VALLEY OF FLOWERS NATIONAL PARK

Description
The famous Valley of Flowers with the largest concentration of various species of wild flowers is off the Rishikesh-Badrinath road, 16 km from Govindghat. A virtual treat to the eyes, this beautiful valley in the Himalayas was established in the year 1982.This park, the smallest national park in the Himalayas was created to protect the catchment area of the Pushpavati River.

This stream emerges from a glacier then tumbles downward to meet the Ganges. The park spans an area of 87.5 sq. km and is perched on the upper reaches of the Bhyundia Ganga of Chamoli district of Garhwal. The Pushpawati River flows by the valley while the awesome Rataban peak forms a spectacular backdrop.

THE EXOTIC TREASURE
The park boasts of more than 300 species of wild flowers like the Himalayan Blue Poppy, Snake Lilly, white and yellow Anemones, Daisies, Calendula and Dianthus. A wide variety of butterflies, snow leopard, brown and Himalayan black bears, tahr, musk deer, Blue sheep (bharal) and serow are the other attractions of the national park.

How to Get There
Air:
The nearest airport is Jolly Grant, Dehradun (315 km. approx).

Rail:
The nearest railhead is at Rishikesh.

Road:
Off the Rishikesh-Badrinath road, 16 km from Govindghat (24 km from Badrinath). Buses are available till Govindghat. From Govindghat the rest of the distance has to be trekked.