Adventure in the Valley of Flowers - August 2023

  1. Day 1: Reach Joshimath
    From Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun: 8 hours (270 km)

    In the morning, reach Jolly Grant airport and drive to Joshimath from where Valley of Flowers is 20 km away. If time permits, visit Nanda Devi National Park Museum and trek to Kagbhusandi Lake.

  2. Day 2: Valley of Flowers
    From Joshimath: 20 km (1 hour)

    In the morning, drive to the base camp and trek to the Valley of Flowers. With hundreds of plant species, the valley is in full bloom in August. Afternoon and evening can be spent exploring the valley and taking photographs.

  3. Day 3: Hemkund Sahib
    From Ghangaria: 6 km (4 hours)

    In the morning, trek to Hemkund Sahib, a Sikh pilgrimage site, to witness the serene lake and the Gurudwara. Return to Ghangaria by evening and explore the local market and cafes.

  4. Day 4: Bhyundar Valley
    From Ghangaria: 3 km (2 hours)

    Trek to the Bhyundar Valley, a lesser-known trail, and enjoy the flora and fauna of the region. You can spot Himalayan bears, musk deer, and blue sheep here. Return to Ghangaria by evening and relax in the hot springs.

  5. Day 5: Badrinath Temple
    From Joshimath: 43 km (2 hours)

    Drive to Badrinath Temple, one of the four Char Dham pilgrimage sites in India. Explore the temple and its surroundings. On the way back, visit Mana village, the last village on the Indian border, and Vyas Gufa.

  6. Day 6: Departure
    From Joshimath to Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun: 8 hours (270 km)

    After breakfast, drive back to Jolly Grant airport for departure.

Recommendations

Other places to visit nearby are Auli, a popular skiing destination, and the hot water springs of Tapovan. You could also extend your trip by visiting the nearby towns of Rishikesh and Haridwar. Make sure to carry sunscreen, insect repellent, and warm clothes as the weather can be unpredictable.

For the best experience, hire a local guide who can help you navigate the trails and provide information about the local flora and fauna. Keep in mind that the Valley of Flowers is open from June to October and is closed for the rest of the year.

Maximize your fun by carrying a camera, binoculars, and a good quality trekking shoes. You can also try the local cuisine in the cafes and restaurants in Ghangaria.

Consider booking your hotels and flights in advance through https://booking.tp.st/VhZsadPo and make sure to check the opening and closing times of the places you want to visit.

0