Valley of Flowers Trek Details

Valley of Flowers Detailed Day-wise Itinerary

Day 1: Dehradun/Rishikesh to Kharchi Village (1,900m / 6,234ft)

Your adventure begins with a scenic drive from Dehradun or Rishikesh to Kharchi Village, nestled deep in the Garhwal Himalayas. The journey spans approximately 280 kilometers and takes around 9 to 10 hours, taking you through the confluences of the sacred rivers at Devprayag and Rudraprayag before ascending towards Joshimath and finally reaching Kharchi. As you cruise through the winding mountain roads, you’re treated to awe-inspiring views of forested hills, tumbling rivers, and charming Himalayan hamlets. While the day is primarily about travel, the changing landscape offers plenty to absorb. Be prepared for a long ride and an early night to rest for the trekking days ahead.

Day 2: Kharchi to Pulna (2,020m / 6,627ft), Trek to Ghangaria (3,050m / 10,006ft)

After breakfast, a short and smooth drive brings you to Pulna, the road head for the Valley of Flowers trek. From here, the real adventure begins with a 10 km uphill trek to Ghangaria – the charming base village for both Valley of Flowers and Hemkund Sahib. The trail winds through dense forests of oak and rhododendron, alongside glistening mountain streams and wooden bridges. The steady ascent may challenge your legs, but the cool air and the rhythmic sounds of nature make the trek rejuvenating. Expect to reach Ghangaria by late afternoon. Relax and acclimatize in this peaceful little settlement nestled among pine woods.

Day 3: Ghangaria to Valley of Flowers (3,500m / 11,482ft) and back

Today is the highlight of the entire trek – a dreamlike excursion to the world-famous Valley of Flowers, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A relatively moderate hike of around 4 km one way takes you into an expansive alpine meadow filled with hundreds of species of blooming wildflowers, rare Himalayan herbs, and vibrant butterflies dancing around. Surrounded by misty peaks and cascading waterfalls, the valley feels like a page torn from a fantasy tale. Take your time to soak in the surreal views, click photos, and spot the exotic Brahma Kamal if you’re lucky. After a few soul-filling hours, retrace your steps to Ghangaria for the night.

Day 4: Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib (4,329m / 14,200ft) and back

Brace yourself for a spiritually intense and physically demanding day as you trek to Hemkund Sahib, one of the highest Gurudwaras in the world. The 6 km ascent is steep and strenuous, climbing over 1,200 meters through rocky terrain at high altitude. As you push forward, prayer chants echo in the distance, and snow-capped peaks stand sentinel over the trail. Upon reaching the serene glacial lake of Hemkund, you’ll find divine tranquility at the Gurudwara, flanked by wildflowers and snow patches. After paying your respects and spending a moment in stillness, descend carefully back to Ghangaria. This is often the most memorable day for trekkers, both physically and emotionally.

Day 5: Ghangaria to Pulna, Drive to Kharchi

After days of ascending, it’s time to make your way back down. The 10 km descent from Ghangaria to Pulna offers a chance to appreciate the trail’s natural beauty from a new perspective. Though it’s downhill, the uneven terrain requires attention and balance. Once in Pulna, a short drive returns you to Kharchi village. The return feels nostalgic as you pass familiar paths, streams, and forest corners – now etched in memory. Unwind at your stay in Kharchi and enjoy the mountain calm one last time before heading back to the city.

Day 6: Kharchi to Rishikesh/Dehradun

Your trekking journey concludes with the long drive back to Rishikesh or Dehradun. The route offers one last visual treat of the Uttarakhand hills, river valleys, and temple towns. It’s a perfect time to reflect on the past few days – the flowers, the effort, the camaraderie, and the spiritual stillness you found in the heights. Expect to reach by evening, carrying with you not just photos, but stories and a deep connection with the Himalayas.

✅ Inclusions

• ➡️ Accommodation in guesthouses and camps on a twin/triple sharing basis

• ➡️ All meals during the trek (nutritious vegetarian fare)

• ➡️ Certified trek leaders and experienced local guides

• ➡️ Entry permits and forest charges for Valley of Flowers National Park

• ➡️ Transport from Dehradun/Rishikesh to Kharchi and return

• ➡️ Safety equipment including oxygen cylinders and first aid kits

❌ Exclusions

• ❌ Personal expenses such as snacks, bottled water, or personal gear

• ❌ Travel insurance (recommended but not included)

• ❌ Emergency evacuation costs, if required

• ❌ Costs due to early departure from the trek or itinerary changes

• ❌ Tips for guides, porters, or support staff (optional but appreciated)

• ❌ Trekking gear rental – shoes, poles, jackets, etc.

• ❌ Additional costs due to natural calamities, landslides, roadblocks, or unforeseen weather conditions

• ❌ Anything not explicitly mentioned under the “Inclusions” section

Important Note:

Participants should review both inclusions and exclusions carefully to ensure they are well-prepared and can manage any additional costs or arrangements not covered in the trek package.

Trek Highlights – Valley of Flowers Quick Trek

• 🌸 Explore a UNESCO World Heritage Site – Witness the surreal beauty of Valley of Flowers, blooming with over 500 species of alpine flora.

• 🏔️ Breathtaking Himalayan Vistas – Walk amidst towering peaks like Nilgiri Parbat and Hathi Parbat.

• 🕊️ Spiritual Serenity at Hemkund Sahib – Visit one of the world’s highest Gurudwaras, nestled beside a crystal-clear glacial lake.

• 🌲 Scenic Forest Trails – Trek through dense oak, pine, and rhododendron forests with cascading streams and wooden bridges.

• 📸 Perfect for Nature Lovers & Photographers – Capture vibrant landscapes, rare flowers, butterflies, and misty mountain backdrops.

• 💪 Beginner-Friendly yet Adventurous – Ideal for fit first-time trekkers seeking a rewarding Himalayan experience.

• 🧳 All-Inclusive & Hassle-Free – Well-organized itinerary with transport, permits, accommodation, and meals taken care of.

🏕️ Essential Trekking Gear Checklist

For Treks with Parvat Exploration

🎒 Backpacks

1. Rucksack bag with rain cover – Qty: 1
2. Daypack (Recommended for treks with summit day)

💡 Lighting

3. Head torch with spare batteries – Qty: 1

🕶️ Eye & Hydration Protection

4. UV protection sunglasses – Qty: 1
5. Water bottles (1 liter each) – Qty: 2

👣 Footwear

6. High-ankle trekking shoes (Non-skid, deep-treaded) – Qty: 1
7. Lightweight slippers/sandals – Qty: 1

👕 Clothing

8. Quick-dry trekking pants/lowers – Qty: 2
9. Full-sleeve T-shirts/sweatshirts – 1 for every 2 days of trekking
10. Woolen socks – 1 pair for every 2 days
11. Thermal body warmer (upper & lower) – Qty: 1
12. Undergarments – Qty: 1 per trekking day
13. Warm, insulated jacket (wrist & neck closed) – Qty: 1
14. Full-sleeve sweater – Qty: 1
15. Rainwear (jacket & pants) – Qty: 1
16. Waterproof, warm gloves – Qty: 1
17. Woolen cap – Qty: 1
18. Sun hat/cap – Qty: 1

🧼 Toiletries

19. Personal kit (towel, toilet paper, paper soap, bar soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, cold cream, etc.)
20. Sunscreen lotion (small pack) – Qty: 1
21. Lip balm (small pack) – Qty: 1

🍽️ Utensils

22. Lightweight, leak-proof lunch box – Qty: 1
23. Plate – Qty: 1
24. Spoon – Qty: 1
25. Tea/Coffee mug (plastic) – Qty: 1

🧳 Miscellaneous

26. Camera (optional)
27. Personal medicines – Carry in sufficient quantity. Consult your doctor before the trek.
28. Dry fruits, nuts, chocolate bars (optional)

🔔 Note:
This is a general checklist for multi-day Himalayan treks with Parvat Exploration. Please double-check with our team for any trek-specific recommendations or weather-related adjustments.

Measures Taken by Parvat Exploration to Ensure the Security of Trekkers

At Parvat Exploration, trekking isn’t just an adventure – it’s a transformative journey into the heart of the Himalayas. But with every adventure comes the responsibility of ensuring your well-being. Backed by a highly qualified team, local expertise, and global safety standards, we take every measure possible to prioritize your safety.

🧗‍♂️ Fitness Evaluation & Trek Readiness

High-altitude treks demand physical endurance and mental resilience. Before confirming your participation in any of our treks, we assess your fitness to minimize risk.

• Body Mass Index (BMI) Check: Trekkers are evaluated to ensure a healthy BMI range suited for high-altitude exertion.

• Fitness Declarations: Participants are required to submit fitness proof or undergo an assessment if needed.

• Acclimatization Protocols: Every itinerary includes rest days specifically for acclimatization to reduce the risk of AMS.

🩺 Health Monitoring on Trail

Throughout the journey, your health is monitored regularly by our trained trek leaders:

• Vital Checks: Daily monitoring of oxygen levels, pulse rate, and blood pressure.

• Health Cards: Each trekker’s vitals are documented and can be reviewed at the end of the trek.

• Immediate Response: Any early symptoms of AMS or other altitude-related issues are immediately addressed.

💊 Medical Safety Measures

Parvat Exploration is prepared with a comprehensive medical kit on all high-altitude treks. Our kits are equipped with:

• Blood Pressure Monitor

• Oxygen Saturation Meter (Pulse Oximeter)

• Portable Oxygen Cylinders

• High-altitude emergency medicines:

  • Diamox (for AMS)

  • Dexamethasone (for HAPE/HACE)

  • Nifedipine

  • Asthalin Inhaler

  • Disprin

  • Sterile Syringes

Our trek leaders are AMC-qualified (Advanced Mountaineering Course) and trained in Wilderness First Aid.

⛺ World-Class Trekking Equipment

We never compromise on gear. We provide:

• Customized Tents: Weatherproof tents that retain heat up to 10°C higher than outside.

• -15°C Sleeping Bags: Suitable for sub-zero Himalayan nights.

• Microspikes & Gaiters: Essential gear for snow and slippery terrain.

• Ropes, Ice Axes, and Stretchers as needed for technical terrain or rescue.

🍲 Nutrition & Hydration on Priority

We fuel your journey with the right meals at the right time:

• Nutritious Meals: Our food is designed to meet high-altitude dietary needs.

• Local Delicacies: Experience the taste of Uttarakhand and Himachal on every trek.

• Hydration Monitoring: Trekkers are routinely reminded and encouraged to hydrate properly to reduce risk of AMS.

🚨 Emergency Response to AMS, HAPE & HACE

Our trek leaders are well-trained to detect and manage Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), and more severe conditions like HAPE (High Altitude Pulmonary Edema) and HACE (High Altitude Cerebral Edema).

Recognizing AMS Symptoms:

• Headache, nausea, dizziness

• Difficulty sleeping or breathing

• Loss of appetite or fatigue

Our Action Plan:

• Triple One Protocol: 1 Disprin + 1 Liter Water + 1 Hour Rest.

• Descent Protocol: If symptoms persist, the trekker is immediately escorted to a lower altitude.

• Oxygen Support & Medication: Provided immediately if symptoms escalate.

We advise trekkers never to self-medicate. Always consult the trek leader first.

⚠️ Risk and Response Mechanism

🏔️ Altitude Risk

Response: Constant health checks, gradual ascent, acclimatization days, oxygen support.

🌦️ Weather Uncertainty

Response: Trek leaders take the final call. We never proceed in unsafe conditions.

🧍‍♂️ Injuries on Trail

Response: Minor injuries treated on-site. Serious injuries are evacuated via stretcher to the nearest roadhead and medical center.

📵 Lack of Communication

Response: Our team uses walkie-talkies and local support staff as runners for effective coordination across camps.

🛡️ Why You Can Trust Parvat Exploration

• ✅ 3 IMF Associate Members on our core team – among only 100 in India.

• ✅ Accredited by ATOAI, IMF, and Uttarakhand Tourism.

• ✅ Himalayan Locals as your guides – born and raised in the mountains.

• ✅ Focus on year-round safety, whether it’s a summer climb or winter expedition.

🔚 Final Word

Parvat Exploration believes a memorable trek is a safe trek. We combine years of mountaineering expertise, world-class equipment, local insight, and a commitment to excellence so you can explore the Himalayas with confidence.

🏔️ Pre-Trek Preparations | Parvat Exploration

At Parvat Exploration, we believe that trekking is more than just a journey through mountains — it’s a journey within. While the scenic beauty and untouched trails offer unforgettable memories, they also demand a fair share of physical endurance and mental resilience. It’s not just about being fit — it’s about being ready.

Whether you’re taking your first step on a trail or are a seasoned trekker preparing for a high-altitude adventure, here’s how to get trek-ready, the Parvat way.

🫀 Prerequisites of Trekking

1. Cardiovascular Endurance & Stamina

High-altitude treks test your lungs more than your legs. Building cardio endurance is non-negotiable. Jogging, swimming, cycling, or brisk walking — choose your style but stay consistent. Make it a goal-driven journey, just like your trek.

Progressive Stamina Plan:

• 🎯 Start with completing 5 km in 35 minutes or less

• 🏃‍♂️ Push further to 5 km in under 30 minutes

• 🏁 Before your trek, aim to finish 10 km in 60 minutes or less

Doing this 4-5 times a week, at least 2 months before your trek, can make a massive difference.

💪 Strength Training

Most Himalayan trails are a combination of ascents, descents, and flat stretches — think of it as climbing an eternal staircase. Building leg strength is crucial to manage these elevations while carrying a loaded backpack.

Recommended Routine:

• Squats – Begin with 3 sets of 8 reps, aim to increase to 3 sets of 15 reps

• Add lunges, step-ups, and planks to your routine for better balance and core strength

Strong legs = less fatigue = more views to soak in. 🏞️

🤸‍♂️ Flexibility

Trekking involves unpredictable terrains and movements — hopping over rocks, ducking under branches, and stretching across ledges. Without flexibility, even the smallest action can feel like a strain.

Daily Stretching Essentials:

• Hamstrings

• Quadriceps

• Hip Flexors

• Lower Back

• Shoulders

Just 15–20 minutes of stretching each day can help relax muscles, improve posture, and prevent cramps or stiffness during the trek.

❤️‍🔥 Cardiovascular + Speed Endurance Mix

This is where most of your training time should go. A perfect mix of speed and endurance helps your heart adapt to thin air and long-distance trekking.

Sample Routine:

• 🏃 Start with 5 km in 45 mins

• Gradually progress to 7 km in 45 mins

• Aim for 10 km in 80–90 mins without breaks

The trick is consistency — every week counts.

🏋️ Back & Core Strength

A Himalayan backpack may only weigh 6–10 kg, but it feels heavier the higher you go. Building core strength and shoulder stability helps you carry that weight with ease.

Try these:

• Planks (front & side)

• Shoulder shrugs

• Deadlifts (light-weighted)

• Back extensions

Training your core will help you maintain posture and prevent lower back strain.

🧘 Mental Preparation

Even the strongest trekker may be tested by sudden weather changes or tough climbs. That’s where mental strength takes the lead.

At Parvat Exploration, we encourage practicing:

• Breathing Exercises (Pranayama)

• Meditation (10–15 mins daily)

• Mindful Silence / Nature Walks

Mental calmness boosts your decision-making ability and allows you to be present — to feel every whisper of the wind, every crunch of gravel beneath your boots.

🔚 Final Word from Parvat Exploration

The Himalayas are humbling. They test and teach. Preparation is your way of respecting the mountain. Start early, stay regular, and trek mindfully.

Because out there, it’s just you, the trail, and the mountain calling.

Photos

Terms and Conditions – Parvat Exploration

Welcome to Parvat Exploration! We are thrilled to be a part of your journey into the Himalayas. To ensure a smooth, safe, and transparent experience, we request you to read our terms and conditions carefully before booking any trek, tour, or service with us.

1. Booking and Payment Terms

• A minimum advance payment of 40% of the total package cost is required to confirm your booking.

• The balance 60% must be paid 15 days prior to the start of the trek or tour.

• For bookings made within 15 days of departure, 100% payment is required at the time of booking.

• Payments can be made via bank transfer, UPI, credit/debit cards, or other authorized digital methods.

• Payment receipts will be acknowledged via email or WhatsApp.

2. Cancellation Policy

• 30+ days before departure: 90% refund of the advance amount.

• 15–29 days before departure: 60% refund of the advance amount.

• 7–14 days before departure: 30% refund of the advance amount.

• Less than 7 days or no-show: No refund.

• Refunds will be processed within 10–15 business days to the original payment method.

3. Itinerary Policy

• The itinerary is tentative and subject to change based on weather, road conditions, local restrictions, or unforeseen events.

• Final details will be shared closer to the departure or on-ground by the trek leader.

• The trek leader reserves the right to make adjustments in the interest of safety or logistics.

4. Hotel & Transport Disclaimer

• Hotel check-in/out timings follow the respective hotel’s policies; early check-in or late check-out may incur extra charges.

• Transport may be shared or private depending on the package.

• In the case of vehicle breakdowns, delays due to weather/roadblocks, or similar issues, we will make reasonable alternative arrangements—but no refunds or compensation will be provided.

5. Risk & Liability Disclaimer

• Himalayan treks involve inherent risks including altitude sickness, landslides, injuries, wildlife, and weather unpredictability.

• By booking, participants voluntarily accept these risks. Parvat Exploration, its team, or affiliates shall not be liable for any loss, injury, or delays.

• Participants must follow trek leader instructions and avoid risky behavior.

• Any costs for emergency evacuation, medical help, or rescue must be borne by the participant.

6. Medical & Fitness Requirements

• Participants must disclose any pre-existing medical conditions at the time of booking.

• High-altitude trekking demands good physical fitness; participants are advised to follow a preparatory fitness regime.

• Parvat Exploration reserves the right to deny participation to individuals found medically unfit or under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

7. Code of Conduct

• Trekkers are expected to maintain respectful behavior toward fellow participants, locals, and staff.

• Littering, damaging nature or property, or violating forest laws may result in termination without refund.

• Smoking and drinking are strictly prohibited during trek hours and at campsites.

8. Travel Insurance

• Travel insurance is strongly recommended and should cover evacuation, injury, illness, and trip cancellations.

• Not included in the package unless specifically mentioned.

• Participants may purchase personal insurance from authorized providers.

9. Force Majeure

• Parvat Exploration is not liable for service delays or failures due to natural disasters, pandemics, war, strikes, government restrictions, or other uncontrollable events.

10. Jurisdiction

• Any dispute shall be under the jurisdiction of courts in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, or as otherwise specified by Parvat Exploration.

11. Contact Us

📞 +91 83830 88283 | +91 94561 12947
📧 explore@parvatexploration.com
🌐 www.parvatexploration.com

12. Special Casual Leave for Government Employees

Parvat Exploration, a registered adventure tour operator, qualifies government employees to avail Special Casual Leave (SCL) for up to 30 days in a calendar year, as per Pay Commission guidelines. This is applicable when participating in trekking or mountaineering expeditions organized by registered operators like us.

13. Special Note for Junior Trekkers

• Participants below 15 years must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

• Trekkers aged 15 to 18 years may participate solo with a signed disclaimer from a parent or guardian.