Tag Archive for: camping

How to Prepare for a Backpacking Trip: A Super Simple Guide

If you are looking for a grand adventure, then a well-planned backpacking trip is the best way to find it because there is nothing quite like taking the long trail up a mountainside or through a gorgeous forest. However, while it may seem easy to just buy a backpack and start walking, there are many considerations and things you must do to prepare for a backpacking trip.

We are here to help. Whether you are an experienced hiker or you are just starting out, we have some great tips and pieces of advice that can be lifesavers during your next backpacking trip.

Choosing the Right Backpacking Gear

When starting to prepare for your a backpacking trip, then you will want to take some time to get your body and mind in tip-top shape so you don’t get out there to find out that you weren’t truly prepared.

For starters, you will need to choose the right backpack. If you are planning a long hike, then you will need to buy a pack that has all of the essential elements, including a top-loading design, extra pockets, and a water bladder pocket so you can always stay hydrated. Try on different packs and make sure that it is comfortable because you’ll have it on your back for long periods of time. 

As part of your training, you will want to find and purchase shoes or boots that are comfortable and durable enough to last throughout your adventure without falling apart or hurting your feet.

When shopping for boots, make sure to try them on before you buy. You’ll want to find boots that are snug around your entire foot but not too tight, and you should have a little bit of wiggle room for your toes.

You do not want them to be loose, or they could end up hurting your feet. Once you find what you need, wear them during your training.

Physically Preparing for Your Backpacking Trip

Next, you will need to get in shape and prepare your body for the long journey backpacking. You are going to want to practice by walking a lot in the months and/or weeks leading up to your hike.

You will want to aim for at least 10,000 steps a day. Once you get used to the motion, you’ll need to kick it up a notch by walking up and down hills or stairs so you can get your body used to that movement. As a final step, add weight to your backpack and walk with it a lot until you build up your muscles.

Basic First Aid for Your Backpacking Trip

It is important for both new backpackers and seasoned pros to brush up on the common risks and dangers that can occur out on the trail because if you are always prepared and you understand the potential dangers, then backpacking can be a very peaceful endeavor.

For starters, you never know when someone will trip or get hurt in some way, so it is essential to be protective and pack a first aid kit. Your kit should include basic hiking materials, such as gauze, bandages, sanitizer, and sunscreen, along with any necessary medications.

A common threat that can become a reality during a hike is the potential of ticks and other pests. It is important to know how to combat and prevent ticks, which includes wearing long pants, using insect repellant, always staying on the designated trail, and avoiding walking through long grass whenever possible.

Make it a point to stop at regular durations throughout your hike to check for ticks. Always look at the common hiding places, such as the back of the knees, between your legs, and around your waist. 

You will want to have a pair of tweezers in your first aid kit, and if you find a tick, use them to pull the head of the pest upward using even pressure. Once you are sure it is removed, clean the area with antiseptic.

Mapping Out Your Plan Ahead of Time

It is also a wise idea to research the trail ahead of time, so you don’t run the risk of getting lost or becoming stressed. If information is available, then get a general idea of the course that your trail will take and always follow all posted signage. Make sure that your phone is fully charged, and bring an extra charger so you can call for help if necessary.

Packing the Right Food to Optimize Nutrition

How you fuel your body before and during the adventure is an incredibly important part of preparing for your backpacking trip, so you have the physical strength to get through your journey. As you prepare for a backpacking trip, make an effort to change your diet and avoid the fast foods and overly sugary treats that can hinder your body and prevent you from enduring extensive periods of activity. 

Continue this diet up until the day of the hike. In the morning, make sure that you have a smart and solid breakfast. This is truly the most important meal of the day because by including fruit, dairy, and whole grains, you get the essential nutrients that your body needs, which helps to control your blood sugar levels, manage your weight, and most importantly, provide a natural energy boost to keep you going during the hike. You should bring other nutritious snacks like granola and trail mix so you can stay nourished and energized until the end.

Of course, you also need to drink plenty of water during your expedition. By staying hydrated, you replace the fluids that you flush out by sweating, and drinking water also helps you to stay alert. As a general rule, try to drink a half-liter of water for every hour of walking in moderate temperatures. 

As you can see, there is a lot to consider before you head up the trail during your next backpacking expedition. Follow the guidance provided here, and you will stay in great shape during your next adventure.

Backpacking Australia on a Budget: 7 Pro Tips

You’ve been reading about Australia for years: the exotic animals, majestic desert landscapes, and the stunning coastline. Now, it’s time for some adventure travel, though that may sound redundant because when backpacking Australia everything seems like an adventure. Your Australia bucket list must be full: There’s scuba diving at the Great Barrier Reef, kayaking down the Katherine Gorge, and watching the sunset at Uluru. A shortage of destinations? Not at all. A shortage of cash? Possibly, as you’re looking at one of the most expensive countries in the world. However, you can still go backpacking in Australia on a budget and get the thrills you want by following these tips.

1. Use Apps to find Cheap Flights in Australia

Australia is a huge country, stretching 2,500 miles from east to west. This means that traveling by car from Brisbane to Perth will take days. To travel on a budget in Australia, save yourself time and money by flying on one of the country’s five main domestic airlines, and get the best price with an app like Skyscanner.

2. Ride the Australian Greyhound Bus

Ride the Greyhound Bus to backpack on a budget in Australia

Ride the Greyhound Bus to backpack on a budget in Australia

For shorter trips, the fabled bus line has got you covered with a “hop on, hop off” pass that allows you to do precisely that. To travel the 2,000 miles from Sydney to Cairns, for example, you’d pay just over $300USD, taking a break at any stop before jumping on board again.

3. Stay at Hostels while Backpacking Australia

Technically, this would save you money anywhere, but it’s particularly wise in Australia, where the average backpacker hostels are a fraction of the cost of a hotel. That’s roughly between $20USD and $30USD compared to, well, two or three times more. You’d sleep in a dorm, but the upside is you meet some interesting people while picking up travel tips to boot. Hostelworld has the largest inventory of hostels in Australia and millions of reviews from fellow travelers.

4. Use Couchsurfing throughout Australia

Australia has a large network of locals who will put you up for free after you set up a profile with the community here. It’s a great way to backpacking Australia on a budget, while meeting locals and learning about the country. Of course, if you’re worried about safety, you can check reviews by the host’s previous guests.

5. Bring the Right Gear

If you don’t have any camping gear, borrow some from a friend or find used items online. There are campsites across Australia, and some of them are even free of cost. Those, however, are often far from the major cities, so you’d probably need a vehicle to take advantage, says the experienced travel blogger behind Claire’s Footsteps.

The more versatile and comfortable your clothing is, the better. Fortunately, there are plenty of options that help to ensure you make the most of your travel wardrobe while keeping your budget, whether you’re looking for a pair of leggings, a hoodie, or relaxed-fit T-shirt.

6. Rent a Campervan to Explore Australia

Traveling Australia by campervan allows you to sleep in the back of your vehicle rather than pay the costs for a hostel or pitch a tent outside. It’s relatively easy to get through the open country, and you’ll save money by spending the night for free at rest stops when you can, says a writer with the Travel Hack. However, if you’re trying to travel on a budget in Australia, you’ll definitely want to plan your routes carefully and drive slowly, as those beasts can drink up all your cash in gasoline if you aren’t careful.

7. Get Smart About Your Meals and Drinks

Eating on a budget in Australia is possible at youth hostels, in the back of your campervan or with the gas stove that should be a part of your camping gear. One report says that Aldi is the cheapest place to get your groceries down under. Also, buy your booze from liquor stores rather than expensive bars, then share with the friends you meet at the hostel or the campsite. You should also buy a bottle of water once and refill it at water fountains (which are often called “bubblers”).

Now that you know how to go backpacking on a budget in Australia, you can focus on fun, but that won’t be too hard to find anyway. After all, fun is waiting around every corner in Australia. Enjoy your adventure!

How to Work Remotely While Camping

As an entrepreneur and outdoor enthusiast, you’re probably wondering if working remotely is possible when you’re backpacking, camping, or otherwise engaged in outdoor activities. The answer: yes. However, it takes a bit of preparation. Here’s some advice:

Choose your adventures wisely when you have to work remotely

Let’s get this out of the way: it is not always possible to work remotely when you’re out camping. If you’re rock climbing, for example, you can’t stop and pick up the phone. The same goes for if you’re hiking a treacherous path. Make sure that you are fully acquainted with the area in which you plan to travel if you’re going to be outdoors and away from a regular office (or the business center of a hotel).

If you’re going to be working remotely while you’re traveling, choose activities that allow you to take a break of at least an hour at a time. This way, you have time to focus on both your work and the time you’ll spend with your family.

Know what equipment you need to work remotely while camping

You already know that you will need to invest in equipment that will keep you safe if you’re hiking or camping. This might include a camping backpack – which is especially important on multi-day trips – and a standalone GPS unit.

For working remotely while camping, you also need some basic office equipment. This might include a small tablet or laptop computer, a mobile hotspot, and a small folding table for writing. A special note here: make sure that you will have access to power while you are away. The Trekers blog notes that you may need a generator or portable battery.

Set yourself up for success if you run your own business

Believe it or not, it’s possible to run your own business while experiencing the great outdoors. Preparation goes beyond simply knowing your outdoor location and having the right equipment. You will also want to make sure that your work can continue without you should you be unavailable. Start by registering your business as an LLC. This makes it a standalone entity and gives you some financial protection. LLC regulations vary from state to state, so do your research first so that you know what you need before you get started.

You should also appoint an individual to act on your behalf when you can’t be reached. Even though your goal is running a business from the outdoors, you must be realistic: you won’t always be available. Create a company organizational chart so that your employees know who to get in touch with when you’re off the proverbial grid.

Software that enables working remotely while camping

You should also have digital tools and software that allow you to work remotely, whether you are camping or on the road. A few examples here are workflow/project management system and document sharing service.

There are several workflow management programs to choose from, including Asana and HubSpot. Most will integrate with Google Docs, which marketing agency PaperStreet asserts is a secure way to collaborate with your employees and team in real-time.

While there are many hobbies that won’t interfere with working remotely, those of us that spend more time outdoors than in understand that the things we love pose challenges if we want to run our business without being there. But, if you take the time to prepare ahead, you can circumvent many of the greatest hurdles and keep things moving no matter where you are in the world.

How to Prepare for Backpacking in the Rain

Whether you’re planning to hike in unpredictable weather or your upcoming backpacking trip is threatened by an encroaching storm, backpacking in the rain poses a challenge. Dealing with rain can make backpacking interesting and much more difficult, but if you plan properly it’s nothing to worry about.

Don't let a little rain get in the way of your backpacking trip!

Don’t let a little rain get in the way of your backpacking trip!

Many people find that backpacking in the rain makes the experience feel more peaceful, and it’s very fun if you make sure you’re ready for it. Without planning, you may end up drenched, miserable, and regretting your trip, so make sure to know how to deal with it!

If you use synthetic clothing and fleece, rainproof layers, waterproof footwear or gaiters, and a waterproof pack, you shouldn’t end up too wet or cold when it rains hard. It’s also good to pack some extra clothing to change into.

Picking a good campsite, setting up properly, and ventilating your tent are also vital. Blisters are also more likely, so giving extra effort to prevention and care is important.

There are more dangers like hypothermia, slick trails, and dehydration, but if you’re careful and pay attention to potential problems you won’t have issues. 

What to Wear Backpacking in the Rain

Layering is your best friend in a heavy downpour. Synthetics or a merino wool base layer are a good start to keep you warm and dry quickly. An insulating layer may be necessary depending on temperature, but obviously, this depends on the situation. A good rain jacket as your outer layer is ideal.

If you’re looking for a rain jacket for hiking, backpacking, and other outdoor sports I recommend looking into products that make gear for those activities. While there are plenty of great options on the market, a few brands to look into sited below:

These are not the only options, just examples that are good to start researching. Outdoor companies make products that will be more comfortable, ventilated, and suitable for higher levels of movement than other clothing brands.

Hardshell Jackets

Hardshell jackets are more suitable for higher amounts of rain, snow, and wind, and they’ll keep you protected in more hardcore weather.

Softshell Jacket

A softshell jacket will also often be waterproof, but will not offer the same protection as a hardshell jacket. Softshell jackets are generally more comfortable and breathable but offer less protection. 

Picking your ideal options comes down to the conditions of your backpacking trip, and how bad of weather you are expecting. There’s no need to break the bank, but especially if you’re going on a longer backpacking trip, making an at least mid-range investment will pay off.

Rain clothing with vents also makes wet, humid weather a bit more bearable. In especially rainy areas a pair of rain pants may be helpful as well. A waterproof, breathable pair of pants and gaiters go a long way when backpacking in the rain, especially in lower temperatures.

If it’s very warm, you may be better off shedding layers instead of adding them. On a hot day, if you’re comfortable with wearing a pair of shorts with a rain jacket or light shirt. If you’re comfortable with it and the weather is warm, hiking in the rain without a shirt feels great.

When Your Clothes Are Wet

When backpacking in the rain, if you’re soaked through your layers, do your best to evaluate your warmth. Generally, it’s alright to keep on your wet clothing, especially if you’re wearing multiple layers of synthetic or wool items. 

As the saying goes, there is no such thing as bad weather, just the wrong clothing!

As the saying goes, there is no such thing as bad weather, just the wrong clothing!

It may not be comfortable, but unlike cotton, it will dry over time. When you get into camp and you’re set up, change into dry clothing. If possible, hang up your wet clothes to dry.

If you do not have the opportunity to set up a clothesline or dry them in the sun, putting wet clothing under a sleeping pad if you have one can help them dry quicker. 

You should always have some dry clothing if hiking in bad weather, especially if the forecast is expected to stay bleak and rainy. In a pinch, staying in wet clothing can dry it off. It may be uncomfortable and take a while, but if you’re relatively warm and safe it won’t be a problem. 

Type of Backpack To Bring Backpacking in the Rain

Be sure to bring the right equipment if you'll be backpacking in the rain

Be sure to bring the right equipment if you’ll be backpacking in the rain

I recommend using dry bags (trash bags and baggies work as well) for clothing and sensitive items in your pack, and a waterproof backpacking cover if your backpack’s waterproofing isn’t reliable. Trashbags aren’t bad in a pinch, but a waterproof backpack is a better option by far.

The extra cost means your gear won’t end up drenched on the trail. Most outdoor companies offer waterproof backpacks made for hiking and backpacking. 

Check The Weather

Checking the weather is perhaps the most important piece of advice I can offer. It’s great to have all the best gear and know-how to use it, but if you don’t know what’s coming it won’t help you.

Knowing the weather can help you avoid poor conditions if you don’t want to deal with them, and be ready for them if you do.

It’s also good to know if you’re in for a storm or a shower, which can prevent potential issues down the line. Check the weather often, and be ready for the conditions coming your way. 

Picking a Campsite and Staying Dry

Especially when faced with rain, picking the right campsite is crucial

Especially when faced with rain, picking the right campsite is crucial

Picking the wrong campsite when backpacking in the rain can easily leave you in a puddle with your tent waterlogged. Look for a flat spot that’s not in a depression or low ground ideally with some tree coverage overhead. Never camp in a dry riverbed.

It’s also important to orient leeward of the wind, along with some sort of protection like boulders or trees. Make sure to avoid especially moist ground, and dead branches.

If you notice any dead branches above you, it’s a good idea to move your tent. A branch falling on you in the middle of the night is a less than ideal way to wake you from a deep sleep after a hard day of hiking in bad weather.

A tent footprint or a tarp is also ideal to prevent damage and leaks on the floor of your tent. If your tent has vents, put them to good use. Condensation buildup is no joke, and properly ventilating your tent when you have the chance will make your setup much more comfortable.

Otherwise, make sure your tent is waterproofed properly (You can manually waterproof it if an older tent is beginning to have trouble keeping water out), and utilize your rain fly or shield, or even a tarp rigged overtop of it. 

Practice Before Backpacking in the Rain

For the experienced and newbie alike, practicing the proper use of your equipment can be a huge time saver in a bad situation. If you’ve never pitched your tent but you need to in a storm, you’re most likely going to make mistakes, and at worst have to redo your setup at a less than opportune time.

Practice using any equipment you’re unfamiliar with, because you may not always have the time to learn on the fly. This rule is especially important for tents, as it can be the most essential item to put up in heavy rain, but you can easily end up drenched for the night if you do it wrong.

Terrain Dangers

Backpacking in the rain means taking extra precautions

Backpacking in the rain means taking extra precautions

I’m sure you’re already aware of the fact that you’ll face slick, puddled trails and that rocks, logs, and slopes will be hazardous, but you should be conscious of other potential problems ahead of you.

The most common danger you will encounter will be slick surfaces. Navigating difficult terrain can be hard already, but slippery rocks, hills, and so on can easily leave you injured.

Trekking poles can be very useful if you know you’ll end up on some especially slick terrain. The two added points of contact with the ground might save you if you need some extra balance.

If hiking in bad weather, sticking to forested areas can also assist in avoiding many of the problems faced when backpacking in the rain. The added coverage from trees often makes rainfall less intense to deal with. 

Larger rainstorms could make a river crossing much more dangerous. Surging river levels could make a generally easy crossing challenging. The same rules apply to most river crossings.

Be aware of what is downstream in case you’ve swept away, be wary of strainers to catch logs, brush, and debris in streams. Water flows through, a person can’t. If you have to cross, look for an area where the water is running slower, like undercuts or straight stretches to cross. Use extra caution if utilizing things like logs as a bridge, and have a contingency plan in case something goes wrong in a potentially dangerous crossing. 

Flash flooding, mud, and rock slides are all more common in rain as well. If you plan to hike in a canyon, make sure to frequently check the weather in case of flash floods, and be aware of how to quickly get to high ground if necessary.

Heavier rains also make mud and/or rock slides more likely, a danger that occasionally kills hikers. Be aware of your surroundings, listen for sounds indicating moving debris, and be alert to changes in weather. 

Know When to Bail

If you aren’t prepared for hardcore rain on your backpacking trip, if you’re miserable because of how drenched you are and how hard it’s getting, or if you’re unsafe due to heavier storms and lightning with little shelter, it’s ok to bail.

It’s not an especially fun option, and you may feel the need to press on, but the thing to remember is that it’s more important to be safe if you’re doubtful.

I’m not saying that you have to quit at the sight of a cloud that’s a little too gray or once you smell rain in the air, I’m saying that you will know when you should hang it up for the day. Like most things in hiking, the time you decide the weather is too much for your backpacking trip will vary from person to person.

If you’re a more casual hiker who wants a short, comfortable, and fun trip, you may not enjoy your experience beyond light to moderate rain. If you like a challenging trip, it’s perfectly acceptable to be outdoors in heavier rainfall or storms. It all comes down to what you want your experience to be, and if you’re prepared for the task at hand. 

Conclusion

While there are obstacles to backpacking in the rain, if you’re prepared it can be a great time. You’ll probably be one of the few people on the trail, and it can be extraordinarily peaceful. I personally love to be in the woods or on the trail in the rain.

If you properly prepare and make sure you’re aware of the potential dangers, you’ll have no problems. You’ll probably end up wet, and it may not always be a great time, but there’s no reason to fear a day backpacking in rain.

Hemkund Sahib and The Valley of Flowers Short Trek Itinerary

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The exquisite Valley of Flowers National Park is dream come true for all visitors and hikers alike. It is abundant in gorgeous and exotic floral kinds, as well as species threatened with extinction.

The Valley of Flowers is situated in the Western Front of the Himalayas of Uttarakhand, at an elevation of 3,658 metres above sea level in the picturesque Bhyundar Valley. The Valley of Flowers, located in the Chamoli area, is an 87-square-kilometre landscape encompassing tumbling waterfalls, whispering streams, verdant meadows, gleaming glaciers, and vibrant himalayan flowers.

Majestic snowy mountain peaks, beautiful meadows, and vast vibrant flower arrays abound in this magnificent valley. Diverse foliage, uncommon himalayan flowers, and, most significantly, therapeutic herbs may be found along the Valley of Flowers trek.

With the changing of the seasons, this diverse array of nature takes on new colours and tones, providing distinct varied outlook in changing seasons. The sun sets over the Valley of Flowers National Park, which is a sight not to miss. At this hour, the undulating landscapes and beautiful mountain ranges take on a breathtaking quality.

Cobra Lily, Brahma Kamal, and Blue Poppy are among the unusual himalayan flowers found in this Valley of Flowers. Snow leopards, musk deer, Asiatic black deer, red fox, brown bear, and flying squirrels all live in this dynamic National Park.

Keen photographers, biologists, and flower enthusiasts flock to this location in quest of surreal environs and unspoiled splendour.

Until Frank S Smythe, a hiker, found it in 1931, this lovely valley was absolutely unknown and unexplored. It was originally known as Bhyundar Valley, but Smythe renamed it Valley of Flowers in 1931.

This Valley was proclaimed a National Park in 1982 for its outstanding spectacular natural characteristics, a wealth of high altitude species, and conservation and preservation standing, and UNESCO recognised it as a World Heritage Site in 2005.

The Valley of Flowers National Park offers a variety of activities to attract visitors. Trekkers and environment enthusiasts may hike up to this valley to enjoy the tranquil waterfalls, pristine sceneries, lush forests of oak and pine trees overflowing with snow-capped mountains and different types of flowers that are not accessible elsewhere.

It also has a wonderful location in sight for worshippers and vacationers. Devotees ascend the difficult trek path to the Hemkund Sahib, a well-known Sikh temple in Uttarakhand. It also enables you to visit places such as Ghangaria and Bhyundar.

The best time to visit the Valley of Flowers is during the monsoon season, which runs from July to September. After the monsoon rains, the Himalayan flowers and meadows are in full bloom. The Valley of Flowers begins on June 1st and concludes on October 31st. The admission charge to the Valley is INR 150 for native trekkers and INR 600 for foreign visitors.

Attractions in the Valley of Flowers National Park

Joshimath

Joshimath town blanketed in snow

Joshimath town blanketed in snow

The hallowed town of Joshimath, snuggled in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district within the valley of flowers radiates its divine atmosphere over the whole Garhwal area. Lord Badri’s idol is carried from Badrinath to Vasudeva temple in Joshimath, and Joshimath is renowned as his winter abode.

For its startling height of 1890 metres above sea level, the town of Joshimath is also known as a hill station. In addition, the Alaknanda and Dhauliganga rivers converge at the Vishnuprayag convergence, which is visible from Joshimath.

Hathi Parvat and other Himalayan peaks provide a bewildering vista. Joshimath, tucked away in the Himalayas, is also regarded as the renowned entrance to mountaineering, with numerous treks available.

Ghangria

Every trekker would drool over the prospect of enjoying the serenity, tranquillity of one of the most exquisite regions of the Garhwal Himalayas, the Ghangaria village. The trekkers who embark on the Hemkund Sahib and Valley of Flowers short trek frequently visit the town of Ghangaria.

Ghangaria is 6 kilometres from Hemkund Sahib and 5 kilometres from the Valley of Flowers. The hamlet is situated at the intersection of the Bhyundar and Pushpawati rivers, which compose the Lakshman Ganga. Ghangria is known to be the last human settlement in Bhyundar Valley which serves as a base camp for trekkers to Hemkund and the Valley of Flowers.

During the winter Ghangaria village is carpeted with layers of snow. It is only navigable in between the months of May and September. At Ghangaria, you may completely unplug yourself from the city’s frantic hustle and bustle and restore your health and spirit. Ghangaria is a haven for thrill-seekers and anyone looking to experience the Himalayan landscape’s untapped grandeur.

Hemkund Sahib and Hemkund Sahib Lake

Valley of Flowers, located in the famed Nanda Devi National Park, is home to hundreds of different flower species, making for a delightful trip. This valley displays a stunning explosion of colours that is beyond description.

You may also do the Hemkund Sahib trek as an add-on to your Valley of Flowers short trek. The Hemkund Sahib journey begins in Ghangaria and winds its way through lush pine and oak woods, alpine meadows, and murmuring streams.

Visiting Hemkund Sahib is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. It requires a difficult ascent from Ghangaria. Hemkund Sahib is 6 kilometres away from Valley of Flowers. It will take roughly 6 to 7 hours to get from Valley of Flowers to Hemkund Sahib.

Hemkund Sahib is 4633 metres above sea level, and this beautiful hike concludes with the Sikh Gurudwara in Hemkund. This hike is made worthwhile by the appealing landscape of Hemkund Sahib and the lake.

Reflection of Nanda Devi Hills on Hemkund Sahib Lake

Reflection of Nanda Devi National Park Hills on Hemkund Sahib Lake

The Hemkund Sahib lake is a stunning high-altitude lake this is commonly referred to as Hemkund, which literally translates as “Snow Lake.” This spectacular location is bordered by snow-capped peaks and nourished by gleaming glaciers.

A little stream named Himganga runs out of this lake from the glaciers of the HathiParvat and Saptshring peaks. The tourists are enthralled by the reflections of the enticing surroundings in this crystal-clear lake that is as frigid as snow.

Flower Valley

Valley of Flowers Short Trek

Breathtaking views in the Valley of Flowers

The valley of Himalayan flowers as explained above is the major attraction of this trek as it lives up to its name with an endless supply of blooms throughout the season. The Valley of Flowers’ unique environment is like a done deal: an exquisite valley bedecked with enormous spreads of flowers.

Amidst the rocky mountainous regions of Zanskar and the Great Himalayas are lovely meadows studded with indigenous highland wildflowers. Horticulturists, flower admirers, bird watchers, wildlife shooters, hikers, environment enthusiasts, and thrill-seekers from all over the globe are drawn to this valley’s pristine splendour.

Local Culture

Rishikesh is well-known as the World Yoga Capital. Several yoga-related festivals are held here on a regular basis. When it comes to the question of the well-being of our physical system through practising yoga, the first name that comes to mind is the International Yoga Festival which specializes in teaching the methods of asanas.

Every year, during January and February, Basant Panchami is observed. According to the Hindu calendar, this is the second final month of the year and is known as Magh (January-February). On this day, people honour the Goddess Saraswati and dress in yellow.

Uttarakhand celebrates Ganga Dusshera with great zeal. According to the Hindu calendar, this event begins on the tenth day of Jaishtha (May-June). The River Ganges is venerated for a span of 10 days during the Ganga Dusshera.

The festival of Holi is also widely celebrated, with a focus on joy, dancing, and colours. During the month of Phalgun, the celebration colours the city with gaiety and affection. These are some of the divine customs and traditions amongst many followed in Uttarakhand in the valley of flowers.

Valley of Flowers Short Trek Itinerary

Day 1: Haridwar to Joshimath

Distance Covered: 290 km
Time Taken: 10 Hours

On the first day, you arrive in Haridwar and travel 290 kilometres in 10 hours to reach Joshimath. The perfect road ride from Haridwar to Joshimath is a visual feast for the eyes and the spirit.

Day 2: Govindghat to Ghangaria

Distance Covered: 40KM Drive and 9 km Trek
Time Taken: 6 Hours

Board a cab to Govindghat, followed by a 4-kilometre journey to Pulna. Pulna is the location in this region which is accessible by transport. Govindghat, located 22 kilometres from Joshimath and at a height of 5,500 feet, is a popular Sikh pilgrimage site.

It’s the closest town to Hemkund Lake. You will then have to climb 9 kilometres from Pulna to Ghangaria which is this trek’s base camp.

Day 3: Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib and Hemkund Lake and Back Again

Distance Covered: 10 km
Time Taken: 7 Hours

The Hemkund Sahib Gurudwara and Hemkundlakefrom here is a 10-kilometer journey known as the Hemkund Sahib Yatra. At an elevation of 14,200 feet, you will find the the Hemkund Sahib Gurudwara, the most awaited part of the Valley of Flowers trek and the world’s tallest Gurudwara.

The last 5 kilometres of the journey from Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib particularly is very tough.   Hemkund Sahib does not permit overnight accommodation. It is recommended that you depart Hemkund Sahib by 2 p.m. in order to return to Ghangaria before dark.

Day 4: Ghangaria to Valley of Flowers and Back

Distance Covered: 5 km
Time Taken: 4 Hours

You get up early in order to spend as much time as possible in the gorgeous Valley of Flowers. The 5-kilometre hike is not particularly strenuous and follows a nearly level path throughout. It will take you to the most vibrant valley, which is adorned with beautiful himalayan flowers of all colours.

This magnificent scene, complete with snow-capped peaks, fluffy clouds overhead, and a flowing creek cutting across the valley, is reminiscent of a painting. Spend considerable time in this natural wonderland before returning to Ghangaria for the night.

Day 5: Trekking Back From Ghangaria to Govindghat and Driving Back to Joshimath

On Day 5, it is time to return to Govindghat through a 14-kilometre hike. Reaching Govindghat, you can spend the night in Joshimath accommodating yourself in a local guest house.

Day 6: Drive Back From Joshimath to Haridwar

Head back to Haridwar via Uttarakhand’s bewitching topography, inhaling the lovely sights and reminiscing over your six-day trip in the wild Himalayan foothills.