Nanda Devi Sanctuary Trek

Region
Garhwal Himalayas
Season
April - June & September - October (except July & August)
Altitude
4,152 m
Duration
11 days
Grade
Moderate

Media Gallery

Nanda Devi Trek
Nanda Devi Trek
Nanda Devi Trek
Nanda Devi Trek
Nanda Devi Trek

Overview

Nanda Devi, the second - highest peak in the Indian Himalayas, stands as one of the most magnificent mountains in the world. Located in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, the Nanda Devi Sanctuary is renowned for its unique geographical formation - a ring of high peaks with immense rock walls rising no lower than 5,200 meters, forming a vast natural amphitheater. The only opening in this 6,000-meter-high ridge wall is the Rishi Ganga Gorge, a wild and seemingly impenetrable passage.

The towering presence of Nanda Devi and its surrounding peaks has long captivated pioneering mountaineers from across the world.

History & Exploration

The first recorded attempt to enter the inner basin of Nanda Devi was made by W.M. Graham in 1883, followed by Dr. T.G. Longstaff in 1907 and later Hugh Ruttledge in 1926, 1927, and 1934. The breathtaking panorama of peaks encircling the National Park includes Kalanka (6,931 m), Mangraon (6,765 m), Maiktoli (6,803 m), Dunagiri (7,066 m), Rishi Pahar (6,992 m), Changbang (6,864 m), Mrigthuni (6,655 m), Devisthan II (6,678 m), and Hanuman (6,070 m).

About the Sanctuary

The Nanda Devi National Park resembles a vast green bowl with lush meadows, diverse flora and fauna, and cascading white waterfalls. The Blue Mountain Goat (Bharal), commonly seen here, adds to the sanctuary's charm.

To preserve its delicate ecosystem, entry to the park was restricted in 1982, and it was later declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Recently, only limited outer areas have been reopened for visitors.

Access to the inner sanctuary remains restricted to researchers and forest officials, while trekkers can explore the outer region. Strict entry limits (8 - 10 people at a time) require advance permissions and careful planning.

Trek Experience

At Trekking in India, we offer a well-organized Nanda Devi Trekking Tour for adventure lovers who wish to explore the region's pristine beauty, vibrant local culture, and rich biodiversity. With luck, trekkers may even spot the elusive Snow Leopard, especially in April when the region is blanketed in snow.

This classic trek retraces the legendary journey of Shipton and Tilman through the Garhwal Himalaya. The Nanda Devi basin is one of the most storied regions of the entire Himalayan range — revered by locals for centuries and celebrated by explorers, mountaineers, mystics, and travelers alike.

While Everest may be the world's highest peak, Nanda Devi is often considered the most enchanting. Western explorers such as Traill, Graham, and Longstaff brought it to prominence in the 19th century, but it was Shipton and Tilman's 1930s expedition that achieved fame by forcing a route into the Inner Sanctuary.

Route & Highlights

This trek passes through picturesque meadows and valleys along the western edge of the Nanda Devi Sanctuary. The route, once taken by Shipton and Tilman, offers spectacular views of the surrounding peaks. From Kuari Pass (3,658 m), trekkers enjoy a breathtaking panorama of the Great Himalayan Range, including Nanda Devi (7,816 m), Changabang (6,864 m), Dunagiri (7,066 m), and Kamet (7,756 m).

Though the sanctuary was closed in the 1980s due to ecological concerns, it remains one of the most iconic and spiritually charged trekking destinations in India.

Special Highlights of the Trek

Itinerary

Nanda Devi Sanctuary Trek Itinerary

Unmatched Trekking Experiences in the Himalayas

Ultimate Himalayan Trekking Adventures Await

Join TrekkingInIndia.com for an unforgettable Himalayan journey through stunning mountains, peaceful valleys, and rich local culture.

Carefully Curated Trek Routes
Expert Mountain Guides
Safety - First Approach
Quality Equipment & Logistics
WhatsApp
Trusted Operator
24/7 Support

Trek Essentials & Policies

Accommodation:
  • In cities, accommodation will be provided in 3-star category hotels on a double / twin - sharing basis. During the trek, we provide dome / alpine tents along with sleeping mats, camping stools, chairs, tables, a kitchen tent, dining tent, and toilet tent.
Transport:
  • Arrival and departure transfers from the airport/train station, sightseeing as per itinerary, and trek drop and pickup by SUV.
Meals:
  • In cities / towns, breakfast and dinner will be served. During the trek, all meals are included. Meals will be a mix of Indian, Chinese, and Continental cuisine.
Mules / Porters:
  • Provided for carrying camping equipment, rations, vegetables, and a limited amount of personal luggage (one bag per person, not exceeding 14 kg).
Professional Staff:
  • An experienced trekking guide and cook will accompany the group throughout the trek.
Inner Line / Protected Area Permit Fees:
Trekking Permit Fees:

Similiar Treks

Sources of Ganges Trekmoderate

13 Days

|

Garhwal

The Ganges River and its source at Gomukh on the Gangotri Glacier, along with many surrounding peaks, hold immense significance in Hinduism.

Starting from $ 685 / Per person

The Lord Curzon Trail - Kuari Pass Trekmoderate

10 Days

|

Garhwal

The Kuari Pass Trek, also known as the Lord Curzon Trail, is one of the most renowned treks in the Garhwal Himalayan region and is highly recommended for beginners.

Starting from $ 785 / Per person

Chenap Valley Lake Trekmoderate

09 Days

|

Garhwal

One of the least explored treks in India, the Chenap Valley Lake Trek attracts adventurous explorers seeking solitude and pristine natural beauty.

Starting from $ 685 / Per person