How to Reach Valley of Flowers Trek from Delhi and Dehradun – Complete Guide
Valley of Flowers Trek – a picturesque alpine paradise found in Uttarakhand – is one of India’s signature treks. It is located in the Chamoli district and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting trekkers, photographers, nature lovers, and pilgrims from all over the world to this stunning valley. Getting to this hidden gem, especially from Delhi or Dehradun, requires some planning as there are multiple options.
In this Valley of flowers trek complete guide, we’ll break the journey down into simple steps – by train, road, or air – and help you reach the Valley of Flowers Trek in the easiest possible way.
Where is the Valley of Flowers Located?
The Valley of Flowers is at an elevation of approximately 12,000 feet, in the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve. The closest point that can be accessed by a vehicle is Govindghat, which is around 300 km away from Dehradun and 520 km from Delhi.
The actual trekking route starts from Govindghat to Ghangaria (13–14 km trek), and from Ghungaria there is a 3–4 km trek to the Valley.
Reaching Valley of Flowers from Delhi
You have multiple options to reach the trek base from Delhi:
Option 1: By Flight (Fastest Way)
Fly from Delhi to Dehradun (Jolly Grant Airport) – about 1 hour
On reaching Dehradun, you can go from an airport taxi or bus to Govindghat via Joshimath.
Distance: ~310 km
Time: 10–11 hours by road to Govindghat from Dehradun
Tip: Book an early morning flight to avoid late-night travel in hilly terrain.
Option 2: Train + Road Journey
Take a train from Delhi to Haridwar or Rishikesh
Popular options: Shatabdi Express, Mussoorie Express
From Haridwar/Rishikesh, take a shared cab, private taxi or bus to Joshimath/Govindghat
Train Duration: 5–7 hours
Road Journey: 9–10 hours (approx. 270 km)
Tip: Try to reach Rishikesh by night and start your road journey early next morning.
Option 3: Full Road Trip from Delhi
Route: Delhi → Meerut → Haridwar → Rishikesh → Devprayag → Rudraprayag → Karnaprayag → Joshimath → Govindghat
Total Distance: Approx. 520 km
Driving Time: 12–14 hours (may vary based on weather & road conditions)
This route is scenic and adventurous but quite long. You can break the journey with a night halt at Rishikesh or Joshimath.
Reaching Valley of Flowers Trek from Dehradun
If you’re already in Dehradun, here’s your route:
By Road: Dehradun → Rishikesh → Srinagar → Rudraprayag → Karnaprayag → Chamoli → Joshimath → Govindghat
Distance: ~310 km
Time: 10–11 hours by road
Public Transport Options
- Buses and shared jeeps leave from ISBT Dehradun to Joshimath in the morning.
- You can also hire a private taxi for comfort and flexibility.
Trek Details: Govindghat to Valley of Flowers
Once you reach Govindghat, the trek begins:
Day 1: Haridwar/Rishikesh to GovindGhat
Distance: 288 km
Route: Can be covered on foot
Trail: Well-maintained with basic amenities and food stalls
Day 2: GovindGhat to Pulna & Pulna to Ghangaria
Distance: 9 km (one way)
Trail: Moderate difficulty with gradual ascent
You’ll need to register at the forest check post before entry
Day 3: Ghangaria to Valley of Flowers Trek
Distance: 10 km (one way)
Route: Can be covered on foot
Day 4: Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib Gurudwara
Distance: 12 km (one way)
Route: Can be covered on foot
Day 5: Ghangaria to GovindGhat
Distance: 09 km (one way)
Route: Can be covered on foot
Day 6: GovinGhat to Haridwar/Rishikesh
Distance: 288 km (one way)
Route: Can be covered on Tempo Traveller
Where to Stay
Ghangaria is the last point with accommodation. You’ll find:
- Budget hotels
- GMVN guest houses
- Basic homestays
- Camping inside the Valley of Flowers is not allowed.
Best Time to Visit Valley of Flowers
Season: Opens in early June and closes by early October
Peak Blooming Season: Mid-July to August, when the valley is bursting with hundreds of flower species
Packing Tips
- Trekking shoes with good grip
- Raincoat/poncho (frequent rain expected)
- Light woollens and thermals
- Power bank & flashlight
- Essential medicines & glucose
Important Tips
- Start your journey early in the day to avoid night driving in the hills
- Carry some cash, as ATMs are rare in remote areas
- Mobile network may be weak or unavailable after Joshimath
- Keep 1–2 buffer days in your plan for weather delays
- Entry to the Valley is open from 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM only
Conclusion
Reaching the Valley of Flowers Trek from Delhi or Dehradun may be a bit of a journey, but it’s one that rewards you with heavenly landscapes, fresh air, and the rarest alpine blooms. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a spiritual seeker, or just a mountain lover, this trek is an unforgettable experience.
Pack your bags, plan your route, and get ready to walk into a living painting of nature.