Nanda Devi National Park, also known as the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve, is a pristine natural wonder situated in the Chamoli Garhwal district of Uttarakhand, India. Established in 1982, this national park surrounds the majestic Nanda Devi Peak (7,816 m) and is one of the most significant protected areas in the Himalayan region. Due to its rich biodiversity and ecological significance, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988 and later expanded in 2005 to include the Valley of Flowers National Park.
Nanda Devi National Park Geographical Significance
The entire Nanda Devi National Park is located at an elevation of over 3,500 meters (11,500 feet) above sea level. It encompasses the Nanda Devi Sanctuary, a glacial basin enclosed by towering peaks ranging from 6,000 meters (19,700 ft) to 7,500 meters (24,600 ft). The Rishi Ganga River flows through this sanctuary, creating the spectacular Rishi Ganga Gorge, an almost impenetrable mountain passage.
Biosphere Reserve and Buffer Zone
The Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve covers an area of 2,236.74 km² (863.61 sq mi), and is further surrounded by a buffer zone of 5,148.57 km² (1,987.87 sq mi). This extended area supports a diverse ecosystem, making it an important site for conservation and research.
Mana Pass: The Ultimate Guide to One of the Highest Motorable Passes in the World
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to explore Nanda Devi National Park is from May to October, when the weather is favorable, and the flora is in full bloom.
History and Exploration
The first documented attempt to explore the Nanda Devi Sanctuary was made in 1883 by W.W. Graham. However, it was only in 1934 that Eric Shipton and H.W. Tilman successfully navigated the Rishi Ganga Gorge to enter the inner sanctuary. Following their expedition, the area was declared a game sanctuary in 1939. Later, it was upgraded to a national park in 1982 to protect its unique biodiversity.
Chaukhamba: The Majestic Mountain Massif of the Garhwal Himalayas
2021 Glacial Outburst Flood
On February 7, 2021, a catastrophic glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) occurred in the Rishi Ganga valley, causing widespread destruction. The disaster was linked to a landslide or avalanche from the Nanda Devi glacier, highlighting the fragility of the region's ecosystem due to climate change.
Flora and Fauna
Flora
The park is home to over 312 floral species, including 17 rare species. The dominant plant species include:
- Fir, Birch, Rhododendron, and Juniper
- Mosses and Lichens
- Alpine and Subalpine Vegetation
Vegetation is scarce in the inner sanctuary due to harsh climatic conditions, especially near the Nanda Devi Glacier.
Fauna
Nanda Devi National Park hosts a variety of rare and endangered wildlife species. Some of the notable ones include:
- Himalayan Musk Deer
- Himalayan Tahr
- Mainland Serow
- Snow Leopard (Apex Predator)
- Himalayan Black Bear
- Himalayan Brown Bear (Possibly present)
- Langurs (Common primates in the park)
Over 114 bird species have been recorded, making it a paradise for bird watchers and researchers.
Mount Satopanth: A Legendary Himalayan Peak in Uttarakhand
Major Peaks in Nanda Devi National Park
The park features numerous towering peaks, including:
Inside the Sanctuary
- Nanda Devi - 7,816 m (25,643 ft)
- Devistan I & II - 6,678 m (21,909 ft) & 6,529 m (21,421 ft)
- Rishi Kot - 6,236 m (20,459 ft)
On the Sanctuary Wall
- Trisul I, II, III - 7,120 m (23,360 ft), 6,690 m (21,949 ft), 6,008 m (19,711 ft)
- Dunagiri - 7,066 m (23,182 ft)
- Changabang - 6,864 m (22,520 ft)
- Sunanda Devi (Nanda Ghunti) - 7,434 m (24,390 ft)
- Maiktoli - 6,803 m (22,320 ft)
Just Outside the Sanctuary Wall
- Hardeol - 7,151 m (23,461 ft)
- Trishuli - 7,074 m (23,209 ft)
- Nanda Kot - 6,861 m (22,510 ft)
Secret Nuclear-Powered Spying Device Incident
During the Cold War, the CIA and India's Intelligence Bureau collaborated to install a nuclear-powered listening device on Nanda Devi to monitor Chinese missile tests. However, due to extreme weather, the mission was abandoned, and the device, powered by plutonium, was lost in the glaciers. The missing nuclear device remains a mystery, and concerns over its environmental impact persist even today.
Nanda Devi National Park is not just a trekking and adventure destination but also a biodiversity hotspot with significant historical and geopolitical importance. Whether you're a nature lover, mountaineer, wildlife enthusiast, or history buff, a visit to this UNESCO World Heritage Site is an unforgettable experience.
Chorabari Glacier & Gandhi Sarovar: A Guide to the Sacred Himalayan Glacier
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Where is Nanda Devi National Park located?
It is located in Chamoli Garhwal district, Uttarakhand, India.
2. What is the best time to visit Nanda Devi National Park?
The best time to visit is May to October.
3. Why is Nanda Devi National Park famous?
It is famous for its rich biodiversity, scenic landscapes, and UNESCO World Heritage status.
4. Is Nanda Devi National Park open to tourists?
Yes, but entry is restricted, and special permission is required for trekking and research activities.
5. What animals can be found in Nanda Devi National Park?
Notable species include the snow leopard, Himalayan musk deer, Himalayan black bear, and Himalayan tahr.
Also Read - Devaria Tal : One of the Beautiful Lake in Rudraprayag
If you liked this post related to films, then please share it on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram or | Youtube