Himalayan Trek - 3 - Valley of Flowers

🌟 Highlights:

•    A walk through a UNESCO World Heritage site
•    Over 300 species of blooming wildflowers
•    Breathtaking views of snowy peaks & Himalayan rivers
•    Visit to Hemkund Sahib, one of the highest Gurudwaras in the world
•    Ideal for first-time trekkers, botanists, and soul-searchers

📍 Key Attractions:

🌸 Valley of Flowers National Park: Spread over 87 sq. km, this valley transforms into a colorful paradise with blossoms like blue poppies, primulas, daisies, and cobra lilies. Surrounded by towering mountains, the scenery is both delicate and grand.

🙏 Hemkund Sahib (Optional Climb): At 14,100 ft, this serene glacial lake and Gurudwara is a spiritual high point of the trek. The steep climb is optional but rewarding, both visually and emotionally.

🏔️ Ghangaria Village: The last human settlement before entering the valley. This quaint Himalayan village is where we set up base, surrounded by waterfalls, forests, and fresh mountain air.

🗓️ Batch Dates: 15/08/25 (Fri) to 22/08/25 (Fri)

✅ Eligibility: 16 years and above (with prior walking/trek experience preferred)

🏕️ Accommodation: Triple-sharing rooms in guesthouses/simple hotels.

Dates: indicated are inclusive of travelling. Participants would leave Ahmedabad on the first day and reach back on the last day.

*Cancellation charges will be applicable on total Programme cost. Please note that the booking is not transferable. Please bring original receipt for claiming the refund. The refund amount will be given by A/c Payee Cheque only.

(In case of a Government lockdown, the cancellation charges would be only Rs. 1000/-. Rest of the amount will be refunded. For any other reason, the regular cancellation policy will be applied).

TENTATIVE ITINERARY

Day 1: Fly to Dehradun in the morning. Arrive Dehradun and drive to Rishikesh. check in at a hotel. The evening will be at leisure, allowing participants to relax or explore the vibrant surroundings at their own pace.

Day 2: The journey begins with an early morning drive from Rishikesh to Auli/Joshimath, (280 km, 11 hours). The route follows the Ganga and Alaknanda rivers, passing through Devprayag, Rudraprayag, and other beautiful confluences. After a long but scenic drive, participants reach Auli/Joshimath where they check into a guesthouse or hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 3: After breakfast, drive to Govindghat (25 km, 1 hour) and trek from Govindghat to Ghangaria (10 km, 6 hours). The trail passes through lush green valleys, alongside the Pushpawati River, and over charming small bridges. The path is well-marked and gradually ascends through a picturesque landscape. Upon reaching Ghangaria, participants check in at a guesthouse for the night.

Day 4: The group sets out early for the much-anticipated visit to the Valley of Flowers (7 km, 8 hours). After a short 3–4 kilometer trek from Ghangaria, trekkers enter the stunning valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its vast expanse of colorful alpine flowers and rare Himalayan flora. Participants spend several hours exploring, observing, and photographing the breathtaking meadows before trekking back to Ghangaria for another overnight stay.

Day 5: The focus shifts towards a spiritual and high-altitude experience with the trek to Hemkund Sahib, located at 14,100 feet (12 km, 10 hours). The 6-kilometer trek is steep and physically demanding but rewarding, offering panoramic views and a visit to the sacred Sikh Gurudwara situated beside a glacial lake. After spending some peaceful time at Hemkund, trekkers descend carefully and return to Ghangaria for the night.

Day 6: After breakfast, participants trek to Poolna and  to the revered Badrinath Temple and Manna Village, the first inhabited village before the Indo-Tibetan border. After exploring these sacred and historic sites, the group will return to Joshimath for an overnight stay. (depending on the weather condition) (Trek: 9 km, 5 hours, drive 150 km, 5 hours).

Day 7: After an early breakfast, the group begins the return journey from Joshimath to Dehradun (210 km, 7 hours). Arrive Dehradun and check in at a hotel. The evening will be at leisure.

Day 8: Fly to Ahmedabad in the noon. Arrive at Ahmedabad with lasting memories of the breathtaking Valley of Flowers and the grandeur of the Himalayan landscapes.

List of Essentials: Clothing should be comfortable for trekking including shirts or T-shirts, trousers or track pants, a windproof jacket, a fleece or full-sleeve woolen sweater, and thermal inner wear (both upper and lower), woolen cap, woolen gloves, scarf, woolen socks, Comfortable trekking shoes (with a thick sole are highly recommended), raincoat or poncho, towel, water bottle, cap or hat sandals or floaters,  personal medications, camera, sunglasses and toiletries (soap, toothpaste, toothbrush, shampoo, sunscreen, cold cream, lip balm etc.).  All items must be carried in a rucksack, ensuring it is comfortable and easy to carry over long distances. Avoid suitcases, trolleys, or any hard luggage, as they are not suitable for trekking conditions.

• Please note that this is a tentative schedule and it may change as per the weather conditions and operational feasibility.
• This trek is more about beauty than bravery. It’s perfect for those who want to connect with nature in its softest, most colourful form—but be prepared for long walks, rain showers, and a whole lot of awe. 
• Please join only if you are ready to embrace the raw beauty of nature, ready to adapt in any condition, expect least facilities and push your limits—both physically and mentally. 
• Remember: "The best view comes after the hardest climb."

General Instructions for Participants of Himalayan Treks:

1. Health and Fitness

•    Ensure you are physically fit before joining the trek. Regular walking, light jogging, stair climbing and breathing exercises are recommended at least a month prior.
•    Inform the organisers of any pre-existing medical conditions. Carry necessary prescribed medications.
•    Acclimatization is crucial avoid rushing or exerting yourself at high altitudes.

2. Clothing and Gear

•    Carry only essential items in a rucksack; avoid trolleys or suitcases.
•    Wear comfortable, broken-in trekking shoes. New shoes can cause blisters/shoe bites.
•    Dress in light layers for flexibility with changing temperatures. Carry woolens, rain gear, and sun protection as instructed.

3. Trekking Conduct

•    Follow instructions given by the trek leader and local guides at all times.
•    Maintain discipline and stay with the group during treks.
•    Respect local customs, religious sites, and environmental rules.
•    Avoid disturbing wildlife, plucking flowers, or leaving litter behind.

4. Personal Safety

•    Keep a personal medical kit, a flashlight with extra batteries, and important personal items easily accessible.
•    Always carry your own water bottle and stay hydrated.
•    Walk at your own pace. Do not compete or race during the trek.
•    In case of feeling unwell (e.g., headache, nausea, fatigue), inform your trek leader immediately.

5. Meals and Hydration

•    Only consume food and water provided by the organisers or from reliable sources.
•    Avoid overeating at high altitudes; eat light, energy-rich meals.
•    Refrain from consuming alcohol or smoking during the trek.

6. Weather Awareness

•    Be prepared for sudden weather changes. Keep your rainwear, warm clothes, and gloves easily accessible.
•    Follow clothing advice based on weather updates provided by the trek leader.

7. Communication

•    Mobile network may be unreliable in high-altitude. Inform family and friends accordingly.
•    Emergency contact details and local assistance numbers will be shared before the trek begins.

8. Responsibility

•    Each participant is responsible for their own belongings.
•    Be punctual for all activities, treks, and transport schedules.
•    Remember: the experience is about exploration, patience, and endurance. Enjoy every moment respectfully and responsibly!

Differences between Himalayan Treks and Regular Camps by Anala Outdoors

🚩 Important Note

This trek is more about beauty than bravery. It’s perfect for those who want to connect with nature in its softest, most colourful form—but be prepared for long walks, rain showers, and a whole lot of awe.

Please join only if you are ready to embrace the raw beauty of nature, ready to adapt in any condition, expect least facilities and push your limits—both physically and mentally.