Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra 2026

Dates for the Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra 2026

Historical Background and Cultural Significance of Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra

Nanda Devi's Worship in Garhwal and Beginning of the Raj-Jat Tradition

The Raj-Jaat Yatra of Nanda Devi began as once in a 12-year event in Chamoli Garhwal, originating from a small hamlet in the 7th Century by Garhwal’s King Shaalipal. Later, under the rule of King Kanakpal in the 9th century, the yatra became a grand affair. Following in the footsteps of King Kanakpal, the royal lineage of Kansua (Kansua ka Kunwar) and the Nautiyals of Nauti village, who served as royal priests and advisors, continued the Nanda Devi Raj Jat yatra. Additionally, Barathogi-Baman (including the Nautiyals), who were twelve chiefs (Thokdar) of families from neighbouring villages, managed the event. As the Yatra grew in scale, clans from the Rawat and Negi communities also participated.

Nanda Devi's Significance in Kumaun

Goddess Nanda Devi is considered the clan deity (isht) of Kumaon and is also called “Rajrajeshwari”. Historically, during the reign of the Chand dynasty, the worship of Nanda Devi in Kumaon Region gradually evolved into a full-scale fair. Initially, only a single idol of Nanda Devi was worshipped.  Later, the tradition of creating two idols, symbolizing both Nanda and Sunanda, began during the time of King Baj Bahadur Chand. This shift was inspired by the belief that the goddesses were born together as princesses in a royal household. To honor this shared incarnation, a joint festival was initiated, built around tales from their divine life.

In the Johar Valley of Pithoragarh district in Kumaon Region, there is no practice of the grand Nanda Raj Jaat, though the local customs still involve rituals such as dancing and the ceremonial collection of Bramhakamal flowers (known locally as Kaul Kamphu).

The Nanda Devi fair is celebrated in several towns and villages of Kumaon Region, including Almora, Nainital, Kot (Dangoli), Ranikhet, Bhowali, Kichha, and the remote settlements of Lohar (like Milam and Martoli) as well as the Pindar Valley (including Wachham and Khati). In the Pindar villages, the Nanda Devi Jaat is observed every year. Meanwhile, in Lohar villages, large gatherings journey to places like Danadhar, Suring, Milam, and Martoli to participate in the sacred festivities.

A Historic Moment in 2000

After the formation of Uttarakhand, the state government has actively worked to foster unity between the people of Garhwal and Kumaon through shared celebrations and fairs. In a significant step toward this goal, the 2000 edition of the Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra saw the participation of “Almora ki Nanda” after a gap of 90 years, accompanied by several other deities from the Kumaon region. To accommodate this integration, the traditional yatra route was modified to include an additional stop at Nandakesari, a point where deities and devotees from Kumaon join the main pilgrimage. Today, the Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra draws participants not only from across Garhwal and Kumaon but also from other parts of India and the world.

Years When Nanda Devi Raj Jat Was Held

According to records maintained by the Raj Jat Committee, the grand Himalayan pilgrimage, Shri Nanda Devi Raj Jat, also known as the Himalayan Mahakumbh has been organized in the years 1843, 1863, 1886, 1905, 1925, 1951, 1968, 1987, and 2000. Although originally scheduled earlier, the 2013 edition was postponed due to devastating flash floods and was ultimately held in 2014.

Cultural Significance of Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra

Historically, the Yatra united people from Garhwal, Kumaon, and even parts of Himachal and Nepal, becoming not only a religious journey but also a celebration of regional identity and shared heritage.

Mythology of Nanda Devi Raj Jat

The pilgrimage symbolically represents Goddess Nanda’s farewell (vidaayi) journey from her maternal home in Nauti (Chamoli district) to her marital home in Mt. Kailash.

Lord Shiva’s Marriage Proposal and Journey to Homkund

Nanda Devi was born in the village of Nauti to a Brahmin priest named Kushan. Known for her beauty and virtue, she caught the attention of Lord Shiva, who fell in love with her and wished to make her his consort. To propose marriage, Shiva sent a divine messenger, a four-horned ram, to Nauti.

Priest Kushan accepted the proposal but requested time to prepare for the wedding, asking Shiva to come personally to escort his bride. As the day arrived, Priest Kushan organized an elaborate farewell ceremony, inviting the kings and nobles of Garhwal and Kumaon Regions. A palanquin adorned with flowers and jewels was prepared, carrying a veiled idol of Nanda Devi.

The sacred procession began with the four-horned ram leading the way, the palanquin balanced on his back. Thousands of people accompanied the journey, singing chantollis (traditional folk songs) and offering prayers at temples along the route. The ram passed through remote villages, alpine meadows, snowfields, and high mountain passes, culminating the journey at Homkund, near Roopkund. This symbolic pilgrimage represents Nanda Devi’s journey to her celestial home in Kailash with Lord Shiva.

The Ram’s Refusal at Homkund

Another mystical episode unfolds at Homkund, the final stop of the yatra. The ceremonial ram; believed to be the physical vessel of Nanda Devi, suddenly halted and refused to proceed. When the veil on the palanquin was lifted, it was found empty, symbolizing that Nanda Devi had spiritually merged with Lord Shiva. The people then realized that the ram itself was not an ordinary creature but a manifestation of Shiva. To honor this divine union, a yagna (sacrificial ritual) was conducted. The king of Garhwal, moved by the devotion of a local named Kushan, granted his family the honorable Rajput status and the lifelong right to organize the yatra every 12 years.

The Sacred Halt at Bandhani: A Divine Tradition of Maa Nanda Devi’s Journey

According to local beliefs, in ancient times, Lord Ashutosh (Shiva) and Goddess Parvati were journeying toward Mount Kailash. During the journey, Maa Nanda became thirsty and stopped at the nearby village of Bandhani, while Lord Shiva continued ahead.

In Bandhani, the village watchman and headman at the time, Jaman Singh Jadoda, welcomed Maa Nanda with great reverence. He offered her water and served her a humble meal of curd and rice, treating her with utmost respect and devotion. When Goddess Nanda was about to leave, Jaman Singh made a heartfelt request asking her to visit his home again on her way to Kailash. The goddess honored his wish and this tradition continues to this day. During the sacred Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra, before the palanquin of the goddess proceeds toward Homkund, it halts for the night at Ida Bandhani, at the home of the Gusain family, descendants of Jaman Singh Jadoda. This ritualistic stop symbolizes the continued bond between the goddess and her devoted host.

The Uninvited Daughter Legend

A popular story recounts a young married woman who wasn't invited to a religious ceremony in her parental village. Despite her in-laws’ warnings, she forcefully left for her maiden home. On the way, she encountered an enraged buffalo and tried hiding behind a banana tree. Tragically, the leaves of the banana tree, which had concealed the woman, were eaten by a goat, exposing her to a ferocious buffalo that ultimately killed her. Neither her in-laws nor her maternal family were aware of the incident, and assuming she was safe at home, no one inquired about her whereabouts.

Soon after, strange and unsettling events began occurring in both her marital and maternal villages. A cow reportedly gave birth to a goat, crops failed mysteriously, and in some cases, the harvest produced plants unlike the species sown. One night, the woman appeared in someone’s dream, revealing that the reason behind these unnatural happenings was the indifference shown towards her disappearance, no one had cared to look for her. As a result, she allowed the disturbances to unfold.

Over time, people began to worship the woman as an incarnation of Goddess Nanda. In many parts of Kumaon, Nandashtami is celebrated in her honor. Idols of Nanda and Sunanda Devi are traditionally crafted using banana trees, symbolizing the origin of her story. A grand eight-day fair is held annually in Almora, Nainital, and various other places across Kumaon to commemorate her divine presence and seek her blessings.

Rituals of the Yatra Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra

The rituals of the Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra are deeply symbolic and spiritually charged, reflecting the ancient Himalayan traditions of devotion, sacrifice, and community participation. The pilgrimage spans over several days and challenging terrains, and each ritual holds sacred significance, honoring Goddess Nanda Devi's mythical journey to Kailash. These age-old customs, performed with unwavering faith, preserve the spiritual and cultural heritage of both Garhwal and Kumaon regions, blending folk traditions with religious devotion in every step of the sacred procession.

Offering prayers and flowers to Nanda Devi

Devotees offer prayers and floral tributes to Goddess Nanda Devi at her temples located in Kanswa, Koti, Kulsari, Nandkesari, and Faldiya Gaon, marking the beginning of the yatra and invoking her blessings for a safe and sacred journey.

Installation and journey of the palanquin (doli) of Nanda Devi

Carried by devotees from Nauti village, the doli stops at several sacred places and is worshipped at each halt.

Night-Long Bhajans and Jagar Sessions

Spiritual singing and oral storytelling of Nanda Devi legends take place in many halts, especially at Koti, Nauti, and Wan.

Performing a havan (fire ritual) at Mundoli

A sacred fire ritual is conducted at Mundoli to seek the blessings and permission of Latu Devta, the revered guardian deity of the region. This ritual signifies the pilgrims’ respectful entry into the spiritually protected high Himalayan areas under Latu’s watchful presence.

Taking a dip in the holy waters of Bedni Kund

This is a sacred glacial lake surrounded by alpine meadows and rhododendron forests, and it holds spiritual significance.

Participating in the Nanda Devi Fair at Bedni Bugyal

Here, locals organize cultural programs and folk dances as part of the yatra festivities. The Nanda Devi Fair typically spans 3 to 7 days.

Offering a coconut to Nanda Devi at Pathar Nachauni

This is a symbolic gesture at the place where the goddess is believed to have danced with Shiva on a stone slab.

The selection of the four-horned ram (Chausingha Khadu)

A sacred ram, said to be chosen divinely, leads the entire yatra and is worshipped as a representative of Nanda Devi.

Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra Route and Key Locations

The Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra route map encompasses several significant sites:

• Nauti Village: The starting point of the Nanda Devi Raj Jat yatra.
• Koti Village: A major halt where night-long worship and celebrations occur.
• Bedni Bugyal: A high-altitude meadow known for its scenic beauty and religious importance.
• Roopkund Lake: Also known as the "Skeleton Lake," it holds historical and mythological significance.
• Homkund: The ending point of the Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra, where rituals are performed, and the ram is set free.

Important Facts to consider for the Yatra

• Distance: Approximately 280 kilometers.
• Duration: The pilgrimage takes 19 to 22 days, depending on weather and terrain.
• Altitude: Trekkers reach altitudes of over 5,000 meters above sea level.
• Difficulty: The trail includes some of the most treacherous terrains in the Indian Himalayas, including glaciers, dense forests, and alpine meadows.

How to Reach the commencing point of the Yatra?

The Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra begins from the sacred village of Nauti in Chamoli district, which serves as the base for this grand Himalayan pilgrimage. Pilgrims from across the country and abroad must plan their travel carefully due to the remote terrain and high seasonal demand.

By Air:

The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, located approximately 215 kilometers from Nauti. From the airport, one can hire private taxis or board state transport buses to reach Chamoli and then proceed to Nauti Village. It’s recommended to start early, as mountain travel can be time-consuming due to winding roads and changing weather.

By Train:

The closest major railway stations are Rishikesh & Haridwar, which are well-connected to major cities across India. From Haridwar & Rishikesh, travelers can avail of regular bus or taxi services towards Chamoli, which lies en route to the Uttarakhand Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra. An alternative option includes alighting at Dehradun and continuing the journey by road.

By Road:

Nauti Village is accessible by motorable roads. Daily bus services, shared jeeps, and private taxis operate from Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Dehradun towards Chamoli and Karnprayag. From there, travelers need to proceed further on local roads to reach Nauti. Due to the massive turnout expected for the Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra next date in 2026, it is advisable to book transportation and accommodations well in advance.

Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra 2026 Registration/Booking

• Advance registration for Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra is mandatory for pilgrims, especially those coming from outside Uttarakhand.
• Registration details are expected to be announced by the Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board (UTDB) and the Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam (GMVN) by late 2025.
• Usually, registration involves a government ID, medical certificate, and a nominal fee.

Eligibility

• Open to Hindus of all ages, but minors and the elderly must be accompanied (by a physically fit adult) and hold a medical certificate.
• Foreign nationals may need special permissions from local authorities, given the spiritual and protected nature of the Himalayan route.

Physical Requirement

This pilgrimage is physically demanding, requiring:

• High-altitude trekking experience
• Excellent cardiovascular fitness
• Ability to walk 15–20 km daily over steep, rugged terrain

Safety and Security Measures

• Follow Authorities' Instructions: Pilgrims must adhere strictly to the instructions of the district administration, police, disaster management teams, and Yatra organizers.
• Designated Routes and Halts: Stick to the official Yatra route and designated night halts. Deviating from the path can be dangerous.

Emergency Preparedness

• Carry a personal first-aid kit with essential medicines, especially for altitude sickness, pain relief, and digestive issues.
• Inform family/friends of your Yatra itinerary.
• Better mobile connectivity is being planned for the route, but don't rely solely on it.

Crowd Management: Given the large expected turnout, SOPs for crowd management will be in place. Pilgrims must cooperate to ensure smooth movement.

Weather Preparedness: Be prepared for unpredictable Himalayan weather, including rain, cold, fog, and potential snowfall at higher altitudes. Carry appropriate gear.

Infrastructure and Logistics

• Basic Facilities: The Uttarakhand Government is working to improve basic facilities like drinking water, temporary shelters, toilets, and basic medical aid posts along the route. However, facilities will remain basic, especially at higher altitudes.
• Porter and Mule Services: These will likely be available for carrying luggage but pilgrims are encouraged to carry minimal essentials.
• Helipads and Evacuation: Plans are usually in place for emergency helipad services and medical evacuation in critical situations, but these are for emergencies only and not a guaranteed transport option.

General Rules and Regulations

• Littering and plastic use are strictly prohibited.
• Alcohol, tobacco, and non-vegetarian food are banned during the journey.
• Participants must follow strict discipline, a vegetarian diet, and wear modest attire.

Short Itinerary of the Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra 2026

• Day 01: The yatra begins at Nauti Village in Chamoli with ceremonial prayers and the symbolic four-horned ram taking the lead, representing Goddess Nanda Devi.
• Days 02 - 03: The journey moves through Ida Badhani and Kansuwa, where the Kunwar family traditionally welcomes the procession amid local rituals and hospitality.
• Days 04 - 05: Pilgrims advance to Sem and Koti, navigating steeper paths while engaging in devotional music, meals, and collective worship.
• Days 06 - 07: The yatra reaches Bhagoti, Kulsari, and Chepdue, where deities from nearby villages join in. Kulsari becomes a major spiritual confluence point.
• Days 08 - 10: The route continues through Nand Kesari, Faldiya, and Mundoli, with increasing altitude and remote trails. Nand Kesari holds mythological importance.
• Days 11 - 13: Trekking through Wan, Geroli Patal, and Bedni Bugyal, pilgrims perform rituals at Bedni Kund, surrounded by panoramic Himalayan views.
• Days 14 -15: The ascent covers Patar Nachoniya, Roopkund (Skeleton Lake), and Shila Samundra, where challenging glacial terrain intensifies the journey.
• Day 16: At Homkund, the sacred endpoint of the Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra route map, the four-horned ram is released in a grand ceremony symbolizing the goddess’s celestial return.
• Days 17 – 18: Pilgrims begin the descent through Chandaniya Ghat, Sutol, and Ghat, reflecting on the transformative experience.
• Day 19: The yatra concludes at Nauti Village with final rituals and celebrations, marking the end of a rare spiritual odyssey that won’t return until the next date twelve years later.

Accommodation Options During the Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra

• Pilgrims generally stay in tents, government guesthouses, and Dharamshalas.
• GMVN and local NGOs arrange basic facilities along the trail, including toilets, medical support, and food.
• However, pilgrims are advised to carry personal tents, sleeping bags, and essentials due to high demand and limited resources.

Best Travel Tips for Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra

• Acclimatize properly in Chamoli before starting the trek.
• Carry rain gear, trekking poles, and layered clothing to face Himalayan weather.
• Pack first aid, altitude sickness medication, and hydration salts (ORS).
• Stick with registered groups or government-supported yatras for safety.
• Respect local customs and cultural sensitivities at all times.
• Always follow the Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra route map and adhere to updates from authorities.

The Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra is not just a trek; it is a divine call echoing through the Garhwal Himalayas once every 12 years. From the deeply symbolic departure at Nauti Village to the breathtaking ending point of the yatra at Homkund, this 280 km journey is an emotional, spiritual and physical odyssey, steeped in mythology, community spirit, and devotion. As the faithful await the next date of Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra 2026, this comprehensible travel guide can come handy in preparing for the once-in-a-lifetime journey in advance.