Valley of Flowers or the Valley of God?

Valley of Flowers or the Valley of Gods

In this ever-entropic existence, a visit to the Himalayas can rejuvenate the mind and souls. Living within the monotonous routines of day-to-day lives, it often becomes difficult to concentrate on the inner callings of nature. Living during these stressful times when the world has just started recovering from a global pandemic, things are still quite slow and dull. Within this black and white existence, it is necessary to provide holistic healing for every individual.

It is often said that once you have heard of the mystical Himalayas, it is impossible to resist its calling. Moreover, just think of a place surrounded by these mighty valleys, that is not just bejeweled with natural treasures but also resonates with a peaceful aura. Yes, it is the Valley of Flowers. At an altitude of 3200-3600m, this mystical place is almost hidden within a nook of the Himalayas, untouched from the pandemonium of modernism. A visit to the Valley of Flowers trek with Kashti Adventures is worth being in the first position of your traveling destinations.

Here’s a bird-eye-view of the marvels that attract every trekker to this beautiful place at least once in a lifetime.

Mythological Importance

In the ancient scriptures, the Bhyundar valley surrounding VoF has been referred to as the ‘Nandan Kanan’ of Lord Indra, the king of the Devatas. Here, the locals believe that the beautiful floral blooms are a gift from heaven, to entertain the kings of the Devatas(Gods). Another local legend suggests that this valley was used as ancient grounds for religious initiation, or ‘Deeksha’.

The Pushpawati river flows along the valley. The name of this river has its roots in Mahabharata. It is believed that Pandavas in exile were roaming across this valley, when they saw a babbling stream with beautiful flowers, floating on its waters. It was then that the river was named Pushpawati or ‘the one who is adorned with flowers’.

The Beautiful Landscape

As the name suggests, the beautiful landscape of the valley is embellished with various natural resources. Being located at a high altitude, snow-covered peaks are visible along the brims of the same. The edges of the ‘Rataban’ and ‘Tipra’ glaciers add a visible contrast of ruggedness to the beautiful valley below. The slopes are filled with a colorful diversity of wildflowers. During its peak season, the valley is a treat for ornithologists, zoologists, naturalists, and trekkers as well. Therefore, it is needless to say that the valley has something for everyone!

Trekking Adventure

The VoF trek is a moderately difficult trek and the whole valley traverses an area of 6 km in length and 1 km in width. The trek can be performed by trekkers with mild precautions and knowledge. Within the valley, one can trudge between the most beautiful floral covers while walking on a pebbly trail. Although, as a sustainable and responsible individual, everyone must maintain the pristine condition of the valley without leaving any environmental footprints.

The village trek is quite easy with a mild slope till the Bhyundar village after which, a moderate ascent for an hour leads to Ghangaria. If a trekker wants to visit Hemkund Sahib along with the VoF, then the concrete trek after Ghangharia is a bit difficult and tiring due to steeper slopes. Nevertheless, it gives a lifetime opportunity for adventurous trekking within the Himalayan ranges.

The Best Monsoons

Although the period between June to October is great to visit the V oF, the best timing would be to visit it during the monsoon season. During this time, the wildflowers are in full bloom and stay in their optimum conditions for 15-20 weeks. During this, the valley appears to be the collection of a heavenly plethora of colors! The lush greenery also gives a beautiful and dewy appearance due to the rains and the mist. Visitors should however carry proper waterproof and insulating clothing while traveling here in this season as the temperatures may range anywhere between 6-16C during the season.

An Added Treasure

A visit to the Valley of Flowers is thought to be complete only after visiting the Hemkund Sahib. A trek of 5 km from the VoF, takes a trekker to the snowy and pristine Gurudwara, at an altitude of 14,100 ft, which is also the highest of its kind. If you are an adrenaline junkie then this trek is for you. Once you reach the same, a sense of reverence for the omnipotent power takes over your mind along with great reverence for the Great Himalayas.

Conclusion

The Valley of Flowers has been rightly revered as the divine gardens of the Gods. Anyone who visits the place can sense heavenly and irreplaceable tranquility which stays permanently. You will surely feel that “Ek baar aa gaye, to bar-bar aaoge” meaning if you visit the place once, it will call you again and again. So, do not hesitate anymore, start your journey to this eternal paradise now!