Nanda Devi East Base

Introduction: The Allure of Nanda Devi East

At 7,816 meters, Nanda Devi is India’s tallest mountain entirely within its borders, and has long been a symbol of mystery and majesty. When the government restricted entry to its inner sanctuary in the 1980s in order to save its delicate ecology, adventurers did not give up on their dream to see its beauty. That was when alternative trails like the Nanda Devi East Trek came into being.

This trek is not only about tough trails—it's a doorway to unexplored landscapes, abandoned villages, and experiences that bond you strongly with the Himalayas. Let's explore what makes this trek so memorable and how everyday goes in this remote corner of Uttarakhand's Kumaon region

Brief History: The Closed Sanctuary & A New Route

In the early 1980s the Government of India closed entry into the Nanda Devi sanctuary. For mountaineers, explorers and adventure lovers this was a body blow. Nanda Devi is India’s most iconic mountain as it is the highest mountain completely within India. 

The closest view of the peak, outside of the sanctuary, is offered while trekking virtually up to Milam Glacier and then moving towards the east peak along the Pachu Valley.  The plan for this trek started to develop in early 2016 and came to fruition in early October 2016.

What Makes the Nanda Devi Trek Special?

1. Views of the Forbidden Giant:
   Nanda Devi’s sanctuary may be off-limits, but the trek offers rare, unobstructed views of its twin peaks. Standing face-to-face with these snow-clad giants feels surreal.
2. The Rilkot Gorge – Nature’s Masterpiece:
   The vertical stone walls of Rilkot Gorge create a dramatic, almost otherworldly landscape. It’s a highlight that makes every step of the exhausting 40 km stretch worth it.
3. Ghost Villages of Martoli:
   Walking through Martoli’s abandoned stone houses, you’re transported to the 1960s when this village thrived as a trade hub with Tibet. Now, silence and stories linger in its ruins.
4. Meeting the ITBP:
   Interactions with the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) stationed in the valley add a unique layer to the trek. Their dedication and stories of guarding this remote border are inspiring.
5. Chaukori’s Golden Sunrise:
   Ending the trek with a night in Chaukori, where the sunrise paints Nanda Devi and Nanda Kot in golden hues, is pure magic.
   

My Day-to-Day Experience of the Nanda Devi Trek

Day 1-2: Arrival in Munsiyari
After a long drive from Delhi, Munsiyari felt like a hidden gem—a quiet town with crisp mountain air and warm locals. We spent a day soaking in the views of Panchachuli peaks and prepping for the trek.

Day 3: Lilam to Bogudiyar
The trek began gently, winding through pine forests and rocky trails. We crossed the Gori Ganga River multiple times, settling at Bogudiyar—a campsite by the roaring river.

Day 4: The Rilkot Gorge Challenge
The trail turned demanding as we entered the Rilkot Gorge. Sheer cliffs towered above us, and the narrow path tested our stamina. But the dramatic scenery kept our spirits high.

Day 5: Pachu Valley & Nanda Devi’s Close-Up
As we climbed toward Pachu Valley, Nanda Devi’s peaks emerged like giants. The weather stayed clear, giving us Instagram-worthy views of the twin summits.

Day 6: Martolli's Abandoned Charm
Descending to Martoli, we explored its eerie, empty houses. Lunch here felt like a meal in a forgotten world, with the wind whispering tales of its bustling past.

Day 7: ITBP Camps
We met ITBP jawans at their camps, sharing chai and stories. Clicking photos of the Indian flag against Nanda Devi’s backdrop was a proud, emotional moment.

Day 8-9: Return via Chaukori
Driving back, we stopped at Chaukori. Waking up to 180-degree views of Himalayan peaks, including Nanda Devi, was the perfect ending to this epic journey.

Experience Takeaway

The Nanda Devi East Trek isn’t just about miles covered or heights gained. It’s about walking through history, feeling small against nature’s grandeur, and discovering pockets of life in the wild. From the adrenaline of Rilkot to the peace of Chaukori, this trek leaves you humbled and inspired.

If you crave raw adventure, solitude, and a bond with the mountains, Nanda Devi East is calling. Lace up your boots, leave the crowds behind, and let the Himalayas tell you their stories.Explore More Trek and trips with Juniper.

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