The sacred Nanda Devi Badi Jat Yatra 2026 is moving through the high Himalayas. Often called the “Himalayan Mahakumbh”, it set out from the Kurud temple in Chamoli. Notably, thousands of devotees walk a tough trail of 280 to 296 km to Homkund. Moreover, a rare four-horned ram, the Chausingha Khadu, leads the way.
The Nanda Devi Badi Jat Yatra, held roughly once in 12 years, is led by the four-horned ram Chausingha Khadu from Kurud temple, Chamoli.
The Chausingha Khadu
The Chausingha Khadu is a four-horned ram. According to belief, it carries Goddess Nanda to her in-laws’ home at Kailash. In fact, devotees saw the khadu setting off alone towards Kailash. So, its journey forms the spiritual heart of the yatra.
A Pilgrimage Every 12 Years
The yatra takes place roughly once in 12 years. Also, devotees call it the “longest foot pilgrimage on Earth”. On the way, the doli of the goddess passes many villages and sacred stops. Consequently, the yatra becomes a shared memory for generations of hill people.
Roopkund: The Mysterious Skeleton Lake
Roopkund is one of the most famous stops near the route. It lies at about 5,029 metres in Chamoli district, near Bedni Bugyal. Interestingly, hundreds of ancient human skeletons lie around its icy waters. People call it the “Skeleton Lake” for this reason.
The skeletons came to light in 1942. Experts believe they are over 1,000 years old. Many studies suggest a sudden hailstorm killed these travellers. Meanwhile, the usual trek route runs Lohajung → Bedni Bugyal → Roopkund.
Ali-Bedni Bugyal: Asia’s Largest Alpine Meadow
Ali-Bedni Bugyal is often called Asia’s largest high-altitude alpine meadow. Actually, it has twin grasslands, Ali Bugyal and Bedni Bugyal. Bedni Bugyal sits at about 3,350 to 3,825 metres in Chamoli district. Furthermore, it offers grand views of Trishul and Nanda Ghunti peaks. Hence, it is a key halt for both pilgrims and trekkers.
Faith, Culture and the Himalayas
From green valleys to the glacial heights of Roopkund, the yatra crosses varied terrain. Above all, it reflects the faith of both Garhwal and Kumaon. Indeed, the Himalayas here are not just a landscape. Instead, they are deeply woven into the people’s culture.
Nanda Devi Badi Jat 2026: Key Facts
- Starting point: Kurud temple, Chamoli
- Destination: Homkund
- Length: About 280–296 km on foot
- Frequency: Roughly once in 12 years
- Leader of the yatra: Chausingha Khadu (four-horned ram)
- Key stops nearby: Ali-Bedni Bugyal and Roopkund
Why the Nanda Devi Badi Jat Matters for UKPSC
Notably, Nanda Devi traditions are a favourite UKPSC topic. So, remember the route, the khadu and the 12-year cycle. Also, revise Roopkund and Bedni Bugyal as geography facts. Next, for a related story, read about the start of the Nanda Devi Badi Jat Yatra 2026 from Kurud. For official updates, also visit the Chamoli district website. You can also download our free Uttarakhand Current Affairs magazine.
So, are you preparing for the UKPSC Upper PCS 2026 prelims? Then join our UKPSC 2026 Prelims Test Series for regular practice.