How I Planned My Valley of Flowers Trek from Delhi in 2025
I had been thinking about the Valley of Flowers National Park, Uttarakhand for a long time but couldn’t make it. In 2025, I decided to pack my bags for the long-awaited journey to this beautiful place, India’s enchanting Himalayan bloom fest. It was a budget trip from Delhi to Valley of Flowers, Uttarakhand, and I’ll be sharing all the complete details with fellow travelers. My journey provides a step-by-step guide to the Valley of Flowers from Delhi and covering everything you need to know.
Route Overview (2025)
Delhi → Haridwar/Rishikesh (Train/Bus) → Govindghat (Shared Jeep/Bus → Ghangaria (13 km trek) → Valley of Flowers(3-4 km trek)
How to Reach Valley of Flowers from Delhi in 2025
- Delhi to Haridwar/Rishikesh: Fast trains like the Jan Shatabdi or overnight buses from ISBT Kashmiri Gate get you there in 4-6 hours (₹400-700).
- Haridwar/Rishikesh to Govindghat: From Haridwar or Rishikesh, board a bus or shared taxi to Govindghat. This journey takes about 10-12 hours, depending on road conditions.
- Govindghat to Ghangaria (Trek Start): The 13-14 km trek takes 5-7 hours, through forests and villages. Mules and porters can be hired here.
- From Ghangaria: The Valley of Flowers is just a short 3-4 km trek. Spend the day exploring the valley.
Permits for Valley of Flowers (2025)
- Where to get permits: Govindghat Forest Checkpost or from official website Online
- Fees: ₹200 (Indians), ₹800 (foreigners) for Valley of Flowers permit
- Rules: No plastic inside, stay on marked trails, carry ID proof (Aadhar/passport).
The Trek Begins: Govindghat to Valley of Flowers
The trek from Govind ghat to the Valley of flowers was both challenging and beautiful in its own way – a 13 km uphill trail through dense forests, local villages, beautiful landscapes. It took me about 6 hours with a few short breaks .I chose to trek on foot because I believe that’s the real way to experience a trek and it also helped me save money by not going on mules(cost around ₹1500-2500). Please note, mules are only allowed from Govind ghat to Ghangaria.
The trek from Ghangaria to the Valley of flowers is about 3.5 to 4 km and it took me around 2.5 hours to complete it, and offers a completely unique experience. It’s a feeling that can’t be described in words, you have to be there to truly feel it.
My 5-Day Budget Itinerary from Delhi to Valley of Flowers
| Day | Route & Activity | Approx. Cost (₹) |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Delhi to Haridwar (train/bus) → overnight stay | ₹500–₹800 |
| Day 2 | Haridwar to Govindghat (via Joshimath by shared jeep/bus) | ₹500–₹1000 |
| Day 3 | Trek from Govindghat to Ghangaria (13 km trek) | ₹0–₹1500 (mule optional) + ₹500 stay |
| Day 4 | Trek to Valley of Flowers and return to Ghangaria | Permit ₹200 + ₹300 for food |
| Day 5 | Trek down to Govindghat → travel back to Haridwar/Delhi | ₹1000–₹1500 (shared vehicle/train) |
If you have an extra day, you can visit Hemkund Sahib – a sacred glacier lake accessible by a steep 6 km uphill trek from Ghangaria. The permit for this trek costs an additional ₹100.
My Trekking Gear & Budget Tips
- Book your train tickets early via IRCTC to ensure availability
- Use shared transport options to save money and keep your trip pocket-friendly
- Stay in budget guesthouses in Govindghat and Ghangaria (₹300-700/night)
- Waterproof trekking shoes – Trust me, regular sports shoes will get soaked. Invest in something like Boldfit Trekking Shoes
- Rainproof windcheater or poncho – The weather changes without warning here. Mine folded into a pouch and saved me more than once Rynox Unisex Adult H2Go
Best Time to Visit Valley of Flowers, Uttrakhand
The best time to visit Valley of Flowers is from mid-July to early September when the valley is in full bloom, creating a vibrant carpet of colors. The Valley opens every year for tourists from June to October, but peak flowering season is usually from July 15 to August 31.
FAQs About Valley of Flowers Trek 2025
Q: Do I need permits?
A: Yes, get them at Govindghat Forest Checkpost before trek.Q: How difficult is the trek?
A: Moderate; 13 km trek uphill, 5-7 hours. Acclimatize for altitude.Q: Can I hire a mule or porter?
A: Yes, at Govindghat. Costs ₹1500-2500 approx.Q: What about mobile network?
A: Patchy in Ghangaria and trek route; plan accordingly.
This Valley of Flowers trek in July 2025 was one of the best trek experiences I’ve ever had – a scenic trail, clouds all around, natural water flowing on the way, stunning valley views and pure Himalayan air. If you’re planning your own journey, follow this updated, budget-friendly route and go prepared. Trust me, it’s worth every step.
For more real road stories, travel guides, and offbeat experiences across India, follow my journey on Top Travel Journeys. Save this blog, share it with your group, and let nature surprise you this monsoon!