pulna
- Drive to Joshimath
- Stay: Budget hotel
- Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
🚐 Day 5: Joshimath to Haridwar
- Drive back 280 km (10 hrs)
- Breakfast at own cost
💰 Valley of Flowers Trek Cost Breakdown
Item | Cost (INR) |
---|---|
Haridwar to Govindghat | ₹1,000 |
Hotels & Meals | ₹2,800 |
Ghangaria Stay (2N) | ₹2,200 |
Entry Permit | ₹150 |
Shared Guide (Optional) | ₹250 |
Transport & Transfers | ₹2,250 |
Total Approx. | ₹8,650 |
✅ Budget Packages under ₹6000 available for group bookings with The Himalayan Hikes.
🧳 What to Pack for the Valley of Flowers Trek (Monsoon Edition)
- Backpack (40-50L) with rain cover
- Waterproof trekking shoes
- Layered clothing (light woollens, waterproof jacket)
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and hat
- Power bank, torch/headlamp
- Rain gear: Poncho or umbrella
- First aid kit, ORS packets, and personal medication
- Trekking pole (optional but helpful)
📌 Avoid jeans and cotton clothes during the trek.
🗓️ Best Time to Visit Valley of Flowers
Month | Experience |
---|---|
July | Start of blooming season; fewer crowds |
August | Peak bloom, lush meadows |
September | Clear skies, fewer tourists, late bloom |
🌧️ Note: The trek is open from June to September only.
🧭 How to Reach Valley of Flowers from Haridwar
- Haridwar → Joshimath (290 km) – Shared bus/taxi (10-12 hrs)
- Joshimath → Govindghat → Pulna (1 hr drive)
- Pulna → Ghangaria (10 km trek, 5-6 hrs)
- Ghangaria → Valley of Flowers (7 km one way, 4-5 hrs)
📜 Valley of Flowers Trek Permit Process
- Indian Citizens: ₹150 (can be taken at Ghangaria)
- Foreign Nationals: ₹600
- Bring ID proof and passport-size photos
- Park Timings: 7 am to 2 pm entry (must return by 5 pm)
💡 Tip: Carry both digital and hard copies of your ID and permit.
🌐 Why Choose The Himalayan Hikes?
- Certified trek guides & support staff
- On-ground team at Govindghat & Ghangaria
- Medical backup with oxygen cylinder
- B2B and customized group pricing
- Real-time weather tracking & trail updates
- Packages starting from ₹7,499 for groups (10+ pax)
🔗 Explore our Valley of Flowers Packages
📸 Top Photography Spots in the Valley
- Pushpawati River crossing – Best morning light
- Entry bridge to the national park
- End viewpoint overlooking the glacier
- Hemkund Sahib (if extending trek by one day)
🎒 Pro Tip: Use a waterproof pouch for your phone/camera. Morning light (7-9am) is best for photography.
🙋♂️ FAQs: Everything You Should Know
Q1. Is Valley of Flowers trek good for beginners?
Yes, the trail is moderate but manageable with average fitness. No technical climbing required.
Q2. Can I do Valley of Flowers without a guide?
Yes, but a guide is recommended for better navigation and safety, especially during monsoon.
Q3. Are mules or porters available?
Yes, available in Ghangaria (₹600–800/day for mules, ₹800–1000/day for porters).
Q4. Can I combine Hemkund Sahib in the same trek?
Yes. Add one more day to your itinerary (6D/5N package available).
🔚 Conclusion: Is the Valley of Flowers Trek Worth It?
Absolutely! With its unreal Himalayan scenery, vibrant blooms, and spiritual aura, the Valley of Flowers is more than just a trek—it’s an experience that stays with you forever.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly, well-managed trekking experience, choose The Himalayan Hikes. We specialize in group and customized Himalayan adventures with complete transparency and support.
Ready for Your Himalayan Adventure?
Limited slots available for 2025 batches. Book now!