Best Time to Visit: The optimal period to undertake this trek is from July to early September, when the valley is in full bloom, showcasing its most vibrant colours
Our adventure starts with an early morning departure from Haridwar, a sacred town at the edge of the Himalayas. The drive to Joshimath is long but beautiful, following the Alaknanda River through deep valleys and mountain gorges.
We’ll cross several important Panch Prayags (confluences of sacred rivers), including:
Devprayag (Bhagirathi + Alaknanda = Ganga)
Rudraprayag (Mandakini + Alaknanda)
Karnaprayag (Pindar + Alaknanda)
By Evening, we’ll reach Joshimath, a key pilgrim and trekking base town. Settle into your hotel, rest, and prepare for the upcoming trek.
• Travel (approx.): 275 km, 9-10 hrs.
• Altitude: ⇑ 5,120 ft. / ⇓ 0 ft.
• Overnight Stay: Hotel in Joshimath
• Meals: Dinner
After breakfast, drive a short distance to Pulna, the road ahead for the trek. From here, begin our trek to Ghangaria — a scenic trail that runs along the roaring Lakshman Ganga River, through waterfalls, pine forests, and small dhabas (snack stalls).
The path is well-paved with mule tracks and occasional shelters. The trek has a steady ascent but is manageable for most beginners.
Reach Ghangaria by late afternoon, a peaceful base village surrounded by lush hills. Rest, relax, and acclimatize.
• Travel (approx.): 25 km, 40 min.
• Trek (approx.): 9 km, 4-5 hrs.
• Altitude: ⇑ 3,300 ft. / ⇓ 0 ft.
• Overnight Stay: Guesthouse in Ghangaria
• Meals: Breakfast, Packed Lunch, Dinner
Today is the most magical day of our trek. After breakfast, start early for the Valley of Flowers National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its lush alpine meadows and over 300 species of wildflowers.
Cross a wooden bridge over a glacier-fed stream and enter a wonderland where hills are adorned with flowers—blue poppy, cobra lily, Himalayan bellflower, orchids, daisies, and more. Spend time soaking in the views, clicking photos, and walking deeper into the valley.
Optional: Visit Legge’s Grave, the resting place of the botanist who popularized the valley.
Return to Ghangaria by late afternoon.
Prominent Flowers: Blue Poppy, Snake Foil, White Leaf Hog Foot, Himalayan Rose, Meadow Geranium, Dog Flower, Hooked Stick Seed, and River Anemone.
• Trek (approx.): 8 km, 6-7 hrs.
• Altitude: ⇑ 1,500 ft. / ⇓ 1,500 ft.
• Overnight Stay: Guesthouse in Ghangaria
• Meals: Breakfast, Packed Lunch, Dinner
Today, we will trek to Hemkund Sahib, the world’s highest Gurudwara, set beside a pristine glacial lake. The trail is steep and challenging, with over 1,100 stone-paved steps, but it offers fantastic views and blooming Brahma Kamal flowers along the way.
Once at the top, take in the serenity of Hemkund Lake, surrounded by snow-dusted peaks. Enjoy ‘Langar’ (community meal) at the Gurudwara and soak in the spiritual energy.
Descend carefully back to Ghangaria by late afternoon.
• Trek (approx.): 12 km, 7-8 hrs.
• Altitude: ⇑ 4,100 ft. / ⇓ 4,100 ft.
• Overnight Stay: Guesthouse in Ghangaria
• Meals: Breakfast, Langar, Dinner
After breakfast, retrace our steps back to Pulna. The return trek feels easier and faster as we descend through familiar terrain. Reach Pulna and drive back to Joshimath for a relaxed evening.
Optionally, if time allows, visit Badrinath Temple or Mana, the first Indian village (at your own expense).
Celebrate our successful trek with a warm shower, hot food, and a good night’s rest!
• Trek (approx.): 9 km, 3-4 hrs.
• Travel (approx.): 25 km, 40 min.
• Altitude: ⇑ 0 ft. / ⇓ 3,850 ft.
• Overnight Stay: Hotel in Joshimath
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, we will begin our return journey to Haridwar. The drive takes us through the same picturesque valleys and riverside views. Reach Haridwar by evening with unforgettable memories, stunning photographs, and a deep connection to the Himalayas.
• Travel (approx.): 275 km, 9-10 hrs.
• Altitude: ⇑ 0 ft. / ⇓ 5,120 ft.
• Overnight Stay: N/A
• Meals: Breakfast
