Challenging
12 Days
3,900 m (12,795 ft)
12
109 Km
Munsiyari | Uttarakhand
May-Jun & Sep-Oct
Kathgodam
Nanda Devi Base Camp Trek is one of the iconic Himalayan expeditions in India — a journey that takes you to the doorsteps of stunning Nanda Devi (7,816 m), the second-highest peak in India and the center of the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve. Nestled deep in the Kumaon Himalayas of Pithoragarh district, Uttarakhand, this trekking provides an exclusive peek at one of India's most inaccessible and unspoiled mountain tracts.
The Nanda Devi trek is a walk through time, tradition, and raw nature. The trail was once part of an ancient Indo-Tibetan trade route, passing through ancient towns like Martoli and Ghanghar, traversing alpine meadows and birch-rhododendron woods before arriving at the Panchu Glacier, the real base of Nanda Devi East. Trek blends cultural heritage with Himalayan grandeur, every turn exposes you to snow-capped summits, raging rivers and wooden homes centuries old, rich with carvings.
Nanda Devi Base Camp trek is trail from Munsiyari, a serene Himalayan hamlet regarded as the “Gateway to Johar Valley,” for the base camp trek of Nanda Devi East trail along the Gori Ganga River, rising steadily through Dhap, Pungdeo, Bagudiyar, Rilkot, Ghanghar and Finishing at the breathtaking base of Nanda Devi East. From this point trekkers behold the spellbinding Nanda Devi East (7,434 m), and her twin Nanda Devi Main (7,816 m) beyond a curtain of glaciers — a sight that leaves even the most experienced mountaineers in awe.
Nanda Devi Base Camp is not a place but a feeling of calmness and loneliness, where you can get well connected with nature. The deep silence of the air is interrupted only by the roaring of water from frozen mountains and the murmuring of freezing gales. Adventure travellers, photographers and nature enthusiasts alike will enjoy this high altitude trek through beautiful but rugged identifying scenery of the Himalayas and plenty of opportunities to pause in unspoiled scenes where time really seems to have stood still.
The Nanda Devi trek route is generally around 12 days long, and its distance is approximately 109 km with some moderate to steep ascents. It’s graded as tough, requiring a reasonable standard of fitness, stamina and mental tenacity. But all its hardships bring unparalleled scenery — dazzling wildflower fields, hanging glaciers, ancient shrines, and surreal sunsets behind the Panchachuli range.
What really separates this trek is its ability to take you to the heart of the culture. The villages along the trail still retain the identity of the Johari community, which used to trade with Tibet. Their wood houses, carved balconies, and traditional ways of life, are testament to a Himalayan existence that has not been overrun by modern chaos. You have a living museum of Himalayan resilience and simplicity right in front of you when you travel through these tiny hamlets.
If you are after real Himalayan adventure, then the Nanda Devi Base Camp trek is just the right high-altitude trekking tour for you with a great infusion of nature, high- altitude trekking and cultural immersion. It is a demanding and strenuous trek, but one that is extremely fulfilling as it opens one into the spiritual soul of one of India’s holiest and best-kept secret mountain regions — a land ruled by nature, where every single step in your journey draws you nearer to the divine mountain splendor of Nanda Devi, the “Bliss-Giving Goddess.
The Nanda Devi Base Camp Trek can be done throughout the year but the best time for the trekking is from May to June and also from September to October when the Himalayas are at their best viewing windows. These day are perfect for trekking because the weather is clear and mild with clear visibility of the mountains.
The summer warms up the valley. Bright wildflowers, rhododendrons in bloom and green paddocks scatter May and early June on the trail. This is the best time to do the Nanda Devi trek route when the scenery is multicolored and the soft light highlighting the snow capped peaks. Moderate warm day temperatures from 12°C to 18°C and cold nights from 0°C to 5°C.
Another magical period for the Nanda Devi trek is the post-monsoon season. The post monsoon season cleanses the skies which results in fresh air, yellow grasslands and clear mountain views. The woods turn brilliant shades of amber, orange, rust and create the most breathtaking autumn scene. The trails are dry, the weather is predictably stable.
During monsoon months (July–August) the trails become hazardous due to rain, leeches and slippery trails, so trekking is discouraged. Winter ( November–April) brings snow to most of the route, closing passes and isolating remote villages for much of the season. Therefore, these times are not feasible for trekking.
The best time for trekking is from May to June and also from September to October when the Himalayas are at their best viewing windows.
Nanda Devi Base Camp Trek is not just a trek in the Himalayas — it is a journey to the sacred sanctum sanctorum of the mountains. Every move further in every minute leads you deeper and deeper into the most beautiful wilderness of the Nanda Devi National Park (UNESCO World Heritage Site).
At the centre of this trek is Nanda Devi (7,816 m) - the “Bliss-Giving Goddess”. The people of Uttarakhand consider this peak sacred, and the region sees it as a divine guardian. The Nanda Devi Base Camp trek allows you that chance to come face to face with a mountain whose spiritual nature outweighs its sheer grandeur.
Very few treks have the cultural appeal as the Johar Valley, a busy Indo-Tibetan trade route in days gone by. As you travel through charming villages such as Martoli, Rilkot and Ghanghar, you’ll see centuries-old wooden houses, Buddhism, and the fierce warmth of the Johari people. This cultural beauty added soul to the adventure.
The trek allows you to enjoy the snow dusted peaks viz. Nanda Kot (6,861 m), Trishuli, Panchachuli and, of course Nanda Devi East. Each camp offer a new view of the Himalayas — from the lush green valleys of Pungdeo to the glacier covered terrain near the base camp.
This is demanding excursion is rated as a challenging grade trek. The trail covers 109 km in 12 days (steep ascents, high-altitude camps, long days of walking). What makes it special, however, is-that every challenge offers a feeling of achievement, and every trek leads to unspoiled vies of nature.
The Nanda Devi Base Camp trek is a journey into solitude, not bustling commercial trails. The woods, meadows and glaciers are podly untraminated. The twittering of mountain birds, the sway of the birch trees and the bubbling of icy streams have taken place of the soundscape of the world.
Nanda Devi Base Camp Trek is a challenging grade trek which is recommended for experienced hikers or those who are physically fit and mentally strong. This is no walk in the park in the Himalayas; it's a arduous trek where the sweat-equity pays off with jaw-dropping vistas of some of Kumaon's majestic peaks.
Traversing around 109 km in 12 days, the route of the Nanda Devi trek route entails steep climbs and descents, river crossings, moraines, and forest trails of narrow width. The trek starts at a height of about 1,800 meters in Munsiyari and leads to the Nanda Devi Base Camp situated at an altitude of 3,900 meters. Trekkers have to be ready for lengthy walking hours (6 - 8 hrs per day) and steep gradients.
The weather in the Himalayas can become unpredictable. Days in general are nice in May–June and September–October, but nights can get near to freezing cold. Trails often cross glacial streams, boulders, and exposed ridges — proper footwear, stamina, and balance are imperative.
Planning your Nanda Devi Base Camp Trek is no joke — from selecting the ideal season to managing logistics, fitness, and gear. As this trek lies in one of the most isolated areas of Kumaon, Uttarakhand, an elaborative strategy makes you well equipped for a safe, comfortable and satisfying trip.
You should plan the Nanda Devi trek for May–June and September–October periods. Don't go in monsoon (July–August) or winter (November–April).
The trek begins at Munsiyari.
As the Nanda Devi Base Camp trek route lies in sensitive border and ecological area, inner-line permits are required by all Indian and foreign nationals. These can be collected from the SDM office in Munsiyari.
Lodging Accommodation while trekking is usually in tents or basic homestays at villages such as Pungdeo, Rilkot, Martoli and Ghanghar. Anticipate nothing fancy, but nutritious — mostly local fare like dal, rice, roti and veggies.
Both physical stamina and mental willpower are what you need to have. Start preparing at least a month prior to the trek — do daily cardio, stairs climbing, and hiking.
Expect to pay around ₹ 30,000 – ₹ 40,000, based on your group size and inclusions. This normally comprises the cost of transport, food, accommodation, fees, and permits.
Packing Precipitation for Nanda Devi Base Camp Trek It is very much essential to pack well for Nanda Devi Base Camp trek if you want it to be a good experience. As this is a challenging trek high up in the remote Kumaon Himalayas, you'll have to balance warmth, protection and lightness. The point is to pack smart, not heavy.
Layering is the way to go.
Nanda Devi Base Camp Trek is a strenuous, high-altitude Himalayan trek which requires good stamina and physical endurance. Advance preparation not only makes you comfortable, but also ensures safety and good time during the trip. You don't need to be a sportsman — all you need is consistent, intelligent preparation.
You will be walking for 6–8 hours daily for 12 days; covering approximately 109 km, ascending as high as 3,900 m.
Begin Nanda Devi trek preparation one and half months prior to your departure. Prioritise cardiovascular and leg muscle strength training.
Constant uphill and downhill on Nanda Devi trek is tough. Try: Jog Or Brisk Walk, Cycling or swimming, Stair climbing (4–5 sets). You should be able to jog 5 km discomfort-free and get under 35 minutes easily before the trek starts.
Strong legs and a flexible body enable you to handle steep trails. Include: Squats, lunges and calf raises (3 sets x 15 reps each), Planks and core work, Stretching or yoga. Try to do these exercises 4–5 times a week.
The Nanda Devi Base Camp is at an altitude of almost 3,900 m. A steady pace and good hydration are most important. Mental toughness — being patient, positive and persistent — is as important as being physically fit.
If you can, go on brief day hikes over a couple of weekends with your backpack (6-8kg) to get a feel for trekking again. It conditions your muscles and get you accustomed to your gear.
The REwild India trekking adventure is meant to be so much more than hiking it’s about reconnecting with the mountains, with nature and with yourself. When you book with us for a Nanda Devi Base Camp trek, you are not just in for a tough Himalayan expedition; you are in for a journey of mindful travel that harmonizes adventure, sustainability, and the genuine charms of the local populace.
At REwild, we think every trek should give something back. Our Nanda Devi itinerary is designed so you can savor the authentic life of the Johar Valley without doing any harm. We practice environmentally responsible traveling and always honor the local traditions and sacred lands.
Our groups are intentionally small so you can get more personalized attention and have space to connect with nature. Smaller group allows to experience silence trails, minimal impact on the environment, more intimate with mountain.
Our expert team of mountain guides, porters and support staff will make your whole journey safe, well organized and comfortable. All our tackle – tents, sleeping bags and equipment – conform to stringent safety and hygiene standards. At high altitude, our team conducts regular health checks.
We collaborate with rural communities in Pithoragarh and Johar Valley; employing local guides, procuring food from local sources, and lodging in traditional homestays whenever we can. To share a cup of tea in a wooden Johari home is usually one of the most memorable moments of the entire trek.
You don’t trek the REwilding experience to race to the summit. It’s about decelerating — watching Nanda Devi East greet the sun, hearing the river whisper in the valley, and noticing the mountains change you. We want to help you find the wild inside yourself.
Nanda Devi Base Camp trek reads like an exciting adventure novel in the royal Johar Valley of Kumaon. Covering 12 days, explore the magnificent journey from the quaint hill town of Munsiyari to the divine base of Nanda Devi East (7,816 m). Stellar View of the brief outline for this exciting trek itinerary.
• Early morning drive from Kathgodam to
Munsiyari.
• Enjoy scenic views while course.
• Rest overnight in a cozy guesthouse.
• Drive to Dhap Bend and then trek through the
pine and oak forests to Pungdeo.
• A gradual acclimation begins on the first
day's hike.
• Overnight in tents amidst forest serenity.
• Steep early morning climb to Nainsingh
Top.
• Descend to Bagudiyar. The mighty Panchachuli
peaks start to appear.
• Night by the Gori Ganga River.
• Follow The Glacial River Through a Beautiful
Valley.
• Altitude the track gets more rugged.
• Stay one night in Rilkot village.
• Walk across open meadows with a superb view
of Martoli and other peaks around.
• Ghanghar is the beginning of route towards
nanda best east.
• Spend the night in a scenic meadow.
• Ascent through the birch trees and
rhododendron to the awe-inspiring Nanda Devi Base
Camp.
• Enjoy at leisure the giant Panchu Glacier and
Nanda Devi’s northern face.
• Make your way down to the ancient village of
Martoli.
• Visit old nanda devi Temple and roam around
in deserted homes that have beautiful wooden
carvings.
• The path snakes through alpine meadows with
views of Ralam Pass.
• Camp at Nahardevi surrounded by the tranquil
sound nature.
• Combination of descents and ascents with
wonderful Himalayan scenery.
• Cross Radgari Bridge and continue your trek
to Pungdeo for overnight stay.
• Short hike back to Dhap Bend, then drive to
Munsiyari.
• Celebrate your success with your team of
trekkers.
• After breakfast, drive back to Kathgodam.
• Your Nanda Devi trek ends officially here.
Begin a 12-day itinerary in one of India’s most stunning Himalayan corridors. Here is what each day of this unforgettable journey entails.
Commence your Himalayan expedition with a pre-dawn journey from Kathgodam—the Kumaon’s airport. Once you arrive in Munsiyari (2,200 m), you’ll head to your camp or a homestay. The evening sits you down with your trek leader and team for a briefing, followed by dinner beneath the stars.
After a delicious breakfast, head off from Dhap Bend to begin your trek. The first route turns right through oak and pine forests. The slow climb lets your body adjust to the altitude. Arrive at Pungdeo campsite by the afternoon.
Today’s trek will test out your endurance on a steep incline climb up to Nainsingh Top. After descending, a quiet stroll along the Gori Ganga River takes you to Bagudiyar, a charming camping spot cradled by forest.
The path follows the Gori Ganga River. As you terrain begins to roughen, the views of the Himalayan giants will blow you alway. By late afternoon you’ll reach Rilkot. Rest here for the night in cozy tents under a blanket of stars.
The ancient trade trail markers line the path between Rilkot and Ghanghar. You will be walking through extensive meadows. Ghanghar village is a novel with the traditional wooden houses.
This would be the most uplifting and sentimental day of the entire Nanda Devi trek. The ascent leads us through thick rhododendron and birch woods. You begin to see the Panchu Glacier. Then the enormous Nanda Devi East (7,816 m) discloses itself. Camping here for the night will stir your soul.
Begin your descent after breakfast to the historic village of Martoli. The yin and yang of the day’s trek falls somewhere in the sweet spot between descending and gentle ascending giving us a laid-back rhythm to absorb the charm of the valley.
Today’s trek is picturesque and contemplative. The path meanders through gentle slopes on meadows and ridges with panoramic views toward Ralam Pass. Reach at Nahardevi, a quiet place of camping amidst the silence of mountains.
Your trail descends to Radgari Bridge and ascends again to Nainsingh Top for one last magnificent view of the Himalayan range. Drop down to Pungdeo, where you will spend your last night on the trail.
Backtrack to Dhap Bend and take transport to Munsiyari. Celebrate your achievement of the Nanda Devi Base Camp trek with your team on your last night in the mountains.
Your trip ends with a full day’s drive back to Kathgodam. You don't go back just with pictures, you go back with a part of the Himalayas in your heart.
The Nanda Devi Base Camp is situated in The Johar Valley in the district of Pithoragarh, in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand. It sits at an elevation of about 3,900 metres.
The best time for the nanda devi trek is may–june(summer) and september–october (autumn).
It is a Tough trek intended for experienced trekkers who have already done trekking at high altitudes. It requires long hours of walking, steep climbing and sleeping in the wilderness.
The trek takes 12 days and is approximately 109 km long.
We stay in tents, in guesthouses, or in traditional homestays according to the area.
For the entire trek, we offer all freshly cooked wholesome vegetarian food.
Start regular cardio exercises such as jogging, climbing stairs and brisk walking a month before you are due. Leg and core strength also contributes.
Some must-haves are: Trekking shoes with good grip, Thermal layers and fleece jackets, Wind and waterproof shell, Trekking pants, gloves and woollen cap, Personal medication and toiletries, Hiking pole, headlamp, water container.
Yes, it’s all safe when done with a professional company like REwild India. Our skilled trek leaders take care of you. We take oxygen tanks, first-aid kits, and pulse oximeters.
The trail is not for the inexperienced walker. But if you have done medium treks like Kedarkantha or Dayara Bugyal and are physically trained, you can do it with due assistance.
The path starts at Munsiyari → Dhap Bend → Pungdeo → Bagudiyar → Rilkot → Ghanghar → Nanda Devi Base Camp and goes back through Martoli → Nahardevi → Pungdeo → Munsiyari.
REwild India we are all about sustainable soulful trekking. Our groups are small, the guides are local and our practices are eco-friendly!
