Nanda Devi, one of the most beautiful mountain peaks in the world is located in India, and it is still as untouched and pristine as it was centuries ago.
This is one of the reasons why it has become every trekker’s paradise. And not to forget the fact that the government’s involvement and CIA’s expedition to install a nuclear device has only added to its mystery.
Recently, the Nanda Devi peak, once again caught our attention when the rumours about a plutonium device that was lost in the snowy mountains resurfaced some days back.
The difficulty to climb this peak can be ascertained from the fact that the ascent of Nanda Devi necessitated 50 years of arduous exploration in search of a passage into the Sanctuary.
In 1983, Indian government closed the Nanda Devi Inner Sanctuary region permanently citing ecological reasons. Since then hiking teams have been looking for alternate routes to witness the unexplored beauty of Nanda Devi and its sister peak, Nanda Devi East standing in the centre of a ring of peaks that make up the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve.
There are three treks that offer you the splendid views of the mighty Nanda Devi.
The first trek is Nanda Devi Base Camp trek. It is considered to be one of the most difficult Himalayan treks in India at a height of 13,123 feet. It also takes you closest to the Nanda Devi East peak.
Its difficulty level is enhanced by the fact that almost the entire trail is circular and slippery. The trek takes 12-14 days to be completed and if you are a beginner, then this trek isn’t for you.
Best time for the trek: May to June & September to October.
How to get there?
You need to reach Kathgodam in Uttarakhand that is well connected by rail and road. From here you head to the base village – Munsiari where you can find decent tents and tourist lodges for night stay.
Next morning, the trek starts from Munsiari to Lilam. The trek route ahead of Lilam is fraught with dense forests, waterfalls, and snow bridges.
You will then witness the raging river, Gori Ganga on your way to Budgiyar. A few kilometres further down the trail is an area called Garam Pani where hot springs are found. You can also go down the river and soak your tired limbs beside the river where sulphur springs mix with the cold water.
Budgiyar, has the ITBP huts where you need to sign in and take permission for the trek.
Further ahead, you get to cross the glacial streams and walk over the remnants of the glaciers. Here, you’ll be able to see the Nanda Devi East Peak in its full glory.
Another trek that can offer you the exclusive views of the Nanda Devi peak from the very first day is the Kuari Pass trek.
If you are stepping into Himalayas for the first time then Kuari Pass is the trek to do. It is perfectly crafted for beginners.
How to get there?
The trek begins from Lata, that is 10-12 hours drive from Haridwar.
Duration: Around a week
Price: ₹ 10000 (approx.) per person.
The Pangarchulla trek is the third trek; it passes through the Nanda Devi Sanctuary and so the trail is blessed with the breathtaking views of Mt. Nanda Devi. These are a true treat for the eyes.
How to reach there?
The trek begins at Auli, in Uttarakhand that is well-connected by rail and road to Haridwar and Dehradun. A few hours into the trek and you’ll find yourself in the Nanda Devi Sanctuary.
Duration: 7 days.
Price: ₹ 10,000 per person.
The Nanda Devi & Valley of Flowers National Park is a protected area inside this region.
In 1988, it was recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and rightly so. The beauty of the terrain is accentuated the heavenly presence of rhododendron, birch and juniper forests.
It is located at an elevation of 1828 metres above sea level, and is home to the rare species of snow leopard and the Himalayan Black Bear.
How to get there?
Reaching the Valley of Flowers National Park is a great trekking experience in itself as the roads are connected only till Govind Ghat. From here, you’ll have to take a trek of around 14 km.
Best time to visit: Mid-July to mid-August.
The ropeway of Auli that runs from Joshimath to Auli offers stunning panoramic view of Nanda Devi peaks.
It is also the highest and the longest ropeway in Asia after the one in Gulmarg and is located at a distance of 10 km from the Joshimath Bus Stand.
The cable car covers a distance of 4 km in around 15-20 minutes and is priced at around ₹750 per head.
A soul-stirring nirvana awaits you some 2000 metres above the sea level in this secret hamlet in the Western Himalayas – Chaukori.
This little village is well-connected with the Pantnangar Airport and Kathgodam Railway Station in Uttarakhand.
You can just get lost into nothingness and still feel at the top of the world when you are in this peaceful hamlet looking at the stunning views of the Nanda Devi peak.
The Nanda Devi Temple which is believed to be around 1000 years old is located in the city of Almora, within the tranquility of the Garhwal Himalayas, and is well preserved.
It is just at a walking distance from Mall Road in Almora. You can also visit this temple while you are trekking to the Kuari Pass.
Legend has it that Nanda Devi, the presiding goddess of this region was the princess of Chamoli, Nanda, who ran for her life and climbed up to the lofty snowy peak of the mountain to escape the Rohilla prince who was chasing her. She merged into the holy mountains and since then she is revered to as the goddess by the locals.
Despite being a challenging trek route, Nanda Devi lures passionate trekkers to take up this arduous journey, and what they get is an unmatched lifetime experience.
We are sure your next trip is going to be amidst these lofty mountains.