Valley of Flowers

Popularly referred to as the playground for fairies and nymphs, the Valley of Flowers in Uttarakhand is an enchanting spot that unveils its beauty only during the monsoon months of July and August. Formed by retreating glaciers, it remains blanketed in snow and ice through the remainder of the year—it’s only after the thaw, that it gets inundated with a sudden profusion of colour. With around 300 varieties of flowers—including geraniums, wild roses and asters—set against the stunning backdrop of the Garhwal hills with gurgling brooks and streams meandering through, it’s enough to take your breath away. Made popular by the book of the same name written by mountaineer and botanist Frank Smith back in 1937, the valley has managed to remain untarnished even to this day. Be prepared to trek the 15 km trail that gets you there.