Trek Duration
6 Days
Max Altitude
14,400 ft
Distance
36 km
Level
MODERATE
Region
Uttarakhand, India
Best Time
July, August
How To Reach Base Camp?
To reach the base camp of Valley of Flowers Trek, travel to Haridwar and then drive to Joshimath before embarking on the trek to Ghangaria.
Travel to Haridwar and rest for the day | 6 hours drive | 1,500 ft
Scenic drive to Joshimath | 10 hours drive | 6,700 ft
Drive to Govindghat and then trek to Ghangaria | 4 hours drive, 14 km trek | 10,000 ft
Trek to the Valley of Flowers and explore the meadows | 8 km trek | 12,000 ft
Trek to Hemkund Sahib, a Sikh pilgrimage site | 6 km trek | 14,400 ft
Descend to Govindghat and drive back to Haridwar | 4 hours drive, 14 km trek | 1,500 ft
Gear
Backpack
Properly sized and fitted backpack
Waterproof bag cover
Lightweight, packable daypack (for side trips)
Trekking Essentials
Trekking poles
Ziplock bags (for organizing and protecting gear)
Headlamp or flashlight
Extra batteries
Shelter and Sleeping
Lightweight tent or tarp
Sleeping bag (rated for expected temperatures)
Sleeping pad
Tent footprint or groundsheet
Clothing and Footwear
Clothing
Moisture-wicking/Quick Dry/Polyester base layers
Fleece or down jacket for insulation, since the weather can vary check the forecast for temperature lows to decide
Waterproof and windproof outer layers
Moisture-wicking socks
Extra pairs of socks and underwear
Hat and gloves (if applicable)
Sun hat or cap
balaclava
Footwear
Sturdy trekking boots with good grip and ankle support
Camp shoes or sandals (optional)
Navigation and Safety
Navigation Tools
Detailed map
Compass
GPS device or smartphone with trekking app
Extra batteries or power bank
Safety and First Aid
First aid kit (bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, personal medications)
Emergency communication device (whistle, personal locator beacon)
Multi-tool or knife
Nutrition
Food and Nutrition
Trail mix
Energy bars
Dehydrated meals
Small camping stove
Fuel for stove
Lightweight cooking pot
Utensils (spork, knife, etc.)
Lightweight mug or cup
Hydration
Durable water bottle or hydration bladder
Water purification tablets or portable filter
Electrolyte for hydration
Personal Care
Personal Hygiene
Biodegradable soap
Small towel
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Hand sanitizer
Toilet paper
Trowel (for digging cat holes)
Weather Protection
Lightweight rain jacket or poncho
Rain pants
Sunscreen
Sunglasses
Lip balm with SPF
Is Valley of Flowers Trek suitable for beginners?
Valley of Flowers Trek is of moderate difficulty and suitable for beginners with basic fitness levels.
What is the best time to visit Valley of Flowers?
The best time to visit Valley of Flowers is from July to August when the flowers are in full bloom.
Are there any wildlife sightings during the trek?
You may spot Himalayan wildlife like musk deer, blue sheep, and various bird species during the trek.
Is camping allowed in Valley of Flowers?
Camping is not allowed in Valley of Flowers National Park to preserve the fragile ecosystem.