Valley of Flowers National Park in Uttarakhand opens from June to October 2025. Discover the best time to visit, trek routes, entry fees, and a 5-day travel itinerary.

Introduction

June 1, 2025 – Uttarakhand: The much-awaited Valley of Flowers National Park, one of India’s most spectacular natural wonders, has officially opened for the 2025 season. Nestled high in the Western Himalayas in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a paradise for nature lovers, trekkers, and photography enthusiasts. Every year, the valley opens its gates from June to October, but the true magic unfolds during the monsoon months, when over 600 species of alpine flowers bloom in vibrant hues across the valley floor.

🗓️ Opening Schedule and Best Time to Visit

The Valley of Flowers opened on June 1, 2025, and will remain accessible to visitors until the end of October, subject to weather conditions. While early June offers pleasant trekking weather, the best time to witness the valley in full bloom is between mid-July and early September, when the monsoon rains breathe life into the lush alpine meadows. The first day saw 83 enthusiastic trekkers entering the valley, highlighting its immense popularity among nature seekers.

🌺 A Blooming Heaven of Flora & Fauna

Known for its extraordinary floral diversity, the Valley of Flowers is home to rare and endangered species such as the Himalayan Blue Poppy, Brahma Kamal (the state flower of Uttarakhand), primulas, daisies, and wild orchids. The valley is not just about flowers — it also harbors rare wildlife, including the snow leopard, Himalayan black bear, musk deer, red fox, and Bharal (also known as blue sheep), making it a hotspot for biodiversity.

🥾 Trekking Route & Trail Information

The trek to Valley of Flowers starts from Govindghat, a small town near Joshimath. From here, visitors must trek around 13 kilometers to reach Ghangaria, the base village for both the Valley of Flowers and Hemkund Sahib. The next morning, a 4-kilometer hike from Ghangaria leads into the valley. The trail is moderately difficult and includes narrow, rocky stretches, especially after monsoon rains, so visitors are advised to be prepared with proper footwear and rain gear.

💳 Entry Fees and Online Registration

Entry into the Valley of Flowers requires a mandatory entry permit.

• For Indian nationals, the entry fee is ₹150, valid for three days.
• For foreign tourists, the fee is ₹600 for the same duration.
  Online registration is now encouraged and sometimes required due to high footfall during peak season. You can register via the official Uttarakhand Forest Department portal.

🧳 Essentials to Carry

While planning your trek, it is essential to pack layers of warm clothing, as temperatures can drop quickly in the mountains. Don’t forget to carry raincoats or ponchos, trekking shoes, water bottles, snacks, a basic first-aid kit, and biodegradable waste bags. Note that camping or staying overnight inside the valley is strictly prohibited, so your base must remain in Ghangaria.

✅ Day-Wise Travel Itinerary for Valley of Flowers

Here’s a suggested 5-day itinerary to make the most of your trip:

📅 Day 1: Arrival at Govindghat (via Rishikesh /Haridwar /Joshimath)

• Start early from Haridwar or Rishikesh.
• Travel to Govindghat (approx. 10-11 hours by road).
• Check into a guesthouse or GMVN hotel at Govindghat.
• Rest and acclimatize to the altitude.

📅 Day 2: Govindghat to Ghangaria (Trek – 13 km)

• Begin your trek early in the morning.
• The trek from Govindghat to Ghangaria takes about 6-7 hours.
• You can hire a mule or use a helicopter (if available) for convenience.
• Overnight stay at a hotel/lodge in Ghangaria.

📅 Day 3: Ghangaria to Valley of Flowers and Back (8 km round trip)

• Start early for the Valley of Flowers trek (4 km one way).
• Spend 3–4 hours inside the valley exploring and photographing the stunning landscapes.
• Return to Ghangaria by afternoon.
• Overnight stay in Ghangaria.

📅 Day 4: Optional Visit to Hemkund Sahib (6 km uphill)

• Trek to Hemkund Sahib, a revered Sikh pilgrimage site located at 14,000 ft.
• It’s a steep but beautiful climb, with Brahma Kamal blooming along the trail.
• Return to Ghangaria by evening for an overnight stay.

📅 Day 5: Ghangaria to Govindghat → Return to Haridwar/Rishikesh

• Trek down to Govindghat.
• Depart for your return journey to Joshimath, Rishikesh, or Haridwar.

🌿 Sustainable Travel Tips

• Avoid using plastic inside the park. Carry reusable bottles and bags.
• Follow the “Leave No Trace” principle: do not pluck flowers or disturb wildlife.
• Respect the 5 PM exit rule from the valley.
• Support local communities by staying in homestays and purchasing local goods.

📌 Final Thoughts

The Valley of Flowers is not just a destination — it’s a breathtaking journey into nature’s untouched glory. With its 2025 reopening, now is the perfect time to plan your adventure and witness the natural floral festival that graces the Himalayas each year. Whether you’re a botanist, a trekking enthusiast, or simply someone looking for tranquility, this valley promises memories that will last a lifetime.

Official Website of Valley of flowers