Valley of Flowers is a fairyland situated in the Himalayas of Uttaranchal known for its meadows of endemic alpine flowers and the variety of flora. Valley of Flowers is the second core zone of the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve. At 3352 to 3658 meters above sea level, this national park mystifies each one with its personified beauty. The park stretches over 87.50 square kilometers and is about 8km long and 2km wide. The reserve has been a part of UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserve since 2004.
The credibility behind this glorious reserve is that of Franks S. Smythe and R.L. Holdsworth who incidentally reached this valley of mount Kamet in 1931. The virgin beauty of this mystical place lures botanists, nature lovers and adventurers from all over the world and Ghangharia is the last human habitation centre on the way to the valley of flowers. This valley is home to almost 500 species of flowers varying in design and color.
Uttrakhand state forestry Department administers and manages the park. In 1992 forest Research institute and in 1997 wildlife institute of India contributed five new species to science with their able efforts and research. Valley is also home to several rare and medicinal plants that are a part of the special programs namely Aconitum heterophyllum, A. falconeri, Arnebia benthamii, Dactilorhiza hatageria and many more.
Flowers namely orchids, poppies, primulas, marigold, daisies and anemones covers the ground. Its beauty charms you in all good ways leaving you spellbound and in solace. Rhododendrons and birch are also amongst the common flowers trying to take your heart away. Valley of flowers national park can be rightly termed as the paradise on Earth. Valley is home to few rare and endangered species although it does not encounter many wild animals. This place is an evidence of God’s own work and resembles nothing but the persona of heaven itself.
Image Source: EUttaranchaL