Nanda Devi National Park, located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, is one of India’s most beautiful and biodiverse regions. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the park is famous for its rugged mountains, alpine meadows, glaciers, and rare wildlife. It surrounds Nanda Devi Peak, India’s second-highest mountain at 7,817 meters (25,646 feet).
The park is part of the larger Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve, which includes the Valley of Flowers National Park. It is a haven for trekkers, nature lovers, and wildlife enthusiasts, offering a breathtaking Himalayan landscape and a chance to see rare species like the snow leopard, Himalayan black bear, and blue sheep.
In this guide, we will cover entry fees, trekking routes, best time to visit, how to reach the park, and essential travel tips to help you plan an unforgettable trip.
Overview of Nanda Devi National Park
- Location: Chamoli district, Uttarakhand, India
- Famous For: Himalayan wildlife, trekking, glaciers, high-altitude flora and fauna
- Total Area: 630.33 square kilometers
- Altitude Range: 2,500 meters to 7,817 meters
- Main Attractions: Nanda Devi Peak, Rishi Ganga River, rare wildlife, alpine meadows
- Best Time to Visit: May to October (ideal for trekking and wildlife spotting)
Nanda Devi National Park Entry Fee 2025
The entry fee for Nanda Devi National Park is different for Indian and foreign visitors.
Entry Fee Per Person
| Visitor Category | Entry Fee |
|---|---|
| Indian Visitors | ₹150 |
| Foreign Visitors | ₹600 |
| Students (With ID Card) | ₹50 |
Additional Charges for Trekking Permits & Camping
| Service | Charges |
|---|---|
| Trekking Permit (Indians) | ₹2,500 per group of five |
| Trekking Permit (Foreigners) | ₹5,000 per group of five |
| Camping Fee | ₹100 per person per night |
Important Notes:
- Private vehicles are not allowed inside the park. Visitors must trek to explore the region.
- A special permit is required from the Forest Department to enter the core area.
- Only a limited number of tourists are allowed per season to protect the fragile ecosystem.
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Nanda Devi National Park Safari & Trekking Routes
Since Nanda Devi National Park is a protected area, there are no jeep safaris inside the park. The only way to explore the park is by trekking, and it requires proper planning and permits.
1. Joshimath to Lata Village (Starting Point for Treks)
- Distance: 25 km from Joshimath
- Mode of Transport: Jeep or private taxi
- Time Required: 1 to 1.5 hours
2. Lata Village to Lata Kharak Trek
- Distance: 9 km
- Trek Duration: 6-8 hours
- Altitude: 3,600 meters
- Best For: Acclimatization and first campsite
3. Lata Kharak to Dharansi Pass Trek
- Distance: 10 km
- Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
- Altitude: 4,250 meters
- Highlights: Stunning views of Nanda Devi Peak
4. Dharansi Pass to Debrugheta Trek (Optional)
- Distance: 8 km
- Trek Duration: 4-5 hours
- Highlights: Close-up view of the Rishi Ganga gorge
5. Return to Lata Village & Joshimath
The return journey follows the same route back to Joshimath.
Best Time to Visit Nanda Devi National Park
The park is open only from May to October because of harsh winter conditions.
1. Summer (May to June) – Best for Trekking
- Why Visit? Clear skies, pleasant weather, and the best time for trekking.
- Temperature: 5°C to 20°C.
2. Monsoon (July to September) – Best for Greenery & Flowers
- Why Visit? The landscape is lush green, and nearby Valley of Flowers blooms beautifully.
- Why Avoid? Trekking becomes challenging due to landslides and slippery trails.
- Temperature: 10°C to 18°C.
3. Autumn (September to October) – Best for Views & Wildlife
- Why Visit? Crisp mountain views, clear weather, and excellent time for photography.
- Temperature: 0°C to 15°C.
4. Winter (November to April) – Closed Due to Heavy Snowfall
The park remains closed due to extreme cold and snow-covered trails.
How to Reach Nanda Devi National Park
Nanda Devi National Park is located in a remote Himalayan region, and reaching it requires multiple modes of transport.
1. By Air (Nearest Airport to Nanda Devi National Park)
The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, located 270 kilometers away.
- From the airport, take a taxi to Joshimath (takes about 9-10 hours).
2. By Train (Nearest Railway Station to Nanda Devi National Park)
The nearest railway station is Haridwar Junction, about 280 kilometers from Joshimath.
- From Haridwar, take a bus or taxi to Joshimath (takes 8-9 hours).
3. By Road (Best Option for Most Travelers)
Joshimath is the nearest town with road connectivity.
- From Delhi: 500 km (takes 12-14 hours by bus or taxi).
- From Haridwar/Rishikesh: 280 km (takes 9-10 hours).
From Joshimath, visitors must hire a local jeep or trek to Lata Village, which is the starting point of the trek.
Essential Travel Tips for Nanda Devi National Park
- Book Permits in Advance as entry is restricted to a limited number of visitors.
- Start Trekking Early in the Morning to avoid harsh afternoon weather.
- Wear Proper Trekking Gear including warm clothing, sturdy shoes, and rain protection.
- Carry Enough Water and Snacks as there are no shops inside the park.
- Hire a Local Guide or Porter for safety and navigation.
- Be Physically Fit as trekking at high altitude requires stamina and acclimatization.
- Respect the Environment by not littering and following eco-friendly practices.
Other Attractions Near Nanda Devi National Park
1. Valley of Flowers National Park (25 km)
A UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its colorful alpine flowers and rare Himalayan species.
2. Auli (50 km)
A popular skiing destination with breathtaking views of the Nanda Devi range.
3. Badrinath Temple (60 km)
One of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites, dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
4. Tapovan (35 km)
A scenic meadow known for its hot springs and trekking routes.
Final Thoughts
Nanda Devi National Park is one of India’s most pristine and breathtaking natural reserves. With majestic peaks, rare wildlife, and untouched landscapes, it is an ideal destination for trekkers, nature lovers, and adventure seekers.
Plan your visit between May and October, obtain the necessary permits, and be prepared for an exciting journey into the Himalayas. Whether you are interested in trekking, photography, or simply enjoying the beauty of nature, Nanda Devi National Park offers an unforgettable experience.
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