Whether someone is a photographer, a filmmaker, a scientist, or an avid trekker, the “Valley of Flowers” in Uttarakhand has something to offer to everyone’s satisfaction. Expansive mountainous terrain, Alpine biogeography, illustrious biodiversity of flora and fauna, overflowing waterfalls, and fresh air away from the hustle of the throng never fail to keep a wanderer soulful in the valley. On that note, in the article that follows, light is shed on the different places to visit in the “Bhyunder Valley”, or “Valley of Flowers”.
1.0 Valley of Flowers trekking spots
Table of Contents
The 16 Km long trek of the “Valley of Flowers” starts from Govindghat, covers through Ghangaria, and ends at the border of Rishikesh. In the midst, the valley stretches for a distance of 6 to 7 km. The following are the trekking spots one can wish to cover in the vast stretch of the trek:
1.1 Ghangaria
Ghangaria is a village located adjacent to Govindghat or Govind Dham at the confluence of the rivers, namely, Pushpawati and Hemganga. This place is also known as the last terminal habitable spot in the Bhyunder valley. Ghangaria contains represents the best base camp for trekkers.
1.2 Vasudhara Falls
Often referred to as the “door to heaven”, the Vasundhara Falls has located 10 Km to the North of Badrinath. Not only has the place got indefinable natural beauty, but it is also said that as per mythology, the Pandavas made their trek through the 400 ft falls region before retreating into the village of Mana.
1.3 Bedini Bugyal
The characteristic Alpine vegetation of the Western Himalayas is represented by Bedini Bugyal. The trek is located near Trishul Peak, Roop Kund, and Wan Village. The trekking point is 7 km and starts from Ghaeroli Patal to Ranka Dhar.
2.0 Tourist attraction spots
A trekking spot is incomplete without a touch of cultural heritage and a taste of local faith. Naturally, religious tourism and ecological tourism catch a tourist’s attraction. One can relax after a long journey in the following spots of tourist attractions and discover a completely different dimension of life:
2.1 Hemkund Sahib
A holy Sikh pilgrimage located in the bosom of the Chamoli district is Hemkund Sahib. As per the Guru Granth Sahib, Guru Govind Singh Ji used to meditate along the Hemkund Lake bank. The pilgrimage is marked by a moderately steep ascent-type trek and a thin layer of oxygen.
2.2 Joshimath
Joshimath, also known as the Jyotirmath is represented by the municipal town of Chamoli-Pittorgarh district. This place is famous as the abode of Lord Badri and one of the four maths established by Adi Shankaracharya.
2.3 Valley of Flowers National Park
The national park is located adjacent to the trek of Badrinath. The park has an expanse of around 88 sq. km and is home to around 600 species of flowering plants, Alpine Vegetation, and a rich diversity of both endemic and exotic fauna like the Himalayan Black Bear, Red Fox, leopard, musk deer, and so many more.
3.0 Neighboring places
The neighboring regions of the Valley of flowers connect the valley and the district with different other parts of Uttarakhand. Valuable mentions may be made of the following.
3.1 Niti Valley
The Niti Valley comprising the Niti Village is located close to the Joshimath and Bampa Villages. The portion close to the Indo-China border and Indo-Tibet border is sealed since 1961 after the Sino-Indian war. The valley is noted for its somber yet serene natural beauty representing off-beat rural tourism.
3.2 Malari
Malari is a trekking spot as a part of the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve and is close to Dhauli Ganga. The area is a “World Heritage Site” and is characterized by Old Western Himalayan architecture of slate roofing and diverse plant and animal life in the vicinity.
3.3 Mana Village
To begin with, the Mana Village is the last village on the India/Tibet border. The region is famous for its thick woolen apparel made from sheep wool. The region is also famous for producing indigenous varieties of potato and kidney beans.
A traveler may also choose to delve a little further from the treks of the “Valley of Flowers” into the regions such as; Auli, Gorson Bugya, Five Prayags, Kedar-Badri, Pandukeshwar, Nanda Devi National Park, and so many more.
As per the climatic conditions of the “Valley of Flowers”, the best months of the year to visit the place are July and August. During these seasons, one can witness all types of flora and fauna, as if the valley is an abode of vibrant colors. The retreating summer influences and the gradual settling of chilling weather influences give a traveler the chance to enjoy double climatic beauties.
The nearest airport to the “Valley of Flowers” is Jolly Grant airport, and the nearest railway station is Rishikesh. The epicenter and bus stop of the “Valley of Flowers” trip is Govindghat. From the village of Pulna, one may choose either four-wheeler or two-wheeler routes and delve into the 16 Km stretch of the trek. One may also select a helicopter route from Ghangria for distinct places as mentioned above. The minimum trekking span is 3 to 4 days, and one can select their schedule accordingly.
Hence, based on the above, descriptions, one may chalk out a favorable route as per their convenience and may rejoice in the valley in bliss.
