Chardham Yatra with Valley of flower

On Day 9, after the morning rituals and darshan at Badrinath, the journey continues with a visit to Mana, a picturesque village located just 3 kilometers from Badrinath. Situated at an altitude of 3,200 meters, Mana is often regarded as the last inhabited village before the Indo-Tibetan border. The village is not only famous for its scenic beauty but also for its historical and mythological significance.
In Mana, pilgrims can visit the Vyas Gufa, the cave where Sage Vyas is believed to have composed the Mahabharata. The cave is a place of great reverence and offers a peaceful, spiritual atmosphere. Another significant attraction in Mana is Bhim Pul, a natural stone bridge that crosses the Saraswati River. According to legend, it was built by Bhima of the Pandavas to help Draupadi cross the river during their exile.
Pilgrims can also visit the Maatamoorti Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, which is located nearby and offers spectacular views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks.
After spending some time exploring the village, the journey continues with a drive to Govindghat, located at an altitude of 1,829 meters. The drive takes about 1 hour, covering a distance of 24 kilometers. Govindghat is a significant base for pilgrims starting the trek to Ghangaria and the Valley of Flowers. Upon arrival in Govindghat, pilgrims can rest for the night and prepare for the next leg of their journey.
This day offers a perfect blend of spiritual exploration, historical significance, and natural beauty, making it a memorable part of the Chardham Yatra

Trekking Distance: 9 km
Altitude: 10,007 ft

On Day 10, the journey from Govindghat to Ghangaria begins early in the morning. The day is dedicated to a trek, covering a distance of approximately 9 kilometers, and takes around 6 to 7 hours to complete, depending on the pace and weather conditions. The trek is moderately difficult, with a steady ascent through lush green forests and beautiful landscapes.
The route follows the banks of the Pushpawati River, and along the way, pilgrims can enjoy the peaceful sounds of flowing water and the vibrant natural surroundings. The trail winds through dense forests of oak, rhododendron, and pine trees, providing refreshing shade and glimpses of the Himalayan wildlife, including birds and occasional glimpses of Himalayan monkeys. The path also offers stunning views of the towering peaks of the Garhwal Himalayas as pilgrims make their way higher.
During the trek, there are several small shops and resting points where pilgrims can take a break, enjoy refreshments, and even buy light trekking supplies. The trail is well-marked, though some parts can be challenging, particularly for those not accustomed to high-altitude treks.
Upon reaching Ghangaria, a small, scenic base camp situated at an altitude of 3,050 meters, pilgrims can rest and prepare for the next day’s exploration of the Valley of Flowers. Ghangaria offers a picturesque setting with panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and the surrounding valleys, making it a perfect place to unwind after the strenuous trek. Here, pilgrims can also visit the Gurudwara Hemkund Sahib, which is an important spiritual site for Sikh devotees, before preparing for the next phase of the pilgrimage.

Day 11 is one of the most memorable and anticipated days of the Chardham Yatra. The journey begins early in the morning from Ghangaria, a small settlement nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas. The day is dedicated to trekking to the Valley of Flowers, a renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site that lies at an altitude of approximately 3,600 meters.
The trek from Ghangaria to the Valley of Flowers is around 4 kilometers, and it typically takes 2 to 3 hours, depending on the pace of the trekkers. The path is well-marked but can be slightly challenging due to the altitude. The trail winds through beautiful forests and along the edges of cascading streams, with views of snow-capped peaks looming in the distance. The flora along the way is equally captivating, as the valley is known for its wide variety of alpine flowers, including rare and endangered species.
Upon arrival at the Valley of Flowers, pilgrims are greeted by a landscape that seems almost magical. The valley is a carpet of wildflowers in full bloom, with shades of pink, purple, yellow, and blue painting the meadows. The colors are so vibrant, and the fragrance of the flowers fills the air, creating a peaceful and almost otherworldly atmosphere. The best time to visit is during the summer months, when the valley is in full bloom, usually from mid-July to early September.
The Valley is surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks and glaciers, adding to the mesmerizing beauty of the place. While spending time in the valley, pilgrims can enjoy the stunning views, take photographs, and even meditate in the peaceful environment. Additionally, the Valley of Flowers is home to diverse wildlife, such as the Himalayan brown bear, snow leopard, and a variety of bird species, making it an incredible place for nature lovers.
After spending several hours exploring the valley, pilgrims retrace their steps back to Ghangaria. The return trek generally takes a little less time, as it’s downhill. Upon reaching Ghangaria, pilgrims can relax and rest for the evening, reflecting on the awe-inspiring experience of walking through one of the most beautiful natural wonders in the world.