On the way back from an expedition to Mt Kamet in 1931, English mountaineer and biologist Frank Smythe accidentally stumbled across the Bhyundar Valley, an eight kilometer glacier corridor in Chamoli Garhwal. He discovered the stark beauty of the place, which carpeted with more than 500 species of flowers. Surrounded by snow capped Himalayas the place is a house of some rarest flowers like cobra lily, Himalayan blue poppy, brahmakamal and many more. Mr. Smythe named it Valley Of Flowers and in 1982 declared a National Park. 87.50 sq km area has gained popularity among trekkers and Botanists over the past few years.



Together with nearby Nanda Devi National Park, Valley Of Flowers has been recognized as one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The place has internationally importance because of its diverse alpine flora neatly illustrates the West Himalayan biogeographical zone. The valley is beautifully nestled between the Zanskar and Great Himalaya ranges to the north and south respectively. According to local villagers, Valley is dwelt by fairies who protect the valley and prevent people to pass deep into their territory. Also there is a believe that flowers in the valley has so potent fragrance that make people faint. The valley is best to experience in monsoon when flowers bloom but rains make access difficult and hazardous. There is a good chance of seeing a carpet of flowers in the month of September and October. In winters the place is impossible to access.

Sights And Activities

Nature Walk
The Valley Of Flowers opens in the morning and visitors are only allowed in the park during daytime. A free walk is must to do activity in the valley. U- shaped Alpine Valley Of flowers is a heaven in earth. Breath fresh air and wonder about the immense beauty of Alpine flora and fauna.

Nanda Devi National Park
Spread over an area of 630 sq.km, Nanda Devi is a nearby national park , which is fenced by Nanda Devi mountains ( second highest in India). Home of some rare and exotic Himalayan wildlife, the place is one of the finest wildlife parks in India. Though it’s in much seclusion from rest of the world because of difficult accessibility. The place is the home of Himalayan faunas like serow, snow leopard, Himalayan tahr, Himalayan black bear, Himalayan musk deer, rose finches, ruby throat, common langur, brown bear and warblers. Visitors have to move in a group not less than 5 members and you have to take permission from the field director.

Trekking To Hemkund Sahib Lake
At the height of 4320m Hemkund Sahib is a sacred place of Sikh community. Hemkund Lake is a bluish green lake laid by snow clad mountains. Valley Of Flowers to Hemkund Sahib Lake is one of the popular trekking path in the Garhwal Himalayas. The trek starts from Govinghat via Ghangria to Hemkund Sahib.