The Nanda Devi Badi Jat Yatra of Maa Nanda Devi Rajrajeshwari has begun from Kurud in Chamoli. Amid the beats of dhol-damau, Maa Nanda’s doli set off towards Kailash. Notably, traditional rituals marked the start of the journey. Moreover, devotees in large numbers joined the procession.
About the 2026 Yatra
The pilgrimage will last nearly 26 days. Also, it will cover about 296 km. Along the way, it will pass through many villages and sacred stops. At each stop, devotees will hold prayers, rituals and jagars. Thus, the yatra unites communities across the hills.
Belief Behind the Nanda Devi Badi Jat Yatra
Goddess Nanda is seen as the daughter of the hills. According to belief, she lives with her parents in the hills. Then, the yatra sends her back to her husband, Lord Shiva, at Kailash. Hence, the farewell carries deep emotion for the people.
More Than a Journey
For devotees, the yatra is more than a pilgrimage. Instead, it is a tradition and a shared memory. Indeed, it expresses Kumaoni and Garhwali faith that links generations. Here, the Himalayas are not just a landscape. Rather, they are woven into people’s faith and culture.
Nanda Devi Raj Jat and Badi Jat
Uttarakhand has two major Nanda yatras. The Nanda Devi Raj Jat usually takes place once in about 12 years. Meanwhile, the Badi Jat from Kurud carries the goddess in her Rajrajeshwari form. Both journeys follow high Himalayan routes towards Homkund. Also, a sacred four-horned ram, the Chausingha Khadu, is central to the tradition.
Key Route Highlights
The route crosses the famous Ali-Bedni Bugyal meadows. Further up, it passes near Roopkund, the mysterious “Skeleton Lake”. Finally, the yatra reaches Homkund, the last major halt. Therefore, the route links culture, ecology and geography in one journey.
Nanda Devi Badi Jat Yatra 2026: Key Facts
- Deity: Maa Nanda Devi Rajrajeshwari
- Starting point: Kurud, Chamoli
- Length: About 296 km
- Duration: Nearly 26 days
- Rituals: Dhol-damau, jagars and doli yatra
Why the Nanda Devi Badi Jat Yatra Matters for UKPSC
Notably, Nanda Devi traditions are among the most asked culture topics in UKPSC. So, remember the starting point, length and key rituals. Also, revise the Chausingha Khadu and Homkund. Next, for a related story, read about the safety advisory for the Nanda Devi Badi Jat Yatra 2026. 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.