Image Source: Stephen Ekka
About Nanda Devi Mountain
Located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, Nanda is the second-highest peak in India(after Kangchenjunga). the 234d highest mountain in the world lies within the Garhwal Himalayas and is part of the larger Nanda devi biosphere reserve which is a UNESCO world heritage site.
- Coordinates : 30.375° N, 79.972° E
- Prominence : ~3,139 meters (10,299 feet)
- Range : Garhwal Himalayas, part of the greater Himalaya mountain chain Geographical Significance
Nanda Devi is a massive two-peaked mountain massif. Main summit (Nanda devi) is located 2.5 km east of adjacent lower peak known as Nanda Devi East (Sunanda Devi)
Nanda devi peak is enclosed by a natural ring of mountains called the Nanda devi sanctuary. The secluded geography is accessible only through the narrow Rishi ganga gorge. It’s one of the most ecologically protected areas in the world.
Cultural and Mythological Importance
In the Kumon region, Nanda devi is worshipped as a goddess and considered an incarnation of Parvati, the consort of Lord Shiva. Her name Nanda, means Bliss-Giving Goddess.
The Nanda devi mountain is believed to be her abode.
A famous Nanda devi raj jat yatra which is a 280 km spiritual pilgrimage held every 12 years that signifies the symbolic journey of the goddess to her heavenly home.
Mountaineering History
British mountaineers Eric Shipton and H.W. Tilman became the first to successfully summit Nanda Devi. They climbed in 1936, which was the highest climbed mountain in the world at that time. After the 1950s, mountain expeditions were restricted to the inner sanctuary for environmental and security reasons. It has been open again to climbers since 1983.
Ecological Importance
Nanda Devi lies at the heart of the Nanda Devi National Park , which—along with the Valley of Flowers—forms the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve. This protected area is home to
Valley of Flowers, another UNESCO heritage site, forms part Nanda devi biosphere reserve that consists of Nanda devi national park at its heart. The protected area is home most pristine ecosystems in the Himalayas. Snow leopards, Himalayan musk deer, bharals, 100 species of birds, Brahma Kamal and alpine herbs are preserved due to limited human access.
How to View or Visit Nanda Devi
While direct access to the peak is restricted, you can trek or view the mountain from several places:
Popular Viewing Points and Trekking Routes
- Auli – Panoramic views of Nanda Devi from the ski slopes.
- Kuari Pass Trek – Offers majestic views of the Nanda Devi range.
- Joshimath – A base for exploring the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve.
- Munsiyari – Provides views of Nanda Devi East and is a base for treks to Milam Glacier.
- Nanda Devi National Park – Permits are required; access is limited to the outer sanctuary.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Height | 7,816 meters (25,643 feet) |
| Rank in India | 2nd highest |
| Location | Chamoli, Uttarakhand, India |
| Range | Garhwal Himalayas |
| Cultural Role | Goddess Nanda Devi’s divine home |
| First Ascent | 1936 by Shipton & Tilman |
| Viewpoints | Auli, Kuari Pass, Munsiyari |
| Biosphere Status | UNESCO World Heritage Site |