About Valley of Flowers (Nandan Kanan)
Known mythologically as Nandan Kanan (Lord Indra's orchard), the Valley of Flowers is India's premier national alpine garden and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Covering 87.5 square kilometres in the Bhyundar valley of the Zanskar range, it hosts almost all known species of flowers, plants, herbs, shrubs and grasses found in India — including rare orchids and asmanda ferns. According to legend, Lord Hanuman collected the Sanjeevani Booti (life-saving herb) from here to heal Lakshman.
Flora — A National Treasure Trove
The valley contains species from which the genes of extinct or endangered plants from across India could potentially be retrieved and replenished — a project scientists are actively working on. Rare species of asmanda ferns grow here in many varieties, and this is probably the only flower valley in India where rare orchids grow naturally. The microclimate — created by surrounding mountain peaks that absorb extreme weather — produces a uniquely pleasant environment where breeze, drizzle, sunshine and fragrance combine to create a paradise-like atmosphere.
Fauna of the Valley
The heights are home to musk deer, yellow-throated marten, Himalayan black bear, brown bear, Himalayan tahr, bharal (blue sheep), snow leopard and common langur. Rare bird species include the Lammergeier, Himalayan Griffon, Golden Eagle, Himalayan Monal, Koklass Pheasant, Snow Partridge, and many species of laughingthrush, forktail and dipper. The ecological balance maintained by the diverse fauna — including rare reptile species — makes this a living laboratory for biodiversity research.
History and Discovery
The mythological name "Nandan Kanan" was largely forgotten after British mountaineer Frank Smyth stumbled upon the valley in 1931, having lost his way while returning from a Mount Kamet expedition. He named it the "Valley of Flowers." British florist Joan Margaret Legge was so captivated that she spent her entire life here — her grave remains in the vicinity. The valley was referenced in the Draupadi legend, where Bhim encountered Lord Hanuman's giant tail while trying to pluck flowers for her.
How to Reach Valley of Flowers (Nandan Kanan)
- Base camp at Ghangaria (above Govindghat)
- Trek from Govindghat to Ghangaria (11 km)
- Valley accessible from Ghangaria (3–4 km trek)
- Nearest airport: Jolly Grant, Dehradun
Nearby Attractions
- Hemkund Sahib (holiest Sikh gurudwara)
- Ghangaria base camp
- Govindghat Gurudwara
- Joshimath and Auli
- National Parks in vicinity (World Heritage Site)
Char Dham Helicopter Connection
The Valley of Flowers is accessible from the Badrinath area via Govindghat. After your Char Dham helicopter pilgrimage with Saffron Chariot, a 2–3 day trek to the valley (combined with Hemkund Sahib) makes an unforgettable nature extension to your spiritual journey.
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