The Nanda Devi Raj Jat, proposed for 2026, now moves to the next year. On 18 January 2026, the Shri Nanda Devi Raj Jat Committee announced the postponement in Karnaprayag. Later, it confirmed the Nanda Devi Raj Jat 2027 at Nauti on Vasant Panchami. Notably, the 280-km yatra last took place in 2014. So, aspirants must know the difference between the two journeys.
Why the Committee Postponed the Yatra
Committee president Dr Rakesh Kunwar and secretary Bhuvan Nautiyal announced the decision. They said repair work in the Himalayan stretch was still incomplete. Also, the yatra would reach the high Himalaya around 19–20 September. Heavy snowfall was likely by then. Nautiyal said the 2026 yatra “was a concern from a logistical perspective.” Meanwhile, Chamoli DM Gaurav Kumar said the administration stood fully prepared.
Announcement at Nauti on Vasant Panchami
On 23 January 2026, Rajkunwar Dr Rakesh Kunwar announced the 2027 date at the Nanda Devi temple in Nauti. Also, the Raj Chhantoli reached Nauti from Kansuwa, the Rajkunwars’ village. Bhuvan Nautiyal said the 2026 Raj Jat was only a proposal until the manauti ritual. In addition, the committee cited the extra lunar month (malmas). Next, it will issue the Dinpatta (schedule) on Vasant Panchami 2027.
Kurud’s Separate Badi Jat
At the same time, the Nanda temple committee at Kurud weighed a separate “Badi Jat”. Its president Sukhveer Rautela said the decision would follow the goddess’s direction.
Latest Update
On 5 September 2026, the Kurud Badi Jat began from Siddhapeeth Kurud. According to ETV Bharat, it continued beyond Bedni to Homkund. Also, read our reports on the Badi Jat start at Kurud and its route to Bedni Bugyal. However, the royal Raj Jat from Nauti stays fixed for 2027.
About the Nanda Devi Raj Jat
The Raj Jat is a Himalayan foot pilgrimage of about 280 km. Traditionally, it starts from Nauti near Karnaprayag and ends at Homkund. Also, a four-horned ram (chausingha khadu) leads the procession. People call it the “Himalayan Mahakumbh”, held about once in 12 years. By contrast, the yearly Lok Jat ends at Bedni.
Nanda Devi Raj Jat 2027: Key Facts for Revision
- Postponement announced: 18 January 2026, Karnaprayag
- 2027 date confirmed: 23 January 2026 (Vasant Panchami), Nauti
- Royal family village: Kansuwa (Rajkunwars)
- Last Raj Jat: 2014
- Route length: About 280 km, ending at Homkund
Why Nanda Devi Raj Jat 2027 Matters for UKPSC
Notably, the Raj Jat is core to Uttarakhand’s culture. So, remember Nauti, Kansuwa, Homkund and the 12-year cycle. Also, link the Raj Jat with the annual Lok Jat and the Kurud Badi Jat. 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.