Nanda Devi National Park, Uttarakhand

Being surrounded by the beautiful and majestic Himalayan peaks like Nanda Devi (7817 m), Dunagiri (7066 m), Trishul (7120 m), and Nanda Devi East (7430 m), etc., the Nanda Devi National Park is in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. The National park and biosphere also encompass the glacial basin drained by Rishi Ganga and is divided into two parts; the inner sanctuary area comprises Uttariand Dakshini Rishi glaciers while the outer sanctuary area consists of basins of Trishul and Ramani glaciers. The National Park boasts of diversity in flora and fauna including the rare Brahma-Kamal which is the state flower of Uttarakhand, and the Bharal, or Blue Mountain Goat.
The Nanda Devi National Park, which lies at a height of more than 3,500 m, covers 630.33 sq. km. area and along with the Valley of Flowers National Park comprises the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve with a total protected area of 2,236.74 sq. km. with a buffer zone of 5,148.57 sq. km. The Biosphere Reserve has been part of the UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserved since 2004. UNESCO has also declared it a World Heritage Site. The Rich flora and fauna and magnificent views make it different from other wildlife sanctuaries in India.

Why Should you visit Nanda Devi National Park?

Though the area has always been of spectacular natural beauty, it was established in 1982. The first expedition to the Nanda Devi Peak by W. W. Garden in 1883 didn’t generate much interest; however, the one taken by Tilman and N. E. Odell in 1936 opened the vista for more expeditions. The Area was declared a game sanctuary in 1939. By the 1950s, expeditions to Nanda Devi had begun which affected the natural flora and fauna of the region, because of which the Indian government declared the region a national park in 1982. The Nanda Devi National Park later attained the status of a biosphere reserve. The Region along with the Valley of Flowers became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988. The unique climate and topography are probably the reason for the diverse habitat and species of the region.
The National Park is home to the 2nd highest mountain in India, Nanda Devi apart from other majestic peaks nearby like Maiktoli, Mangaron, Rishi Pahar and Changband, etc. In 2005, the region was expanded and renamed as Valley of Flowers and Nanda Devi National Park. There is also an enclosed Nanda Devi Sanctuary where a wide variety of wild animals and birds including the Himalayan Tahr, Snow Leopard, Musk Deer, etc. can be seen.

Wildlife that can be observed at Nanda Devi National Park

Flora–
Fir, birch, juniper, and rhododendron are the main trees seen in the national park. The Climate in the inner sanctuary, near the Nanda Devi glacier, is drier and has little to no vegetation. The Vegetation changes as per the altitude; grasses, mosses, and lichens can be seen at lower altitudes. The Park is home to around 312 floral species, 17 of which are considered rare including Blue Poppy, Brahma Kamal, Mayapple, etc.

Fauna–
Mammals: Bharal, snow leopard, Himalayan tahr, goral, Himalayan musk deer, brown bear, Himalayan black bear, leopard, common langur, mainland serow, rhesus macaque, koala, red fox.

Birds: Warblers, grosbeaks, rose finches, ruby throat, yellow-bellied fantail flycatcher, orange flanked bush ribbon, nutcracker, crested black tit, vinaceous breasted pipit, blue-fronted Redstart, Indian tree pipit.

Attractions Available at Nanda Devi National Park

Trekking – The Nanda Devi National Park is also known for amazing treks apart from the wonderful scenic beauty. The trek up to the Nanda Devi, though a slightly difficult one, is a once in a lifetime experience. On the way, you can experience the unique flora and fauna of the region. The Entire trek is 13 km starting from Lata (2000 m), the last motorable village located on the Joshimath-Malari road, to Dharasi (4250 m). Trekking was banned around the 1980s to protect the biodiversity of the region and has only been lifted recently (past 5-10 years). 1-4 days trek are available here.

Bird Watching The Park contains around 144 species of birds, which attract bird lovers from all over the world. Some of the popular attractions include orange bush ribbons, fantail flycatchers, etc. Summer months are ideal for catching sight of these beautiful creatures.

Safari Available at Nanda Devi National Park

There aren’t any jeep safaris available in the Nanda Devi National Park. Visitors can trek on foot along with a registered tour guide. The Trek takes 5 days and prior permission is required since the park allows limited entry access to protect the biodiversity of the region. Advance booking is recommended to get the entry pass.

How to Reach Nanda Devi National Park?

Air: The Nearest Airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun which is around 295 km from Nanda Devi National Park. Regular flights from Delhi are available for Dehradun. From the airport, you can take a taxi to reach your destination.

Road: You can drive to Joshimath via motorable roads. From here, you can drive 25 km further uphill to reach village Lata. From here, you can trek the remaining distance to reach your destination.

Train: The Nearest Railway Station is Rishikesh which is 276 km from the national park. Motorable roads connect Rishikesh to Joshimath which are 253 km apart.

Best Time to Visit Nanda Devi National Park

The Park is located at a high altitude and therefore experiences extreme weather, especially during winter. The Region remains under snow for six months and opens during the summer season only. The Nanda Devi National Park is open from 1st May to 31st October. The Best time to visit is during the summer season, May to June the climate is relatively pleasant and ideal for visiting. Heavy Rainfall is seen in the monsoon season (June to August) and makes it difficult to trek. Visiting the park during September and October could provide you a chance to see the spectacular floral beauty in full bloom. The Park remains closed from 1st November to 30th April.

Tips While Visiting Nanda Devi National Park

Prior entry permits from Garwal Mandal Vikas Nigam office (Joshimath) are required by visitors.
Visitors are expected to travel in groups of 5 along with a registered guide. Only two groups are allowed in a day and a maximum of 4 groups are allowed in a week.
Prior booking is advised since June to September is the peak season.
Children below 14 are not allowed for trekking.
Since the trek is fairly difficult, tourists are advised to have a detailed medical check-up done prior to commencing the trip.
Wearing appropriate trekking footwear is recommended as the trek is steep.
Since there is no public convenience, eating light food is recommended.