Valley of Flowers Trek Distance & Tips for the 35 km Himalayan Trail

If you’re dreaming of a Himalayan trek that blends jaw-dropping scenery, manageable difficulty, and rich biodiversity, understanding the Valley of Flowers Trek distance, route, difficulty, and preparation is essential. Located in Uttarakhand, this UNESCO-listed trail is one of India’s most rewarding moderate treks—perfect for first-time Himalayan trekkers and nature lovers alike.

Where Is the Valley of Flowers Trek Located?

The trek lies inside Valley of Flowers National Park, in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand.
The base village for the trek is Ghangaria, reached via Govindghat.

Valley of Flowers Trek Distance (Complete Breakdown)

Total Trek Distance

• Approx. 35 km round trip ( trekking portion included)

• Govindghat to Ghangaria: ~13 km (one way)

• Ghangaria to Valley of Flowers: 5.5 km one way

• Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib (optional): ~6 km one way

Ghangaria to Valley of Flowers Trek Distance

• 5.5 km each way

• Total: 11 km

• Time required: 6–7 hours round trip

• Gradual ascent with mixed terrain

This section is the heart of the trek and where the floral magic unfolds.

Suggested Read:  Valley of flowers itinerary from Rishikesh to Rishikesh

Valley of Flowers Trek Route

Rishikesh → Govindghat → Ghangaria → Valley of Flowers → Ghangaria → Govindghat → Rishikesh

Optional extension:

• Ghangaria → Hemkund Sahib → Ghangaria

Valley of Flowers Trek Difficulty Level

Is Valley of Flowers Trek Easy or Difficult?

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Suitable for beginners with basic fitness

• Gradual climbs, well-defined trails

• Main challenges: altitude, rain, long walking hours

If you can comfortably walk 8–10 km a day with a backpack, this trek is very achievable.

Valley of Flowers Trek Time & Itinerary

Valley of Flowers Trek Duration

• 5 days (Rishikesh to Rishikesh)

Typical Itinerary

• Day 1: Rishikesh → Govindghat

• Day 2: Govindghat → Ghangaria (13 km trek)

• Day 3: Ghangaria → Valley of Flowers → Ghangaria

• Day 4: Ghangaria → Hemkund Sahib → Ghangaria (optional)

• Day 5: Ghangaria → Govindghat → Rishikesh

Valley of Flowers Trek Best Time

• Best months: Mid-July to mid-August

• Trek season: June to October

🌸 Peak bloom: July–August
🍂 Clear skies & fewer flowers: September

❌ Valley of Flowers trek in December: Not possible (park closed due to snow)

Valley of Flowers Trek in August vs September

• August: Maximum flowers, lush greenery, monsoon charm

• September: Fewer flowers, golden hues, clearer mountain views

Valley of Flowers Trek Permits & Booking

• Entry permit required (National Park)

• Issued at Ghangaria forest check post

• Also available via approved trek operators

👉 Valley of Flowers trek booking is recommended in peak season due to limited accommodation.

Valley of Flowers Trek Package & Price

• Valley of Flowers trek package price:
  ₹8,000 – ₹15,000 (5–6 days, depending on inclusions)

Includes:

• Accommodation (basic lodges)

• Meals

• Guide

• Permits

Packing Tips for Valley of Flowers Trek

Essential Gear

• Waterproof trekking shoes (good grip)

• Rain jacket / poncho

• Layered clothing (thermal + fleece)

• Trekking pole (very useful)

• Backpack with rain cover

• Water bottles / hydration pack

Other Essentials

• Sunscreen & sunglasses

• Basic medicines

• Energy snacks

• Dry bags for electronics

What to See on the Valley of Flowers Trek

🌸 Famous Flowers

• Himalayan Blue Poppy

• Brahma Kamal

• Himalayan Primrose

• Bellflower

• Himalayan Balsam

🏔️ Natural Highlights

• Snow-fed streams

• Glaciers near Hemkund

• Butterflies & birds

• Alpine meadows

Valley of Flowers Trek With Hemkund Sahib

Combining the trek with Hemkund Sahib adds:

• Higher altitude challenge (4,329 m)

• Spiritual experience

• Stunning glacial lake views

Recommended only if you feel acclimatized.

Govindghat / Badrinath to Valley of Flowers Trek

• Govindghat to Valley of Flowers: Standard route

• Badrinath to Valley of Flowers: Possible via Govindghat road diversion (road journey, not trekking)

Final Thoughts: Is Valley of Flowers Trek Worth It?

Absolutely. The Valley of Flowers trek distance and difficulty strike a perfect balance—challenging enough to feel adventurous, yet accessible to motivated beginners. With proper preparation, this 35 km Himalayan journey rewards you with one of the most surreal landscapes in India.