VOF – Valley of Flowers
January 12, 2023The Valley of Flowers National Park offers visitors an amazing experience and an ethereal vision against the majestic backdrop of the Himalayan peaks. The Valley of Flowers National Park, which occupies an area of 87 square kilometers in the Chamoli district, is one of the two core zones of the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve, together with the Nanda Devi National Park. It is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
It is thought that the valley was found in 1931 when three British mountaineers, under the direction of Frank S. Smythe, got lost and happened upon this breathtaking valley. They gave this location the name “Valley of Flowers” because they were drawn to its beauty.
As the name implies, Valley of Flowers is a place where the natural world is at its most beautiful, providing visitors with an unforgettable experience. More than 600 different kinds of exotic flowers, including anemones, orchids, poppies, primulas, marigolds, and daisies, are visually striking. A portion of the park is covered by sub-alpine forests with birch and rhododendron trees. Stunning sights along the way, such as gushing waterfalls and untamed streams, can be seen on the hike to the valley. The valley, which is 3,600 meters above sea level, is home to a variety of uncommon and remarkable wildlife species, including the Himalayan monal, black bear, red fox, lime butterfly, gray langur, flying squirrel, and Himalayan weasel.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
Early June marks the opening of Valley of Flowers’ gates. However, July through September is the ideal month to come. It can be extended till September 30th. The trek is not the same every month, not even in the peak months of July to September.
ATTRACTIONS
Trekking
Hemkund Sahib
Badrinath
VOF TREK
Travelers can engage in one of the most daring activities possible: trekking. It supports and fosters mental wellness in addition to physical fitness. The most fulfilling hike is in the Valley of Flowers, which is on many hikers’ bucket lists. As one travels, it explains a variety of landscapes, and the mild weather and tranquil surroundings keep fatigue at bay. With so much to discover in a single hike, one may easily pick up and hold onto a number of memories that are beneficial to the individuals who chose it.
Carrying trekking itinerary and other necessities is vital to a successful expedition. One might anticipate circumstances that will bring about the happiness of being in the middle of the mountain. There will also be moments when you want nothing more than to remain back. The Valley of Flowers offers a unique hike that people won’t soon forget, along with a gorgeous setting full of flora and wildlife!
Key Details
Time: Entry will be permitted before to 12:00 PM, and in the event of inclement weather, entry may be restricted, so plan on staying an extra day.
Entry fee: For Indians, the fee is Rs. 150 per person; for foreigners, it is Rs. 600 per person. Each has a three-day expiration date.
Camera: Given the desire to record the moments in this breathtaking area, both professional and amateur still cameras are permissible for visitors to bring. A non-professional movie video camera can also be taken for free. Indians must pay Rs. 500 for a professional one, while foreigners must pay Rs. 1500.
Where to Stay
In the Valley of Flowers, accommodations are not available for overnight stays, and camping is prohibited as well. Therefore, you will have to choose a place to stay in Ghangharia. Fortunately, Ghangharia offers a variety of lodging choices because, along with the Hemkund Sahib Yatra, this trip has grown in popularity.
HOW TO REACH
By Flight
The closest airport to Valley of Flowers is Jolly Grant Airport; however, the roads only connect to Govind Ghat, from where a 16-kilometer hike is required to reach Valley of Flowers.
By Train
Rishikesh is the closest train station to the Valley of Flowers. Hire a taxi or bus to go to Govind Ghat. The railway station at Rishikesh is located on NH58, 275 kilometers before Govindghat.
By Road
Motorable roads connect Govind Ghat and from there one has to trek to Valley of Flowers.