Uttarakhand's Nanda Devi Raj Jat Pilgrimage Starts September 5

The Nanda Devi Raj Jat, a massive and sacred 280-kilometre Himalayan pilgrimage and cultural festival, is set to commence on September 5, 2026, in Uttarakhand. This iconic pilgrimage, held once every 12 years, is often referred to as the Himalayan Mahakumbh.

The sacred yatra will run until September 30 and will cover a total of 26 stops. The palanquin of Goddess Nanda Devi will begin its journey from Nandadham Kurud and reach its first stop, Charbang village.

The pilgrimage is dedicated to Goddess Nanda Devi, the presiding deity of Uttarakhand and believed to be an incarnation of Goddess Parvati. It symbolises the ceremonial farewell of the goddess from her maternal home to her husband, Lord Shiva's abode in the Himalayas.

Committee officials have announced that Nanda Devi Jat is the biggest religious event of Uttarakhand's faith, culture, and folk traditions. Thousands of devotees, saints, and trekkers from across the country are expected to attend the pilgrimage.

The Badi Jat Yatra, or Raj Jat Yatra, will have the palanquin of Goddess Nanda Devi passing through various traditional stops, including Van, the village of her brother-in-law, on September 16. On September 20, 2026, the Badi Nanda Jat will proceed from Shila Samudra, its final stop, to Homkund, where, with proper religious rituals, Mother Nanda Devi will be bid farewell to Kailash.

Following this, devotees will return to Jamun Dali, as per tradition. The Nanda Devi Raj Jat Samiti, Nauti, has also announced that the Nanda Raj Jat Yatra, or Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra, will be held in 2027.

The Nanda Devi Raj Jat is a significant event in Uttarakhand's cultural calendar, attracting thousands of people from across the country. The pilgrimage is a testament to the state's rich cultural heritage and its strong faith in the divine.

The successful organisation of the pilgrimage is a result of the efforts of the Yatra Committee, which has been working tirelessly to ensure that the event is conducted smoothly and safely.

In conclusion, the Nanda Devi Raj Jat pilgrimage is a significant event that showcases Uttarakhand's rich cultural heritage and its strong faith in the divine. The pilgrimage is expected to attract thousands of devotees, saints, and trekkers from across the country, making it a truly unique and memorable experience.