Pooja Kumre's solo journey: Review of The Valley of Flowers Trek with Thrillophilia
The Valley of Flowers is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that feels like a staircase to heaven. Fascinated by stories and pictures of the lush green meadows and colourful blossoms of the valleys, Pooja Kumre set out on the Valley of Flowers trek to witness nature’s marvel. As she walked along pristine streams, misty hills and pine forests during the hike, she found herself moving close to the valley as well as with her inner self. That was when she understood, this trek was not about reaching the destination but embracing new experiences that unfolded on the way.
In the Lap of Himalayas
The guide from Thrillophilia welcomed Pooja at Haridwar and drove her to Joshimath along with other group members. The drive from Haridwar to Joshimath was so scenic with mesmerising views of huge mountains and valleys. “It feels like the pictures in my geography textbook are come to life,” Pooja thought. After reaching Joshimath, she checked into her homestay and retired to her room for an overnight stay.
Embarking on the Trek
As the golden rays of the sun peeped into Pooja’s rooms, she woke up to the sweet cooing of birds, misty air and a splendid morning view of the Himalayan mountains. “Have a light breakfast, as we have to climb uphill for 9 km,” the guide reminded the trek participants of their hike from Joshimath to Ghangaria. Pooja got ready with her hiking shoes, a medical kit, a jacket, and a flashlight. They started their trek on a well-defined trail and passed through towering mountain slopes and lush green forests on the way.
On the way, Pooja witnessed breathtaking views of snow-clad peaks, cascading waterfalls, the Alaknanda River, and the Lakshman Ganga River. “The crisp mountain air and refreshing sounds of nature motivated me to take every step,” she recalled her experience of the trek. There were several dhabas on the way where the crew members filled their water bottles and relished some snacks.
Finally, after trekking for almost four hours, they reached Ghangaria. With tiredness taking over her body, Pooja settled into her camp for a good night’s sleep.
A Sight to Behold
The Valley of Flowers Trek is a moderately difficult journey and one of India’s most scenic treks. Pooja walked through steep, stony pathways with frequent breaks and finally reached the Valley of Flowers, perched at an elevation of 3600 metres in the Western Himalayas. As she stepped onto the lush green alpine meadow, she was welcomed by the sweet fragrance of over 600 species of flowers blooming in blue, yellow, and pink. “Look at all these poppies, primulas, lilies and calendulas!” Pooja cried out in joy, it is like walking through a living canvas. The highlight of the trek was the Blue Poppy Point, from where the trek members witnessed jaw-dropping views of the Garhwal Ranges.
“Come on Pooja, let us start our return trek to Ghangaria,” a group member called out. Pooja, engrossed in the heavenly beauty of the place, did not want to leave. “But it is essential to start the trek downhill to reach Ghangaria before dusk,” the guide told her. Although the descending trail was the same, it appeared more beautiful than what Pooja had seen in the morning, as golden hues of the sun penetrated through the forests and created a mosaic of light and shadow.
Upon reaching Ghangaria, Pooja retired to her camp with the sight of the meadows and flowers lingering in her mind.
Test of Endurance
The next morning Pooja woke up early, as a challenging task lay ahead for the day. With the hiking shoes on and a trekking stick in hand, the group members, along with the guide, embarked on the Hemkund Sahib trek. “This trek, unlike the previous ones, will be a bit difficult, as the path is steep and rugged,” the guide reminded them. It was a 6 km steep climb through lush mountain slopes with rhododendron blooms and pine forests. With every ascent, the oxygen levels dropped, forcing everyone to take breaks, but the raw dopamine boost from the hike pushed Pooja to complete the trek.
Hemkund Sahib, the highest gurudwara in the world, is a divine place surrounded by seven snow-capped mountains and the icy Hemkund Lake. Reaching the gurudwara was a test of one’s stamina and spiritual faith that the crew members passed with flying colours. They strolled around the shrine, enjoying the peace and quiet, and offered their prayers there.
The group started their trek downhill by late afternoon to reach Ghangaria. They paused at frequent intervals to witness and capture photos of the panoramic views of the Himalayan ranges.
Adios Himalayas
After a tiring trek for the past two days, it was time to return. After having breakfast, Pooja and her friends started their descent from Ghangaria to Joshimath. They bid farewell to the mountainous landscape and the warm hospitality of Ghangaria with a heavy heart. The next morning, Pooja travelled back to Haridwar for her journey home.
“It was my first solo trip, and it was amazing, thanks to Thrillophilia. I met new people on the trip with whom I created countless memories that I will cherish forever. The guides were very responsible because when I felt like giving up, they made me complete the trek,” Pooja recalled her experience of the trip.
Read More: Thrillophilia Uttarakhand Trek Reviews