Best time to visit Valley of Flowers: Valley of Flowers or “Phoolon ki Ghati” is more than a delight to your eyes, a world heritage site. Are you considering visiting the valley and wondering when would be the best time to visit the Valley of flowers? The trek is accessible from June through October, but the best time to visit is from July through August when the flowers are in full bloom.

It is one of the most splendid treks in the Himalayas and many trekkers are attracted to the beauty because of so many reasons. The charming meadows, cascading waterfalls, sparkling white glaciers, and tranquil lakes makes it one of the most enchanting place on earth that we can witness. Nestled in the state of Uttarakhand, this paradise on earth has a wide range of flora. When beauty surrounds you, you will forget all your worries. 

There is so much information on the internet and everyone has different things to say. But, we, the Nomad Adventures team have spent almost three years in the valley organizing the treks. Through our experience, we will share the best time to visit the Valley of Flowers.

What is the best time to visit?

July

During this time, you can witness the snow patches on the trail. Though, during the month’s end, the rain washes off the snow. You will also walk into many glaciers along with the flowers. As it is the beginning season, you won’t see much crowd in the valley; this is the best part.  The valley is so strikingly gorgeous and the greenery all around makes it very refreshing. To be in this core zone of Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve, one has to be fully aware of when is the best time to see the flowers in full bloom. The gorgeous valley, which spans an area of 8 km, will leave you speechless. With a diverse range of orchids, this spot is surreal. July, as the start of the monsoon season, makes it the ideal time to take an excursion with your friends.

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August

Every month has its charm and every year we get to experience the valley in a different spectrum. Our trek leaders have spent so much time in the valley that when we ask each one of them individually about their favourite month to visit this valley, voila!, all of them have to say, August is the best time to visit the Valley of Flowers where flowers bloom brilliantly. Spectacular landscapes and breathtaking views are just mind-blowing. Though it becomes one of the busiest months in the valley, leaving that aside, the entire valley blooming with different colours will leave you in awe!

During August month, we start receiving rainfall and on some days it just drizzles. Don’t worry! Even if it rains we continue the trek but we make sure everyone has all the necessary rain gear like a poncho, rain cover for the backpack and trekking poles to provide better support and stability on the wet and muddy trails. For many adventurers, monsoon season is close to their hearts because they know what rain brings to the view. We have listed a few reasons why people like monsoon treks. That being said, one should avoid coming during winter as it is extremely cold and most of the valley would be covered in a blanket of snow.

Best Time to Visit the Valley of Flowers

September

As September arrives, rainfall received is less but then the valley won’t be as tempting as it is in July and August. Again, you won’t be disappointed because lush greenery and serene views will keep the valley alive. It gets crowded over the weekend because many pilgrims will resume their journey to visit the Gurudwara at Hemkund Sahib this month. It’s a good time to trek with lesser rainfall. But if you are coming to see the valley full of flowers then this might not be the perfect month.

Also, there is a misconception about the number of flowers you see in the valley. There are more than 400 species of flowers found in this valley but not all of them bloom at once. So do not go with the expectation that the entire valley will be blooming with flowers. Few flowers that you cannot see in August month can only be visible in September. So, here you go! September will stand out on other things.

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Entry Timings in the National Park:

The entrance to the valley is open from 7:00 am till 2:00 pm. Due to official restrictions, overnight camping is not allowed here, therefore you have to exit from the valley by 5:00 pm. After visiting the Valley of Flowers, the team returns to the base camp in Ghangaria for a night’s stay.

How to reach valley of flowers

Valley of Flowers Trek difficulty level:

Valley of Flowers is graded as a moderate trek. Beginners can attempt this trek provided they stick to the fitness schedule and meet the health requirements. You need to ensure that your legs and calves are in great shape to undertake a long uphill walk.

Max Altitude/Height:

Maximum trek altitude at Valley of flowers will be 3,505 m | 11,500 ft and at Hemkund Sahib will be 4,632 M | 15,200 ft.

Valley of Flowers Trek distance:

The road from Rishikesh to Joshimath is full of scenic views, and the travel time s around 9 – 10 hrs. Hence after reaching the base camp in Joshimath, we halt for the first night to get desired rest. From Joshimath to Govindghat, the drive is 19 km to Pulna village, then another 3kms from where we start our trek. It is a 6 days trek including a road journey from Rishikesh. The total trek distance is approx 40 km from Pulna to Pulna village.

If you want to see the experience of our team then watch the video of our Valley of flowers trek.



Valley of Flowers from Joshimath:

Nomad Adventures team can arrange the transport from Rishikesh, though we also have an option of joining our trek from Joshimath. Trek cost is different for both these packages depending on the place you are joining.

Conclusion:

It is always good to try something new, we encourage everyone to visit the mountains in all the seasons to witness the unparalleled beauty because every season will always bring something new. To experience the valley in its full charm, it is very important to know the best time to visit because every month gives a different experience. If you wish to join the trek, you can confirm your spot here: Valley of Flowers Trek

Must Read: 8 Best Himalayan Treks to do between Sept – Nov

Hope to see you soon on the mountain!

Have you tried any Himalayan trek yet, do post in the comment below.