About The Valley of Flowers

Experience the wonder of the valley as well as the joy of the trek. The Bhyundar valley or Valley of Flowers is snowbound from October to May, so it is only open from the beginning of June until the beginning of October.

“Check exact dates, as it depends on the ice melt. The best time to visit is from mid July to mid August, when the flowers are in full bloom. This is also the wettest part of the year, so build in time for road closures.”

That’s something you may or may not get from tour guides or operators. Come well informed and enjoy the trip better.

And in this book, practical information and personal episodes make this a perfect armchair read, or a guide to plan and actually do the trek.

Editorial

The Valley of Flowers

The Valley of Flowers is at once a travel guide, an adventure tale, and a celebration of friendship. Set against the backdrop of the majestic Himalayas, this book invites readers to journey into a world of twisting trails, tumbling waterfalls, and meadows overflowing with alpine blossoms. But beyond the breathtaking beauty lies a test of courage — wobbly suspension bridges, sudden downpours, and the ever-present challenge of altitude.

Author Susan Jagannath brings this adventure vividly to life through the story of a group of friends on a girls’ trip with a difference. Their laughter, doubts, and triumphs weave seamlessly with the practical advice offered throughout the book. Readers will find everything they need to plan their own trek — from training and gear to safety, itineraries, accommodations, food, and the cultural encounters along the way.

Yet The Valley of Flowers is more than a manual; it is a feel-good narrative filled with personal stories, unexpected surprises, and the magic of human connection on the trail. Whether you are preparing for your own Himalayan trek or simply traveling from the comfort of your armchair, this book ensures you will experience both the practical guidance of a seasoned traveler and the joy of an inspiring adventure shared among friends.

Glimpses of the Valley and the Path

Readers(and Pilgrims) Q&A

1. Q: What inspired you to write The Valley of Flowers?

A: I wanted to capture not just the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas, but also the personal challenges, laughter, and growth that came with trekking there with friends. It’s as much about the human journey as it is about the mountains.

2. Q: Is this book more of a guidebook or a personal travel story?

A: It’s both. Readers will find practical advice on training, gear, safety, and itineraries, but also real-life stories of adventure, friendship, and the unexpected surprises that make the journey unforgettable.

3. Q: Do I need to be an experienced trekker to enjoy this book?

A: Not at all. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or an armchair traveler, the book is designed to be approachable. It offers simple training tips and clear guidance, so even beginners can dream — and plan — their own Valley of Flowers trek.

4. Q: What makes the Valley of Flowers trek unique compared to other Himalayan journeys?

A: The Valley itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its meadows of wildflowers that bloom in spectacular waves of color. But beyond that, the trek combines natural beauty with cultural encounters — from pilgrims at Hemkund Sahib to the camaraderie of fellow travelers.

5. Q: What do you hope readers take away from the book?

A: I hope they see that adventure is not just about conquering mountains — it’s about stepping out of your comfort zone, savoring small moments, and finding joy in shared experiences. Even if they never set foot in the Himalayas, readers can carry that spirit of courage and wonder into their own lives.

Reviews

Anita Oommen

5.0 out of 5 stars An amazing journey into The Valley of Flowers!

A magical introduction to the Valley of Flowers tucked away in the Himalayas—I was captured right away by the author’s writing style. This is a journey prepped with tenacity, lots of planning and great practical insights for trekking through some challenging terrain. Author Susan Jagannath weaves in beautiful ethereal imagery, sights and sounds, the excitement, and even invites us into many conversations. You feel like you are traveling with her and get to experience her unique one of a kind travel experience! She gives you tips and techniques, lists of everything you need to know, to go on a thrilling adventure! Historical references, discovery of the valley, culture, food and heritage are all woven into this beautiful travel book. A well documented rare find of—beauty, bliss and tenacity in a much anticipated travel through a landscape I can dream only about. I highly recommend this book.

S. Shipman

5.0 out of 5 stars The book takes you on an adventure. It shows the beauty of the area both in words and in pictures.

I like the descriptions of the trek which show the intimate knowledge that the author, Susan Jagannath, has with the majestic Himalayan region, I feel I could make such a trip because of the expert knowledge shared in, The Valley of Flowers: The Ultimate Guide to an Adventure Trek in the Upper Himalaya. I also recognize because of the book that I would have to do much more to ever be ready to take such a trip. Still, reading, The Valley of the Flowers, makes me feel like I have been to this stunning area, yes, I feel I have made the trek (and avoided any challenges of such a trip,). I loved the book and could not put it down.

Kate Elliott

5.0 out of 5 stars A truly remarkable escape to a land unknown!

Once again, author Susan Jagannath takes us on a journey of a lifetime. Having followed Susan’s trek on the Camino Ingles and subsequent journeys, I am once again swept away by her detailed descriptions of this incredible landscape.Combining a mix of practical planning guide and breathtaking descriptive imagery, Susan has given us a look into a land few will see with the naked eye.As a traveler I am continually adding to my bucket list of ‘must see’ places on this earth; The Valley of Flowers has found a place on my list!

C T Mitchell

5.0 out of 5 stars I Felt I Was There

I’ve always had an interest in India and the Himalayas, their history and mystique keeps me coming back for more. Susan Jagganath’s book The Valley of Flowers, captures this perfectly. I loved her take by exploring the region showcasing flowers. It’s a beautifully written book, well referenced and the pictures are a feast for your eyes. I actually thought I was there. I’ve had an interest in the area but The Valley of Flowers has firmly put it on my bucket list of must visits.

pk

3.0 out of 5 stars Pretty good

I liked this book and found it helpful, but the author gives a link in the book to access some of the wildflowers online for more information, and the link would not work for me. I tried emailing the contact provided by website in order to address that issue but have heard nothing in reply, and it’s been weeks now. So, I guess they do not maintain the website that they guide you to in the book.

D.H.

4.0 out of 5 stars Where myth and geography meet

Both a practical guide and dream guide for armchair travelers, Susan Jagannath’s account of 4 Indian women following in the footsteps of British mountaineer Frank Smythe is at once entertaining and inspirational. I loved her inside look at trekking and pilgrimage, chai stops, pilgrim huts and intimate reflections. Includes detailed information for making the journey.

AvidReader

5.0 out of 5 stars Fabulous read!

This book is a fabulous read. I highly recommend this book if you want to travel from your recliner/ This is what I’m doing atm. But this is also a fabulous book if you are planning for ‘after’ COVID19. Because there will be an ‘after’ at some stage. And there will be no better way to celebrate than following the directions in this wonderful travel book. I could smell the flowers as I was reading this book!

Heather Hackett

5.0 out of 5 stars A comprehensive guide

The author has absolutely covered everything in this informative and inspirational guide. From the vivid descriptions of the flowers, the journey and the travel minutiae, to the motivating and heartfelt experiences of the trekker and the trek, this book does not disappoint. If you are looking for an up to date guide to India’s Valley of Flowers – getting there as well as being there – this book is all you need. Absolutely complete.

Amy Pattee Colvin

5.0 out of 5 stars I can not wait to go!!!

Susan so effectively describes the landscape that I feel like I’m there with her, watching the tumbling waterfalls, seeing the sway of the flowers in the breeze, tasting the food from the trailside tea houses. I’d never heard of the Valley of Flowers before, and now it’s on my must-visit list! This guidebook will be an effective and practical companion.

Sandra P

5.0 out of 5 stars I feel like I just took the journey

I just had the experience of my life within the pages of this book! Full of practical advice, coupled with the beauty of the author’s observations and revelations… this is the complete journey! The photos are gorgeous! This trekking guide is the only thing you need as you prepare your trip of a lifetime.

Sharfunnisa Quadri

5.0 out of 5 stars I love my virtual adventures with this author!

Must read .. If you like travel adventures with challenge and a dash of humour, set in wonderful surroundings such as the Himalayas you will love to escape with the author and friends as they try to fulfil a long delayed dream.

Rajani Kotatattu

5.0 out of 5 stars Nostalgic, amazing, virtual tour and a comprehensive guide

Early on in the 80’s our parents took my siblings i along with our grandparents on a North India trip in a private rented vehicle which lasted over a month visting many many places. One of the highlights of that trip was surely the visit at the Himalayas – Badrinath! Ever since that visit, the memories of that place has always been etched very deeply, always longing to go back at some point. That has not happened yet. Reading Susan’s book brought out so many memories, it was like having a virtual tour with her and her friends. The amount of detail in terms of the flora,, the history, culture, the mythology, the serenity of the place is very expressive in the book. Of the many things about the book, I was very impressed about the attention to details Susan lists that can easily make this a comprehensive guide for anyone who plans to visit those places.

Preeti G.

5.0 out of 5 stars Detailed and informative

Having lived in India all my life, I have heard of the Valley of Flowers in many conversations and have said to myself ‘I will do this trek some day’. Well, this book has got the ‘some day’ much closer, as I can see my entire route detailed before me, along with the difficulty level and dos and don’ts. It seems more achievable now. I virtually did the trek along with the author, following her journey like an awe-stuck teenager! It was so exciting to live the route (some of which I have done for other purposes) along with the detailed route, number of days, what-to-carry, food and stay options. Thank you for such an informative book, a must for every traveler heading to this part of the Himalayas. Such an enjoyable read!

Ted D Sugges

5.0 out of 5 stars The ultimat guide to The Vally of Flowers

Susan Jagannath does it again! A wonderfully written that makes you feel like you’re with her as she journies to The Valley of Flowers with the twists and turns of a great adventure. At one point she loses her journal with all her notes. Then there’s the car accident! Of course you’re with her as she ventures forth onto the final trail that leads to the valley, and ,fianlly, the beauty and wonder of the Vallel of Flowers.

This is the ultimate guide that includes everything you need to not only prepare physically for the journey, but what to pack, and suggestions where to stay, when to go, and what to expect along the way.

M Davis

5.0 out of 5 stars A sacred place

I loved this vicarious trip to the Valley of the Flowers. The author describes the difficulties of the trek-steep trails, uncertain monsoon weather, thin air, hazardous bridges with the occasional out-of-control cow-with knowledge and humor. The magic of the place permeates her descriptions. This is a world filled with hundreds of flowers that have somehow managed to thrive in a challenging environment and evolve into a miracle of shapes and colors. It is a sacred place even without the numerous temples close by. I was delighted with my armchair excursion -a taste of Indian culture, botany, psychology and physical endurance- with lots of useful tips for those lucky enough for an actual visit and lovely photos.

Usha

5.0 out of 5 stars A Realistic Virtual Tour

A Trek through the Valley of Flowers is on my todos for 2021 summer. Loved the journey to, through and out of the Valley – extremely breathtaking views in words and pictures were very realistic and captivating. The humor in the writing kept me the reader engaged. The cutest flow charts of routes to take or places to stop along the way kept it simple to understand, along with the historical background of the various mountains, rivers and valleys. The Flower Guide – I must go to see this bounty.

Amazoncustomer

5.0 out of 5 stars A beautiful and useful book

What a great all around book. She writes with compassion and respect for this beautiful place. The book also gives the reader tips, insight, and advice on how to prepare. This is a great book if you are planning on traveling here or you just want to escape and enjoy the author’s journey.

E.B. Thompson

5.0 out of 5 stars Valley of Flowers

It’s easy to read an adventurous book, with illustrations that magically transports you there. The author has shared a journey that most will not do in this lifetime. She shares the adventure with enthusiasm and passion. Hats off for a job well done. Thank You.

Shandy Avadhanam

5.0 out of 5 stars Must read

Must read

Barbara Miller, Author of Biography & History

The grandeur of the scenery is expressed beautifully by the author. The majesty and beauty of the landscape come alive. You almost feel you are there. Well done Susan, obviously an enthusiastic trekker yourself. All the practical details of travelling to this beautiful Valley of the Flowers are covered. But you don’t need to be a tourist or hiker to read this book. You can explore this exotic place from the comfort of your lounge room.

foxglove1028

5.0 out of 5 stars Glorious and informative!

As I read through I kept mentioning to myself how detailed the author was about her experience and how one should prepare for their own trek through the Valley of Flowers. The breathtaking photos that were included within this book are gorgeous and makes you feel like you’re right there with the author as she talks about her experiences. During our time of sheltering in place I would say this book is wonderful to read for the author’s words are compelling enough to make you feel like you’re taking on the trek too.

Best of all with her guidance you know what you need to do to prepare yourself if you wish to take on this great journey too.

Drew Niemeyer

5.0 out of 5 stars Like having a pleasant conversation, rich with experiences.

This book contains a great balance of plain facts and more detailed description. Susan Jaggannath begins the book with a much more factual narrative about what to do/expect on the trip, how to plan and prepare, including subjects like the time of year in India, the weather, footwear and clothing, routes, fitness, safety and food. Although this section is much more ‘to-the-point’, she has combined just enough of a descriptive element in this section to help understand why the preparation will be valuable and what to expect.

The book then winds into a much more broad and pleasant narrative describing Susan’s own journey on the trail, as well as all the transitional parts including nights, accommodations, security checkpoints, etc. The description of the valley and the hike is incredibly uplifting and inspirational, and the description of everything else fills in the details of what to expect from the locals and the routines, so that you can be as prepared as possible for your own journey.

This book is a great read, especially at this time (coronavirus pandemic), and give the feel of having a vibrant conversation with someone who has just arrived back from a holiday, rich with experiences. Highly recommended.

Pat

5.0 out of 5 stars A delight in the Himalayas

As a flower lover this exciting adventure trek in the Himalayas for armchair lovers seemed made for me – even though I can’t travel now, the book transported me to the high meadows filled with flowers. This writer knows how to make it real you actually feel you are there. Highly recommend

Maria

5.0 out of 5 stars An absolute must-read if you’re interested in the Valley!

This book is a lot more than just a travel guide for the Valley of Flowers. It’s also an eye-opening experience as the author describes her personal impressions and the time she spent there with her friends in great detail. If you need a very detailed travel guide and an amazing story all in one, this book is definitely for you! As a story, it will motivate you even further to visit the Valley, and as a guide it will tell you absolutely everything you need to plan your trip, plus so much more, like how exactly you have to train yourself before going and what exactly to bring to make the most out of your trip. Highly recommended!

pantea kalhor

5.0 out of 5 stars Fantastic travel guide to valley of flowers

This is a very detailed travel guide to valley of flowers in Himalayas. About 10 kilometres walk to a fantastic flowery trek reaching to 4000 metres altitude. The travel can be ended in 5 days or extended to 8 days, if you want to walk in a harder path. The author talks about all the requirements you may need for this trip including cloth, shoes and food.

I am encouraged to visit this scenery. I hope I can schedule a trip there when my little girl is more grown up.

Ashok T

5.0 out of 5 stars The glory of mountain, joy of trek captured beautifully

This book is a like VR glass of her lovely trek in the mountains. Tiny exquisite details that shine the path of Susan and her friends. The pristine beauty, the majestic grandeur, icy cold waters, beautiful landscapes, the fun with friends, the simple food that tastes heavenly, myriad temples and Gods, this books is a lovely kaleidoscope of her experience.

Having given you a brilliant virtual tour, it makes you want to go there in person. That is when Susan switches gears and gives you a detailed plan, tips and details of how to make it possible.

Here is a sample of some of the exquisite details I loved :

“…there is continuous work to hold back the rebellious mountainside”

“…the muscularity of Kedarnath and Badrinath, the flowing softness of Gangotri and Yamunotri, a perfect balance of Yin and Yang.”

“.. the confluence of he ardent Alakananda and the blissful Bhagirathi, the point at which the two seminal streams become the Ganga, the marriage of heaven and earth.”

“Peeking over the side, the road below is tiny thread that switches back in infinite loops above an invisible stream that gleams when vagrant rays of sunlight make it to the valley floor.”

“…through these harsh grey rocks a delicate flower pushes out its tiny fragile head. I step over it so as not to crush the perfect white bloom.”

The book slows you down as it pans the camera on the majestic outdoors, allowing you to enjoy every tiny detail, yet make you race from one chapter to the next, as you become eager to follow Susan and her friends in their adventure.

Parvati Angana

5.0 out of 5 stars High on Flowers

This book is just what you want to read when you are stuck at home and with no foreseeable travel plans to an exotic location (or any location at all, for that matter)!

On the whole, women of my generation born in India, are not adventurous travellers. (Though at Jagannath points out in another book that if you are travelling in India, then it is good to be of past the age where you face constant low level harassment from young men).

Jagannath travels widely, often on foot. This book takes us to India’s famed Valley of flowers. For those planning to travel there soon, there is useful information at the beginning and the end of the publication. For those who wish to be entertained, most of the book taken up with Jagannath’s gently entertaining travel tales – the roads, the friends, the cows and other pitfalls…

I have one complaint: would have loved to have seen more pictures of the flowers of the Valley! Perhaps she left them out on purpose – an unfulfilled desire to see the flowers might just drag some of us there?

michael o’reilly

5.0 out of 5 stars An Adventure from Start to Finish.

I really enjoyed reading this book. I did not have any real knowledge of the subject matters. I now feel enlightened and motivated to follow in the steps of the author. I would throughly recommend the book as a welcomed distraction from these unprecedented times.

Christopher Moss

5.0 out of 5 stars A humorous and enjoyable journey!

I love the writers style. The book is written with a sense of fun and flows beautifully. You can tell the author loved writing this book. You will love reading it.

Donna M

5.0 out of 5 stars What a trek! Travel to the Valley of Flowers virtually!

My travel plans for 2020 are quashed but reading this delightful book transported me to the Valley of Flowers! This book is a perfect blend of helpful advice of how to prepare for this trek and totally absorbing recollections of the author’s own trek. In your minds eye, you find yourself standing on the suspension footbridge with the author hearing the Ganges flow beneath you. You want to taste the delicious snacks at the roadside dhabas and you marvel at the first sight of the peaks.

This is a fantastic book on the journey to the Valley of Flowers not written about since Frank Smythe who clearly inspired the author! Get it, you won’t want to put your kindle down!

Shanti Mohan

5.0 out of 5 stars Brilliant- it is like being in a Virtual reality show!

I am an avid trekker – Susan offers simple, no-nonsense details on preparing for a trek – details that are often missed by travellers. I read the book almost in one go – it is like a film playing out for the reader. I loved the finer details that brings out the human element. “Can mere lumps of rock and ice fill us with such awe”? – every time I have trekked to the Himalayas, I have asked myself this exact question!

If you wants to understand the smaller nuances of trekking in India, and the Himalayan region, make sure you get a copy! Totally must read!

Suchislife

5.0 out of 5 stars Brilliant!

Very well written: excellent both as a reference and an enjoyable narrative. Strongly recommend even if you are an armchair traveller!!

Sanskar

5.0 out of 5 stars I was almost in the valley of flowers

The book talks about a great place and the description of each and every stage of travel is what is really helpful. The description combined with writers own story takes you there. The book is also helpful for people who are planning for this trek. Writer has also added the contacts of key people and places who can help plan the trip. It’s short sweet and worthwhile.

Christina Bertram

5.0 out of 5 stars Vicarious trekking to exotic reaches of the world

This book transports you to the beautiful Upper Himalayan country and takes you on an adventure lived through the keen and appreciative eyes of our author Susan Jagannath. When I read this book it felt like I was on the journey with Susan, experiencing the trek right by her side along with others in her trekking party. Reading this book has given me a taste of this type of trek holidaying and now I want to do some trekking of my own both in the Himalayas and in other exotic places of the world. Thank you Susan for giving the world this book and the gift of travelling vicariously with you to the distant reaches of the Upper Himalayas.

Amazon Customer

5.0 out of 5 stars Awesome! Brought the valley alive

Enjoyed the memories it brought back from my own trip. Susan paints a vivid picture that I could enjoy from my armchair during these times with all the travel constraints.

Great planning details. My trip plan and all the research work that went into it would have been much easier if I had the details in this book, which covers the options in addition to what the author chose.

A West

5.0 out of 5 stars Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Upper Himalaya with this informative reading experience.

A delightful and informative travel guide that allows you to experience the journey alongside the author. Susan Jagannath provides helpful practical advice before taking you into the wonderful world of the Upper Himalaya. As a keen traveller and gardener I enjoyed the information on the flowers as well. You get to experience the trek alongside the author.

Narender

5.0 out of 5 stars A most interesting reading and so informative…

A wonderfully written travel book. It takes you along on memorable journey to one of the most beautiful places high up in the mountain – The Valley of Flowers. Icing on the cake is that it has all the useful information and tips and advises to help one plan the trip to make it a superb and memorable experience.

Seema K Bharwani

5.0 out of 5 stars Stuck at home during #coronatime – grab this book and escape with Susan to the Valley of Flowers

I love a well written book that has clear instructions and checklists, almost as much as the beautiful evocations of the trek. This book is both guide, and memoir – the personal touch makes it honest, a bit funny and totally authentic. If you are feeling stuck at home, grab this book now.

MD Ramaswami

5.0 out of 5 stars Easy read and a superbly described adventure!!

Superbly written!! It’s not just a travel guide but also a brilliant description of an adventure in the Himalayas. What impressed me most was the detailed list of flowers provided at the end of the book- am yet to encounter anything this comprehensive.

Kindle Customer

5.0 out of 5 stars Beautiful Travelogue

Unputdownable. I relived my trek to the valley n Hemkund sahib way back in 1994. It was journey down memory lane.

K.Faiza

5.0 out of 5 stars An endearing account of a dream trek!

Found this guide to be a breezy read while being a very thorough and practical guide for anyone preparing for the trek. Kudos!

Blog posts

The Valley of Flowers – Tasty Treats on a Hike

Reliving the Valley of Flowers – 1

Podcasts

Link to the book on Amazon

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