Overview
Region :- Uttarakhand
Duration :- 6 Days
Grade :- Easy To Moderate
Max Altitude :- 14,100 Ft.
Approx Trekking Km :- 37 Kms.
It’s an easy to moderate trek that offers a rare access to Uttarakhand Himalayas that has an expanse of valley covered with flowers. It is also considered an ideal trek for the first timers even including family and kids. One also gets a chance to visit the highest pilgrimage location of Hemkund Sahib.
The valley itself is about 2km wide and 8 km long and the best time to visit is between July to mid of September. The temperature on this trek usually stays somewhere between 5 to 20 degrees celsius. And you can expect moderate rainfall even while trekking and the valley usually has a thick cloud cover. The most difficult part of the trek is the climb to Hemkund Sahib on the last day where we cover an altitude of about 4,300 ft in a day and that can be a bit strenuous.
The valley was first discovered accidentally by a group of mountaineers in 1931 who were returning from an expedition to Mount Kamet. Frank Smythe, Eric Shipton and RL Holdsworth were a part of this team. In 1980, Valley of Flowers was declared a national park and in 2000, Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve added it as the second core zone. It now comes under UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere (MAB) programme.There are about 500 varieties of flowers that are found here and some of them even have medicinal properties. Since a number of plant species are considered threatened, any kind of animal grazing is not allowed in this region. When on the trek, you’ll even get to visit the memorial grave of Joan Margaret.
The visit to Hemkund Sahib i.e. the highest religious place covered in the itinerary is difficult but rewarding and if you happen to have an extra day, you can even visit Badrinath or explore Rishikesh on your last day.
There are well marked trails and a series of steps laid out at some of the sections of the trek. Mules are available from Govindghat to Ghangaria and Hemkund Sahib but are not allowed to go inside the main valley. You must not expect luxurious stay while on the trek, there is no camping on this trek and basic lodges are provided where you can expect a bit of seepage smell. There are very high chances of rainfall during the trek days. Also, keep a buffer day in your itinerary as there can be road blocks due to the rain.
It's a must to carry a good quality rain jacket or a poncho at all the times when on the trails. Weather resistant backpack covers should be used to keep the insides of the bag dry. Waterproof trekking shoes are recommended and you should always carry several pairs of socks when on monsoon treks.
Brief Itinerary
Day 1- Rishikesh to Joshimath
• Distance- 250 km, Altitude 1,900m/6,200ft.
• Pick up from Rishikesh bus station 06:00am / TTH office 07:00am
• Driving Time-10-11 hrs.
• Last ATM point available in Joshimath.
• Market available in Joshimath.
• Networks available all along the way.
• Guest house stay (Shared Accommodation).
Route
• Rishikesh to Devprayag (confluence of Bhagirathi river and Alaknanda river)
• Devprayag to Srinagar
• Srinagar to Rudrapryag (confluence of Mandakini river and Alaknanda river)
• Rudrapryag to Karnprayag (confluence of Pindar river and Alaknanda river)
Note: Travel to Joshimath and back is exclusive of charges, we can arrange the transportation on demand.
Day 2- Drive Joshimath to Govindghat -Pulna and Trek to Ghangharia
• 20 km, 40 minutes, Govindghat (2,000m/6,800ft). travel included in the cost.
• 5 km 10 minutes, Pulna. travel included in the cost.
• 9 km 4 hours, Pulna to Ghangharia (2,290m/9,800ft).
• Gradual ascent on a stone-paved path, all the way along the river.
• Water is available along the route.
• Packed lunch will be given.
• Mule and porter facility is available from Pulna.
• BSNL network available at Ghangaria.
• Helicopter service available from Govind ghat to Ghangaria and fro only if weather allow (Not included).
• Stay in guest house (Shared Accommodation).
Note worthy Site: Govinddham Gurduwara, Govindghat; Hemkund Gurduwara base, Ghangharia; Valley of Flowers Information Center; Ghangharia
Day 3- Ghangaria to Valley of Flower and back to Ghangaria
• Altitude- 3,500m/11,500ft.
• Distance- 4 km, each way.
• Trek Time- 7 hours.
• The Valley is 6-7 km long, ends with a glacier.
• Mixed incline till the valley followed by level walk on grassland.
• Can refill water bottles from streams on the way.
• Packed lunch will be given, no food available in the valley.
• Camping inside the valley is not allowed, can’t stay after sunset.
• Night stay in Guest house (Shared Accommodation).
Prominent flowers:- Blue Poppy, Snake Foil, White Leaf Hog Foot, Himalayan Rose, Meadow Geranium, Dog Flower, Hooked Stick Seed, and River Anemone.
Day 4- Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib and back to Ghangaria
• Altitude- 4,300m/14,100 ft.
• Distance- 5.5 km, each way.
• Trek Time- 7 hours.
• Gradual and steep mixed ascent on a stair welled stone-paved path.
• Mule ride service is available till Hemkund Sahib.
• Can refill water from road side dhabas.
• Hot lunch at Gurduwara langar.
• Brahma Kamal, Himalayan blue poppy can be seen on the way to Hemkund Sahib.
• Night stay in Guest house.
Day 5- Ghangaria to Govindghat and Drive to Joshimath (Badrinath optional)
• Distance to Govind Ghat- 13 km
• Trek Time-5 hours
• Driving Time- 20 mins
• Packed lunch
• Guest house stay
Note- GovindGhat to Badrinath is landslide prone area in monsoon time so if our leaders find that your safety is in risk due to weather condition/ landslide or road blockage then we shall skip Badrinath altogether and drive to Joshimath directly.
Day 6:- Joshimath to Rishikesh
• After Morning Tea/Coffee, Depart to home.
• you’ll reach Rishikesh between 5 -6:00 pm. You can book further travel any time after 7:00 pm.
Note- Travel to Rishikesh is exclusive of charges, we can arrange the transportation on demand.
Day 07: Buffer day.
• Buffer day will be used if unable to summit due to of any unforeseen circumstances.
• Opting a buffer day will be a team decision not an individual.
• Keep a buffer day in your travel plan.
• Buffer day is not included in the cost.
• If buffer day is not used in the Expedition then it can be used to explore Rishikesh/Haridwar/ Mussoorie .
• Rishikesh is known for White water Rafting capital of India, Bungee jumping, Cycling in Chilla Forest, Yoga, Ayurvedic Massage, Ram Jhula, Lakshman Jhula, Parmarth aarti, Big ashrams.
• Haridwar is known for Pilgrimage, Numerous temples, Har Ki Pauri, Ganga Aarti, Jungle safari in Rajaji National Park, Ayurvedic medicines and herbal remedies.
• Mussoorie is known for Mall Road, Shopping, Kempty Falls, Municipal Garden, Sir George everests house.
Note:-
• Distance, Altitude and Trekking hours are approximate and round off.
• Keep original and copy of ID proof handy.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 01: Rishikesh to Joshimath
You will begin your journey with us from Rishikesh. Starting the drive from Rishikesh from the appointed pickup point Rishikesh bus stand or TTH office in Tapovan, we will take the fabled Badrinath Road. Please note that travel from Rishikesh to Joshimath and return is not included in the cost.
The nine-hour drive to Joshimath will surely be long and arduous, but you are never going to run out of mesmerizing views. The great river running with us on parallel will get wilder and more fascinating as we trudge uphill. We will be passing by the 4 of the Panchprayag or the five holy confluence of Ganga—Devaprayag, Rudraprayag, Karnaprayag, and Nandaprayag. So, keep your cameras ready and remain awake for most of the journey!
Day 02: Joshimath - Ghangaria Trek
From Joshimath to Govindghat the distance is 20km. En route, you can spot the final Vishnuprayag. We will start off on the drive in the morning after breakfast and reach Govindghat by 8 am and then 4 km drive to Pulna which is the starting point, todays travel is included in the cost. It will be a 9 km uphill route along the river, Pushpawati. The entire trail will be crowded most of the time. Many snack shops selling the beverage, hot noodles, omelets with bread, paratha, and the like can be found on this trail.
So, you will never go hungry. The trek will be on a clearly defined stone-paved path, conveniently built with stairs. After 5 km walk, you will arrive at Bhyundar village. This village marks an amazing viewpoint for clear Hathi Parvat sights. Enjoy the wonderful sights as much as you can, because the strainful steep ascent will commence henceforth. You will reach Gangharia before nightfall, attaining an altitude of 10, 000 feet. The stay will be at a guest-house.
Day 03: Ghangaria - Valley of Flower - Ghangaria.
The journey to Valley of Flowers is a distance of 4 km. The valley is 6-7 km long; the distance travelled in the valley depends on how the trekkers want to explore the valley. Another, factor to be considered is the stamina of the trekkers.
Right, when you start from Ghangaria in 30 minutes forest check post arrives. The check post might not be an attraction but right before check post, there is a gushing waterfall called Laxman waterfall. Another 20 minutes into the greenery and next furious attraction comes. At this point, the Pushpavati river flows furiously below a wooden bridge. It is quite a common yet a unique and mesmerizing capture. The trail is steep and stone paved like the previous day. You can find many bridges and landslide areas when you enter the valley.
The valley is thousand times stupendous than you might have imagined. It truly makes the Himalayan peaks lively and cherishing. Blue Poppy, Snake Foil, White Leaf Hog Foot, Himalayan Rose, Meadow Geranium, Dog Flower, Hooked Stick Seed are the native flowers. These astounding colorful blossoms end after 5 km stretch at a glacier. If the weather is clear the mighty Himalayan peaks of Nilgiri Parvat, Bhyundar Khal, Rattaban, Gauri Parvat etc. in the background. Today’s journey will conclude with your coming back to Ghangaria before nightfall.
Day 04: Ghangaria - Hemkund - Ghangaria
Get ready early in the morning to start trekking (6 Km) for "HEMKUND SAHIB". One of the most revered of all Sikh Shrines, The Hemkund Sahib, the World’s Highest Gurudwara, is situated at an altitude of 4,329 meters. There will be porters and mules if you wish to offload your load. The trail today will be similar to previous days stone paved and continuous ascend. There will be shops on the way where you can energize yourself. Watch out for the rare flower Brahmakamal that will be spotted beside pathways.
The Gurudwara is placed magically beside the mirror like glacial lake Hemkund. During clear skies, one can witness the flawless reflections of the adjoining Saptrishi peaks. The lake is fed by melting glaciers of Hathi Parvat and Saptrishi peaks. Religious Laxman temple is also found near the lake. In the afternoon trek down to reach Ghangariya for an overnight stay. The evening is free for rest & relaxation.
Day 5 : Ghangaria to Govindghat and drive to Joshimath
After your breakfast in the morning we descend to Govindghat and then drive to Joshimath. From this place Badrinath is 25 km away and take 1 hrs to reach. You can visit Badrinath only if road and weather condition permits us.
Note : Govindghat to Badrinath is landslide prone area in monsoon time so if our leaders find that your safety is in risk due to weather condition/landslide or road blockage we shall skip Badrinath altogether and drive to Joshimath directly.
On arrival, check into hotel. Overnight: Hotel
Day 06: Joshimath to Rishikesh
The ride will commence at 6 am and you will reach Rishikesh around 5 - 6 pm. Your Breakfast and Lunch will be on the way at a roadside inn, exclusive of charges, after having your morning tea/coffee you can leave for your next destination. We advise you to book further travel after 7 pm. Please note that travel from Joshimath to Rishikesh is not included in the cost.
Day 07: Buffer day
Every trek plan has a buffer day. This day is used in case of unfavorable conditions when the summit was not possible as the pre-planned itinerary. Using the buffer day will be a team decision. Please note that the cost of the buffer day is not included in the trek cost. In case the team decides to use the buffer day the said cost must be paid. Make sure to already discuss the buffer costs with your team.
If everything goes as planned and buffer days are never used then you can utilize them to travel around in Rishikesh, Haridwar, Mussorie or whatever suits you. Please remember to plan your travel dates considering the buffer days.
Following are some of the activities you can do on the buffer days:
• Rishikesh is known for the White water Rafting capital of India, Bungee jumping, Cycling in Chila forest, Yoga, Ayurvedic Massage, Ram Jhula, Lakshman Jhula, Parmarth aarti, Big ashrams.
• Haridwar is known for Pilgrimage, Numerous temples, Har Ki Pauri, Ganga Aarti, Jungle safari in Rajaji National Park, Ayurvedic medicines and herbal remedies.
• Mussoorie is known for Mall Road, Shopping, Kempty Falls, Municipal Garden, Sir George Everest's house.
How to Reach
At first you have to reach Rishikesh
Options
1. Take overnight train/bus to Rishikesh
2. Take overnight train/bust to Haridwar and drive to Rishikesh (30 min drive with normal traffic)
3. Take flight to Dehradun airport (Jolly Grant Airport) and drive to Rishikesh (20 km, 20 min), if coming by flight then come one day early.
After that Trek The Himalayas will take care of your travel.
Our pick-up locations at Rishikesh are
• Rishikesh bus station (06:00 am)
• TTH Rishikesh office (Tapovan) (07:00 am)
If going by yourself
Options
1. Take early morning (5am-6am) bus or share taxi to Joshimath (Full day drive)
2. Book a cab for Joshimath/Govindghat
Travel from Joshimath to Govindghat, Pulna and Badrinath is included in the cost
Helicopter
• You can take Helicopter from Govindghat to Ghangaria, at a reasonable price.
• Take Helicopter from Dehradun to Govindghat, agency’s charge exorbitant rates.
Cost Terms
Inclusions :-
1. Accommodation. (Guesthouse).
• Joshimath on Day 1 and Day 5
• Ghangharia on Day 2, Day 3 and Day 4
2. Meals while on trek (Veg. + Egg).
• from the Day 1st Dinner to the Day 5th Dinner
3. Support:
• 1 Mountaineering qualified & professional trek Leader
• Guide (Number of guides depend on the group size)
• 1 High Altitude chef
• Support staff
4. First aid:
• Medical kits
• Stretcher
• Oxygen cylinder
5. All necessary entry fees and permits.
6. Porters/mules to carry central equipment.
7. Transport Rishikesh to Joshimath and return as per the Itinerary
8. Transport Joshimath to Govindghat, Pulna & Badrinath and return as per the itinerary
Exclusions :-
1. Food during the transit.
2. Any kind of personal expenses.
3. Mules or porter to carry personal luggage.
4. Any kind of emergency evacuation charges.
5. Anything not specifically mentioned under the head Price Includes.
Backpack Offloading
• INR 500/- if you make an online payment, 10 days in advance
• INR 700/- if you inform us after reaching Joshimath
• The backpack cannot weigh more than 11 kgs.
• Backpack should have waterproof cover.
• Suitcases/strolleys/ bags will not be allowed.
To book a Trek/ adventure program please use our online booking form or, alternatively, you can call us on the given for confirmation of tour you have to wire a deposit and initial deposit.
Paying the Trek /Tour fee:
The fee can be paid by online transfer/Check deposit/Cash deposit/Demand draft. Instruction for
payment will be forwarded along with your confirmation email. When your transfer is done, please
e-mail us a confirmation mail with your transfer details, so that we can follow up your reservation efficiently.
Cancellation terms:
For the cancellation of services due to any avoidable/unavoidable reasons, Trek The Himalayas must
be notified of the same in writing at [email protected] At the time we receive your
written cancellation, refunds based on the total fare are as follows.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellations prior to 07 days from the start of the Trek: Get a full refund (minus 5% trek cost). The money will be transferred to the same bank account from where the transaction was made.
Cancellations prior to 06 days from the start of the Trek: 100% full refund of trek cost in form of Trek The Himalayas trek voucher valid for 1 year from date of issue. This voucher is applicable for Indian treks only.
Cancellation on Start of Trek date:Get 20% refund of trek cost in form of Trek The Himalayas trek voucher valid for 1 year from date of issue. This voucher is applicable for Indian treks only.
Note:
1. Change of trek batch is dependent on the availability of seats in the batch
2. In case of transferring a trek to a friend, he/she should satisfy all the mandatory requirements put forward by TTH
3. TTH holds the right to change/cancel the policies, without prior notice
4. Cash refund is applicable only in case of bookings made without using any promotional offer code or vouchers
Cash Voucher Terms:
• This is a non transferable voucher
• The voucher cannot be merged with any other offer of Trek The Himalayas
• The voucher is valid for Trek booked directly with Trek The Himalayas in India
• To avail the voucher please use your register phone number or e-mail id
• All the other Terms of booking a trek with Trek The Himalayas are applicable to the voucher
• Trek The Himalayas holds rights to add/remove any of the Terms and Conditions without prior notice
Itineraries are based on information available at the time of planning and are subject to change.
"Trek The Himalayas" reserves the right to change expedition dates, people or itineraries as
conditions warrant. If a trip must be delayed or the itinerary changed due to bad weather, road
conditions, transportation delays, government intervention, airline schedules, sickness, or other
contingency for which TTH or its agents cannot make provision, the cost of delays and/or other
changes are the responsibility of the participant. TTH reserves the right to decline, or accept, any
individual as a trip member for any reason whatsoever.
Fitness
Fitness regime for:
Calculate Your BMI
If your BMI is normal, you can plan your fitness regime as mentioned. If your BMI is not normal, consult your trusted physician before you plan your fitness regime.
If you're suffering from any chronic illnesses consult a medical practitioner.
FAQ
Mid June to Mid September is a best time to visit Valley.
Actually Trekking is for everyone, but your fitness play major part. For any treks in Himalayas, Trekkers should be physically fit and have good walking stamina, and don't have any medical issue/history which affect their ability/health during trek.
Yes, This trek is highly recommended for beginner. Anyone with good fitness and walking stamina should be able to do this trek.
Yes, You can join us. We already have group in which we take maximum 22-24 and minimum 5-6 Trekkers.
Yes, Your kid can join. Minimum age requirement is 8 yrs, and maximum depend on trekkers fitness.
Our trek cost is Rs.10,500/-Per person + 5% GST. So, Total payable amount is Rs.11025/-Per person including taxes.
No, You don't need to pay extra. We have already covered vehicle booking charge between Haridwar to Joshimath and return
Haridwar Railway Station near Lord Shiva Statue is a pick up location for Trekkers or you can take pick up facility from Rishikesh
No. After registration you should wait for booking confirmation from TTH team Once you receive it, then complete your registration by paying fee and simultaneously book your travel plan.
No camping. It is a monsoon time in Uttarakhand, and heavy rainfall during this time is expected so we arrange trekkers stay in Guesthouses.
Actually it's Room. We have 3 Bed/4 Bed/5 Bed accommodation in both places (Joshimath and Ghangaria) with attached bathroom.
No, Female Trekkers share Room with female co-trekkers and same applicable for other.
Yes, It is available. We require offloading between Ghovindghat to Ghangaria and return only, and for advance booking pay Rs.500/- or book it after reaching Joshimath and pay Rs.700/- per backpack
TATA Sumo/ Bolero/Max kind of vehicles we arrange, and accommode 6-7 People in a vehicle
No, Trekkers require offloading facility only for Day 2 and Day 5. Other days (Day 3, Day 4) you can leave your big backpack in Ghangaria and require to carry Day pack.
Please check our fitness article for daily workout : https://www.trekthehimalayas.com/fitness-for-trekking/exercise-charts/easy/
Risk & Respond
High Altitude Treks: Risk and Response
A high altitude trek calls for an adventurous attitude, but embarking on an adventurous trip without calculating the risks is utter stupidity. That’s why we have listed a few risks and the response planned by TTH to minimise or address the risks in the best possible way.
Risk: Altitude
Before you start the trek, it is important to understand the implications of high altitude on your body. Be aware of symptoms of AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) like mild headache, nausea and general discomfort.
Response: If you feel any of these symptoms, inform the trek leader on priority and follow his instructions. Every campsite has as stretcher, fully equipped first aid kit, oxygen cylinders to address the situation.
Risk: Weather Weather is unpredictable in the Himalayas. Though we are always observant about the changing weather, no one can guarantee a snowfall, rain or Sun. Do understand that your security is of utmost importance to us and we will not proceed any further from the campsite if the weather is not favourable.
Response: The decision of the Trek Leaders and Guides to proceed or wait for the weather to get better will be final.
Risk: Injuries
Often, while trekking over difficult terrains, you might have minor injuries like leg sprain, bruises etc. Serious injuries like fractures or major cuts are very rare.
Response: All our Trek Leaders are Certified Wilderness First Aid responders. They are trained to handle emergencies and can tackle minor injuries with a well-equipped first aid kit. In case of serious injuries, the patient is carried on a stretcher to the nearest road-head and is led to nearest medical centre.
Risk: Lack of communication devices
In the remote areas of the Himalayas, mobile networks do not reach. On a trek, one is cut off from the world of calls, SMSs or watsapps.
Response: We rely on walkie-talkies and runners to communicate between the campsites and the base camps.
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