The famous Valley of Flowers in Uttarakhand has officially reopened to visitors from June 1, 2025. Every year, the valley opens during the summer and stays accessible until October 31, depending on the weather. As the gates opened this year, the forest department welcomed the first batch of 62 tourists at the main entry point.
Valley of Flowers is located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a part of the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve and is known for its breathtaking beauty. The area is filled with lush green meadows and colorful alpine flowers. Over 500 species of plants grow here, including more than 300 types of Himalayan flowers. These flowers bloom mainly during the monsoon, between mid-July and August, which is considered the best time to visit the Valley of Flowers.
The Valley of Flowers is a paradise for nature lovers, trekkers, and photographers. Apart from the beautiful flowers, visitors also get to enjoy snow-covered peaks, rare birds, and even the occasional sighting of animals like the blue sheep or Himalayan black bear.
To reach the valley, tourists usually start their journey from Rishikesh. From there, it takes around six days to complete the trek. The base village for the trek is Ghangaria, which can be reached after a 13 km uphill walk from Govindghat. No vehicles are allowed beyond Govindghat, so everyone must walk or hire a mule. From Ghangaria, it is a 4 km trek to the valley.
The entry fee to the Valley of Flowers is ₹150 for Indian citizens and ₹600 for foreign nationals. This fee covers a three-day visit. Trekking rules are strict to protect the environment. Tourists are not allowed to camp inside the valley. Also, littering is strictly prohibited.
For those who want to add more to their trip, Hemkund Sahib, a sacred Sikh pilgrimage site, is nearby. It is located at a height of 4,329 meters and is just a 6 km trek from Ghangaria.
If you are planning to visit the Valley of Flowers this season, it is best to book your stay in advance. The number of tourists increases quickly during the peak flowering period. This is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves nature, adventure, and peace.
We have written a detailed guide on the Valley of Flowers Trek with Hemkund Sahib. You should read that before planning a trip to the Valley of Flowers.
