Nanda Devi Base Camp Trek: A Journey to the Foot of India’s Second-Highest Peak
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About the Tour
The Nanda Devi Base Camp Trek is a thrilling and picturesque journey to the eastern base camp of Nanda Devi (7,816 meters), India’s second-highest peak. Located in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, this trek takes you through remote villages, alpine meadows, dense forests, and stunning views of the Himalayas.
The trek follows the route through the Nanda Devi East Glacier, offering spectacular views of Nanda Devi (7,816m), Nanda Kot (6,861m), Trishul (7,120m), and Panchachuli peaks. This trek is ideal for adventure seekers, photographers, and high-altitude trekking enthusiasts looking for an offbeat and less-traveled Himalayan experience.
Tour Description
- Region: Munsiyari, Uttarakhand
- Altitude: 4,200 meters (13,779 feet)
- Duration: 10-12 Days
- Trek Distance: 110 km (round trip)
- Difficulty Level: Moderate to Difficult
- Best Time to Visit:
- May to June & September to October (Best weather and clear views)
- Temperature:
- Day: 10°C to 18°C
- Night: -5°C to 5°C
- Start & End Point: Munsiyari
The trek is demanding but rewarding, offering some of the most stunning Himalayan landscapes and an up-close experience of the mighty Nanda Devi massif.
Tour Challenges
- Long trekking duration (10+ days).
- High-altitude terrain with steep ascents and descents.
- Basic accommodation and food facilities in remote areas.
- Weather can be unpredictable, with possible snowfall in early months.
Tour Facilities
- Experienced trek leaders and local guides.
- Porters and mules for luggage support.
- Camping in high-quality tents.
- First aid and emergency medical assistance.
- Nutritious vegetarian meals.
Tour Amenities
- Comfortable guesthouses and tents.
- Delicious vegetarian meals.
- Bonfire (depending on availability).
- Dedicated trek support team.
Who Can Participate?
- Age Limit: 15 years and above.
- Fitness Requirements:
- Ability to trek 10-15 km per day.
- Previous trekking experience recommended.
- Not suitable for individuals with severe asthma or heart conditions.
How to Reach Munsiyari?
- Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport – 335 km from Munsiyari.
- Nearest Railway Station: Kathgodam Railway Station – 280 km from Munsiyari.
- By Road: Regular buses and taxis operate from Haldwani, Kathgodam, Almora.
Key Highlights
- Close-up views of Nanda Devi Peak.
- Remote Himalayan villages and meadows.
- Rare wildlife sightings (Himalayan Musk Deer, Monal).
- A true wilderness experience in the Himalayas.
Join the Nanda Devi Base Camp Trek and explore the hidden beauty of the Himalayas!
Included/Exclude
Inclusions in the Tour Package
- Accommodation: Camps (Sharing Camp for two people), Home Stay.
- Guides & Support Staff: Qualified & experienced Trek Leader, Guide, and Support staff to assist trekkers.
- Sleeping Gear: Sleeping Bags.
- Meals: All meals during the trek (Breakfast, Packed Lunch, and Dinner – only vegetarian).
- Permits & Fees: Trekking Permits and Forest Fees.
- Trekking Equipment: Tent, Mattress, Sleeping Bag, Dining & Kitchen Tent, Toilet Tent, Cooking Utensils, and Crampons (if required).
- Medical Assistance: First aid medical kits and oxygen cylinder.
- Guide & Support Staff Expenses: Guide Allowances, Food, and Stay.
- Potters: Potters will carry only trekking equipment.
- Potter's Expenses: Allowances, Food, and Stay.
- Kitchen Staff: Included for cooking and meal preparation.
- Kitchen Staff Expenses: Allowances, Food, and Stay.
- Cook: Responsible for preparing meals.
- Cook's Expenses: Allowances, Food, and Stay.
- Transportation: As per the trek itinerary.
Exclusions in the Tour Package
- Any other facilities that are not mentioned in the inclusions.
- Potters for carrying your personal luggage.
- Extra meals like lunch during the journey by cab and stay at hotels (lunch is only provided during the trek).
- Personal expenses such as Water Bottles, Laundry, Phone Calls, etc.
- Insurance.
- Gaiters.
- Anything not specifically mentioned under "Inclusions."
Tour Amenities
Certified Trek Leader
Hassle-Free Permits
Warm Meals, Always
Itinerary
Overview
Drive Distance: 278 km (approx. 9-10 hours)
Altitude: 2,290 meters / 7,512 feet at Munsiyari
Detailed Plan
- Arrive at Kathgodam Railway Station in the morning.
- Meet the tour guide and drive through picturesque landscapes via Almora, Bageshwar, and Chaukori to reach Munsiyari.
- Check into a hotel for an overnight stay.
Overview
Trek Distance: 7 km (approx. 4-5 hours)
Altitude: 1,850 meters / 6,068 feet at Lilam
Detailed Plan
- Begin the trek from Munsiyari, descending to the Gori Ganga River at Jimighat.
- Continue the trek through mixed forests to reach Lilam village.
- Overnight stay in tents.
Overview
Trek Distance: 12 km (approx. 6-7 hours)
Altitude: 2,609 meters / 8,560 feet at Bugdiyar
Detailed Plan
- Trek through dense forests of conifer and bamboo.
- Cross several waterfalls and natural tunnels.
- Arrive at Bugdiyar for an overnight stay in tents.
Overview
Trek Distance: 12 km (approx. 5-6 hours)
Altitude: 3,130 meters / 10,270 feet at Rilkot
Detailed Plan
- Follow the trail alongside the Gori Ganga River through narrow gorges.
- Steady climb up to Rilkot.
- Overnight stay in tents.
Overview
Trek Distance: 13 km (approx. 5-6 hours)
Altitude: 3,300 meters / 10,827 feet at Ghanghar
Detailed Plan
- Ascend to the village of Martoli, offering views of Nanda Devi East.
- Continue to Ghanghar village.
- Overnight stay in tents.
Overview
Activities: Rest and Exploration
Detailed Plan
- Spend the day acclimatizing to the altitude.
- Explore Ghanghar village and its surroundings.
- Overnight stay in tents.
Overview
Trek Distance: 7 km (approx. 4-5 hours)
Altitude: 4,000 meters / 13,123 feet at Pachu Glacier
Detailed Plan
- Trek through alpine meadows with panoramic views.
- Arrive at Pachu Glacier, the base camp for Nanda Devi East.
- Overnight stay in tents.
Overview
Activities: Exploration and Photography
Detailed Plan
- Spend the day exploring the base camp area.
- Enjoy close-up views of Nanda Devi East and surrounding peaks.
- Overnight stay in tents.
Overview
Trek Distance: 15 km (approx. 6-7 hours)
Altitude: 3,430 meters / 11,253 feet at Martoli
Detailed Plan
- Begin the descent from Pachu Glacier.
- Retrace the route back through Ghanghar to reach Martoli.
- Overnight stay in tents.
Overview
Trek Distance: 18 km (approx. 7-8 hours)
Altitude: 2,609 meters / 8,560 feet at Bugdiyar
Detailed Plan
- Continue descending along the Gori Ganga River.
- Pass through Rilkot before reaching Bugdiyar.
- Overnight stay in tents.
Overview
Trek Distance: 12 km (approx. 5-6 hours)
Drive Distance: 12 km (approx. 1 hour)
Detailed Plan
- Descend further from Bugdiyar to Lilam.
- Board a vehicle and drive back to Munsiyari.
- Check into a hotel for a comfortable night’s stay.
Overview
Drive Distance: 278 km (approx. 9-10 hours)
Detailed Plan
- Early morning departure from Munsiyari.
- Enjoy scenic mountain views during the drive.
- Arrive at Kathgodam by evening.
- End of the Nanda Devi Base Camp Trek.
Important Notes
- Best Time to Visit: The trek is best undertaken between May to June and September to October.
- Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging – suitable for experienced trekkers.
- Weather Conditions: Daytime temperatures range from 5°C to 20°C, while nights can drop to -5°C at higher camps.
- Altitude Considerations: Proper acclimatization is necessary to avoid altitude sickness.
- Permits and Documentation: Indian trekkers need an Inner Line Permit, and foreign trekkers require special permission from authorities.
- Eco-Friendly Trekking: Follow Leave No Trace principles – respect nature and avoid littering.
- Essential Gear: High-quality trekking shoes, warm layers, waterproof clothing, gloves, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle.
- Network Connectivity: Mobile network is available in Munsiyari but limited beyond Lilam.
