About VOF National Park

Nestled in the heart of the Indian Himalayan mountains, the Valley of Flowers National Park in Uttarakhand is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The Valley of Flowers National Park is a fairyland located in the Indian state of Uttarkhand, in the western Himalayas in Chamoli district; it lies at an altitude of 3,658 meters (12,000 feet) above sea level. 

It established in 1982 and is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, diverse flora, and rich biodiversity. The park is situated in the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

The Valley of Flowers National Park is a protected area under Indian law to preserve its unique ecosystem. This scenic national park is managed by the Uttarakhand Forest Department, and efforts are made to ensure sustainable tourism practices to minimize the impact on the fragile environment.

The Valley of Flowers, also known as Yumthang valley or Foolon ki ghati, is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas. The lush green meadows, cascading waterfalls, and meandering streams add to the park's scenic charm.

Why is the Valley of Flowers famous? 

It boasts a rich biodiversity, harboring over 600 flowering plants, among them the iconic alpine flowers, blue poppy and Uttarakhand's state flower, the Brahmakamal. 

The park is home to many different animals like leopards, black bears, brown bears, deer, and blue sheep. 

The meandering Pushpawati River valley enhances the beauty, winding its way through snow-clad mountains, cliffs, glaciers, and waterfalls, creating a captivating landscape. Recognized as a National Park, it is a sanctuary for nature conservation. 

The thick forests and fresh mountain air make trekking refreshing. The tall mountain peaks and beautiful views give an unforgettable trekking experience.

Here are some important things to know before planning a visit to the Valley of Flowers:

Access by Foot Only: The valley can only be accessed by trekking. There are no roads leading directly to the valley.

Seasonal Access: This full bloom Valley of Flowers is accessible to visitors from June to October. It is closed during the winter months due to heavy snowfall.

Early Departure Recommended: It is advisable to start early from Ghangaria, the base camp for trekkers, to allow ample time for exploring the valley. Valley opens at 7 a.m. Last entry at 2 p.m. Plan trek accordingly to have enough time to explore. 

Permit Requirement: A permit is required from the state forest department to visit the Valley of Flowers. This permit can be obtained in advance or upon arrival at the entry point.

Transportation: The nearest airport to reach the valley is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun. The closest railway station is in Rishikesh. From there, you can take a taxi or bus to Govind Ghat, where the trek begins. Alternatively, one can also take a bus directly to Govind Ghat.

Important Gear: Visitors should bring necessary trekking gear like water-resistant pants, warm clothes, a raincoat, sunglasses, and strong hiking shoes. Additionally, carrying snacks and water bottles is recommended to stay hydrated during the trek.

Must Visit places in VOF

• Valley of flowers trekking
• Hemkund Sahib
• Ghangaria Village
• Nanda Devi National Park
• Bheem pul

Best time to visit Valley of Flowers - weather conditions

The best season to visit the Valley of Flowers is during the monsoon months of July and August. During this time, the valley is in full bloom, showcasing a stunning array of vibrant flowers and lush greenery. The weather is also pleasant, making it ideal for trekking and exploring the valley's natural beauty.

How to reach Valley of Flowers?

• Travel to Rishikesh or Dehradun: The journey typically begins by reaching either Rishikesh or Dehradun, both of which are well-connected by road, rail, and air.
• From Rishikesh or Dehradun to Govindghat: You can reach Govindghat by either hiring a taxi or taking a bus. The journey takes approximately 10-12 hours from Rishikesh and around 9-10 hours from Dehradun.
• Govindghat to Ghangaria: From Govindghat, you'll start trekking towards Ghangaria, which is about 13 kilometers away. The trek usually takes around 6-8 hours and follows a well-marked trail alongside the Pushpawati River. Alternatively, you can also hire a mule or use helicopter services to reach Ghangaria.
• Ghangaria to VOF trek: The Valley of Flowers is located about 4 kilometers from Ghangaria. You'll need to trek from Ghangaria to the entrance of the valley, which takes around 1.5-2 hours. The path winds through beautiful landscapes, tree lines and offers stunning views along the way.

Stay / Hotels in Valley of Flowers

Accommodation options near the Valley of Flowers National Park are limited due to its remote location. Ghangaria serves as the base camp for trekkers visiting the Valley of Flowers. It offers a few budget accommodations, including guesthouses, lodges, and campsites. Govindghat, the starting point of the trek to Ghangaria, also offers a few guesthouses and budget hotels for travellers.

Explore Valley of Flowers with Exoticamp 

Exoticamp may offer unique experiences and activities that go beyond just visiting the Valley of Flowers. This could include cultural interactions with local communities, camping under the stars, or exploring nearby attractions and landmarks. With our expertise, support, and commitment to responsible travelling, you can enjoy the beauty of this natural paradise while creating lasting memories.

https://www.exoticamp.com/site/camp/valley-of-flowers

FAQs

Do I need a permit to visit the Valley of Flowers?

Yes, a permit is required from the state forest department to visit the Valley of Flowers. This permit can be obtained in Govindghat or Ghangaria.

Can I visit the Valley of Flowers as a day trip?

While it's possible to visit the Valley of Flowers as a day trip from Ghangaria, it's recommended to spend at least a couple of days in the area to fully explore and appreciate its beauty.

How long does it take to trek Valley of flowers?

The trek to the Valley of Flowers spans a distance of 38 kilometers. It typically takes 4 days to complete this trek, with an average of 6 hours of trekking per day.

Is fitness required to trek Valley of Flowers?

A good level of fitness is essential for undertaking a Himalayan trek such as the Valley of Flowers. The trek involves long and steep climbs at high altitudes, as well as daily walking over varied terrain.

Which is the nearest ATM from Valley of Flowers?

Joshimath is the last major town before reaching Govindghat, and it has ATMs where trekkers can make cash withdrawals. It's advisable to ensure you have enough cash on hand before going on the trek, as facilities may be limited in the remote areas