Who discovered Valley of Flowers National Park

Valley of Flowers one of the most popular treks in the country today was once unexplored terrain, completely cut off from the eyes of inhabitants in the mainland. It’s said that all those who wander are not lost. This saying held true for Frank Smythe, a British mountaineer who discovered the Valley of Flowers National Park.

In 1931, Mr. Smythe wanted to scale a peak called Kamet in Garhwal. On successfully completing the trek, he wanted to take a different route and found himself lost after taking the Western Pass. In all its poetic sense, it was a beautiful mistake that led him to the Valley of Flowers.

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The Mythological Connection

Beginning from Ghangaria, Valley of Flowers is not a stranger to legends and stories. It’s believed that the national park encompasses the same region that was visited by Lord Hanuman during his search for the much-needed ‘Sanjeevani’ to save Lakshman’s life.

Trekkers and backpackers have their own stories to tell. In 1939, Ms. Margaret Legge visited the valley as a botanist to conduct research on the blooming flowers. While she slipped and was lost forever, her sister visited the valley and raised a remembrance on the spot where Margaret Legge’s body was found. Even after heavy snow and changing seasons for about seven decades, the commemoration is still there.

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The best time to visit the valley is from mid-July to end of August. Plan your trek ahead of time. Want some help with planning? Checkout a complete itinerary designed by seasoned trekkers to make the most of your trip to the Valley of Flowers National Park. Visit our FAQ section to get all the information you need.