Valley of Flowers and Hemkund Sahib are two iconic destinations in Uttarakhand, celebrated for their breathtaking natural beauty and spiritual significance. Located in the Chamoli district of the Western Himalayas, these destinations offer a perfect blend of adventure, serenity, and devotion.
- Valley of Flowers: A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its vibrant wildflowers, including over 500 species like orchids, poppies, and daisies. Situated at an altitude of 3,500–3,800 meters, it blooms from July to September. Rare wildlife such as the snow leopard, brown bear, and musk deer can also be spotted here.
- Hemkund Sahib: A revered Sikh pilgrimage site at 4,632 meters, dedicated to Guru Gobind Singh Ji. The serene Hemkund Lake, surrounded by snow-capped peaks, adds to its spiritual charm.
Brief Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Rishikesh | Transfer to Joshimath
- Begin your journey from Rishikesh’s 60’s Cafe (The Beatles).
- Enjoy scenic views of mountains and valleys en route to Joshimath.
- Overnight stay at a homestay in Joshimath.
Day 2: Trek from Joshimath to Ghangaria (9 km)
- Trek to Ghangaria, a quaint village surrounded by forests and mountains.
- Enjoy the fresh mountain air and panoramic views during the gradual ascent.
- Overnight stay at camps in Ghangaria.
Day 3: Trek to Valley of Flowers
- Set off on a thrilling trek to the Valley of Flowers.
- The steep and stony trail leads to vibrant meadows filled with blooming wildflowers.
- Soak in the natural beauty and return to Ghangaria for an overnight stay.
Day 4: Trek to Hemkund Sahib (6 km)
- Begin the challenging trek to Hemkund Sahib, a sacred Sikh site.
- Witness the serene Hemkund Lake and unique Bramhakamal flowers near the gurdwara.
- Spend time in quiet reflection before descending back to Ghangaria for the night.
Day 5: Trek from Ghangaria to Joshimath (9 km)
- Descend along the same trail to Joshimath, enjoying the beauty from a new perspective.
- Overnight stay at camps in Joshimath.
Day 6: Return to Rishikesh / Dehradun
- Drive back to Rishikesh or Dehradun, marking the end of your journey.
Highlights
- Valley of Flowers: A stunning display of over 500 species of vibrant wildflowers.
- Hemkund Sahib: A serene pilgrimage site with breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks.
- Adventure and Serenity: Explore steep trails, lush valleys, and high-altitude meadows.
Best Time to Visit
- July to September: Perfect for blooming wildflowers in the Valley of Flowers.
- May to October: Ideal for trekking with pleasant weather.