Uttarakhand is preparing for one of its grandest spiritual and cultural events – the Shri Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra 2026. Often called the Himalayan Kumbh, this sacred pilgrimage takes place once every 12 years and is regarded as one of the toughest and most revered yatras in the world.
On August 28, 2025, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami chaired a high-level review meeting with officials of various departments to ensure that preparations for the yatra are on track. With lakhs of devotees, saints, researchers, and tourists expected to participate in 2026, the government is leaving no stone unturned to make the journey safe, smooth, and memorable.
Key Directions from the Chief Minister
- Travel Routes: The yatra covers a challenging 280-km trek across the Himalayan ranges, passing through Roopkund, Bedni Bugyal, and Hemkund. CM Dhami instructed departments to repair, strengthen, and maintain pathways, especially at high-altitude sections prone to landslides and weather disruptions.
- Security Measures: Adequate deployment of police, disaster response teams, and paramilitary forces will be ensured. Plans for crowd management, surveillance systems, and quick response teams are being developed.
- Medical Facilities: Special emphasis has been laid on mobile health units, first-aid centers, and emergency evacuation services along the route to deal with altitude sickness and other health emergencies.
- Cultural Promotion: The CM highlighted the importance of showcasing Uttarakhand’s cultural wealth during the yatra. Local folk dances, traditional songs, and regional art exhibitions will be encouraged, giving devotees and tourists a glimpse into the state’s rich heritage.
- Timeline: All preparations have been directed to be completed by the end of 2025, ensuring that the pilgrimage in 2026 is conducted smoothly without last-minute hurdles.
The Spiritual Significance of Shri Nanda Devi Raj Jat
The Raj Jat Yatra is dedicated to Goddess Nanda Devi, revered as the daughter of the Himalayan region and consort of Lord Shiva. Symbolically, the yatra represents sending the Goddess to her divine abode at Mount Kailash.
The highlight of the procession is the four-horned ram (chausinghya khadu) that leads the journey, followed by thousands of devotees carrying ritual offerings, singing traditional songs, and performing age-old customs that have been passed down through generations.
The Challenging Route
The pilgrimage begins from Nauti village near Karnprayag in Chamoli district and stretches over 19 days, traversing through alpine meadows, dense forests, and high-altitude Himalayan passes.
Key locations include:
- Nauti Village – Starting point of the yatra
- Wan and Bedni Bugyal – Majestic high-altitude meadows
- Roopkund (Skeleton Lake) – A mysterious glacial lake dotted with ancient human remains
- Sutol and Homkund – Sacred ritual halts
- Hemkund near Roopkund – Final offering site where the Goddess is symbolically bid farewell
The route is physically demanding and often compared to the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra due to its extreme altitudes and unpredictable weather conditions.
A Cultural Celebration
Beyond spirituality, the Raj Jat Yatra is a festival of community, identity, and culture. Local villagers offer hospitality to pilgrims, showcasing folk dances, traditional attire, and regional cuisine. The journey transforms into a moving festival where devotion and cultural pride go hand in hand.
🛕 Travel Guide for Shri Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra 2026
Planning to join this once-in-a-lifetime pilgrimage? Here’s what you need to know:
📍 How to Reach the Starting Point
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (approx. 220 km from Nauti village).
- By Train: The nearest railhead is Rishikesh or Haridwar, well connected to Delhi and other major cities.
- By Road: Nauti village in Chamoli district is connected by road from Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Dehradun.
📅 Best Time to Visit
- The yatra starts on Nanda Ashtami 2026 (September).
- Weather during this time is chilly in higher altitudes, with occasional rain and snow.
🎒 What to Carry
- Warm clothes, thermals, gloves, woollen caps, and rain gear
- Comfortable trekking shoes with good grip
- Sleeping bag and lightweight camping essentials
- Water bottles, dry fruits, and energy snacks
- First aid kit, prescribed medicines, and altitude sickness tablets
- Torch/flashlight and power banks
- Identity card and government-issued permits (if required)
⚠️ Health & Safety Tips
- Prepare physically with long walks and cardio exercises before the yatra.
- Get a medical check-up before joining the pilgrimage.
- Stay hydrated but avoid overeating during the trek.
- Respect the environment – avoid littering, use biodegradable items.
- Follow instructions from the yatra committee and security forces.
🏔 Experience Beyond Religion
Even if you are not joining for religious reasons, the Raj Jat Yatra offers:
- Breathtaking Himalayan landscapes
- Opportunities for trekking and adventure tourism
- Immersion in Garhwali and Kumaoni culture
- A rare chance to witness one of the world’s longest and toughest processions
Looking Ahead – The 2026 Yatra
With CM Pushkar Singh Dhami’s directive to complete preparations by December 2025, Uttarakhand is set to host a well-organised and safe yatra in 2026.
The Shri Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra is more than a religious event – it is a spiritual journey, a cultural festival, and an adventure of endurance. For devotees, it is an act of faith; for explorers, it is the ultimate Himalayan experience.
✨ Mark your calendars – September 2026! The Himalayan Kumbh awaits.
