Day 1: Rishikesh to Kharchi Village (1,900m / 6,234ft)
Your adventure begins with a scenic drive from Dehradun or Rishikesh to Kharchi Village, nestled deep in the Garhwal Himalayas. The journey spans approximately 280 kilometers and takes around 9 to 10 hours, taking you through the confluences of the sacred rivers at Devprayag and Rudraprayag before ascending towards Joshimath and finally reaching Kharchi. As you cruise through the winding mountain roads, you’re treated to awe-inspiring views of forested hills, tumbling rivers, and charming Himalayan hamlets. While the day is primarily about travel, the changing landscape offers plenty to absorb. Be prepared for a long ride and an early night to rest for the trekking days ahead.
Day 2: Kharchi to Pulna (2,020m / 6,627ft), Trek to Ghangaria (3,050m / 10,006ft)
After breakfast, a short and smooth drive brings you to Pulna, the road head for the Valley of Flowers trek. From here, the real adventure begins with a 10 km uphill trek to Ghangaria – the charming base village for both Valley of Flowers and Hemkund Sahib. The trail winds through dense forests of oak and rhododendron, alongside glistening mountain streams and wooden bridges. The steady ascent may challenge your legs, but the cool air and the rhythmic sounds of nature make the trek rejuvenating. Expect to reach Ghangaria by late afternoon. Relax and acclimatize in this peaceful little settlement nestled among pine woods.
Day 3: Ghangaria to Valley of Flowers (3,500m / 11,482ft) and back
Today is the highlight of the entire trek – a dreamlike excursion to the world-famous Valley of Flowers, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A relatively moderate hike of around 4 km one way takes you into an expansive alpine meadow filled with hundreds of species of blooming wildflowers, rare Himalayan herbs, and vibrant butterflies dancing around. Surrounded by misty peaks and cascading waterfalls, the valley feels like a page torn from a fantasy tale. Take your time to soak in the surreal views, click photos, and spot the exotic Brahma Kamal if you’re lucky. After a few soul-filling hours, retrace your steps to Ghangaria for the night.
Day 4: Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib (4,329m / 14,200ft) and back
Brace yourself for a spiritually intense and physically demanding day as you trek to Hemkund Sahib, one of the highest Gurudwaras in the world. The 6 km ascent is steep and strenuous, climbing over 1,200 meters through rocky terrain at high altitude. As you push forward, prayer chants echo in the distance, and snow-capped peaks stand sentinel over the trail. Upon reaching the serene glacial lake of Hemkund, you’ll find divine tranquility at the Gurudwara, flanked by wildflowers and snow patches. After paying your respects and spending a moment in stillness, descend carefully back to Ghangaria. This is often the most memorable day for trekkers, both physically and emotionally.
Day 5: Ghangaria to Pulna, Drive to Kharchi
After days of ascending, it’s time to make your way back down. The 10 km descent from Ghangaria to Pulna offers a chance to appreciate the trail’s natural beauty from a new perspective. Though it’s downhill, the uneven terrain requires attention and balance. Once in Pulna, a short drive returns you to Kharchi village. The return feels nostalgic as you pass familiar paths, streams, and forest corners – now etched in memory. Unwind at your stay in Kharchi and enjoy the mountain calm one last time before heading back to the city.
Day 6: Kharchi to Rishikesh
Your trekking journey concludes with the long drive back to Rishikesh or Dehradun. The route offers one last visual treat of the Uttarakhand hills, river valleys, and temple towns. It’s a perfect time to reflect on the past few days – the flowers, the effort, the camaraderie, and the spiritual stillness you found in the heights. Expect to reach by evening, carrying with you not just photos, but stories and a deep connection with the Himalayas.
