Nandadevi Basecamp Trek

Nanda Devi is one of the majestic peaks of the Indian Himalayas. This peak stands 7,816 m making it the second-highest mountain of our country after Kanchenjunga. Nanda Devi is also the highest mountain that lies completely in Indian territory. Nanda Devi Base Camp Trek is a rewarding high-altitude trek located in Uttarakhand. This journey starts from a beautiful village called Munsiyari in the Kumaon region. The trek offers views of some of the most beautiful peaks like the Panchachuli, Nanda Kot, etc. 

The trail to Nanda Devi Base Camp passes through dense forests of Oak and Rhododendron. You will walk on big alpine pastures covered with grass and wildflowers in summer. The small villages like Lilam Bog Udiar, Rilkot, etc will tell you the traditions and culture of the upper Himalayan region. The train will beautifully transform from green meadows to rocky mountains. As you walk towards the Nanda Devi Base Camp, you will see the snowfields. Trekkers will follow the Gori Ganga River which leads to big gorges and valleys. This trek is moderate to difficult and is fit for the experienced trekkers. It is a 12-day long trek but every day will be rewarding.

History Of Nanda Devi Base Camp Trek

Nanda Devi Base Camp Trek has a very big cultural and mythological significance. Nanda Devi is not just a mountain to the people of Uttarakhand. Hindus believe that Nanda Devi is the consort of Lord Shiva. It is a very sacred mountain and an ancient pilgrimage route. For centuries, the Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra has been held every 12 years, and thousands of devotees take part in this procession. Nanda Devi summit has been one of the toughest summits ever. In 1934, 2 British mountaineers successfully entered the inner sanctuary through the Rishi Ganga gorge. In 1936, Tilman became the first mountaineer to ascend the Nanda Devi with Noel Odell. 

In 1982, the government closed the inner sanctuary for trekkers and climbers to protect endangered flora and fauna. After closing the inner sanctuary, the Nanda Devi East Base Camp became a route for trekkers without causing any harm to the protected area. From the Garhwal, people can only see the Nanda Devi peak. From the Kumoun people can witness both Nanda Devi and Nanda Devi East peaks majorly known as Nanda and Sunanda peaks.

Highlights Of Nanda Devi Base Camp Trek

Beautiful Himalayan views: Nanda Devi Base Camp Trek offers panoramic views of the Kumaon Himalayan range. When you reach Munsiyari, you can witness the majestic Panchachuli ranges in front of you. The peaks look like you can just touch them. The main highlight of this trek is the Nanda Devi East Peak. You can only see this peak from the Kumaon region. 

Walk through the magnificent Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve: The trekkers walk through Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve which is home to rare Himalayan flora and fauna species. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and you can witness animals like musk deer, bharal, etc. You can also see snow leopards in the high-altitude regions.

Experience Bhotiya Culture: Munsiyari is home to the Bhotiya community of Uttarakhand. You can experience the traditions and culture of the Himalayan people. In villages like Lilam and Rilkot architecture, attire, and lifestyle are still very authentic and far from urbanization. The people are very humble and warm-hearted.

Big Alpine Meadows and Wildflowers: The base camp trek passes through big meadows like Paton and Bugdyar. In the summer season, these meadows are covered with beautiful wildflowers. Walking on the meadows covered with wildflowers while watching the Himalayan peaks are rare and incredible moments. Every campsite on this trek is located at a stunning location.

Difficulty Level of Nanda Devi Base Camp Trek

The difficulty level of Nanda Devi Base Camp Trek is rated as moderate to difficult. In simple words, this trek is suitable for trekkers who have done some high-altitude treks and have good physical strength. The trek does not require any technical climbing skills but the trekker should be physically and mentally strong.

• 12-day long trek: The trek distance is about 120 km and takes about 10-12 days. The trekkers have to walk about 6-8 hours daily. You need to be mentally strong to complete a 12-day-long trek. Walking on steep and rocky trails can be physically and mentally challenging.
• High-altitude trek: Nanda Devi Base Camp is situated at a height of 4000 m. This much height can cause AMS problems. Trekkers can experience fatigue, dizziness, and headaches while trekking. Ascending quickly without rest can cause these symptoms. Trekkers must rest properly in between for acclimatization. 
• Tough terrain and remote location: The trek walks through dense forests and ridges. In the starting days, the trek will cover forests and meadows. When you get closer to the Nanda Devi Base Camp, the terrain becomes very harsh. You have to walk on loose rocks and snow patches. The trekkers need good balance and experience to walk on narrow paths.

Best Time To Visit Nanda Devi Base Camp Trek

The best time to plan your Nanda Devi Base Camp Trek is the summer. You will see lush green forests and meadows covered with wildflowers. Autumn is also a good time to plan your trek. This trek remains closed in the winter as the trail becomes inaccessible due to heavy snowfall.

• Nanda Devi Base Camp Trek from Mid-May to June

This is a good time to trek Nanda Devi Base Camp as the snow starts melting and the trails become accessible. The meadows in the lower-altitude region turn green. The wildflower and Rhododendron bloom makes it the perfect trek. The sky will be clear and you can see a panoramic view of the Panchachuli, Nanda Devi East, Nanda Kot, and other Kumaon peaks.

• Nanda Devi Base Camp Trek from July to Mid-September

Avoid planning your trek in the monsoon season. The trail lies in a heavy rainfall zone. Landslides are very common in that area. The trail became very slippery and difficult. The views will be blocked by clouds and fog. Trekking can be dangerous in the monsoon.

• Nanda Devi Base Camp Trek from Mid-September to Early October

Autumn brings clear skies and majestic mountain views. The weather becomes stable and the meadows start turning golden. Days will be cool and nights can be cold at high altitudes. There is little chance of snowfall in October in the high-altitude areas.

How To Reach Nanda Devi Base Camp Trek?

The starting point for the Nanda Devi Base Camp Trek is Munsiyari. You can check all the means and choose the best option for yourself.

• Munsiyari Via Road: Munsiyari is well connected via road. UTC bus service is available from Delhi to Munsiyari. It is an ordinary bus and will take about 18-20 hours. Instead, you can find Volvo and Deluxe buses from Delhi to Haldwani. Now, look for an ordinary bus from Haldwani to Munsiyari. You can also opt for a shared taxi from Haldwani. 
• Munsiyari Via Train: The nearest railway station to Munsiayri is Kathgodam. You can find a train to Kathgodam from Delhi, Dehradun, Kolkata, and Lucknow. Only a few trains are available so book your tickets in advance. After reaching Kathgodam, continue your journey via bus or shared taxi.
• Munsiyari Via Air: The nearest airport to Munsiyari is Nani Saini but the flights to this airport are very limited. Another airport near Munsiyari is Pantnager (320 km) but it also has limited flights. Meanwhile, you can find regular flights from Delhi to Pantnagar. Heli services are also available from Haldwani. You can book a Helicopter ride from Haldwani to Munsiyari directly.

Things To Carry In Nanda Devi Base Camp Trek

Nanda Devi Base Camp Trek is a long high-altitude trek. Trekkers should pack all the essentials for a safe and smooth trekking experience.

Clothing:

Look for a backpack (55-65L) that can hold all your items. Your bag should be waterproof and provide good back support. Now start with a base layer and pack 2-3 dri-fit shirts and 2 pairs of thermals. Pack 2 fleece jackets or pullovers and 1 down jacket. For the outer layer, pack a windcheater and waterproof jacket. You should also pack a woolen cap, sun cap, buff, gloves, and a few pairs of socks. 

Footwear:

Carry a good pair of trekking shoes. Your shoes should be high-ankle and waterproof. Pack a pair of slippers for the camp. You can also pack gaiters to walk on snow or muddy trails.

Toiletries and Other Essentials:

Pack toothpaste, toothbrush, and toilet paper. Carry sunscreen and hand sanitizer. Carry a power bank for your mobile or camera. You can also carry small locks for security. Pack any of your prescribed medicines. Don’t forget to carry important documents like government ID, medical certificate, etc.

All the other items like sleeping gear, meals, etc, will be provided by the trekking team.