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My Trekking Route to the Valley of Flowers And the Perfect Time to See It in Full Bloom

Scenic View Of Valley of Flowers
Over the years, I’ve been obsessed with the charm of the Valley of Flowers, which has brought me here on multiple occasions, and every trip teaches me something new. If you're planning to visit here, then knowing the route is just one part, and timing is what makes this the whole journey unforgettable.

Getting There: The Route I Always Recommend

The journey officially starts from Govindghat which is a small town near Joshimath in Uttarakhand. It’s accessible by road from Haridwar or Rishikesh, and the driving time is roughly 10 to 12 hours. 


Once you have reached Govindghat, you can stay there for the night. If you're trekking alone, then you can stay at either a homestay or Gurdwara. And if you are with an organized group like Himalayan Hikers, then you do not have to worry about anything. They will give you cozy hotels/ tents and warm-delicious meals. 


Your real trek begins the next day. There’s a 13-km trail to Ghangaria, the base village for both the Valley of Flowers and Hemkund Sahib treks. You can either hike it (which I recommend for the full experience) or hire a mule or porter. The path takes you through dense forests, alongside the Pushpawati River, and is joined by several small water streams. For first-timers, it can feel steep in some places, but the scenery makes every step worth it.


Once in Ghangaria, you’ll need a permit to enter the flowers valley, which opens from 6:00 AM to 2:00 PM daily during the season. The trek from Ghangaria to the actual Valley of Flowers is another 3.5 to 4 km. The trek difficulty is relatively moderate, but you can expect some rocky stretches. I usually start early and pack a lunch, because once you’re in, you won’t want to leave.

Timing Is Everything: When the Valley Comes Alive

Now, let me tell you this straight!  The Valley of Flowers is not the same every month. Each week brings a different colour:


1. Late June to Early July: The valley has just opened after snowmelt. The greenery is fresh, and while flowers are still waking up, the peace and fewer crowds make it magical. Here is the list of some flowers you can see this time:

  • Kumaon iris (Iris kemaonensis)

  • Kakoli (Fritillaria roylei)

  • Himalayan Strawberry (Fragaria nubicola)

  • Yellow Himalayan Lily (Lilium oxypetalum)

  • Marsh Marigold (Caltha palustris)

  • Cobra Lilies (Arisaema costautum)

  • Big-Hip Rose (Rosa macrophylla)

  • Black Pea (Thermopsisa barbata)


Mid-July to Mid-August: This is peak bloom season. You’ll see carpets of Himalayan flowers blue poppies, brahma kamal, cobra lilies, and hundreds more. I always say if you want the postcard-perfect version of the valley, this is the time.


  • Blue Poppies (Meconopsis Aculeata)

  • Brahma Kamal (Saussurea Obvallata)

  • Himalayan Rhubarb (Rheum Australe)

  • Yellow-Hooded Lousewort (Pedicularis Hoffmeistri)


Late August to Early September: The bloom starts fading, but the valley turns golden. Fewer trekkers come around, which gives you more space to breathe and reflect. Great time for birdwatching and photography, too.


  • Pinnate-Leaved Hogweed (Heracleum pinnatum)

  • Cherry-Pie (Epilobium latisperma)

  • Catchfly (Silene setisperma)

  • Arenaria griffithii

  • Corydalis junecea

  • Erigerono multiradiatus

  • Polygonum molle


After Mid-September: The valley closes as monsoons end and snow starts creeping back in. Don’t plan a trip beyond this unless you're prepared for extreme conditions.

Final Thought

Planning your Valley of Flowers trek isn't just about reaching a destination — it's about syncing with nature's rhythm. Walk the path with patience, time your visit with care, and the valley will reveal its soul to you.
Location: Valley of Flowers National Park, Uttarakhand 246443, India

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