The Valley of Flowers is arguably the most stunning trek in Uttarakhand. It’s a UNESCO world heritage site in Chamoli district.
Right after monsoons, the entire valley is filled with colorful carpets of flowers including blue poppies, orchids, wild balsam.
If you’re taking up this expedition, this is a basic guide covering everything such as, best time, getting there, what to carry, tips on taxi booking, etc. Planning Your Valley of Flowers Trip?
Book Your Taxi to Valley of Flowers →Best Time to Visit After Monsoon
The Valley of Flowers National Park is open from June to early October.
But the best time to visit is late July to early September. Know why:
- Rain becomes lighter after mid-August
- Flowers are in full bloom during this time
- Mountain views are clearer as the haze settles
- Trails are easier to walk compared to peak monsoon
Weather You Should Expect
Weather in the valley changes very frequently. Be ready for both sun and rain in the same day.
- Daytime temperature: 10°C to 18°C
- Night temperature: close to freezing
- Light rain is common, even in September
- Trails near waterfalls and streams can be slippery
Tip: Carry raincoats, not just an umbrella. Also stay away from leeches on the lower forest path near Pulna.
How to Reach: Route & Taxi Booking
Step 1: Reach Rishikesh or Haridwar
Most travellers first reach Rishikesh or Haridwar by flight or train then plan more travel. Both of these are main entry points to the valley of flowers.
Step 2: Book a Taxi to Govindghat
After that, you need to travel by road to Govindghat. The drive is about 270-300 km and takes around 9 to 10 hours.
This route goes through a lot of hills, so a private cab is much easier and comfortable than shared transport. It is also safer during the monsoon-tail season.
Why book a taxi in advance:
- You can plan pickup time around your flight or train
- You avoid last-minute price hikes in peak season
- Drivers know the hill roads and weather conditions
- Cab booking works out cheaper for families and groups
CabBazar offers taxi booking from Dehradun, Haridwar, and Rishikesh to Govindghat. You can choose one-way drop, round trip, or a full package with Hemkund Sahib included.
Planning Your Valley of Flowers Trip?
Book a safe and comfortable cab with CabBazar for Haridwar/Rishikesh to Govindghat.
- Fixed fares, no surprises
- Verified and experienced drivers
- Flexible pickup times
Book your taxi online now or call the CabBazar helpline.
Step 3: Trek from Govindghat to Ghangaria
From Govindghat, the trek to Ghangaria is about 13 km. This is the base village for the valley.
- Mules and porters are available if you don't want to walk fully
- Helicopter service also runs on clear-weather days
Step 4: Ghangaria to Valley of Flowers
From Ghangaria, it is another 3.5 km one-way into the valley. You must return to Ghangaria by evening, as camping is not allowed inside.
Permits and Entry Rules
- Entry permit is required and available at Ghangaria checkpoint
- Carry a valid photo ID
- Overnight stay inside the valley is not allowed
- Park is closed during heavy rain or bad weather
What to Pack for the Trek
- Waterproof trekking shoes with good grip
- Rain poncho or jacket, and a dry bag for phone/camera
- Layered clothing for changing weather
- Anti-leech socks or salt packet
- Water bottle and a small first-aid kit
Combine It With Hemkund Sahib
Many travellers also visit Hemkund Sahib, a Sikh pilgrimage site near a glacial lake at over 4,300 metres.
It has a separate trail from Ghangaria. Since both places share the same base, you can cover both in one trip.
CabBazar also offers combined packages for Valley of Flowers and Hemkund Sahib.
A Quick Tip from Local Guides
Flower types change almost every week during this season.
- Early August: Blue poppies are common
- Late August: Marsh marigolds and cobra lilies take over
If your dates are flexible, check with a local Ghangaria guide a few days before you travel. Bloom timing shifts slightly every year based on rainfall. Ready to Start Your Valley of Flowers Trip?
Install App & Book Your Cab →Frequently Asked Questions
September a good month for the trek?
YES, Early September is a wonderful time - weather, roads, trails are good and wildflowers blooming still.
How to Book a taxi from Haridwar to Govindghat?
CabBazar allows you to book outstation cabs for your one-way and round trips and provides pickups from Haridwar or Rishikesh.
I am a beginner trekking, Will it be a very difficult trek?
It is a moderate trek. Walking the distance (which is considerable) is the most demanding factor; no rocky terrains or tough climbs really. If you need assistance, you could consider hiring mules for the ascent from Ghangaria.
Do I need a permit to enter into Valley of flowers?
Yes, you can get the permit at the Ghangaria Check Post on the day you plan to visit. Please carry a valid photo ID.
