the journey
How to reach
The route at a glance
Delhi → Haridwar / Rishikesh → Joshimath → Govindghat (road head) → Pulna (by shared jeep) → Ghangaria (trek, base camp) → Valley of Flowers (day trek).
| Leg | Distance | Mode | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delhi – Rishikesh | ~240 km | Train / bus / car | 6–7 hrs |
| Rishikesh – Govindghat | ~275 km | Bus / shared taxi | 10–12 hrs |
| Govindghat – Pulna | 4 km | Shared jeep | 15 min |
| Pulna – Ghangaria | ~10 km | Trek / mule / helicopter | 5–7 hrs |
| Ghangaria – Valley | ~4 km one way | Trek | 2–3 hrs |
By air
The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (~290 km from Govindghat). Taxis and buses connect it to Rishikesh and onward. Seasonal helicopter services also run from Govindghat to Ghangaria, weather permitting.
By train
The nearest railheads are Rishikesh (Yog Nagari) and Haridwar. Overnight trains from Delhi reach Haridwar early morning, ideal for catching a bus towards Joshimath.
By road
Uttarakhand Transport and private buses leave Rishikesh early (4–6 am) for Joshimath and Govindghat along NH7 via Devprayag, Rudraprayag and Chamoli. Driving yourself? Park at Govindghat, as vehicles are not allowed further.
Helicopter option
Seasonal helicopter services operate between Govindghat and Ghangaria, weather permitting. They skip the 10 km trek but not the final walk to the valley.
Tips
- Start early from Rishikesh; landslides can delay the road during the monsoon.
- Keep a buffer day for weather and road closures. Plan at least 5–6 days from Rishikesh in total.
- Last ATMs and reliable mobile networks are at Joshimath and Govindghat.
Frequently asked questions
Can you drive to Valley of Flowers?
Only up to Govindghat (and Pulna by shared jeep). The rest is on foot, mule or helicopter to Ghangaria.
What is the nearest railway station?
Rishikesh, followed by Haridwar.
How many days do I need?
Plan at least 5–6 days from Rishikesh including a buffer day.