India boasts a plethora of hiking trails and mountain routes, spanning regions like Himachal, Ladakh, Kashmir, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Uttarakhand. Among these stunning trails, one stands out as an extraordinary destination: the Valley of Flowers. Located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, this trail is renowned not only for its accessibility during a limited season but also for its breathtaking beauty. The Valley of Flowers National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is set against the impressive backdrop of the magnificent Himalayan ranges. And now, for 2025, Valley of Flowers will officially welcome hikers starting June 1 and remain open until October 31, depending on weather conditions.
Covering 87 square kilometres, this park is part of the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve, which also includes the Nanda Devi National Park, a core zone. On its inaugural day, visitors were met with warm greetings from the forest department staff, with 62 tourists registering to experience this natural wonder. As indicated by its name, the Valley of Flowers is a site where nature’s beauty is at its peak, showcasing over 600 species of exotic flowers, including orchids, poppies, primulas, marigolds, daisies, and anemones.
Valley Of Flowers Is Perched At An Altitude Of 3,600 Meters
The area is also adorned with sub-alpine birch and rhododendron forests, complemented by picturesque waterfalls and wild streams along the trekking route.
Reaching an altitude of approximately 3,600 meters, this valley is home to a unique array of wildlife, including the grey langur, flying squirrel, Himalayan weasel, black bear, red fox, and even the elusive snow leopard. If you are all excited to experience the valley’s glory, trekking is the way to go. The trek is moderate to challenging, with options for ponies and porters available to assist.
Traveling to the Valley of Flowers is feasible by air, train, or road, with Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun being the closest. However, visitors must trek 16 kilometers from Govind Ghat to enter the park. Please note that overnight stays within the Valley are not permitted, as it is a protected area.
If you are super stoked about it and want to know more about the Valley of Flowers, then this Unstumbled guide is for you.