High in the Himalayan ranges of Garhwal hills of Uttaranchal lies an enchanting valley. Here flowerful pastures, with clear running streams, are set against silver birches and shining snow peaks. Dew lies thick on the flowers, birds sing in the surrounding forest and the air is pure and charged with floral smells. The Trek The trek towards the valley begins at Govind Ghat, after crossing the Alaknada river on a hanging bridge. The zig-zig mule track straightens through an ascending valley of terraced fields and vegetation. In the midst, Laxman Ganga tumbles down in a haste to join the Alaknanda. 3 km further is the small, pretty hamlet, Pulna. Beyond this, the swifter, and between the green, rocky mountains, you can catch a glimpse of snow-clad peaks. The 7 km trail from Pulna to Bhyundar village is full of nature''s scenic splendours including cascading waterfalls and cold water springs. Shrubs and wild roses grow abundantly and rhododendrons colour the area with pink and dark red. The trek on the right bank of the Laxman Ganga continues through the rich vegetation till a log bridge, supported on now, the trail becomes, steeper and harder and 2 km from here, you will reach Ghangharia, the base camp for treks to Valley of Flowers and Hemkund Sahib. Since camping and overnight stay is not allowed in the Valley of Flowers, Ghangharia is the only base camp for the trek. Travel beyond Ghangharia is on foot at nature''s pace since the entry of ponies is prohibited. After crossing a log bridge over the Laxman Ganga, 3 km from Ghanghria, the route of the Valley of Flowers separates from that going to Hemkund Sahib. The Laxman Ganga joins the Pushpawati river,400 mt downstream. The trek continues along Pushpawati. A couple of kilometers ahead, the river is crossed over to it''s right bank on another bridge and this trail goes upto the Valley of Flowers.