Valley of Flowers & Hemkund Sahib Trek: A Complete Guide for First-Timers
Have you ever dreamed of walking through a magical land where the ground is covered in a colorful carpet of flowers and the air feels pure and sacred?
If yes, then the Valley of Flowers and Hemkund Sahib Trek is calling you!
Let’s dive into everything you need to know before you go.
About the Trek
- Location: Uttarakhand, India (in the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve)
- Altitude:
- Valley of Flowers: ~12,000 feet
- Hemkund Sahib: ~14,100 feet
- Best Time to Visit: July to early September (peak blooming season)
- Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate (perfect for beginners with decent fitness)
- Total Trekking Distance: Approx. 38–40 km (round trip)
Itinerary Overview
Day 1: Arrival at Govindghat
- Nearest town: Joshimath
- How to reach:
- Fly to Dehradun → Drive to Joshimath (8–10 hrs) → Govindghat
- Or take a train to Haridwar/Rishikesh and then drive.
- Stay overnight at Govindghat.
Day 2: Govindghat to Ghangaria (9 km trek)
- Trek alongside the river Pushpawati.
- Trail: Gradual ascent, stone-paved path.
- Overnight stay at Ghangaria (base camp for both Valley of Flowers and Hemkund Sahib).
Day 3: Ghangaria to Valley of Flowers and back (7–8 km)
- Start early morning.
- The valley feels like a dream – endless stretches of blue, pink, and yellow flowers!
- Return to Ghangaria for the night.
Day 4: Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib and back (12 km)
- A steep, but rewarding climb.
- Visit the pristine Hemkund Lake and the revered Gurudwara.
- Return to Ghangaria and relax.
Day 5: Ghangaria to Govindghat (9 km trek down)
- Trek down and drive back to Joshimath or continue your journey.
What Makes It Special?
- Valley of Flowers is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to over 500 species of wildflowers.
- Hemkund Sahib is the highest Gurudwara in the world, nestled beside a crystal-clear glacial lake.
- The entire trek is filled with waterfalls, streams, bridges, and stunning mountain views.
- Great chance to spot rare species like the Blue Poppy, Brahma Kamal, and Himalayan Monal.
Packing Essentials
- Good trekking shoes (waterproof preferred)
- Warm clothes (it gets cold, especially near Hemkund)
- Rain jacket/poncho (monsoon rains are common)
- Trekking pole (helps on steep sections)
- Water bottles and ORS (stay hydrated)
- Dry snacks (energy bars, nuts)
- First aid kit and any personal medicines
- ID card (mandatory for entry permits)
- Camera (because the views are worth it!)
Where to Stay?
- Govindghat: Budget hotels and guesthouses
- Ghangaria: Basic hotels, lodges, and camps
- No hotels inside the Valley or at Hemkund Sahib Trek— you must return to Ghangaria for the night.
Pro Tips
- Start your treks early each day to avoid afternoon rains.
- Hemkund Sahib trek is steep – take it slow and steady, especially if you’re not used to high altitudes.
- Respect nature — no littering in the Valley or HemkundValley of Flowers & Hemkund Sahib Trek.
- Carry some cash – ATMs are only available in Joshimath and not beyond.
- Permits are needed for the Valley of Flowers – you can get them at the entrance gate
How to Reach the Starting Point?
- By Air: Nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun.
- By Train: Haridwar/Rishikesh railway stations.
- By Road: Buses and taxis are available from Rishikesh to Joshimath/Govindghat.
Final Words
If you’re looking for a journey that blends natural beauty, spirituality, and adventure, the Valley of Flowers and Hemkund Sahib Trek is a must-do. It’s not just a trek — it’s an experience that will fill your heart and soul with peace, wonder, and lasting memories.
So lace up your boots and get ready to step into a real-life fairy tale!