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VALLEY OF FLOWERS NATIONAL PARK – Uttarakhand

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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