Nanda Devi is the second highest mountain in India, located in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand. It is a popular destination for trekkers and nature lovers who want to experience its stunning natural beauty and challenging trails.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to reach Nanda Devi, covering transport options from major cities, step-by-step travel plans, practical tips, and what to expect upon arrival. Whether you are a first-time visitor or an experienced trekker, this article will prepare you well for your journey.

Getting from Major Cities to Nanda Devi – Main Options

Train

Train travel is a comfortable and scenic way to reach the nearest railway stations before continuing by road to Nanda Devi. It suits travelers who prefer a relaxed journey with good facilities.

• The closest major railway stations are Kathgodam and Rishikesh, connected to Delhi and other large cities by regular trains. Kathgodam is about 200 km from Nanda Devi base areas.

• From Kathgodam, you can hire taxis or take buses to reach towns like Joshimath or Munsiyari, which serve as gateways for Nanda Devi treks. Travel time from Kathgodam to Joshimath is around 8–10 hours by road.

• Train fares vary widely depending on class, from sleeper class costing around ₹300 to AC classes costing ₹800–₹1500. Booking through IRCTC is recommended, especially during peak trekking season.

• Trains can get crowded during summer and festival seasons, so booking early is essential. Also, monsoon rains can cause occasional delays on the route.

Bus

Buses are a budget-friendly and widely used option to reach the base towns near Nanda Devi. They offer frequent services but can be slower and less comfortable than trains or cars.

• Uttarakhand Transport Corporation (UTC) and private operators run buses from Delhi, Dehradun, and Rishikesh to Joshimath and Munsiyari, the main starting points for Nanda Devi treks.

• Bus journeys from Rishikesh to Joshimath take about 9–11 hours, covering roughly 280 km via NH7 and NH109. Fares typically range from ₹300 to ₹600 depending on the bus type.

• Buses can be crowded during peak season and festivals like Diwali or Navratri, so arriving early at bus stands is advisable to secure seats.

• Roads can be narrow and winding, especially in hilly stretches, so expect slower speeds and occasional delays during monsoon due to landslides.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving to Nanda Devi base areas offers flexibility and comfort, ideal for travelers who want to explore at their own pace and carry more luggage.

• The route from Delhi to Joshimath is about 500 km via NH9 and NH7, taking roughly 12–14 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

• From Dehradun, the drive is shorter, around 280 km, taking 8–10 hours. Roads are mostly well-maintained but can be narrow in mountainous sections.

• Toll plazas are present on national highways, so keep cash handy. Fuel stations are available in major towns but scarce on remote stretches, so plan refueling carefully.

• Driving during monsoon requires caution due to slippery roads and landslide risks. Winter months can bring fog and icy patches, so check weather forecasts before starting.

• Parking is limited at trailheads like Joshimath and Munsiyari, so arrange overnight stays in town or use local transport for the final approach.

Trekking Access

Reaching Nanda Devi’s inner sanctuary requires trekking from base camps, as motor vehicles are not allowed inside the national park. Trekking is the only way to experience the core area.

• The trek usually starts from places like Joshimath or Munsiyari, with routes ranging from 7 to 14 days depending on the trail chosen.

• Permits from the forest department are mandatory for entering Nanda Devi National Park. These can be obtained in Rishikesh or local forest offices.

• Trekking routes pass through remote villages and dense forests, so hiring local guides is recommended for safety and navigation.

• Accommodation options on the trek include camping and basic guesthouses in villages. Carry sufficient warm clothing and supplies as facilities are limited.

• Monsoon season (July–September) is not ideal for trekking due to heavy rains and slippery trails. The best trekking window is from May to June and September to October.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This plan is designed for first-time travelers heading to Nanda Devi, helping you organize your journey smoothly and avoid common pitfalls.

• Book your train tickets early via IRCTC to Kathgodam or Rishikesh, choosing a convenient class based on your budget and comfort needs.

• From the railway station, arrange a taxi or check bus schedules to reach Joshimath or Munsiyari. Pre-booking cabs through Ola or local operators can save time and hassle.

• Obtain the necessary trekking permits from the forest department well in advance, either online or at Rishikesh, to avoid delays at the park entry.

• Pack light but include essential trekking gear such as sturdy shoes, rainwear, and warm clothes. Carry water purification tablets or filters for safe drinking water on the trail.

• Hire a local guide at the base town to assist with navigation, safety, and cultural insights during your trek inside Nanda Devi National Park.

• Plan your return journey with some buffer days to accommodate weather delays or unexpected changes, especially during monsoon or winter seasons.

Practical Travel Tips

• Carry a copy of your ID and trekking permits at all times, as forest officials frequently check documents during the trek and at checkpoints.

• Drink only bottled or purified water to avoid waterborne illnesses common in hilly areas. Avoid street food unless it is freshly cooked and from trusted vendors.

• Book transportation and accommodation early during peak trekking seasons (May–June, September–October) to secure availability and better rates.

• Use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs like Ola and Uber where available for safer and transparent local travel, especially in towns like Rishikesh and Joshimath.

• Pack your luggage carefully to keep it light and manageable, as porters or mules may be needed for carrying heavy bags on trekking routes.

• Be prepared for sudden weather changes; carry rain gear and warm layers even if the forecast looks clear, as mountain weather can be unpredictable.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Nanda Devi is during the pre-monsoon and post-monsoon months when the weather is stable and the trails are clear. Avoid the monsoon season due to heavy rains and landslide risks.

Winter months bring snow and cold temperatures, which can make trekking difficult and dangerous for inexperienced travelers. Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather and clear views of the mountain.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Diwali and Navratri when roads and trains are crowded, and accommodation is limited.

• Monsoon months (July to September) often cause landslides and roadblocks, making travel risky and slow.

• Early morning departures are recommended to avoid traffic jams on narrow mountain roads and to reach base camps before dark.

• Winter fog can reduce visibility on roads and trails, so plan travel during daylight hours and check weather updates regularly.

Arrival at Nanda Devi & What to Expect

Upon reaching base towns like Joshimath or Munsiyari, you will find basic facilities including guesthouses, restaurants, and local transport options. These towns serve as hubs for trekkers heading into Nanda Devi National Park.

Local transport includes shared taxis, jeeps, and buses that can take you closer to trailheads. Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs are available in larger towns, offering safer and more reliable rides. It is advisable to confirm fares before starting your journey.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Nanda Devi combines train travel to Kathgodam or Rishikesh followed by road transport to Joshimath or Munsiyari. From there, trekking is the only option to enter the protected national park area.

Careful planning, early bookings, and awareness of seasonal conditions will help you have a safe and enjoyable journey. With the right preparation, you can confidently explore the breathtaking landscapes of Nanda Devi and create lasting memories.