Monsoon is the time of the year when the Himalayas receive heavy spells of rain. As a result, most of the destinations are closed. But the Valley Of Flowers Trek is among those rare destinations which are open in monsoon.
During the monsoon, the whole valley comes alive with its lush green meadows, vibrant flowers and gushing water streams, which spreads throughout the valley. Trekking to this picturesque valley has its thrill which you can’t get on any other trek and another season.
So, being a natural gem and rare monsoon trek, the valley of flowers is a prime destination for nature and adventure lovers.
Here are all reasons why the Valley Of Flowers is the best monsoon destination.
Valley of flowers is a Unesco World Heritage Site and home to rarer variety of flora and fauna
Valley of flowers was discovered in 1931 by Frank S. Smythe, Eric Shipton and R.L. Holdsworth, all British mountaineers. They were stunned by the beauty of the valley and named it “Valley of flowers”.
Later in 1982, the government made the Valley of flowers a national park. Then after various researches in 2002, it was declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Due to which tourism accelerated in the valley and attracted tourists from around the globe.
The valley stretches over an area of 87.50 Km2 and is home to a variety of endemic alpine flowers and flora. As per government data, there are about 520 species of plants, of which 498 are flowering plants.
Flowers like orchids, poppies, primulas, marigolds, daisies etc covers the whole valley in varied colours. The famous Brahmakamal, known for its’ medicinal property, is also found in abundance in the valley.
As the monsoon arrives these flowering plants bloom in a variety of shades, covering the length and breadth of the valley. Standing amidst such a valley, surrounded by scenic mountains is a sight to behold and a lifetime experience.
Apart from the plants and flowers, this rich valley is also home to rare and endangered animal species. Asiatic black bear, snow leopard, musk deer, brown bear, red fox and blue sheep are few among them.
The valley is also a hub for a variety of endemic birds including Himalayan monal pheasant, Himalayan vulture, Blue-throated barbets and Snow pigeons.
Visit the sacred Hemkund Sahib and the holy shrine of Badrinath
Visiting the picturesque valley is not the only reason one trek to the Valley of flowers. This trek also offers a splendid opportunity to visit the sacred Hemkud Sahib lake.
A beautiful and strenuous trek of 6 km from Ghangaria, will take you to the pristine Hemkund Sahib Lake. Ghangaria is the place where the final trek begins.
On reaching Hemkund Sahib, the calm lake and surrounding mountains amaze you with their beauty. Standing beside crystal clear lake reflecting its surrounding make you feel rejuvenated and full of gratitude. After a mystical experience, you can also enjoy delicious food at Gurudwara beside the lake.
While returning from the trek, one can also visit the holy shrine of Badrinath. It is at a distance of 25 km from Govindghat, which is the starting point of the trek.
Scenic drive through the hills and famous Panch Prayag of Uttarakhand
The journey from Haridwar to Joshimath is full of scenic views and thrill. This thrilling drive passes through the beautiful hills of the Gharwal Himalayas. Throughout the drive, you will be travelling along the sacred rivers including the holy Ganga and Alaknanda.
The drive will also pass through the famous Panch Prayag- Devprayag, Rudraprayag, Karnaparyag, Nandprayag and Vishnuprayag. If you can, stop your vehicle at these Prayags to see the magical confluence of the rivers. You will also come across various bustling hill towns of Uttarakhand.
Valley of flowers is an easy-moderate level trek
Valley of flowers is not only known for its beauty but the easy-moderate level of the trek also attracts trekkers.
The trail throughout the trek is well laid out and is wide enough for two-person to cross easily. Hence, trekkers of all ages can do the trek.
Though this trail is easy to walk, there are few steep sections. The trek from Ghangaria (9,600 ft) to Hemkund Sahib (14,107 ft) is a steep climb but, the view of Ghangaria and the Valley of flowers below are worth the effort. It takes four days and 38 km to complete this trek.
The only thing you have to worry about on the trek is the risk of Acute Mountain Sickness. During the trek, you will be gaining significant height daily. So, to avoid the risk, prepare yourself well before the trek and follow the instruction of your guide.
Valley of flowers is in close proximity to Delhi and Haridwar
Another reason why it is one of the best monsoon destinations is its easy accessibility. The base of the trek, Joshimath is just 274 km from Haridwar and 490 Km from Delhi.
Joshimath is well connected by road. You can easily find buses as well as share a taxi from Haridwar or Rishikesh or Dehradun for Joshimath.
If you are travelling from Delhi, then you can take the train to Haridwar first. Or you can also take a flight to Dehradun. From here you can travel by bus or shared taxi’s. The drive from Haridwar to Joshimath will take approx. 9.5 hours.
Valley of flowers offers the thrilling experience of trekking in monsoon
Trekking in the monsoon or travelling to any destination in the Himalayas is rarely possible. But a destination like the Valley of flowers offers you a perfect opportunity of trekking in the monsoon.
Generally, as you start the trek, a drizzle with scenic lush green surrounding welcomes you in the valley. As you move deeper into the park, you will be thrilled by gushing water streams, towering waterfalls, ancient bridges, and melting snow blocks. Such is the thrill of trekking in the monsoon.
After a thrilling adventure, you will find yourself amidst hundreds of flower species blooming in various colours. These colourful flowers in the lush green valley with bright clouds floating, make you feel like being in heaven. This experience is truly magical.
With so much beauty and thrill to offer, the Valley of flowers is the best monsoon destination. One must visit this place once in a lifetime.
