Mount Nanda Ghunti

The Mt. Nanda Ghunti Expedition is a captivating journey into the heart of the Garhwal Himalayas, blending high-altitude adventure with natural beauty and spiritual resonance. Rising to 6,309 meters (20,699 feet), Nanda Ghunti is a prominent peak near the revered Nanda Devi Sanctuary, situated at the border of the Kumaon and Garhwal regions of Uttarakhand.

Known as the “Veil of Nanda Devi“, the mountain holds mythological importance, symbolizing the outer gateway that protects the sacred inner sanctum of Goddess Nanda Devi. For climbers and spiritual seekers alike, Nanda Ghunti offers a meaningful blend of technical challenge, cultural richness, and divine connection.

Expedition Overview

• Altitude: 6,309 meters (20,699 feet)

• Duration: 17 Days / 16 Nights

• Best Time to Climb: June, September, and October

• Cost: ₹1,80,000 INR (per person)

The journey starts from Lohajung, a remote mountain village in Uttarakhand. The route takes climbers through the scenic meadows of Didina and Bedni Bugyal, and then past Bhagwabasa toward Base Camp at around 4,500 meters. From there, climbers establish higher camps and begin the ascent via snow slopes, ice fields, and steep ridgelines.

Though Nanda Ghunti is slightly less technical than some neighboring peaks, it still requires strong physical fitness, glacier travel skills, and the ability to handle high-altitude conditions. It’s an ideal expedition for experienced trekkers looking to step into serious mountaineering territory.

Spiritual Significance

1. Nanda Ghunti – The Veil of the Goddess

The name Nanda Ghunti translates to “Veil of Nanda Devi.” In local mythology, it is said that this mountain serves as a protective screen or gateway into the sacred lands of Nanda Devi, one of the most revered goddesses in the Himalayan tradition and a guardian of the region’s harmony.

The mountain is believed to be sacred, and locals in the Chamoli and Kumaon regions offer prayers to Goddess Nanda Devi before venturing into her domain. The expedition route itself is often walked with reverence, and rituals are performed along the way.

2. A Sacred Pilgrimage Route

The trail leading to Nanda Ghunti overlaps with sections of the Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra, a famous Himalayan pilgrimage that takes place once every 12 years. This journey honors the goddess and passes through the very valleys and meadows that climbers cross, adding a rich layer of cultural and spiritual depth to the expedition.

3. Sacred Landscapes of Bedni and Roopkund

En route to the mountain, climbers pass through Bedni Bugyal, one of the largest and most beautiful alpine meadows in India, and Roopkund Lake, the mysterious high-altitude glacial lake known for its ancient skeletal remains. These locations are considered spiritually potent, believed to be touched by divine forces.

With every step through these meadows and ridges, the climber not only ascends in altitude but also descends deeper into a landscape of legend and lore.

4. Spiritual Solitude and Inner Reflection

The high-altitude wilderness surrounding Nanda Ghunti, the soft silence of snow-covered ridgelines, and the majestic views of nearby peaks like Trishul and Nanda Devi create a powerful spiritual atmosphere. Many climbers speak of experiencing a sense of humility, peace, and connection with the elements during this expedition.

The climb is not only a test of physical strength but also a journey into stillness, where every breath and heartbeat echoes with nature’s sacred rhythm.

Conclusion

The Mt. Nanda Ghunti Expedition is a perfect blend of moderate technical climbing, cultural richness, and sacred Himalayan beauty. For those seeking more than just a summit, this expedition offers a deeply immersive experience—where ancient legends, alpine adventure, and spiritual presence converge.

Whether you’re drawn by the thrill of the ascent or the desire to walk among gods and goddesses of the Garhwal range, Nanda Ghunti offers a rare Himalayan journey that touches both heart and soul.