Himalayan Slipper Orchid is a terrestrial orchid found in the Himalayas, at altitudes of 3000-4300, from Uttarakhand to SE Tibet. The plant grows to a height of 20-30 cm. Flowers are 5 cm in diameter, with a bag-like ovoid hanging lip that is heavily streaked with purple. The lip's mouth is wavy or toothed with a saw. The lip is bigger than the petals. There are white petals and sepals, with red lines. The petals are slightly oblong, extending outward. The flowers are bigger than the leafy bracts. The plant has a lance-shaped leaves of 3-4 elliptics, 7-9 cm long. Flowers: from June to July.
Himalayan Slipper Orchid
The local names are Himalayan Slipper Orchid, Himalayan Cypripedium, lady's slipper, moccasin flower, slipper orchid, camel's foot, Venus boot, squirrel's foot, steeple hat, and whippoorwill shoe.
This is an uncommon flora found in flowers valley. Although the flowering period is June to August, after some effort, you will find it in Valley of flowers from July 1st to July 3rd. Provided that you know the flower's exact location. This is so unusual that you need a guide who knows where it is. You will find it just before crossing the wooden bridge next to the official Valley of Flowers starting point, you can see Cypripedium's tiny colonies Himalaicum on your left side. You need to walk on your left few yards (Away from the main path), it is not available right on the way.
Quick info:Location in the valley of flowers: In June month, they can be found near the streams of the valley of flowers, especially near Pushpawati River bed.
Flowering season: June to July
Other Trekking
Guest Speak
We visited Valley of Flowers with 4 of family members in July 2016 with Global Connect Hospitality. We arrived at Haridwar by train & stayed in pre-booked hotel, the hotel was good enough for one night stay. Next day early morning, we left hotel for Joshimath. Almost full day travel by Innova.
We got drop from Joshimath to Govind Ghat to start the trek for Ghangharia, which is moderate and can be done comfortably by anyone with normal fitness, the best thing was that entry ticket was pre-booked for us, it enables us to start early morning for the Valley. It took just 4 hours to reach the valley. Surrounding was amazing. At few points, the trek was wet and slippery. So, better to take walking sticks during the trekking.
We enjoyed there the beauty of the valley which was beyond our expectation & since none can stay at the valley in the night so we had returned back to Ghangharia at 4:30 PM.
It was certainly a whole life experience……thanks for everything arranged for the amazing trip!!
