A UNESCO meadow of 500 wildflower species — one of India's most beautiful treks
The Valley of Flowers National Park bursts into colour from mid-July through early September as over 500 species of alpine wildflowers blanket a 10-km high-altitude meadow at 3,600 metres. Framed by towering peaks and glaciers, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the Himalayas’ most extraordinary spectacles. Pair it with the sacred Hemkund Sahib Gurudwara at 4,329 metres — a glacial lake ringed by seven snow peaks — and you have a pilgrimage and a nature trek rolled into one unforgettable week.
6 reasons travellers pick this trip
Walk through the UNESCO World Heritage Valley of Flowers — over 500 species of alpine wildflowers in full bloom.
Trek to the sacred Hemkund Sahib Gurudwara at 4,329 m — a glacial lake encircled by seven snow peaks.
Acclimatisation day in Ghangaria ensures a safe, comfortable ascent for all fitness levels.
Scenic drive from Haridwar through Joshimath with views of Nanda Devi (7,816 m).
All meals, guesthouse stays, forest permits and an experienced trek guide included.
Spot Himalayan blue poppy, brahmakamal, and — if lucky — snow leopard or musk deer.
Follow the route
D1 · Haridwar → Joshimath 280 km · 9 hrs ▼
Early morning departure from Haridwar in an AC Tempo Traveller. The road climbs through Devprayag, Rudraprayag, and Chamoli — confluences of holy rivers. Check in at Joshimath, the gateway to the Valley of Flowers. Rest and acclimatise.
D2 · Joshimath → Govindghat → Ghangaria 20 km drive + 14 km trek ▼
Drive to Govindghat (1,828 m), then trek through dense forest alongside the Pushpawati River. Reach Ghangaria — base camp for both the Valley and Hemkund.
D3 · Ghangaria — Acclimatisation Day Rest day ▼
A full day to acclimatise. Short warm-up walk along the river trail. Evening briefing with your trek guide.
D4 · Valley of Flowers Day Trek 8 km round trip ▼
A gentle 4 km ascent into the valley — a sea of wildflowers: brahmakamal, blue poppy, cobra lily and hundreds more. Spend hours photographing and picnicking before returning to Ghangaria.
D5 · Hemkund Sahib Trek 12 km round trip ▼
Early start for the steep 6 km ascent to Hemkund Sahib. A pristine glacial lake reflecting seven surrounding peaks and the golden Gurudwara dome. Visit the shrine, take langar prasad, descend to Ghangaria.
D6 · Ghangaria → Govindghat → Joshimath 14 km trek + drive ▼
Trek down to Govindghat, drive to Joshimath. Evening at leisure.
D7 · Joshimath → Haridwar 280 km · 9 hrs ▼
Long drive back to Haridwar. Stop at Devprayag to see the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers merge into the Ganga.
D8 · Haridwar Departure Departure day ▼
After breakfast, check out and transfer to Haridwar railway station / Dehradun airport.
What your price covers
✓ Included
- ✓ 7 nights guesthouse / GMVN lodge accommodation
- ✓ All meals — dinner on D1, breakfast & dinner D2–D7, breakfast on D8
- ✓ Experienced licensed trek guide for the full trek
- ✓ Forest entry permits (Valley of Flowers National Park)
- ✓ AC Tempo Traveller Haridwar–Joshimath–Haridwar
- ✓ First-aid kit and emergency evacuation plan
✕ Not included
- ✕ GST on total package amount
- ✕ Train or flight to / from Haridwar
- ✕ Pony or porter hire (available locally at extra cost)
- ✕ Personal travel insurance
- ✕ Lunches and personal snacks
Frequently asked
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What guests say
The Valley of Flowers literally took my breath away! The guide was brilliant and the guesthouse food was simple but very good. Will be back next year.
Hemkund Sahib was a deeply moving experience. The acclimatisation day was a smart inclusion. Highly recommended.