The Valley of Flowers National Park is situated in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. It is
nestled at an elevation of around 3250-6750m above sea level.
About the park
The total area coverage of the park is approximately 88 sq km. The area was accidentally
discovered by Frak S. Smythe in 1931 when he could not his way. His book, ‘The Valley of
flowers’ is based on this park. It was declared a national park in the year 1982. The park has
been enlisted among the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Flora
Daisies, Calendulas, Poppies, Anemones, Primulas and Orchids constitute the flora species of the
park. Flowers like Brahmakamal, cobra Lily and Blue Poppy can be seen predominantly in the
area.
Fauna
Animals such as Snow Leopard, Tahr, Common Langur, Himalayan Brown Bear, Himalayan
Black Bear, Bharal, Red Fox, etc. are prime inhabitants of the area.
Tourist information
The visitors are not allowed to stay overnight in the park. Even camping is not allowed inside
the park. Government operated Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam guesthouse, located in the area, is
available for accommodation with prior booking. Other lodging and camping facilities are
available at Ghangharia, Joshimath and Rishikesh. The entry to Valley of Flowers National
Park closes by 3 pm.
The trekking routes, even though fun-filled, are a little difficult for children. There are scanty
shops available along the routes. It is advisable to carry one’s own food items and supplies from
Ghangaria. Porters can be hired from Govind Ghat to carry luggage. The Hemkund Lake,
surrounded by seven snow covered peaks, is located in the vicinity of the park and is worth
visiting.
Getting there
The adjacent aerodrome is in Dehradun, around 183 miles away. The nearby railhead is at
Haridwar, (close to Rishikesh), almost 170 miles away. Then take the motorable road up to
Govind Ghat on Badrinath Road and trek to Ghangharia (14 km).
General information
Valley of Flowers National Park, Chamoli dictrict, Uttarakhand
Park is open: June to September; Appropriate time to visit: July to Mid August.
Park operating time: 6 am to 6 pm
Entry fee applicable and permit of 3 days allowed
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