Within the entire park periphery located above 3500 metres above the mean sea level, Nanda Devi National Park offers exquisite views of the Himalayan range. A visit to the national park could turn out to be the trip of the lifetime for you.

The backdrop of Nanda Devi peak forms a perfect backdrop for Nanda Devi National Park which is located in close vicinity of this peak. The park was established in state of Uttarakhand in 1982. The national park was declared as a World Heritage Site in 1988 by UNESCO.

A special fact associated with this national park is that the entire periphery of the park is located above an altitude of 3,500 metres. Nanda Devi national park is spread through an area of 630.33 square km.

History

An attempt to explore the sanctuary area was made for the first time in 1883 by W.W Graham. However, the explorer could reach out till only Rishi Ganga. Further attempts were also made in 1870 by T.G. Longstaff and in 1926, 1927 and 1932 by Hugh Ruttledge. However these expeditions also could not bring out much. It was in 1934 that H.W Tilman and Eric Shipton were able to enter till inner reaches through the Rishi Ganga area. The entire area was thereafter declared a game sanctuary in 1939.

Geography

The sanctuary area can be divided into inner and outer region. High and continuous ridges are noted on the north, east and southern sides of the national park. Two major glaciers, the Uttari Rishi glacier and Dakshni Rishi glaciers are found in the inner sanctuary area. The inner and outer sanctuary area within the national park is separated by high ridges and Rishi Ganga acts as a boundary between the two areas of the national park. The national park lies between Longitude 79.50 E and Latitude 30.25 N.

Climate

The temperate is soothing during the summer months when the park opens up to tourists and visitors. During winters, the temperatures can fall beneath the 0 degree mark. Monsoons are extreme in the area and prior information must be sought in case you plan to visit the park during monsoons.

Flora & Fauna

Flora

The national park has a rich biodiversity of floral species. Around 312 floral species are found in the park area which also includes 17 species of rare and endemic plants. The main floral species in the park area include Fir, Birch, Juniper and Rhododendron.

Fauna

Animals as Himalayan musk deer, Himalayan tahr and Mainland serow are also found in the boundary area of national park. Snow leopard, Brown bear and Himalayan black bear is also found in the sanctuary area. A total number of 114 bird species have also been recorded in the park area.

Safaris

The entire park area is located above 3500 metres above the mean sea level. This makes any kind of safari expedition impossible in the park. Trekking is the only option in Nanda Devi National Park and it requires earnest efforts on part of the trekkers to climb up to such altitudes.

Attractions

A visit to Nanda Devi National Park is a treat in itself. You come in close quarters with nature and are virtually on top of the Himalayan range which in itself could be a lifetime experience. A visit to the national park also provides one the opportunity to study behaviour of some of the rare animals which you will not find anywhere else. However, it is only a chance encounter and it is not guaranteed that you could come face to face with any of these animals including the elusive snow leopard.

Charges

AN entry fees of Rs 40/- is charged from Indian nationals which is applicable for 3 days. Foreign nationals have to pay Rs 150/- for the similar duration. An additional fees of Rs 25/- and Rs 150/- is applicable on daily basis after this duration. Expect to shell out Rs 100/- for a professional camera if you are a photography enthusiast.

Visitor Information

• The park is open from May to October only as extreme snowfall makes it impossible to venture in the park area during rest of the months.
• Only two groups of visitors having five members each are allowed in the park daily.
• Each group of tourists need to be accompanied by a registered guide.
• Children below the age of 14 are not allowed entry inside the park.
• The park can be visited from 4 am to 7 pm.

How to Reach

By Air

Dehradun airport located at a distance of 295 km from the national park is the nearest air link.

By Rail

Dehradun is the nearest rail link to the national park and taxis can be hired from the railway station for a comfortable ride to the national park.

By Road

Nanda Devi National Park lies on the road to Joshimath. The trekking point begins from Lata village which is located 25 km from Joshimath. Uttarakhand State road Transport Corporation buses can be hired from Dehradun till Joshimath. Private cab can be hired from Joshimath till Lata village which is the entry point for the national park.