Nanda Devi National Park

Nanda Devi National Park, located in the northern state of Uttarakhand, India, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its stunning natural beauty, diverse flora and fauna, and unique ecological significance. Established in 1982, the park encompasses an area of approximately 630 square kilometers (240 square miles) and is part of the larger Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve.

The park is named after Nanda Devi, one of the tallest peaks in India and the second-highest mountain entirely in the country, revered as a sacred site in Hindu mythology. The park is characterized by its rugged terrain, deep valleys, high-altitude meadows, and snow-capped peaks, including Nanda Devi itself, which rises to an elevation of 7,816 meters (25,643 feet).

Nanda Devi National Park is renowned for its rich biodiversity and is home to a wide variety of plant and animal species, including rare and endangered ones. The park's vegetation ranges from alpine meadows and rhododendron forests to birch and juniper forests, providing habitat for numerous species of flora and fauna adapted to the harsh mountain environment.

One of the park's most iconic residents is the elusive snow leopard, a critically endangered species that roams the high-altitude regions of the Himalayas. Other notable wildlife include Himalayan black bears, musk deer, blue sheep, and a variety of bird species, including pheasants, eagles, and vultures.

Nanda Devi National Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, offering opportunities for trekking, mountaineering, camping, and wildlife watching. Popular trekking routes within the park include the Nanda Devi Inner Sanctuary trek and the Kuari Pass trek, which offer breathtaking views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks and pristine natural landscapes.

Due to its remote location and rugged terrain, access to Nanda Devi National Park is restricted, and visitors are required to obtain permits from the forest department or authorized tour operators. Conservation efforts are ongoing to protect the park's fragile ecosystem and preserve its natural beauty for future generations to enjoy.

This is the only park listed in Joshimath. You will find the exact location of Nanda Devi National Park on the map above.