Overview
This route in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district offers a perfect mix of divine energy, majestic landscapes, and Himalayan serenity.
- Best time to visit: Mid-June to Mid-September (Valley of Flowers in full bloom)
- Nearest airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun
- Nearest railway station: Rishikesh or Haridwar
🗓️ Day 1: Arrival at Joshimath / Pipalkoti
- Route: Rishikesh – Rudraprayag – Joshimath (approx. 260 km / 8–9 hrs)
- Enjoy the scenic drive along the Alaknanda River.
- Check in to your hotel/homestay in Joshimath or Pipalkoti.
- Evening at leisure — acclimatize to the mountain air.
Tip: Try local Garhwali food and get an early rest for the next day.
🗓️ Day 2: Joshimath → Badrinath (45 km / 2 hrs)
- Early morning drive to Badrinath Dham (3,133 m).
- Visit Swag Dwar and the Badrinath Temple.
- Take a dip at Tapt Kund (natural hot spring) before darshan.
- Explore nearby: Mana Village, Vyas Gufa, Ganesh Gufa, and Bheem Pul (natural stone bridge).
Stay: Overnight at Badrinath.
Optional: Evening aarti at the temple — an unforgettable spiritual experience.
🗓️ Day 3: Trek to Vasudhara Falls (9 km round trip)
- Start early from Mana Village (last Indian village).
- Trek to Vasudhara Falls (400 ft high) — a heavenly cascade surrounded by snow peaks.
- Enjoy packed lunch near the falls and return by evening.
- Rest and explore local shops and cafes in Badrinath.
Stay: Overnight at Badrinath or return to Joshimath.
🗓️ Day 4: Joshimath → Govindghat → Ghangaria
- Drive to Govindghat (22 km from Joshimath).
- Trek or take a pony/porter for the 14 km trail to Ghangaria — base camp for Valley of Flowers & Hemkund Sahib.
- Enjoy pine forests, waterfalls, and mountain streams en route.
Stay: Night stay in Ghangaria (guesthouse or GMVN lodge).
🗓️ Day 5: Trek to Valley of Flowers National Park
- Early morning start for Valley of Flowers (3,500–3,600 m) — a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Witness thousands of colorful Himalayan blooms like Blue Poppy, Brahma Kamal, and Cobra Lily.
- Spend a few hours exploring and taking photos.
- Return to Ghangaria by late afternoon.
Stay: Overnight at Ghangaria.
🗓️ Day 6: Return Journey
- Trek back to Govindghat, then drive to Joshimath / Rudraprayag / Rishikesh depending on your plan.
- Optional stop at Auli for panoramic views of Nanda Devi Peak.
🏕️ Travel Tips
- Carry warm clothes even in summer; nights are cold.
- Keep a rain jacket and waterproof shoes (especially for Valley of Flowers).
- Avoid plastic; maintain cleanliness in eco-sensitive zones.
- Carry glucose, energy bars, and a small first-aid kit.
- BSNL network works best in higher altitudes.
🌸 Why This Trip is Special
This route offers a rare combination:
- Spiritual peace at Badrinath Dham,
- Adventure with the Vasudhara Falls trek, and
- Natural wonder at the Valley of Flowers — a breathtaking canvas of colors.
📞 Book with Vakpati — for guided tours, curated stays, and unforgettable Himalayan experiences.