Nanda Devi National Park

Nanda Devi National park is located in the Garhwal division of Uttarakhand. Established in 1982, Nanda Devi National Park along with the Valley of Flowers National Park is listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Unique high altitude species of the park have brought a status of? biosphere reserve to the park. Nanda Devi National Park is spread over an area of around 630.33 sq km. Nestled in the upper Himalayan ranges, the park is noted for being a paradise for nature admirers. Unspoiled beauty and the Hindu belief have added devotees and nature lovers to the list of park visitors. According to Hindu legend, Nanda Devi is a manifestation of Goddess Parvati, Lord Shiva's wife.

Tourist Attractions

Flora

This amazing park offers the glimpses of around 312 floral species to the visitors of the park. Out of these, 17 species are recognized as rare one. Due to unfavourable climate conditions in the inner part, there is almost no vegetation. Easily located species of the vegetation include Rhododendron, Birch, Fir and Juniper. In addition to these, juniper scrubs dominate the region. Grasses, lichens and prone mosses can also be seen easily.

Fauna

Nearly 80 animal species can be spotted in Nanda Devi National Park. Leopard, Snow Leopard, Himalayan Musk Deer, Goral, Himalayan Black Bear, Common Langur, Brown Bear,? Bharal, Himalayan Tahr and Serow are the few names of wild creatures that tourists can spot during their visit.

Avian species of the park are also amazing. Rose Finches, Grosbeaks, Ruby Throat and Warblers can be easily spotted in the park.

How to Reach Nanda Devi National park

The nearest airport is at Dehradun. Around 270 kms from Nanda Devi National Park, Jolly Grant Airport connects Dehradun with Delhi. For rail travellers, Rishikesh and Haridwar railway stations are the closed ones. These are located at a distance of around 276 km and 300 km respectively.? From there, tourists can hire private vehicle or can use state transport to reach Nanda Devi National Park.

Important Travel Information

Nanda Devi National Park is also a favourite place for trekkers. Explored by several trekkers, the trek routes of the park offer a new experience every time. Those who can not beat the cold climate, they can visit the park during the summers but if you are strong enough to fight the cold, months of October and November will be the best for you.

Rainee and Lata are the two nearby villages. These villages also deserve a visit. Rainee village is famous for being the launch pad of Chipko movement whereas Lata village is popular for its ancient temple that houses an idol of Nanda Devi.