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3858m
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From Rishikesh
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June To September
About this activity
The Valley of Flowers trek is one of the most sought-after Himalayan treks in India, attracting adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. Renowned for its breathtaking alpine meadows, rare Himalayan flora, and snow-capped peaks, this trek is a paradise for trekkers and photographers.
A UNESCO World Heritage Trek
Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Valley of Flowers National Park was established in 1980, preserving its pristine landscapes and diverse ecosystem. This trail is not just a trek but a journey through nature’s finest creations, making it a bucket-list adventure for trekkers worldwide.Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a beginner, the Valley of Flowers trek offers an unforgettable experience, blending adventure with the mesmerizing beauty of the Uttarakhand Himalayas.
Day wise itinerary:
- Stay: Overnight stay at a Guest House/Homestay in Joshimath.
- Meals: Dinner provided.
- Altitude: Joshimath (6,150 ft).
- Distance: 290 km by road.
- Time Taken: 8–9 hours approx.
- Trek Grade: Gradual ascent.
Your adventure begins in Rishikesh, where we embark on a breathtaking drive along the Badrinath Road, leading us deep into the Garhwal Himalayas. The 9-hour drive to Pipalkoti and Joshimath may be long, but the spectacular landscapes will keep you captivated throughout.
As we ascend, witness the ever-changing beauty of the Alaknanda River, transitioning from serene waters to a powerful Himalayan force.
One of the highlights of the journey is passing through four of the five sacred confluences of the Ganga River—
✔ Devprayag (Bhagirathi & Alaknanda meet to form the Ganga)
✔ Rudraprayag (Alaknanda & Mandakini rivers merge)
✔ Karnaprayag (Alaknanda meets Pindar River)
✔ Nand Prayag (Alaknanda joins Nandakini River)
These holy confluences offer incredible photo opportunities and an insight into the spiritual essence of Uttarakhand. Keep your cameras ready to capture the mesmerizing landscapes, ancient temples, and rugged mountain terrain along the way.
After a scenic and spiritually uplifting journey, we arrive in Joshimath, our base for the trek, where a warm meal and cozy stay await. Rest well—tomorrow, the real adventure begins!
- Stay: Overnight stay in Ghangaria (Guest House / Homestay).
- Meals: Breakfast, Packed Lunch & Dinner provided.
- Altitude: Ghangaria (10,003 ft).
- Distance:
✔ By Road: 20 km drive from Joshimath to Poolna.
✔ By Trek: 9 km trek from Poolna to Ghangaria. - Time Taken:
✔ 1-hour drive to Poolna.
✔ 5-6 hours trek to Ghangaria. - Trek Grade: Moderate ascent.
After an early breakfast in Joshimath, we drive to Govindghat, a major stopover for pilgrims heading to Badrinath and Hemkund Sahib. From here, we continue our journey to Poolna, the starting point of the trek.
The 9 km trek from Poolna to Ghangaria follows a well-defined stone-paved path alongside the gushing Laxman Ganga River. The lush green valley, waterfalls, and picturesque bridges make the trek scenic and refreshing.
Trek Highlights:
✔ Gushing streams & waterfalls – Perfect for short breaks and photography.
✔ Scenic Himalayan landscapes – Dense forests of pine, rhododendron & oak.
✔ Rest stops & small eateries – Enjoy local snacks & tea along the trail.
✔ Moderate uphill trek – Gradual ascent with some steep sections.
Upon reaching Ghangaria, a quaint Himalayan village, check into your guesthouse/homestay. After a hearty dinner, rest well for the upcoming trek to Valley of Flowers tomorrow.
- Stay: Overnight stay in Ghangaria (Guest House / Homestay).
- Meals: Breakfast, Packed Lunch & Dinner provided.
- Altitude: Valley of Flowers (12,000 ft).
- Distance: 6 km trek (one way) | 12 km total.
- Time Taken: 6-7 hours (including exploration).
- Trek Grade: Moderate ascent.
After an early breakfast, we embark on the most awaited part of the trek—the journey to the Valley of Flowers, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This trail begins with a gradual ascent, crossing a wooden bridge over the Pushpawati River, followed by a scenic trail surrounded by dense forests and gushing streams.
Trek Highlights:
✔ Over 500 species of rare alpine flowers—Brahma Kamal, Blue Poppy, Cobra Lily & more.
✔ Lush green meadows covered with colorful blossoms.
✔ Breathtaking views of Himalayan peaks like Mount Rataban & Nar Parvat.
✔ Gushing Pushpawati River flowing through the valley.
✔ Butterflies, rare birds & Himalayan wildlife.
As we step into the Valley of Flowers, you'll be welcomed by a mesmerizing floral carpet stretching as far as the eye can see. The valley is at its peak bloom between July & September, making it the best time to witness its magical transformation.
Spend a few hours exploring the valley, capturing stunning landscapes, and soaking in the serene beauty of the Himalayas. After a packed lunch in the valley, we begin our descent back to Ghangaria by late afternoon.
After reaching Ghangaria, enjoy a warm dinner and rest well, preparing for the Hemkund Sahib trek the next day.
- Stay: Overnight stay in Ghangaria (Guest House / Homestay).
- Meals: Breakfast, Packed Lunch & Dinner provided.
- Altitude: Hemkund Sahib (15,200 ft) – One of the highest Gurudwaras in the world.
- Distance: 6 km trek (one way) | 12 km total.
- Time Taken: 7-8 hours (including darshan & exploration).
- Trek Grade: Steep & challenging ascent.
- Today, we embark on a spiritually enriching and challenging trek to Hemkund Sahib, a revered Sikh pilgrimage site nestled at a breathtaking 15,200 ft. The trail is steep and zig-zag, with a continuous ascent, making it one of the most demanding yet rewarding days of the trek.
Today, we embark on a spiritually enriching and challenging trek to Hemkund Sahib, a revered Sikh pilgrimage site nestled at a breathtaking 15,200 ft. The trail is steep and zig-zag, with a continuous ascent, making it one of the most demanding yet rewarding days of the trek.
Trek Highlights:
✔ Hemkund Sahib Gurudwara – A sacred Sikh shrine surrounded by seven snow-capped peaks.
✔ Hemkund Lake – A pristine glacial lake reflecting the Himalayas, known for its crystal-clear waters.
✔ Brahma Kamal sightings – A rare & sacred Himalayan flower found in high altitudes.
✔ Breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayan ranges throughout the climb.
After an early morning start, the trek takes us through rocky trails, cascading waterfalls, and alpine meadows. As we approach Hemkund Sahib, the cold winds intensify, but the spiritual aura of the place makes every step worth it.
Upon reaching, you can visit the Gurudwara, experience the soothing kirtans, and savor the warm langar (simple meal served at Sikh temples). Take a moment to sit by the serene Hemkund Lake, absorbing the tranquility of this divine place.
After spending some peaceful time at Hemkund Sahib, we begin our descent back to Ghangaria, reaching by late afternoon. Relax, enjoy a warm dinner, and reflect on the incredible journey so far.
- Stay: Overnight stay in Joshimath (Guest House / Homestay).
- Meals: Breakfast & Dinner provided.
- Altitude: Ghangaria (10,000 ft) → Poolna (6,890 ft) → Joshimath (6,150 ft).
- Distance: Trek - 9 km | Drive - 25 km.
- Time Taken: Trek - 4 to 5 hrs | Drive - 1 hr.
- Trek Grade: Easy descent.
After an early morning breakfast, we bid farewell to Ghangaria, making our way back downhill towards Poolna. The 9 km descent is much easier compared to the previous day's treks, offering breathtaking views of the lush green landscapes, waterfalls, and flowing rivers along the way.
Upon reaching Poolna, our vehicles will be waiting to drive us back to Joshimath. This scenic 25 km drive takes about an hour, passing through quaint villages, pine forests, and winding mountain roads.
Once in Joshimath, we check into our guest house/homestay, enjoy a warm dinner, and relax after the day's journey. This is also the perfect time to reflect on the incredible experiences of the Valley of Flowers & Hemkund Sahib trek before preparing for the final leg of our journey the next day.
- Meals: Breakfast provided.
- Altitude: Joshimath (6,150 ft) → Rishikesh (1,150 ft).
- Distance: 290 km.
- Time Taken: 8-9 hrs approx.
Our final day begins with an early morning breakfast in Joshimath, after which we embark on our return journey to Rishikesh. This scenic 290 km drive takes us through the winding roads of the Garhwal Himalayas, offering mesmerizing views of river valleys, dense forests, and towering peaks.
Along the way, we once again pass the four sacred confluences of the Alaknanda River—Nandprayag, Karnaprayag, Rudraprayag, and Devprayag—before finally reaching Rishikesh by late evening.
Upon arrival, our memorable trek to the Valley of Flowers and Hemkund Sahib officially comes to an end, leaving us with unforgettable memories of breathtaking landscapes, spiritual experiences, and a deep connection with nature.
Drop-off Point: Rishikesh (End of Journey).
Inclusions
- Stay is included on all days of the trek ( from Joshimath to Joshimath ). You will be staying in hotel on a triple sharing, quad sharing basis.
- Dinner at Joshimath and day 6 tea/coffee.
- First aid medical kits, oxygen cylinder and stretcher.
- All fuel charges, toll taxes and needed forest entry fees along with permits.
- Mountaineering qualified and professional trek leader, guide, cook and support staff.
What’s Included in the Hampta Pass Trek Package?
- Stay is included on all days of the trek ( from Joshimath to Joshimath ). You will be staying in hotel on a triple sharing, quad sharing basis.
- Dinner at Joshimath and day 6 tea/coffee.
- First aid medical kits, oxygen cylinder and stretcher.
- All fuel charges, toll taxes and needed forest entry fees along with permits.
- Mountaineering qualified and professional trek leader, guide, cook and support staff.
What’s Not Included in the Hampta Pass Trek Package?
- GST 5% (it is Mandatory)
- Any emergency evacuation charges
- Any services that are not mentioned in the cost inclusion section.
- Any Meals/accommodation beside the itinerary or not mentioned in the program.
- Mules or porters to carry personal luggage.
Exclusions
Essential Trekking Gear Checklist
- Trekking shoes with ankle support
- Backpack with rain cover
- Warm layers:
- Spring, Summer, Monsoon: 3 layers (1 woollen sweater, 1 fleece, 1 padded jacket)
- Autumn: 4 layers (1 woollen sweater, 2 fleece, 1 padded jacket)
- Winter: 5 layers (1 pair of thermals, 1 woollen sweater, 2 fleece, 1 padded jacket)
- 3 Collared T-shirts (Wear one, carry two)
- 2 Quick-dry trek pants (Wear one, carry one)
- Sunglasses
- Sun cap
- Waterproof gloves
- Balaclava
- Woollen socks (2 pairs of dry-fit + 1 pair of woollen)
- Headlamp
- Trekking pole
- Rain jacket + pants / poncho
- Sunscreen
- Moisturiser
- Light towel
- Lip balm or Vaseline
- Toilet paper (Wet wipes are strictly not allowed on treks)
- Toothbrush
- Toothpaste
- Reusable plastic covers (for used clothes)
- Steel lunch box, spoon, and coffee mug
- Two water bottles or a hydration pack