Maa Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra 2026 – A Sacred Himalayan Pilgrimage

            Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra is one of the biggest religious yatras in Uttarakhand, also known as the Himalayan Kumbh. It is held once every 12 years, attracting thousands of devotees, sages, and tourists from across India. This grand pilgrimage is dedicated to Maa Nanda Devi, the goddess of Uttarakhand and the presiding deity of the Kumaon and Garhwal regions.

The next Maa Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra 2026 is expected to begin in August or September. The exact yatra dates will be announced by the local authorities and temple committees.

Why is Maa Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra Organized?

This yatra is deeply rooted in faith, history, and tradition. According to legends, Maa Nanda Devi is the daughter of the Himalayas and is considered the Isht Devi (family deity) of the Chand dynasty of Kumaon. The yatra symbolizes her return to her husband, Lord Shiva, in the Nanda Devi peak region after visiting her maternal home.

It is said that in ancient times, the Katyuri kings of Uttarakhand started this pilgrimage to honor the goddess. Over time, local communities, sages, and devotees from all over India and Nepal started participating in this sacred journey

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Story Behind Roopkund – The Mysterious Skeleton Lake

One of the most fascinating places on the Maa Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra route is Roopkund, a high-altitude glacial lake located at 16,500 feet. This lake is famous for hundreds of human skeletons found at its bottom, making it one of the biggest mysteries of the Himalayas.

Legend Behind Roopkund

According to local folklore, King Jasdhaval of Kannauj was traveling to Nanda Devi shrine with his queen, servants, and dancers. The group disrespected the sacred land by singing and dancing, angering the goddess. As a result, a massive hailstorm struck, killing the entire group. Their skeletons remain preserved in Roopkund Lake to this day.

Scientists have also studied these skeletons and found that they belong to different periods, some as old as 1200 years. However, the exact reason for their presence remains a mystery.

Cho Singya Khadu – The Four-Horned Sheep

One of the most unique and sacred aspects of the Maa Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra is the presence of the Cho Singya Khadu, a four-horned ram that leads the pilgrimage.

Why is Cho Singya Khadu Important?

The fA our-horned ram is considered a divine messenger of Maa Nanda Devi. According to tradition, this rare sheep appears on its own before the yatra begins. It is believed that the goddess herself rides this ram to reach her final destination, Homkund.

As the yatra progresses, this sacred ram walks ahead of the devotees without any guidance. At the end of the journey, it is released into the Himalayas, symbolizing Maa Nanda Devi’s spiritual journey home.

Route & Important Stops of Yatra

The Maa Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra route is one of the toughest treks in the Himalayas, covering approximately 280 km over 19 days. The pilgrimage starts from Nauti village (Chamoli district) and passes through several high-altitude Himalayan villages, sacred rivers, and remote valleys before reaching Homkund, the final destination.

Major Stops Along the Route

1. Nauti Village – The starting point of the yatra.

2. Ida Badhani – Where the symbolic four-horned sheep (Cho Singya Khadu) is worshipped.

3. Waan Village – Known for its night halt and massive religious gathering.

4. Bedni Bugyal – A beautiful high-altitude meadow, offering breathtaking views of the Trishul and Nanda Ghunti peaks.

5. Roopkund – The mysterious skeleton lake, an important stop in the yatra.

6. Chandika Khal – A spiritually significant location.

7. Homkund – The final destination, where the four-horned sheep is sent off into the Himalayas, symbolizing Maa Nanda Devi’s journey.

Challenges & Preparations for the Yatra

The Maa Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra is not an easy pilgrimage. The route passes through dense forests, rivers, glaciers, and high mountain passes. Due to extreme weather conditions, proper preparation is necessary.

Things to Carry for the Yatra

Trekking shoes – A must for rough terrain.

Warm clothes & rain gear – Weather in the Himalayas is unpredictable.

Medicines & first aid – For altitude sickness and minor injuries.

Torch & power bank – Electricity is limited in remote areas.

Dry fruits & energy bars – For instant energy.

Walking stick – Helps in steep climbs.

Best Time & How to Register for Yatra

Since the yatra occurs once every 12 years, you must register in advance. The registration process for Maa Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra 2026 will likely start a few months before the event. Devotees can register through:

1. Uttarakhand Tourism Department’s official website

2. Local temple committees

3. Authorized travel agencies

Why You Should Join Maa Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra 2026?

Experience the biggest Himalayan religious yatra.

Witness the ancient traditions and rituals of Uttarakhand.

Trek through the most scenic Himalayan landscapes.

Feel the spiritual energy of this divine journey.

Be part of a 12-year-old grand event that very few people get to experience in their lifetime.

Conclusion

The Maa Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra 2026 is not just a pilgrimage; it is a once-in-a-lifetime spiritual adventure. It connects you with faith, nature, and tradition. If you love the Himalayas and spiritual journeys, this yatra is a must-do. Start your preparations now and get ready for this divine Himalayan experience!

–मोहित बंगारी 

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