UNESCO Heritage Site: Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers National Park, A Pristine Glory of Himalayas

The Himalayas themselves are a beautiful phenomenon of nature. Sprawling across a vast area of land and mountains, the region is home to numerous species of flora and fauna that cannot be found elsewhere. It is of utmost importance to conserve these rare species, and national parks and biodiversity zones play a crucial role in this. The Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers National Parks, both of which form a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are celebrated for their breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity, safeguarding rare species while also offering a sight worth witnessing for people visiting the Himalayas in Uttarakhand.

Although both places are recognised as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, having gained recognition in 1988, they are known for their individuality.

Nanda Devi National Park

Nanda Devi National Park is named after Nanda Devi Peak, the second-highest mountain in India, which stands at about 7,817 metres. For a very long time, this region was home to a plethora of undiscovered species. It remained untouched for centuries due to its difficult terrain, which helped preserve its pristine beauty and unique ecosystem. Later, in 1982, the park was established to provide a home to several endangered and rare species. The elusive predators of the high Himalayas, such as the snow leopard, the rare Himalayan musk deer, the vulnerable brown bear, the rare Bharal (blue sheep), and the Himalayan tahr, are found here.

The park’s diverse flora includes rhododendrons, junipers, and alpine meadows, which paint the landscape in stunning hues during different seasons. To witness this, one can trek to Nanda Devi National Park, a challenging but rewarding journey offering a panoramic view of the Nanda Devi peak. Some areas of the national park are restricted to protect the fragile ecosystem, but one can visit the open areas. 

Valley of Flowers National Park

Just west of Nanda Devi National Park lies the Valley of Flowers National Park, a high-altitude valley known for its stunning floral diversity. British mountaineer Frank Smythe discovered it in 1931. The valley comes alive between July and September, when thousands of alpine flowers bloom, covering the meadows in vibrant colours. 

Flora and Fauna

The Valley of Flowers is home to over 500 species of flowers, including the rare Blue Poppy, a Himalayan flower; the sacred Brahma Kamal, found at high altitudes; Primulas and Orchids, colourful flowers; and many others that add to the beauty of the region. The valley also hosts endangered species like the Asiatic Black Bear, Red Fox, and Monal, the state bird of Uttarakhand.

The trek to the Valley of Flowers starts from Govindghat and follows a scenic 14-km trail through Ghangaria. The gentle terrain and breathtaking views make it popular with both beginners and experienced hikers. These national parks elevate the already decorated beauty of the Himalayas for two reasons: their breathtaking sites and their conservation efforts.