By: David H.
Submitted: 2011-07-10 23:50:09 | Word Count: 690
On a tour to the Valley of Flowers you are sure to explore Mother Nature at its best. This exotic valley is spread over 87.5 sq. km in the interior region of Garhwal Himalayas which lies in the state of Uttarakhand, India. Valley of Flowers astonishes its visitors by the variety of colorful flowers spread all over its terrain. With butterflies hovering over these flowers tourists do get amazed by the scenic beauty of this place. Some of these flowers are rare and are used in medicines also. The major hitch with this place is the snow which covers this valley for major part of the year except for a few months from June to October.
Major Tourist Attractions in the Valley of Flowers Temples:
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Even though this place is not easily accessible but still pilgrims and tourists throng this place in large numbers to get the divine blessings from the God's. This valley can easily be called the temple valley as there are numerous temples in and around the Valley of Flowers. Some of the important temples include Narsimhadeva, Badrinath, Kedarnath and Vasudeva temples. This place is of great significance and importance for Sikhs as well as Hemkund Sahib which is one of the important places of pilgrimage is also located here. During the peak season you will see tourists and pilgrims in every nook and corner of this valley and there is a possibility that you will find it hard to get accommodations as well.
Nanda Devi National Park:
Nanda Devi National park is the soul of this valley and a major source of attraction for the tourists. If you have been to this place you write it down that the beauty and charisma this place possesses will have a long lasting effect and you will certainly rejoice your visit to this place. There is a lot to explore at this park like rare and endangered animals from Asiatic black bear to snow leopard to brown bear to blue sheep and more. Similarly, those who have special interest in flowers will never get to see the variety and color of flowers which are found at this place. With over hundreds of species of rare and colorful flowers like Calendulas, Daisies, Anemones, Rhododendron, Orchids, Poppies and Primulas the visitor will never ask for more after visiting this place.
Trekking:
Valley of Flowers is the most happening trekking destination for the adventure enthusiast. There are various trekking activities one can indulge in like short walks to rock climbing to mountaineering and more. This place has got all the ingredients to be called the best trekking destination of India. The popularity of this sport can be gauged from the fact that a large number of trekking tour are being organized and tourists from all corners of the globe do visit this place. The most popular trek path is the one from Govindghat to Ghangria via Hemkund Sahib where one gets the chance to explore Joshimath and the entire Flowers Park.
Access and Accommodation:
If you intend to reach the Valley of Flowers from New Delhi by air, the nearest airport is Jolly Grant, Dehradun which is 315 km away from this place. If you like to board a train from Delhi you have to get tickets for Rishikesh which is 270 km from Joshimath. Bus and taxi services from Delhi are also available for those who like to take the road route.
Overnight stay at the Valley of Flowers in not allowed and one has to find accommodation at nearby places. The accommodation charges vary from Rs. 100 to over Rs.1000 depending upon the location and facilities. Due to the harsh weather the overall climate of this valley is chilly so it's advisable to carry worm clothes if you intend to visit this place.
Hotels in Rishikesh
Hotel M.J. Comfort: Close to Bus stand offering double-room AC and Non-AC.
Akash Ganga: A few meters from bus stand offering double-rooms AC and Non-AC.
Hotels in Joshimath
Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam (GMVN) guesthouses are available for accommodation offering double-rooms.
Accommodation in Ghangria
Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam (GMVN) guesthouses offering double-rooms, deluxe rooms, hut and bed dormitory.
