Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra

The Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra is one of the most significant and sacred pilgrimages in Uttarakhand, celebrated only once every 12 years. Dedicated to Goddess Nanda Devi, the yatra is a unique blend of devotion, culture, and endurance. Pilgrims undertake a nearly 280 km long journey on foot, starting from Nauti village near Karanprayag and culminating at Homkund, a glacial lake near Roopkund at an altitude of around 5,000 meters.

This pilgrimage symbolizes the farewell of Goddess Nanda (considered as the daughter of the Kumaon-Garhwal region and consort of Lord Shiva) to her in-laws at Mount Kailash. Carried out with great reverence, the procession includes priests, devotees, locals, and tourists walking together through remote villages, alpine meadows, riversides, and high mountain passes.

The journey usually lasts 20–22 days and passes through places like Roopkund, Bedni Bugyal, Lata, Sutol, Wan, and Homkund, where rituals, folk performances, and local traditions bring alive the cultural richness of the Himalayas.