This guide helps you travel from Govindghat to the Valley of Flowers as You’ll find the route, trip time, places to sleep, permit needs, best time to visit, and basic safety tips.
You will start at Govindghat. From Govindghat to Valley of Flowers you walk to Ghangaria first. The path follows a river. The path has many flowers. The walk is calm and nice. This guide shows each step and answers what you may ask.
If you want to see this beautiful valley you can book our chardham yatra by helicopter package.
Quick facts table — Govindghat to Valley of Flowers
| Thing | Simple answer |
| Main route | Govindghat → Ghangaria → Valley of Flowers |
| Govindghat height | Around six thousand feet |
| Ghangaria height | Around three thousand one hundred meters |
| Distance (Govindghat → Ghangaria) | About thirteen to sixteen km by trek |
| Distance (Ghangaria → Valley) | About three to four km one way |
| Best months | June to October. Peak flowers in July and August |
| Permit | Entry permit at Ghangaria check post. Fees apply |
How to reach Govindghat — Govindghat to Valley of Flowers start point
Most people go from Delhi.
- Nearest airport: Jolly Grant, Dehradun.
- From Dehradun: taxi/bus → Joshimath → Govindghat.
- Nearest trains: Rishikesh or Haridwar → bus/taxi → Govindghat.
Govindghat is the start point for the Govindghat to Valley of Flowers trek.
Govindghat to Ghangaria — The long Walk
You start the trek at Govindghat as the first few km are steep as the path runs beside a river. You will pass small villages like Pulna. After the 2013 floods some parts changed. Some paths were fixed and rebuilt. The trek time can be six to ten hours as it depends on how fast you walk and how many breaks you take. You can hire a pony or porter for parts of the route. Families stop at tea shops along the way.
How hard is the Govindghat to Valley of Flowers trek
The walk is long but not full of hard climbs. You go up slowly. If you walk slow and rest, you will be fine. Carry a small bag and drink water. Ponies are available on some parts. Use ponies carefully on narrow parts.
Ghangaria to Valley of Flowers — Final Part of Govindghat to Valley of Flowers)
From Ghangaria you walk to the Valley of Flowers as This is about three to four km one way. The path into the valley is gentle. The flowers start near the river and spread across the meadows. People spend time in the valley to see many kinds of flowers as the whole trip from Ghangaria into the valley and back can take four to six hours.
Things to know for Govindghat to Valley of Flowers
You must get an entry permit at the forest check post in Ghangaria. Sometimes you can get a permit online. Fees in 2025 are set by the park. Indians pay a smaller fee than foreigners as Carry a valid photo ID and a passport photo if asked. The park opens in summer and closes in winter. Peak bloom is in July and August. Expect more visitors at that time.
Where to Rest on the Govindghat to Valley of Flowers Trip
You can sleep in small hotels or guesthouses at Govindghat the night before the trek as Ghangaria has simple lodges and tents as If you want to catch the flowers early, stay in Ghangaria. The food is simple and warming. Book rooms or tents in busy months.
Safety tips for the govindghat to valley of flowers route
- Walk slow. Rest when tired.
- Drink water often. Carry a water bottle.
- Wear good shoes with grip.
- Carry rain gear in monsoon months. The trail can get wet.
- Use a sunhat and sunscreen. Sun is strong at height.
- Do not pick flowers. The park protects them.
- If someone feels dizzy or sick, go down and find help.
Weather and Trail Notes
Monsoon brings the best flowers. It also brings rain and small landslides. After the big floods in 2013 some parts are fragile. Rangers repair paths each year. Check the local park or forest page before you go. This will tell you if any part is closed or fixed.
Things to Carry on Govindghat to Valley of Flowers Trek
| Must carry | Why |
| Good walking shoes | Grip on wet stones |
| Rain jacket | Sudden showers |
| Water bottle | Stay hydrated |
| Warm layer | Night is cold |
| ID and prints | For permits |
| Snacks | Little shops may be closed |
| First aid basics | For small cuts and blisters |
Budget for Govindghat to Valley of Flowers
You will pay for road travel, stay at Govindghat or Ghangaria, food, permit, and any pony or porter. Park fees apply as Costs change by season and by service as Book early in July and August to avoid last-minute price rises.
Conclusion
The trip from Govindghat to Valley of Flowers is calm and full of color. You walk by the river and see many flowers. Carry permits and pack well. Visit in July or August for the best flowers as Walk slow, rest, and enjoy the view. The valley will stay in your heart.
FAQ
Q: Can elders do this trek?
A: Many elders do it slowly. Rest and use ponies where safe. Ask your doctor first.
Q: When is peak flower time?
A: July and August. Park is open from June to October.Q: Are ponies allowed?
A: Yes, ponies and porters are available on parts of the route. Use them safely.
