Best time to visit valley of flowers in Uttarakhand
Valley of flowers in Uttarakhand is one of such picturesque places that have kindled the interests of the tourists, trekkers and the spirituality seekers. Located at an elevation of 11,500 feet above sea level, this biosphere reserve is part of the UNESCO World Heritage site and is famous for its spectacular landscape and bio-diversity. This valley is the best place for a panorama of the alpine flowers, rare plants and the variety of the ecosystems that belong to the Lithuanian territory, so for those people who are eager to get acquainted with the beauty of the nature, this valley is a must-see. Besides its rich flora where thousands of flowers bloom in meadows of the Valley of Flowers, it is not only a trek but a trek that rejuvenates the soul.
When you are making your travel arrangements towards this wonderful tourist spot, it is very important to know when is the best time to visit the Valley of Flowers in Uttarakhand. Flowering period usually runs from June through to the end of August with the best time for flowering being mid-July. In these months, the meadows catch up with colors and come up with flowers such as the blue Himalayan poppy, Brahma kamal, cobra lily etc. These beautiful flowers are not only lovely to behold but they also contribute to the sustenance of the region. The valley also hosts the snow leopard and the blue sheep – an opportunity to view the nature in the most pristine way possible.
However, understanding the cultural value of the Valley of Flowers will give you an added perspective to your trip. Linked to legends of the great epics of Mahabharata and Ramayana this splendid piece of geography is believed to be the place where Lord Hanuman found the magical Sanjeevani herb to save Lakshmana. The trek to the valley also opens the opportunity to visit Hemkund Sahib which is the highest Gurudwara in the world and add spiritual touch to the trek. When you are out exploring this fairy-tale like landscape, the Valley of Flowers brings together the best of the nature and heritage adding to its charm for a trek.
Here is the best time to visit valley of flowers in Uttarakhand
1. Valley of Flowers in June
June is the start of the Valley of Flowers trek as with the melting of the snow the valley comes alive with greenery. It is also the time when the valley breaks out of its winter hibernation and first signs of life in form of buds and sprouts can be seen emerging from the earth. Floral species that bloom in June include the creeping wood sorrel, wild thyme, and marsh marigold that help build up the excitement of the beautiful flowers to be seen. The environment is characterized by the fresh scent of blossoming flowers and buds making the environment a delight to all people who visit the place.
During June, the temperature varies within 17 – 29 0C which means that the climate is quite appropriate for trekking. There is no rainfall in this month, and therefore, the terrain of the trails are favorable for hiking. Although there are not so many flowers, it is clear that the valley is awakening and despite the fact that it is still not so lively, the following months will be even more active. If one wants to avoid a very crowded place and get a glimpse of what the floral show of the summer looks like, then June is a good time to visit.
2. Valley of Flowers in July
That is why the Valley of Flowers blooms at its best when the monsoon starts at the end of July. This month marks the climax of the flowering season that visitors can enjoy the beauty of such flowers as anemones, golden lilies and geraniums. The green vegetation and bright colors put together provide a spectacular view and rivers are lined with a beautiful pink from Epilobium Lat folium, also known as Dwarf Firewood. The valley becomes a Mecca of flowers making it a favorite time for photographers and nature lovers.
Since July is in the summer, the most common temperature is 6 to 11 degrees Celsius. Although the first two weeks of a month are characterized by little or no rainfall, the last two weeks may record considerable rainfall. It is advisable for the visitors to expect wet ground, but that should not be a discouragement since the wet ground makes the valley beautiful, and trekking experience is wonderful. Without a doubt, the most rewarding time to see the floral display of the valley is in the month of July.
3. Valley of Flowers in August
August is the peak of the monsoon season and perhaps the best time to visit the Valley of Flowers if you want to capture a lot of flowers. The valley is filled with all kinds of colors, which present a wonderful array of flowers since the valley is well irrigated and has very fertile and moist ground. While the heavy rains may cause petals to wilt, there are so many flowers in bloom that this month is ideal for photographers. August is a great time to see the beauty of nature since the valley in full of flowers.
August being a wet month, temperatures typically vary between 6 to 12 degrees Celsius. But trekking in the rain is not a boring experience; it allows to see what rainy season brings to the vegetation. Besides, free darshan at the nearby Badrinath Temple during this time of the year gives a better opportunity, as there are comparatively less people around. That is why August is considered a special time for visiting: flowers and tranquillity.
4. Valley of Flowers in September:
September marks the end of the monsoon and from here the Valley of Flowers look different. Most of the flowers have withered and berries are turning red or brown while the greenery of the valley gives way for the yellowish tinges of autumn. Its plains have no obstructions to block the view of the surrounding mountains making it a perfect view for any trekking experience. As for the flowers near the Hemkund Sahib region, many of them remain blooming but the surrounding starts to change and reveal the color of the coming season.
September has the temperature starting from 4 to 11 degree Celsius which is quite suitable for trekking. It rains very little, only with light showers, which decreases towards the end of the month. The lack of clouds, small number of hikers, and warm colors of the autumn make it a great time for those who seek quieter walk in the valley. September is ideal for viewing the change of the valley while the flowers are still blooming, at least in part.
Conclusion:
Hence, the Valley of flowers in Uttarakhand is an ideal for the nature and flowers lover, for the adventure lovers and every month has its own attraction. This park looks its best when the flowers are budding in June, when they are blooming in July and August and when they are starting to wither in September. Many tourist visits are recorded in the valley because the biological and cultural aspect of the area appeals to the spirit of every traveler.
Happiness of having walk on its green grass fields, wonder of exotic flowers and feeling of devotion associated with Hemkund Sahib makes the trek to the valley of flowers worthwhile. This is because, when you make your trip to the valley during the flowering seasons, you are already at the right time and at the right view of the valley from the natural flowers. Therefore, open your map, put on your trekking shoes and get ready to be in awe at the beauty of the Valley of Flowers in Uttarakhand.
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