Valley of Flowers Trek
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Valley of Flowers Trek — Guide, Dates & Cost
Valley of Flowers Trek is a 6-day easy–moderate trek in Chamoli, Uttarakhand, reaching 4,329 m (14,200 ft). It covers about 50 km on foot and starts and ends at Joshimath. Best time: July to September. Trekkaro price: ₹7,500 per person + 5% GST, with free microspikes & gaiters (no deposit, no charge); bring your own trekking shoes, jacket and poles. Next batch: 3 Jul 2027 (24 upcoming batches).
Updated
District: Chamoli
Duration: 6 Days
Difficulty Level: Easy–Moderate
Highest Altitude: 4,329 m / 14,200 ft
Trekking Distance: 50 km
Temperature: Jul-Aug: Valley 8°C to 15°C, Hemkund 2°C to 8°C | Sep: Valley 5°C to 12°C, Hemkund 0°C to 5°C
There is no trek in the Indian Himalayas quite like the Valley of Flowers. Not because it is the hardest, or the highest, or the longest; it is none of those things. It is the only trek in India where you walk into a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is, for a brief window of weeks each year, covered from end to end in Himalayan wildflowers in densities and varieties found nowhere else on the subcontinent. Over 300 species of alpine flora bloom simultaneously in the valley between July and September: Brahmakamal, Blue Poppy, Cobra Lily, Himalayan Balsam, and Marsh Marigold, in a colour display that photographers, botanists, and ordinary trekkers describe in terms that consistently exceed the language available to them.
The Valley of Flowers National Park sits in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand at the head of the Pushpawati River valley. It is accessed on foot from Ghangaria, the last inhabited settlement before the valley, reached via the Bhyundar Gorge trail from Poolna. In six days, the Trekkaro team takes you from Rishikesh to Joshimath, up the gorge trail to Ghangaria, into the valley for a full exploration day, to Hemkund Sahib, a glacial Sikh pilgrimage lake at 4,329 m, and back to Rishikesh. Joshimath serves as the gateway and night-halt both on the approach and the return, making this a well-paced and logistically clean route.
The Valley of Flowers trek starts and ends at Joshimath (1,890 m / 6,200 ft), the base town where you stay on Day 1 and Day 5, with pickup and drop at Jumping Heights, Rishikesh. The walking starts and ends at Poolna, 3 km beyond Govindghat (1,828 m / 5,997 ft), the roadhead on the Badrinath National Highway in Chamoli district, about 250 km from Rishikesh by road. The route follows the Pushpawati River through the Bhyundar Gorge to Ghangaria (3,048 m / 10,000 ft), the last permanent settlement before the valley, with guesthouses, a Gurudwara, and basic medical facilities. From Ghangaria, the route branches in two directions: northeast to the Valley of Flowers National Park (3,352–3,658 m) and northwest to Hemkund Sahib (4,329 m / 14,200 ft), a glacial lake of Sikh religious significance. The total trekking distance is approximately 50 km across four trekking days.
The Valley of Flowers – A UNESCO World Heritage Site
UNESCO declared the Valley of Flowers National Park, a World Heritage Site, in 2005 as part of the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve. The valley is approximately 8 km long and 2 km wide, lying at altitudes between 3,352 m and 3,658 m, enclosed by high ridges to the north and south and fed by meltwater and glacial streams from the surrounding peaks. It is one of the most botanically significant alpine meadows in the Himalayas, supporting over 300 species of wildflower, including several that are rare, endangered, or endemic to this ecosystem. The bloom season runs from mid-July through mid-August at peak density, tapering into September. The park is open from 1 June to 31 October each year and closed from November to May to protect the flora during the dormant winter period; entry is allowed between 7 AM and 2 PM and everyone must leave by 5 PM. Entry is restricted to daytime visits only; no camping is permitted inside the valley.
Hemkund Sahib – The Lake at 14,200 Feet
Hemkund Sahib is one of the holiest sites in Sikhism. The Gurudwara Hemkund Sahib stands at the edge of a glacial lake at 4,329 m (14,200 ft), surrounded by seven peaks, at the terminus of a steep trail that climbs approximately 1,280 m in 6 km from Ghangaria. The word ‘hem’ means snow, and ‘kund’ means pool or lake. The Gurudwara is open from June to October and serves langar (community meal) to all visitors regardless of faith or background. For Sikh pilgrims, reaching Hemkund Sahib is an act of deep religious devotion. For trekkers, it is one of the most physically demanding and visually extraordinary day walks accessible without technical climbing skills in the Indian Himalayan system.
Who Is This Trek For?
The Valley of Flowers trek is graded easy to moderate. Unlike higher-altitude Trekkaro routes, it does not involve glacier crossings, sustained altitude above 14,200 feet, or technical terrain that requires specialist training. The trail from Govindghat to Ghangaria is well-graded and wide and walked by pilgrims of all ages during the open season. The valley itself is a gentle walk across open meadow. The Hemkund Sahib ascent is the most demanding element, a steep 1,280 m gain over 6 km, and requires solid fitness and a night of acclimatisation at Ghangaria before attempting. This trek is suitable for first-time Himalayan trekkers with reasonable base fitness, for families with teenagers, and for trekkers drawn more by botanical immersion than by altitude. Minimum age: 9 years. There is no upper age limit; trekkers above 60 need good fitness and a medical certificate signed by a doctor. Daily trekking hours: 3 to 6 hours. Season: July to September, with peak bloom from late July to mid-August.
Key Highlights of the Valley of Flowers Trek
- 300+ species of alpine wildflowers blooming simultaneously – Brahmakamal, Blue Poppy, Cobra Lily, Marsh Marigold, Himalayan Balsam, and more
- UNESCO World Heritage Site designation – the valley is botanically and ecologically unique within the Indian Himalayan system
- Hemkund Sahib (4,329 m / 14,200 ft) – a glacial Sikh pilgrimage lake ringed by seven snow-capped peaks
- Bhyundar Gorge trail – a lush river valley walk through dense Himalayan forest and waterfalls
- Ghangaria base camp (3,048 m / 10,000 ft) – the quiet Himalayan settlement where all routes converge
- A full valley day – unhurried exploration of the flower fields with the Trekkaro naturalist guide
- Open during the monsoon – uniquely trekked in July–September when most Himalayan trails are closed
- Certified Trekkaro trek leader & guides, twice-daily health monitoring
Best Time to Visit Valley of Flowers
Opening dates: the Valley of Flowers National Park opens on 1 June and closes on 31 October (2026 season: 1 June to 31 October). Entry 7 AM to 2 PM, out by 5 PM; the entry fee (₹150 for Indians, ₹600 for foreign nationals) is included in the Trekkaro fee. Peak bloom is late July to mid-August; see our month-by-month guide.
The Valley of Flowers trekking season is shaped by a single factor unlike any other Himalayan route: the monsoon is not a reason to avoid this trek; it is the reason to do it. The valley blooms because of the monsoon. The wildflower season runs from mid-July through mid-September, with peak bloom density in late July and early August. Outside this window, the valley is either snow-covered (November through June) or in late-season wind-down (late September). Trekkaro runs Valley of Flowers batches from early July to mid-September.
Late July to Mid-August - Peak Bloom Window (Most Recommended)
This is the heart of the Valley of Flowers season and Trekkaro’s most recommended window. In late July, the valley floor is already covered in blooms by early August; the concentration of species is at its maximum, with Brahmakamal, Blue Poppy, and Himalayan Balsam visible simultaneously across the full length of the valley. Rain is present in this window in the form of brief daily monsoon showers, mostly in the afternoon, which clear quickly at this altitude. The light after rain on the flowers is extraordinary. Waterproofs are essential, but the showers themselves are part of the experience. The Bhyundar Gorge trail in the monsoon is lush and waterfall-laden in a way that the drier seasons cannot replicate.
- Temperatures: Haridwar: 25°C to 35°C | Ghangaria: 10°C to 18°C | Valley: 8°C to 15°C | Hemkund: 2°C to 8°C
- Trail conditions: Wet trail. Brief daily showers. Flowers at maximum density. Lush gorge.
- Best for: Peak bloom, Brahmakamal and Blue Poppy, post-rain light, and the fullest botanical experience.
Mid-September to Late September - Late Season Window
By mid-September, the monsoon begins to withdraw, and the daily showers reduce in frequency. The wildflower density is lower than peak season, but the valley takes on a different visual character, with richer tones of amber, rust, and late-season purple as the flora transitions. The trail is drier, and the days are clearer. Hemkund Sahib is fully accessible, and the views of the surrounding peaks are sharper than in the July-August cloud window. The valley is less crowded. This is a valid alternative for trekkers who prefer clear skies over peak bloom and cannot manage the July–August monsoon timing.
- Temperatures: Ghangaria: 8°C to 16°C | Valley: 5°C to 12°C | Hemkund: 0°C to 5°C
- Trail conditions: Drying trail. Reducing showers. Late-season bloom. Clearer mountain views.
- Best for: Clearer skies, Hemkund Sahib peak views, and a less crowded valley.
October to June - Outside the Bloom
The Valley of Flowers National Park closes on 31 October and reopens on 1 June; October has autumn colour but no flowers. The route above Ghangaria is under deep snow from November through June. No Trekkaro batches operate in the closed season. The trail from Govindghat to Ghangaria also closes from late October due to snow on the higher sections.
- Status: CLOSED. No Trekkaro batches operate October–June.
Trekkaro Recommendation
For the full Valley of Flowers experience with maximum bloom density, book a late July to early August batch. For drier conditions and sharper mountain views on the Hemkund ascent, mid- to late September is the better window. Both are rewarding; the deciding factor is whether you want peak bloom or peak clarity.
📅 Best months for the Valley of Flowers Trek: July to September. Still choosing dates? Compare all treks in July, treks in August and treks in September.
🏡 Base village: Joshimath. See how to reach Joshimath, cash and phone signal there.
🏃 Am I ready for the Valley of Flowers Trek? Take the free 2-minute fitness test and get your readiness score and a personal training plan.
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Transport is not included in the trek fee: we help the group book shared cabs, paid directly to the driver and split among trekkers. The cab from Rishikesh (Jumping Heights) to Joshimath costs approximately ₹7,500 one way per 5–6 seat vehicle.
Transport is not included in the trek fee: we help the group book shared cabs, paid directly to the driver and split among trekkers. The cab from Joshimath to Rishikesh (Jumping Heights) costs approximately ₹7,500 one way per 5–6 seat vehicle.
Day 1: Rishikesh to Joshimath
Route Details:
Drive: Rishikesh → Joshimath (1,890 m / 6,200 ft) | Distance: ~250 km | Duration: ~7–8 hrs | Activity: Arrival, gear check, health baseline, acclimatisation walk | Overnight: Joshimath
The drive from Rishikesh to Joshimath is one of the most scenic road journeys in the Garhwal Himalaya. The route follows the Ganges and then the Alaknanda River upstream through a succession of sacred confluences: Devprayag (where the Bhagirathi and Alaknanda merge to form the Ganga), Rudraprayag (where the Mandakini joins the Alaknanda), and Vishnuprayag (above Joshimath, where the Dhauliganga and Alaknanda converge). Each prayag is a temple town nested at the base of a steep gorge, with the river churning through rock below and the high ridges closing in above. The visual character of the Alaknanda Valley changes continuously as altitude increases: the subtropical vegetation of Rishikesh gives way to broadleaf oak and pine, which gives way to the more open, rock-faced upper valley around Chamoli and Pipalkoti.
Joshimath (1,890 m) is the administrative centre of the upper Chamoli district and the most significant town in the Garhwal Himalaya above Srinagar. It is the base for Auli, the skiing destination; the gateway for the Kuari Pass, Pangarchulla, and Nanda Devi treks; the wintering place of the Badrinath idol; and the departure point for the road to Govind Ghat. It has proper hotels, restaurants, a district hospital, ATMs, pharmacies, and mobile connectivity, making it the last place on this itinerary where comprehensive logistics and personal needs can be addressed before the trail begins. The evening walk along the Joshimath ridge with views of the Hathi Parbat and Kuari massif at last light is a quiet introduction to the scale of what lies ahead.
Trekkaro’s health baseline is recorded at Joshimath: SpO2, pulse, and blood pressure for every trekker. The trek briefing covers the full route, daily structure, valley entry permit protocol, AMS awareness for the Hemkund Sahib ascent (the highest point of the trek at 14,200 ft), and gear review. Sleep early. The road to Govind Ghat and the trail to Ghangaria begin tomorrow morning.
What to Expect:
- Scenic drive through the Alaknanda Valley – Devprayag, Rudraprayag, and Vishnuprayag confluences
- Arrival in Joshimath (1,890 m / 6,200 ft) – the Garhwal Himalaya’s premier gateway town
- Health baseline: SpO2, pulse, and blood pressure recorded for every trekker
- Trek briefing: route overview, AMS protocol for Hemkund altitude, valley permit structure, daily plan
- Evening acclimatisation walk on the Joshimath ridge with Himalayan peak views
- Overnight: Joshimath (1,890 m / 6,200 ft) – last night at mid-altitude before the trail
Day 2: Joshimath to Govind Ghat to Poolna, Trek to Ghangaria
Route Details:
Drive: Joshimath → Govind Ghat (1,828 m) → Poolna (2,050 m) (~30 mins + shared jeep) | Trek: Poolna → Ghangaria (3,048 m) | Distance: ~11 km | Duration: 4-5 hrs | Ascent: ~1,000 m | Overnight: Ghangaria
From Joshimath the road descends briefly to Govind Ghat (1,828 m) on the Badrinath highway, where the Laxmanganga river joins the Alaknanda at the base of the gorge. Govind Ghat is the roadhead and the site of the Gurudwara Govind Ghat, a large Sikh shrine that serves as the gateway for both Hemkund Sahib pilgrims and Valley of Flowers trekkers. From Govind Ghat, a 3 km road or shared jeep ride brings you to Poolna (2,050 m), the actual trailhead where all motorised access ends and the Bhyundar Gorge trail begins.
The 11 km trail from Poolna to Ghangaria follows the Pushpawati River upstream through the Bhyundar Gorge, one of the most botanically rich and visually layered approach valleys in the entire Garhwal range. The trail is wide, well-maintained, and continuous alongside the river for much of its length. The gorge walls close in overhead in the narrower stretches, with waterfalls dropping from ledges that can’t be seen from below. The forest changes character every few hundred metres of altitude, from subtropical broadleaf at Poolna through oak and rhododendron at mid-gorge to the silver birch groves that announce the approach to Ghangaria. In the monsoon season the trail is lush beyond description, the river is loud and powerful, and the waterfalls multiply.
Ghangaria (also written Gangria) sits at 3,048 m at the confluence of the Bhyundar Gorge and the two routes beyond, northeast to the Valley of Flowers and northwest to Hemkund Sahib. It has guesthouses, tea shops, a Gurudwara serving free langar, a Forest Department post where valley permits are checked, and a basic medical facility. It is the base camp for all exploration on this trek. The evening arrival at Ghangaria, with the sound of both rivers and the ridge visible above the settlement, is the moment the trek begins to feel genuinely high.
What to Expect:
- Short drive from Joshimath to Govind Ghat (~30 mins) and jeep or walk to Poolna trailhead
- Gurudwara Govind Ghat (1,828 m) – landmark Sikh shrine at the confluence of Laxmanganga and Alaknanda
- Trek through Bhyundar Gorge – 11 km, ~1,000 m ascent, forest trail with river alongside
- Waterfalls and forest ecology – subtropical to birch, continuous ecological transition
- Forest Department permit check at Ghangaria for Valley of Flowers National Park entry
- Arrival at Ghangaria (3,048 m / 10,000 ft) – base for valley and Hemkund exploration
- Overnight: Ghangaria (3,048 m / 10,000 ft) – acclimatisation night before valley entry
Day 3: Ghangaria to Valley of Flowers & Back
Route Details:
Start/End: Ghangaria (3,048 m / 10,000 ft) | Valley: 3,352–3,658 m | Distance: ~16 km round trip (full valley to glacier base) | Duration: 6–7 hrs | Overnight: Ghangaria
The 4 km trail from Ghangaria to the Valley of Flowers entry gate climbs through forest and open meadow before the valley floor opens abruptly and completely. There is a precise moment on the trail where the tree cover ends and the full panorama of the valley becomes visible: a long, wide, flat-floored basin stretching ahead, flanked by high ridges, with the Pushpawati glacier visible at the far end. In July and August, the floor of that basin is not green; it is every colour. The wildflowers at peak bloom cover the valley so densely that underlying grass is not visible in stretches, and the variety of simultaneous blooms is unlike any alpine environment accessible to recreational trekkers anywhere in India.
The Valley of Flowers is strictly managed by the Forest Department. No camping is permitted inside. Entry is from the permit gate at the valley mouth, and all visitors must exit by evening. Trekkaro enters early in the morning to make maximum use of the morning light, which is at its most dramatic in the first two hours after dawn before the daily cloud builds. The Trekkaro naturalist guide leads the group along the valley floor, identifying species by name, the sacred Brahmakamal (Saussurea obvallata), the distinctive Blue Poppy (Meconopsis aculeata), Cobra Lily, Himalayan Balsam, Marsh Marigold, and dozens of others, explaining the ecological context of the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve and the conditions that make this specific valley botanically unique.
The route covers the full length of the valley to the Pushpawati glacier base and returns along the north bank, a different flora profile from the morning outward route. The walk back to Ghangaria in the afternoon, with the valley behind and the gorge forest below, is a particular quality of the experience. An early start is important on this day: the best light and the clearest air are before 9 am, and in the monsoon season a shower arrives by early afternoon. Rest well in the evening; the Hemkund Sahib ascent begins tomorrow.
What to Expect:
- Full Valley of Flowers traverse – entry gate to Pushpawati glacier base and return on north bank trail
- Naturalist-guided walk identifying Brahmakamal, Blue Poppy, Cobra Lily, Himalayan Balsam, Marsh Marigold, and 300+ species
- UNESCO World Heritage Site entry – Forest Department permit checked at valley gate
- Peak bloom panoramas – wildflower cover from valley wall to valley wall in late July and August
- Pushpawati glacier visible at the valley head on clear mornings
- Post-rain light – the valley is most intensely colourful in the 30–60 minutes after a monsoon shower
- Overnight: Ghangaria (3,048 m / 10,000 ft) – rest before Hemkund Sahib ascent
Day 4: Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib & Back
Route Details:
Start/End: Ghangaria (3,048 m / 10,000 ft) | Hemkund Sahib: 4,329 m / 14,200 ft | Distance: ~12 km round trip | Duration: 6–7 hrs | Ascent: ~1,280 m | Overnight: Ghangaria
The trail to Hemkund Sahib is one of the most relentlessly ascending day walks in accessible Indian trekking. From Ghangaria at 3,048 m, the path climbs 1,280 m in 6 km, an average gradient exceeding 20%, first through the upper Bhyundar forest, then above the treeline on an exposed stone trail that switches back up the valley headwall. The path is wide and well-maintained for pilgrimage traffic, but at this altitude and gradient, the pace requires careful management. The night at Ghangaria before this ascent is a deliberate acclimatisation day in the Trekkaro itinerary, and Trekkaro’s twice-daily health checks on this morning are the most critical of the entire trek.
The transition above the treeline marks the point where the landscape shifts completely. A dense humid forest gives way to open, wind-exposed alpine terrain, and the full sweep of the Bhyundar Valley headwall becomes visible behind and below. In the monsoon season, morning clouds fill the gorge while the peaks above remain clear; the sensation of ascending out of cloud into high blue sky and white summits is one of the most striking transitions on this route. The final approach crosses a rock-strewn basin before the lake appears: still, cold, partially frozen at the edges, enclosed on three sides by a natural ring of seven peaks.
The Gurudwara Hemkund Sahib serves langar throughout the day and is open to all visitors. The lake, according to Sikh scripture, is where Guru Gobind Singh meditated in a previous life. Regardless of faith, the quality of stillness at Hemkund, at 14,200 feet in a glacially carved bowl, with no sound beyond wind, water, and distant prayer, is one of the most profound experiential qualities of this trek. The descent back to Ghangaria takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours on the same trail. Rest well this evening: tomorrow the descent to Joshimath begins.
What to Expect:
- Steep ascent of 1,280 m in 6 km – the most demanding day on the trek
- Above-treeline trail with full Bhyundar Valley panorama and seven-peak ridge enclosure
- Hemkund Sahib Lake (4,329 m / 14,200 ft) – glacial, partially frozen, ringed by seven snow peaks
- Gurudwara Hemkund Sahib – Sikh pilgrimage site and langar open to all visitors
- Cloud inversion views in monsoon season – ascending out of gorge cloud into clear alpine sky
- Twice-daily health monitoring – most critical day of the trek; highest altitude at 14,200 ft
- Overnight: Ghangaria (3,048 m / 10,000 ft) - return by mid-afternoon
Day 5: Ghangaria to Govind Ghat, Drive to Joshimath
Route Details:
Trek: Ghangaria (3,048 m) → Poolna (2,050 m) → Govind Ghat (1,828 m) | Distance: ~11 km to Poolna (+ 3 km by jeep or on foot to Govind Ghat) | Duration: ~3–4 hrs trek + drive to Joshimath (~30 mins) | Overnight: Joshimath
The final morning in Ghangaria carries a particular quality; a day in the valley and a day at Hemkund Sahib are behind you, and the gorge trail descends ahead. Breakfast at the guesthouse or Gurudwara, a last look at the ridge above Ghangaria, and the trail begins to descend into the Bhyundar Gorge for the last time. The descent covers the same 11 km from Ghangaria to Poolna that was climbed on Day 2, but in the opposite direction the ecology reads differently: birch gives way to oak, oak to mixed broadleaf, broadleaf to the riverine vegetation near Poolna, and the sound of the Pushpawati River follows all the way down.
The descent is notably faster than the ascent; most trekkers reach Poolna in 2.5 to 3 hours from Ghangaria. From Poolna, a shared jeep or short walk of 3 km brings you back to Govind Ghat and the Badrinath highway. Shared cabs, paid directly to the driver, wait at Govind Ghat for the drive back to Joshimath, a 30-minute journey that climbs back up the highway to the town on the ridge. Joshimath on the evening of Day 5 carries the specific comfort of a warm room, hot food, and mobile connectivity after three nights at altitude. Trek completion certificates are presented at Joshimath. The drive to Rishikesh begins tomorrow morning.
What to Expect:
- Descent of 11 km through Bhyundar Gorge from Ghangaria to Poolna – ecology in reverse
- Altitude drops ~1,000 m from Ghangaria to Govind Ghat on the descent
- Short jeep or walk of 3 km from Poolna to Govind Ghat roadhead
- Drive to Joshimath (~30 mins) – return to the gateway town with full facilities
- Trek completion certificates issued at Joshimath
- Overnight: Joshimath (1,890 m / 6,200 ft) – last mountain night before the return drive
Day 6: Joshimath to Rishikesh
Route Details:
Drive: Joshimath (1,890 m) → Rishikesh (356 m) | Distance: ~250 km | Duration: ~7–8 hrs | Drop: Rishikesh
The drive from Joshimath back to Rishikesh reverses the approach journey Vishnuprayag, Chamoli, Rudraprayag, Devprayag, and Rishikesh, the same landmarks in the same valley, seen differently after four nights in the mountains. The altitude drops from 1,890 m at Joshimath to 356 m at Rishikesh over seven hours, passing through all the same gorge sections and confluence towns that marked the arrival. By Devprayag, the temperature has risen significantly, the valley has widened, and the proportion of the landscape that is rock versus green has gradually reversed. By Rishikesh, the Himalayan range has receded behind you, visible only as a white profile on the northern horizon on clear afternoons.
The shared cab drops trekkers at Jumping Heights, Rishikesh, from where train, bus, and taxi connections to Delhi, Dehradun, and other destinations are readily available. Rishikesh itself, with its riverside ghats, cafes, yoga centres, and Ganga views, is a natural place to spend an additional evening if connections allow. Many Trekkaro trekkers extend their Rishikesh stop by a day simply to decompress after the trek before the return to city life.
What to Expect:
- Drive through the Alaknanda Valley – Vishnuprayag, Chamoli, Rudraprayag, and Devprayag confluences in reverse
- Altitude drops ~1,530 m from Joshimath to Rishikesh over ~250 km
- ~7–8 hour drive with scenic gorge sections and river views throughout
- Drop at Rishikesh for onwards travel connections to Delhi, Dehradun, and other cities
- Rishikesh Ghat for an optional evening extension before the return journey home
How To Reach
Nearest airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (DED), about 20–25 km and around 45 minutes from Rishikesh, with direct flights from Delhi and other metros. Fly in the day before and stay in Rishikesh, so a delayed flight does not cost you the drive.
From Rishikesh to Joshimath: about 250 km via Devprayag and Rudraprayag, a 7–8 hour drive. Transport is not included in the trek fee: we help the group book shared cabs (about ₹7,500 one way per 5–6 seat vehicle), paid directly to the driver and split among trekkers. The cab leaves Jumping Heights, Rishikesh.
Return: on the last day you drive about 250 km (7–8 hours) from Joshimath back to Jumping Heights, Rishikesh. Hill roads can be slow in the monsoon, so book onward travel for late night or the next day.
Nearest railway station: Haridwar Junction, about 25–30 km (around 1 hour) from Rishikesh, has trains from Delhi and most major cities, while Yog Nagari Rishikesh (YNRK) has only a few trains. Check current timings and plan to reach Rishikesh the day before the drive.
- Haridwar Junction – trains from Delhi including the Shatabdi, Jan Shatabdi and overnight trains; then a cab or bus to Rishikesh
- Yog Nagari Rishikesh – useful only if one of its few trains suits your dates
From Rishikesh to Joshimath: about 250 km via Devprayag and Rudraprayag, a 7–8 hour drive. Transport is not included in the trek fee: we help the group book shared cabs (about ₹7,500 one way per 5–6 seat vehicle), paid directly to the driver and split among trekkers. The cab leaves Jumping Heights, Rishikesh.
Return: on the last day you drive about 250 km (7–8 hours) from Joshimath back to Jumping Heights, Rishikesh. Hill roads can be slow in the monsoon, so book onward travel for late night or the next day.
Bus route: buses from Delhi ISBT Kashmere Gate reach Rishikesh in about 6–7 hours, including overnight Volvo and Uttarakhand Roadways buses. Haridwar (about 230 km and 5–6 hours from Delhi) also has regular buses and is about 1 hour from Rishikesh; reaching Rishikesh the evening before is the safest plan.
From Rishikesh to Joshimath: about 250 km via Devprayag and Rudraprayag, a 7–8 hour drive. Transport is not included in the trek fee: we help the group book shared cabs (about ₹7,500 one way per 5–6 seat vehicle), paid directly to the driver and split among trekkers. The cab leaves Jumping Heights, Rishikesh.
Return: on the last day you drive about 250 km (7–8 hours) from Joshimath back to Jumping Heights, Rishikesh. Hill roads can be slow in the monsoon, so book onward travel for late night or the next day.
Things To Carry
Valley of Flowers is a monsoon trek with wet, muddy trails and a steep climb to Hemkund Sahib (4,329 m), so bring waterproof, broken-in gear of your own.
- Backpack – 50–60 L with a fitted rain cover; line the inside with a plastic bag as well
- Day pack – 20–30 L with a rain cover, for the day walks into the Valley and up to Hemkund Sahib
- Trekking shoes – bring your own: waterproof, with ankle support and broken in before the trek; wet feet are the main cause of blisters
- Trekking poles – bring your own; they help on the steep climb to Hemkund Sahib and the long descent to Govindghat
- Microspikes and gaiters – provided free (no deposit, no charge); gaiters keep mud, slush and small stones out of your shoes
- Headlamp – with spare batteries, for early starts to Hemkund Sahib before the afternoon weather sets in
- Water bottles – 2 bottles of 1 L each
- Lunch box – reusable, for packed lunches on the trail
July–September brings frequent heavy rain in the valley and cold wind and mist at Hemkund Sahib, so pack full rain gear and 3 warm layers, with no cotton next to your skin.
- Rain jacket and rain pants, or a good poncho – essential; heavy monsoon rain is common in the Valley
- Thermal innerwear – moisture-wicking, top and bottom, 2 sets so one is always dry
- Fleece jacket – a 200–300 gm mid-layer for rest stops and cool mornings
- Padded jacket – bring your own down or synthetic jacket; it gets very cold at Hemkund Sahib in the wind and mist
- Trek pants – 2 pairs, quick-dry (one can be fleece-lined for cold mornings); no jeans
- T-shirts – 3 quick-dry collared T-shirts
- Socks – at least 4 pairs of wool or synthetic trekking socks, plus 1 woollen pair for the night; keep dry spares sealed in a bag
- Caps – a sun cap and a warm woollen cap that covers your ears for Hemkund Sahib
- Buff or neck gaiter – against cold wind and sun
- Gloves – fleece liner gloves plus waterproof outer gloves for the cold, windy lake at Hemkund Sahib
Even in the monsoon the high-altitude UV is strong between showers, and the Valley is a protected national park and UNESCO World Heritage site, so pack light and leave no trace.
- Sunglasses – UV-protected (category 3–4)
- Sunscreen – SPF 50+, reapplied every 2 hours at altitude
- Lip balm – with SPF
- Quick-dry towel – dries far faster than cotton in the damp weather
- Toiletries – biodegradable only, to protect the national park; no wet wipes, as they are not biodegradable
- Plastic or ziploc bags – several, to keep clothes, phone and documents dry and to separate wet clothes
- Personal medical kit – blister plasters, ORS and your regular medicines; consult your doctor before the trek
ATMs are few in the hills and cards are not accepted in the mountains, so plan cash and small comforts before you leave Rishikesh.
- Snacks – nuts, energy bars, dark chocolate and dates, especially for Hemkund Sahib day
- ORS or electrolyte sachets – add to your water daily
- Power bank – with enough capacity for the trek days
- Cash – enough in small notes for your share of the transport and small expenses
- Reusable waste bag – Trekkaro follows a zero-waste policy on the trail, so carry out all your packaging
- Camp slippers or sandals – lightweight, to rest your feet in the evenings
- Earplugs – optional, useful in shared accommodation
- Government photo ID – original and a photocopy (Aadhaar, passport, voter ID or driving licence)
- Trekkaro booking confirmation – your e-ticket / tax invoice
- Medical fitness certificate – strongly recommended
- Travel insurance – policy document with emergency evacuation cover; mandatory
- Disclaimer form – with your emergency contact details filled in
- Passport – for international trekkers, required for forest entry permits and in case of medical evacuation
Frequently Asked Questions
Valley of Flowers Trek is a 6-day easy–moderate trek in Chamoli, Uttarakhand, reaching 4,329 m (14,200 ft). It covers about 50 km on foot and starts and ends at Joshimath. Best time: July to September. Trekkaro price: ₹7,500 per person + 5% GST, with free microspikes & gaiters (no deposit, no charge); bring your own trekking shoes, jacket and poles. Next batch: 3 Jul 2027 (24 upcoming batches).
The Valley of Flowers trek is in Chamoli district, Uttarakhand. You drive about 250 km from Rishikesh to Joshimath, then walk 11 km from Poolna, near Govind Ghat, through the Bhyundar gorge to Ghangaria, the base for both the Valley of Flowers and Hemkund Sahib.
The valley is a national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, entered on a Forest Department permit.
The Valley of Flowers trek takes 6 days from Rishikesh to Rishikesh, with 4 trekking days covering about 50 km.
- Days 1 and 6: drive between Rishikesh and Joshimath (about 250 km, 7–8 hours)
- Day 2: 11 km from Poolna to Ghangaria, 4–5 hours
- Days 3–4: day walks to the Valley of Flowers (16 km) and Hemkund Sahib (12 km), back to Ghangaria each evening
- Day 5: descend to Govind Ghat and drive to Joshimath
The highest point of the Valley of Flowers trek is Hemkund Sahib at 4,329 m (14,200 ft). The valley itself lies between 3,352 m and 3,658 m (11,000–12,000 ft).
- Joshimath: 1,890 m (6,200 ft)
- Poolna trailhead: 2,050 m (6,730 ft)
- Ghangaria base: 3,048 m (10,000 ft), where you sleep for 3 nights
The Valley of Flowers trek is graded Easy–Moderate. The trail is well marked, but the climb to Hemkund Sahib is steep and monsoon rain makes the paths wet and muddy.
- Hemkund Sahib day: about 1,280 m of ascent in 6 km, the hardest day
- Day 2: 11 km with about 1,000 m of ascent through the Bhyundar gorge
- Valley day: about 16 km round trip in 6–7 hours, the longest distance
Yes, the Valley of Flowers trek is good for beginners. Anyone with basic fitness who can walk 5–6 hours a day with a backpack can join.
The steep climb to Hemkund Sahib is the one real test, so build up your stamina before the trek.
For the Valley of Flowers trek you should be able to walk 5–7 hours a day with a backpack, and handle one steep day: about 1,280 m of climbing in 6 km to Hemkund Sahib.
- Build stamina: regular brisk walks, stairs or uphill walking before the trek
- Descents: trekking poles help on the way down from Hemkund Sahib and to Govind Ghat
- Fitness test: take the free 2-minute Am I Ready? test on the Trekkaro website
The Valley of Flowers trek is open only from July to September, when the valley is in bloom; for the rest of the year it is closed by snow.
- Peak bloom: late July and August, with flowers from one valley wall to the other
- Monsoon: heavy rain is common, and the valley is most colourful in the 30–60 minutes after rain
- Temperatures: 8–15°C by day and 0–7°C at night
Yes, the Valley of Flowers trek is a monsoon trek, and heavy rain is common from July to September. Trails are wet and muddy, and Hemkund Sahib is cold, windy and misty.
- Rain gear: a rain jacket and rain pants, or a good poncho, are essential
- Dry bags: keep clothes, phone and documents in plastic or ziploc bags
- Footwear: waterproof shoes and gaiters, as wet feet are the main cause of blisters
The Valley of Flowers trek runs in the monsoon, from July to September, so rain is far more likely than snowfall on the trail. You do see snow on the seven peaks around Hemkund Sahib, whose glacial lake can be partly frozen.
Outside July to September the valley is closed because of snow.
On the Valley of Flowers trek, the valley is about 8°C to 15°C in July–August and 5°C to 12°C in September, with Ghangaria at 8°C to 18°C. Hemkund Sahib, at 4,329 m, is much colder: 0°C to 8°C, with wind and mist.
- Layers: thermals, a fleece and a padded jacket, with no cotton next to your skin
- Hemkund Sahib: a woollen cap, a buff, and fleece plus waterproof gloves
- Rain: a rain jacket and rain pants, as July and August are monsoon months
On the Valley of Flowers trek a naturalist-guided walk helps you identify more than 300 species, including Brahmakamal, Blue Poppy, Cobra Lily, Himalayan Balsam and Marsh Marigold.
- Pushpawati glacier: visible at the head of the valley on clear mornings
- Hemkund Sahib: a glacial lake ringed by seven snow peaks
- Bhyundar gorge: waterfalls and forest beside the river on the way to Ghangaria
- On the drive: the Devprayag, Rudraprayag and Vishnuprayag river confluences
The Valley of Flowers trek follows a well-marked trail: a forest path beside the river through the Bhyundar gorge, flower-covered slopes in the valley, and a steep climb above the tree line to Hemkund Sahib.
- Day 2: forest trail with waterfalls, changing from subtropical forest to birch
- Day 3: from the valley entry gate to the Pushpawati glacier base, returning on the north bank trail
- Day 4: an above-treeline trail with views over the Bhyundar valley
- Monsoon: expect mud and slush, so gaiters help
The risk of altitude sickness on the Valley of Flowers trek is highest on Hemkund Sahib day, when you climb to 4,329 m (14,200 ft). You return to sleep at Ghangaria (3,048 m) the same day.
- Health baseline: SpO2, pulse and blood pressure are recorded for every trekker on Day 1
- Hemkund day: your health is checked twice that day
- Briefing: the Day 1 briefing covers the AMS protocol for Hemkund’s altitude
The Valley of Flowers trek starts and ends at Joshimath; pickup and drop are at Jumping Heights, Rishikesh, from where the group drives about 250 km (7–8 hours) to Joshimath on Day 1.
- By air: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun, is 20–25 km (about 45 minutes) from Rishikesh; fly in the day before
- By train: Haridwar Junction, about 1 hour from Rishikesh, has trains from Delhi and most major cities
- By bus: buses from Delhi ISBT Kashmere Gate reach Rishikesh in 6–7 hours
- Return: monsoon roads can be slow, so book onward travel for late night or the next day
No, transport from Rishikesh to Joshimath and back is not included in the Valley of Flowers trek fee. We help the group book shared cabs, paid directly to the driver and split among trekkers: about ₹7,500 one way per 5–6 seat vehicle.
- Pickup: Jumping Heights, Rishikesh, on Day 1
- Day 2: a 30-minute drive from Joshimath to Govind Ghat, then a shared jeep to the Poolna trailhead
On the Valley of Flowers trek you stay in guesthouses or lodges, not tents: 2 nights in Joshimath and 3 nights in Ghangaria.
Rooms are shared, so earplugs can help. Trek completion certificates are handed out at Joshimath on Day 5.
Valley of Flowers batches have a maximum of 20 trekkers, and a fixed departure needs at least 6. A trained trek leader leads the group, and the walk through the valley is naturalist-guided.
The Day 1 briefing in Joshimath covers the route, the AMS protocol for Hemkund Sahib, the valley permits and the daily plan.
Yes, the Valley of Flowers trek is safe for women trekking alone. Women trekkers share rooms only with other women, and the trek leader and support staff stay with the group throughout.
The trail to Ghangaria and Hemkund Sahib is well marked, but keep your valuables secure, as on any group trip.
The Valley of Flowers trek serves simple, nutritious vegetarian meals suited to trekkers, with packed lunches on the trail days.
- Lunch box: bring a reusable one for packed lunches
- Hemkund Sahib: the gurudwara runs a langar that is open to all visitors
- Snacks: nuts, energy bars, dark chocolate and dates, especially for the Hemkund climb
On the Valley of Flowers trek, carry two 1 L bottles and refill them at the points the trek leader or guide shows you.
Add ORS or electrolyte sachets to your water every day, especially on the Hemkund Sahib climb.
Yes. On the Valley of Flowers trek you bring your own trekking shoes, jacket and poles; microspikes and gaiters are provided free, with no deposit and no charge.
Yes, backpack offloading on the Valley of Flowers trek costs ₹2,000 + 5% GST, and a porter or mule carries your main bag.
- Day pack: carry a 20–30 L day pack with a rain cover
- Day walks: on Days 3 and 4 you return to Ghangaria, so you only need the day pack for the Valley and Hemkund Sahib
No, a doctor does not join the Valley of Flowers trek, but your health is monitored: SpO2, pulse and blood pressure are recorded on Day 1 and checked twice on Hemkund Sahib day.
- Trek leaders: trained in Wilderness First Aid, with a first-aid kit
- Your kit: blister plasters, ORS and your regular medicines; consult your doctor before the trek
For the Valley of Flowers trek, carry an original government photo ID with a photocopy and travel insurance with emergency evacuation cover, which is mandatory.
- ID: Aadhaar, passport, voter ID or driving licence
- International trekkers: passport and visa, needed for forest entry permits and any medical evacuation
- Medical: a medical fitness certificate signed by a doctor (mandatory)
- Forms: the disclaimer form and your Trekkaro booking confirmation
Yes, entry to the Valley of Flowers National Park needs a Forest Department permit, which is checked at Ghangaria and again at the valley gate.
The Day 1 briefing explains the valley permits, and international trekkers need their passport for forest entry.
On the Valley of Flowers trek the last ATM is in Joshimath. Mobile signal is mostly reliable up to Govind Ghat; beyond Ghangaria expect little or no connectivity.
- Cash: carry small notes for your share of transport and small expenses, as cards are not accepted in the mountains
- Power: bring a power bank for the trek days
Yes, the Valley of Flowers trek includes a day climb to Hemkund Sahib (4,329 m / 14,200 ft) on Day 4, returning to Ghangaria the same day: about 12 km in 6–7 hours.
- The lake: a glacial lake, partly frozen, ringed by seven snow peaks
- The gurudwara: a Sikh pilgrimage site with a langar open to all visitors
- Timing: start early, before the afternoon weather sets in
Mountain weather is unpredictable, so the Valley of Flowers itinerary may change if conditions demand it. Keep a buffer day in your own travel plans to be safe.
Monsoon roads between Rishikesh and Joshimath can also be slow, so book onward travel for late night or the next day.
The minimum age for the Valley of Flowers trek is 9 years. Trekkers under 18 must come with a parent or guardian.
There is no upper age limit. Trekkers above 60 are welcome if they are fit and in good cardiovascular health; along with the medical certificate signed by a doctor that every trekker brings, we recommend an ECG or TMT report.
Terms & Conditions
1. Accommodation
- Day 1 and Day 5: hotel or guesthouse in Joshimath, on a triple or quad sharing basis
- Day 2 to Day 4: hotel or guesthouse in Ghangaria, on a triple or quad sharing basis
2. Meals
- All meals from Day 1 dinner to Day 5 dinner: breakfast, lunch, evening snacks and dinner
3. Permits & Camping Fees
- Valley of Flowers National Park entry fees and forest permits, arranged by Trekkaro
4. Camping & Safety Equipment
- SpO2, pulse and blood-pressure checks every day at every hotel
- Portable oxygen cylinder and emergency stretcher on every batch
- Free microspikes and gaiters (no deposit, no charge)
5. Trek Team
- Certified trek leader and guide for all 5 days
- Trekkaro naturalist guide on the valley day, for species identification and botanical briefings
- Trek completion certificate when you complete the full circuit to Joshimath
1. Transport
- Not included: Rishikesh to Joshimath and back. Trekkaro helps the group book a shared cab, approximately ₹7,500 one way per 5–6 seat vehicle, paid directly to the driver and split among the trekkers in it.
- Travel to and from Rishikesh (flights, trains or buses), arranged by you
2. Food During Transit
- Meals on the drive between Rishikesh and Joshimath
3. Backpack Offloading (optional)
- ₹2,000 + 5% GST for the entire trek
- Maximum weight: 9 kg; no suitcases, trolleys or duffel bags
- Charges may be higher for last-minute requests made at Joshimath
4. Personal Equipment
- Your clothing, backpack, sunglasses and other personal gear
- Trekking shoes, jacket and trekking poles: bring your own (microspikes and gaiters are provided free)
5. Trek Insurance
- Travel insurance is mandatory and not included. It must cover high-altitude trekking and helicopter evacuation.
6. Anything Not Mentioned Under Inclusions
- Accommodation in Rishikesh before or after the trek
- Personal expenses such as tips, calls, laundry and extra snacks
- Costs from an early exit, evacuation, or an itinerary change due to weather or medical reasons
We know that cancelling a trek can be genuinely disappointing. Plans change, life intervenes, and sometimes the mountains have to wait. That is why Trekkaro has designed one of the most trekker-friendly cancellation policies in the industry — to reduce the financial impact on you and give you real options when things do not go as planned.
Important: Bookings made on trekkaro.com are cancelled online from My Bookings. Bookings made offline with our team must be cancelled in writing by e-mail by the person who originally booked the trek. Requests over the phone, via WhatsApp, or through third parties are not accepted.
How to Cancel Your Trek
Booked online on trekkaro.com:
- Log in and open My Bookings.
- Choose Cancel Booking on the trek you want to cancel.
- Pick a refund (as per the charges below) or Get TrekCash Voucher instead — the voucher is issued instantly and appears under My TrekCash Vouchers.
Booked offline with our team:
- Compose an e-mail from the registered e-mail ID used at the time of booking.
- Attach a copy of your tax invoice to the e-mail.
- Send both to info@trekkaro.com.
- Your cancellation is effective from the date Trekkaro receives and acknowledges your e-mail.
How to Reschedule Your Trek (Free)
- Once per booking, to another batch of the same trek, free of charge. A request we decline doesn’t count.
- Up to 8 days before departure, also in the 8–14-day window when there is no cash refund. The new batch must start at least 7 days after the day you ask.
- Subject to seat availability for every trekker on the booking.
- Not available for bookings paid fully or partly with a TrekCash Voucher.
- No fee or price difference; add-ons and the number of trekkers stay as booked.
- The new batch must start within 1 year of your booking date.
- Not available for a booking you revived after a Trekkaro cancellation — a revived booking is final.
Booked online: My Bookings → Reschedule free → pick a batch. Our team confirms by e-mail and your booking moves once approved. Booked offline: e-mail info@trekkaro.com.
How to Transfer Your Booking
You can give your booking to another trekker up to 8 days before departure. E-mail info@trekkaro.com from your registered e-mail ID with your booking ID and the new trekker’s name, age, phone number and ID proof. The new trekker must meet the fitness, age and document rules of the trek. We confirm the transfer by e-mail.
Cancellation Charges
| When you cancel | Cash refund | Other options |
|---|---|---|
| 30 days or more before departure | 70% refund (30% cancellation charge) | Or instead: a 100% TrekCash Voucher (valid 1 year), a free reschedule or a transfer |
| 15 to 29 days before departure | 50% refund (50% cancellation charge) | Or instead: a 100% TrekCash Voucher (valid 1 year), a free reschedule or a transfer |
| 8 to 14 days before departure | No cash refund of the trek fee | You can take a 100% TrekCash Voucher (valid 1 year), a free reschedule (once per booking) or a transfer to another trekker |
| 7 days or less before departure, or no-show | No refund of the trek fee | None: no voucher, reschedule or transfer |
A 100% voucher instead of a refund. From the day you book until 8 days before departure, you can take a TrekCash Voucher worth 100% of the amount paid, valid for 1 year on any Trekkaro trek. This works in every slab above, including 8–14 days, when there is no cash refund. Online bookings take the voucher from My Bookings → Cancel Booking (issued instantly). Offline bookings ask for it by e-mail to info@trekkaro.com.
If you paid the FTG security deposit and the washing charge, both are refunded in full when you cancel before the trek starts, in every slab.
Cancellation of Voucher-Based Bookings
- The standard cancellation policy applies to voucher-based bookings in the same way it applies to direct bookings.
- Any remaining balance after the applicable cancellation charge has been deducted will be credited back to your Trekkaro account as a new voucher.
- If your voucher has already expired at the time of cancellation, no refund, credit, or extension will be issued under any circumstance.
- If a voucher is set to expire on a Sunday or public holiday, it must be redeemed before the expiry date.
Additional Terms
- Free Rescheduling: Switching to a different batch of the same trek is free of charge once per booking, up to 8 days before departure, to a batch starting within 1 year of the booking date, subject to seat availability. Not available for bookings paid with a TrekCash Voucher or for revived bookings.
- Trek Transfers: You can transfer your booking to another person up to 8 days before departure, by e-mail. The new trekker must meet the fitness, age and document rules of that trek. See “How to Transfer Your Booking” above.
- No Refund Post-Commencement: Once the trek has commenced from Day 1 of your confirmed itinerary, no refunds or TrekCash Vouchers will be issued for any reason, including early exit, illness, or dissatisfaction with services.
- Policy Changes: Trekkaro reserves the right to amend or withdraw this cancellation policy at any time without prior notice. The version in effect at the time of your booking confirmation governs your booking.
Early Exit or Removal from Trek
A trekker may be required to leave the trek before completion for health concerns (AMS, hypertension, cardiac symptoms, or fitness that poses a safety risk), rule violations (alcohol or non-prescribed drugs on trail, smoking in prohibited zones, reckless behaviour, or misconduct), or by their own decision. In all cases of early exit or removal, no refund, partial refund, or TrekCash Voucher will be provided, and any additional transport or exit expenses are the trekker's responsibility. The trek leader's decision on health and safety grounds is final.
If Trekkaro Cancels Your Trek
Trekkaro may have to cancel a batch when it does not reach the minimum group size, when a trek leader becomes unavailable, when the route is closed by the forest or permit office, or in circumstances beyond our control (natural disasters, curfews, lockdowns, political unrest). You are told by e-mail and WhatsApp with the reason, and you get 100% of everything you paid, however close to departure: as a TrekCash Voucher (instant, valid 12 months on any trek — if the new trek costs more, the difference is payable) or, if you prefer, a full refund to your original payment method within 7 working days. If we offer you the chance to revive the booking on another batch (from My Bookings, for a limited time), the 7 working days start when that offer ends. You can also ask to be moved to another batch of the same trek at no charge.
Reviving a Cancelled Booking
After cancelling a batch, Trekkaro may let you revive your booking yourself from My Bookings, on the treks and dates we offer, for a limited time (shown in the offer, 24 hours). Reviving removes the TrekCash Voucher from the cancellation or calls off the refund. Before you confirm, each date shows what it means for you: a costlier batch is either waived or added as a balance to pay; a cheaper one is refunded, added to your TrekCash or not refunded, as stated in the offer (never more than you paid). Add-ons the new trek also offers carry over at its price.
- Once per booking, and final: after reviving, the trek and date can’t be changed or rescheduled. In special cases Trekkaro may give one more chance.
- Only batches starting within 1 year of your booking date can be offered.
- If a revived booking is cancelled again, any part already refunded or credited for a cheaper batch is not returned a second time. A fee we waived on a move is never charged again on a later move by our team.
Refund Processing
Refunds are processed within 10 working days of cancellation approval and credited to the original payment method only (credit card, debit card, net banking, UPI, or wallet). Your bank may take another 3–5 business days. Office hours: Monday to Saturday, 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM IST.
The full policy is part of our Terms & Conditions (Section 09).
Oxygen, first aid, daily SpO₂ checks, trained leaders — tap to read
1. Trained Trek Leaders
- Trek leaders hold NIM (Nehru Institute of Mountaineering) certification or an equivalent qualification
- Their training covers casualty assessment, high-altitude medical response, rope work and evacuation
2. Daily Health Checks
- Blood oxygen (SpO2) and pulse are checked for every trekker every day
- A falling SpO2 reading is acted on early, before it turns into Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS)
- If you are not fit to continue, the trek leader will ask you to rest or descend; the trek leader’s decision on health and safety is final
3. Emergency Equipment
- Portable oxygen cylinders carried with the group
- First-aid and medical kit with the trek team
- A stretcher with the trek team for emergency evacuation
- Radio communication across the trek team, as mobile signal is not reliable on the trail
4. Proper Trekking Gear
- Free microspikes and gaiters on this trek (no deposit, no charge). Bring your own broken-in trekking shoes with good grip, a warm jacket and trekking poles (see Things To Carry)
5. Risks on the Valley of Flowers Trek
- Highest point: 4,329 m (14,200 ft)
- Hemkund Sahib day: about 1,280 m of ascent in 6 km, the hardest day
- Monsoon rain makes the paths wet and muddy
- The valley day is about 16 km round trip
6. Your Part
- Build your fitness before the trek with running, cycling or swimming
- Tell the trek leader about any medical condition and the medicines you carry before Day 1
- Report a headache, nausea, dizziness or breathlessness to the trek leader at once
- Carry travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation
What a day on the trek feels like — tap to read
1. What You Can Expect From Us
- Safety first on the Valley of Flowers trek: daily SpO2 and pulse checks, oxygen cylinders and a stretcher with the group
- Personal attention: batches of up to 20 trekkers, so the trek leader knows each trekker’s health and pace
- NIM-certified trek leaders (Nehru Institute of Mountaineering, or an equivalent qualification), with local guides who know the Valley of Flowers route, its weather and its stays
- An itinerary planned for altitude, with daily distance and height gain set so your body can adjust
- Clear pricing: everything included and excluded is listed under Terms & Conditions, with the price of each optional add-on
2. What We Expect From You
- A willing attitude: cold nights, steep climbs and sudden weather changes are part of the mountains
- Physical preparation: you do not need to be an athlete, but train before the trek so the longest day feels comfortable
- Trust in your trek leader: follow their calls on route, pace, start times and turning back, as they are made for the group’s safety
Last ATM and phone network on the route — tap to read
1. Last ATM
- Joshimath has the last reliable ATM
- Carry extra cash for snacks, tips and emergencies
- Carry small notes: cards are not accepted on the trail
2. Mobile Network
- The signal is reliable up to Govind Ghat
- Beyond Ghangaria expect little or no connectivity
- Make your important calls and tell your family about the limited connectivity before you leave the base
Route Map & Altitude Profile
Follow the Valley of Flowers Trek route on the map: from Joshimath (1,890 m) to Hemkund Sahib (4,329 m), about 2,439 m of climbing. Press Walk the trail and follow the hiker camp to camp, or tap a day to jump to its camp.
Satellite imagery with a topographic map option. The trail is drawn from mapped footpaths and the Trekkaro route (406 points); it is for orientation, not a navigation map. Your trek leader walks the trail with you.
Camps and altitudes on the Valley of Flowers Trek
- Day 1 Joshimath · 1,890 m / 6,201 ft Base — Night stay after the drive from Rishikesh
- Day 2 Pulna · 2,050 m / 6,726 ft Camp by road — Trek starts (shared jeep from Govindghat)
- Day 2 Ghangaria · 3,048 m / 10,000 ft Camp — Guesthouse village; base for both valleys
- Day 3 Valley of Flowers · 3,500 m / 11,483 ft Summit — National park; day walk
- Day 3 Ghangaria (return) · 3,048 m / 10,000 ft Camp — Back for the night
- Day 4 Hemkund Sahib · 4,329 m / 14,203 ft Lake — Gurudwara and glacial lake
- Day 4 Ghangaria (return) · 3,048 m / 10,000 ft Camp — Back for the night
- Day 5 Govindghat (trek end) · 1,828 m / 5,997 ft Base by road — Descent to the road
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What Trekkers Say About Trekkaro
Reviews left on trekkaro.com by trekkers across our treks.
"Winter Kuari Pass trek with the team of Trekkaro. Food was amazing for breakfast, lunch and diner. Views on top and during the track are amazing. Trek in total was completely amazing. Big thanks to all of hard work from trek leader, superhuman cooks, the mule team, our driver."
"I have trek with Trekkaro for kuari pass and it was an amazing experience ,food was excellent and experience trek trainer."
"Trekkaro was simply amazing from the guidance to food to stay everything was very good!!! Local guides and trek leaders where always motivating, fun and made sure entire group had always been together and interacted with each other!!!"
"Had an amazing experience! Thanks for making this an amazing experience - Trekkaro Team"
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Why Trekkaro?
Leaders in providing Free Trekking Gear for 8+ years — redefining the way everyone must trek.
Up to 8 days before departure, reschedule to another batch for free or take a TrekCash Voucher worth 100% of your amount — valid for 1 year on any future trek.
Rated 4.9/5 on Facebook & 4.7/5 on Google by trekkers who trekked with us.
We keep you safe from the moment you book to the moment you head home — certified leaders, first aid & emergency support.
Well-planned itineraries balanced with the freedom to make the experience your own — no matter the trek difficulty.
Every decision we make is guided by our commitment to making trekking a force for good — for people and the planet.
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