Nanda Devi Raj Jaat Yatra – The Himalayan Kumbh of Uttarakhand
The Nanda Devi Raj Jaat Yatra, also called the Himalayan Kumbh, is one of the most sacred and grand religious pilgrimages in Uttarakhand. Held once every 12 years, this 280 km yatra from Nauti village in Chamoli district to the Roopkund and Homkund region in the Garhwal Himalayas is dedicated to Goddess Nanda Devi, the presiding deity of the region and a symbol of purity, strength, and motherhood.
What is Nanda Devi Raj Jaat Yatra?
The Nanda Devi Raj Jaat is a multi-day religious procession (usually around 22-25 days) undertaken by devotees of Maa Nanda Devi, the Isht Devi of the Kumaon and Garhwal regions.
Key Highlights:
- Starts from: Nauti village near Karnaprayag, Chamoli
- Ends at: Homkund via Roopkund Glacier
- Distance covered: Approx. 280 km
- Duration: Around 22-25 days
- Occurrence: Once every 12 years
- Devotees: Thousands of pilgrims, priests, locals, and international trekkers
Historical and Mythological Significance
The Nanda Devi Yatra is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology and folk traditions. It is believed that Goddess Nanda Devi, consort of Lord Shiva, undertakes a journey to her maternal home and returns to Mount Kailash. The yatra symbolizes this farewell journey.
Mythological Roots:
- The four-horned ram (chausinghya khadu), said to appear mysteriously before the yatra, leads the procession.
- The yatra is accompanied by religious chants, traditional instruments, and the carrying of palanquins and sacred idols.
Route of the Nanda Devi Raj Jaat Yatra
The route is a mix of spiritual devotion and adventurous trekking, traversing dense forests, snow-covered trails, and high-altitude Himalayan terrain.
Important Stops Along the Route:
- Nauti Village – The ceremonial beginning
- Ida Badhani – Gathering of devotees
- Kanol, Sem, Kuling, Pathar Nachauni – Villages en route
- Roopkund Lake – The mysterious skeletal lake
- Homkund – Final destination, considered sacred
Spiritual and Cultural Experience
The yatra is not just a pilgrimage but a living tradition of the Himalayan culture. It includes:
- Folk songs and rituals passed through generations
- Traditional attire and ornaments worn by women
- Participation of all communities, emphasizing unity and devotion
When is the Next Nanda Devi Raj Jaat Yatra?
The last yatra was held in 2014. The next Nanda Devi Raj Jaat Yatra 2026 is anticipated with great excitement and preparation by devotees and tourism departments alike.
Things to Know Before You Join the Yatra
Travel and Trekking Tips:
- Physical Fitness is crucial; the trek includes high-altitude terrain (above 15,000 ft)
- Carry essentials: warm clothes, sturdy shoes, medicines, sleeping bag
- Mobile network is limited in many stretches
- Respect local customs and rituals
Registration and Safety:
- Official registration through the Uttarakhand Tourism Department
- Travel in groups with certified guides
- Medical aid and emergency services are arranged by state authorities
Religious and Environmental Guidelines
- Avoid littering in eco-sensitive zones
- Use biodegradable materials during the yatra
- Respect the sentiments of local communities and follow priestly instructions
Nanda Devi Raj Jaat and Eco-Tourism
Tourism around the Nanda Devi Yatra is gaining momentum. It offers a unique blend of pilgrimage tourism, high-altitude trekking, and cultural heritage exploration.
Opportunities for:
- Eco-conscious travelers
- Cultural documentarians
- Spiritual seekers
- Trekkers and nature photographers
Nearby Attractions
You can plan to explore other attractions in Chamoli and Garhwal around the yatra route:
- Adi Badri Temple
- Karnaprayag
- Bedni Bugyal
- Gwaldam
Why Nanda Devi Raj Jaat is Called the “Himalayan Kumbh”
Due to the scale, spiritual intensity, and deep cultural heritage associated with it, the yatra is often dubbed the Himalayan Kumbh. It brings together people from different parts of India and the world, representing faith beyond borders and beliefs.
Conclusion
The Nanda Devi Raj Jaat Yatra is not just a religious procession but a journey of faith, endurance, and reverence through some of the most scenic and sacred parts of Uttarakhand. For those who take part, it becomes a life-changing spiritual experience, rooted in centuries-old traditions and guided by the protective gaze of Maa Nanda Devi.
