Day by Day itineraryDay 1: Arrive at Govind ghat(1828 m.)Your Valley of flowers trek starts from Govindghat
Arrive at Govindghat and have an overnight stay at the hotel. Govindghat is located in Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, India. Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is the nearest airport to Govindghat which is situated at a distance of approximately 292 km. The nearest railway station to Govind ghat is Rishikesh on NH 58 at a height of around 5,500 feet. Govindghat is visited by many pilgrims on Chardham Yatra, so it is a major place for the accommodation of the pilgrims. The place offers natural beauty and escapes from chaotic urban life.
Day 2: Trek from Govindghat to Ghangariya(3048 m., 14 km.)We shall start the second day of your valley of flowers trek by beginning our trek from Govindghat to Ghangariya.
The distance between these places is about 14 km. which takes around 5 to 6 hours to reach.The uphill trek begins with steep valleys. The steep valleys last for first 3 km. of the trek and again come towards the last 3 km.
If you are not able to cope up with the trek, then you can take a pony or a helicopter. Ponies cost around Rs. 800 to Rs. 2,000. Helicopters are available only during the clear weather.
The best time to undertake Valley of flowers trek is June to September i.e. the monsoon season. The helicopter facility is not available during that period. Palanquins are also available for elderly people which are relatively costlier and costs around Rs. 8000 per person. On the way, you come across Pulma and Bhyuandar, both of these villages were heavily damaged during 2013 floods in Uttarakhand but are now rehabilitated. After reaching Ghangariya, there is an overnight stay before we begin our next day of Valley of flowers trek.
Day 3: Trek from Ghangariya to Valley of Flowers(10 km.)Day 3 of Valley of flowers trek starts with early morning breakfast.
Trek to Valley of Flowers about 10 km. which takes about 6 to 7 hours to reach. The 50 percent of trek towards the valley of flowers is steep uphill while the remaining part is not so steep. The landscapes of the valley are a feast to eyes. You come across vibrant flowers, beautiful mountain ranges, many species of birds, insects, butterflies, etc. The sight of thousands of flowers blooming astonishes trekkers. Many streams flow through the valley which further adds to the soulful beauty of nature. On the right side of the valley is the snowy Ratban Parvat (6,125m.) and on the left side is the Nar Parvat. Also, relish the beautiful mountain ranges of Nilgiri Parvat (6,479m.) and Ghori Parbat (6,950m.). Head back to the camp/hotel for overnight stay at Ghangariya.
Day 4: Trek from Ghangariya to Kunthkhal Top(3700 m.-4430 m., 9 km.)After early morning breakfast begins the trek from Ghangariya to Kunth khal Top which is approximately 3,700 m. to 4,430 m. The total distance of the trek is about 9km. The route is moderately easy and not much steep valleys come along the way. From the Kunthkhal top, the trekkers get an incredible view of the valley. The snow-capped mountains and the vegetation with a cold windy breeze are lifetime time experience. The way to Kunthkhal top diverts from a point named BamniDhaur. The trek route will introduce you to rivers, streams, and glaciers. The trek route is a visual treat as a lot of flora and fauna can be seen in this scenic place. Spend some time on the Kunthkhal top and if you are physically fit enough you can take a tour until the end of the valley at Tipra Khark. Later head back to Ghangariya for an overnight stay in the hotel.
Day 5: Early Morning Trek to Govind ghatAfter morning breakfast, this 5th day of your Valley of flowers trek, head back to Govind ghat.
It is purely a downhill trek as opposed to the day 2 trek where it was uphill. You also have the option of taking ponies. After reaching Auli, the vehicle shall take you to Chairlift Point where you have to climb the stairs. From the chairlift point, you shall take the chairlift up to the tower number 10 where you can indulge in adventure activities. You can drive mountain scooters; visit the artificial lake and much more. You can visit the highest peak of Uttrakhand, Nanda Devi from where you can enjoy the magnificent view. At the day end, you have to come to the parking bay by chairlift and drive back to Joshimath to head towards the hotel for an overnight stay.
Day 6: Check Out Your Valley of Flowers Trek ends here. After having breakfast, check out from the hotel and leave for your onward destination.