Nanda Devi Base Camp

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Uttarakhand
11N/12D

Trek Grade

Moderate to Difficult

Highest Altitude

13780 ft

Base Camp

Munsyari

Best Time

May, June & Sept, Oct

Nanda Devi Base Camp

Nanda Devi Peak falls in Uttarakhand’s three districts: Pithoragarh, Chamoli, and Bageshwar. This is the second-highest peak in India after Kangchenjunga and the 23rd-highest worldwide. The trek would be to Nanda Devi Base Camp at 13,780 feet. The trek is a difficult level trek, requiring prior trekking experience. This trek is in Nanda Devi National Park, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. On this trek, you will also see many massive Himalayan peaks like Nanda Devi Peak. This trek would give you a glimpse of the life lived by the Himalayan people at such an altitude with limited resources. The peaks also visible on this trek are Nanda Kot, Mount Chnaguch, Sahalang Dhura, Nanda Bhanar, and Nanda Lapak, with many other mountains. On this trek, you will stay at locations like Ghangharia, Martoli, Bogudiar, Rargari, Raikot, Munsiyari, and Pachu Glacier, which provide scenic views and a fantastic experience.

Nanda Devi Base Camp Trek Videos

Videos by experts watch these videos to prepare well for a Successful Tre

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Want To Trek Like Pro?

Check out the following videos if you want to trek like a pro trekker and improve your skills. These videos contain helpful tips, tricks, and techniques to help you trek like a pro. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced trekker, these videos can provide valuable insights to enhance your trekking experience. So, watch the videos below by Trekup India experts to take your trekking skills to the next level.

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Nanda Devi Base Camp

Know Everything About Acute Mountain Sickness

Acute Mountain Sickness is a medical condition that can occur when individuals travel to high altitudes, typically above 8,000 feet. It is caused by the decrease in air pressure and oxygen levels in the air as altitude increases. Symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness may include headache, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and difficulty sleeping. To avoid Acute Mountain Sickness, it is important to gradually adjust to high altitudes and seek medical attention if symptoms worsen. To learn more about this condition, check out the videos by Trekup India.

Acute Mountain Sickness, Symptoms P
Acute Mountain Sickness
Precaution For Acute Mountain Sickness

Important
Guidelines

Government employees joining our trekking expeditions can avail of Special Casual Leave (SCL) under the following conditions:

  1. Eligibility Criteria:
    • SCL is available exclusively to Indian government employees.
    • Applicable only for treks conducted within India.
  2. Leave Details:
    • As per Pay Commission rules, government employees are entitled to up to 30 days of SCL in a calendar year for trekking or mountaineering expeditions.
    • Treks must be organized by a registered organization, such as Trekup India, recognized by the Indian Mountaineering Foundation (IMF).
  3. Application Process:
    • You need to apply for leave at least 20 days before the trek departure date.
    • How to Apply: The following details are required to apply for IMF certification through the IMF.
      • Email info@trekupindia.com with the following details:
        • Your booked trek date.
        • The trek name.
        • Aadhar Card
        • Designation
        • Office Address
        • Additional Fee of Rs. 250/ per person will be applicable.
        • Note: It might take 20-25 days to receive a certificate from the IMF, subject to their approval.
  4. Documentation Support:
    • Trekup India will provide the necessary documents to facilitate your SCL application.
  • A parent or guardian must accompany trekkers below 15 years of age.
  • Trekkers Aged 15 to 18 or above Years: Can trek solo but require a Disclaimer Form signed by a parent or guardian. And Medical Form that Provides health details and confirms fitness for trekking by MBBS Doctor
  • Trekkers Aged above 18 Years: Require a Disclaimer Form self-signed. And Medical Form that Provides health details and confirms fitness for trekking, Signed with an MBBS Doctor stamp.

If you’re planning a trek, you must ensure that your health parameters meet the fitness requirements for physical exertion at high altitudes or rugged terrains. Below are guidelines for each of the parameters mentioned:

1. Pulse Rate (Heart Rate at Rest):

  • Normal: 60 to 100 (bpm) beats per minute.
  • Required Fitness: Physically fit person may have a resting heart rate closer to 50 bpm, which shows that he have good cardiovascular efficiency.

2. Blood Pressure (BP):

  • Required BP: 120/80 mmHg. A Bolood Pressure within this Range ensures adequate oxygen delivery to muscles and organs during physical exertion, especially at high altitudes.
  • Your specified blood pressure (BP) Range—Systolic: 100–140 mmHg and Diastolic: 70–90 mmHg—is appropriate and generally considered safe for trekking activities.
  • Acceptable Range: <140/90 mmHg for trekking. Elevated BP could increase risks during strenuous activity or at high altitudes.

 

Recommendations:

  • Pre-Trek Checkup: Monitor your BP multiple times & ensure that it should be normal.
  • Stay Hydrated: Dehydration affect BP, so maintain proper fluid intake during your trek.
  • Avoid Alcohol & Excess Salt: These can destabilize BP, especially at altitude.
  • BP Monitor: If you have a history of BP issues, regularly check your BP during the trek. Our Trek Leaders are equipped with a BP machine.
 

3. Respiratory Rate at Rest:

  • Required Rate: 12–20 breaths per minute.
 

4. Diabetes Mellitus:

  • Acceptable: Well-controlled blood sugar levels (HbA1c <7% or fasting blood glucose <126 mg/dL).
  • Fitness Requirement: Carry quick glucose sources and monitor regularly during the trek.
 

5. Bronchial Asthma:

  • Acceptable: Only when your doctors allow it & you have to submit an MBBS doctor NOC that you can undergo this trek.
  • Fitness Requirement: Bring prescribed inhalers/medications and consult your doctor about high-altitude risks.
 

6. Heart Problems:

  • Acceptable: Individuals without recent cardiac events (e.g., heart attack within the past 2 years).
  • Fitness Requirement: Clearance from an MBBS Doctor (cardiologist) is required.
 

7. Hypertension:

  • Acceptable: Controlled hypertension (BP <140/90 mmHg) with no recent complications like hypertensive crisis.
 

8. Pacemaker Implant:

  • Generally not recommended for high-altitude treks.
 

9. Body Mass Index (BMI):

  • Required BMI: 18 – 26 kg/m² for a good trekking fitness.
  • Overweight or underweight individuals may face additional strain on joints or fatigue.
 

Additional Recommendations:

  • High Altitude Acclimatization: For treks above 10,000 feet, ensure have some acclimatization Trekup India have designed Itinary of this trek accordingly to it but its not granted that this itinary works fine with acclimatization. For more information, click here.
  • Fitness Level: Regular aerobic and strength training exercises before the trek are essential. For more information, click here.
  • Medical Clearance: Consult a healthcare professional (MBBS Doctor) to assess your suitability before coming on this trek.

Would you like assistance preparing for your trek or calculating specific health metrics? Call Your Trek Co-Ordinator

Day Wise Detailed Itinerary of Nanda Devi Base Camp

Day 1: Arrive at Kathgodam and then by Road to Kausani

  • Stay – Overnight stay at the hotel.
  • Meal – Dinner
  • Distance – Kathgodam to Kausani (134 km)
  • Time Taken – Kathgodam to Kausani (approx. 5 hrs)
  • Altitude – Kathgodam (1483 ft / 554 mtr), Kausani (6200 ft / 1890 mtr)
  • Altitude Difference – 4717 ft / 1336 mtr
  • Trek Grade – By Road

On the first day of our stay, we would arrive from our respective places in Kathgodam, and we could arrive one day in advance at our own expense. Then afterwards, we would be met by the Trekup India representative driving us from Kathgodam to Kausani. We would drive through massive Himalayan peaks, giving a panoramic view. On this route, you will see the lush green forest on the hill and vast yellow fields, and then soon, you will reach Kausani, where you will be spending the night.

Day 2: Kausani to Munsyari by Road

  • Stay – Overnight stay at the hotel.
  • Meal – Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Distance – 163 km
  • Time Taken – approx. 6 hrs
  • Altitude – Kausani (6200 ft / 1890 mtr), Munsyari (7200 ft / 2200 mtr)
  • Altitude Difference – 1000 ft / 310 mtr
  • Trek Grade – By Road

We will wake up early in the morning and prepare for the day. Today’s journey will be by road again and travelling through the Chirpine forest. The mountain route will be scenic, with vegetation and a snake-like curving road. You will pass through various villages with stone-stacked walls and old stone roofs. After travelling for almost 6 hours through the winding and picturesque road, we would finally reach Munsyari, where we would sleep for the night.

Day 3: Munsyari to Chilamdhar by Road and Chilamdhar to Lilam by Trek

  • Stay – Overnight stay at the campsite.
  • Meal – Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Distance – Munsyari to Chilamdhar by Road (8 km), Chilamdhar to Lilam by Trek (4 km)
  • Time Taken – Munsyari to Chilamdhar by Road (approx. 40 min), Chilamdhar to Lilam by Trek (approx. 3 hrs)
  • Altitude – Munsyari (7200 ft / 2200 mtr), Lilam (6070 ft / 1850 mtr)
  • Altitude Difference – 1130 ft / 350 mtr
  • Trek Grade – Gradual to Moderate

It is going to be a trek by both vehicle and foot today. The fascination with mountains on this trip will fuel you. We would drive through the hills for 40 minutes to reach Chilamdhar and then a 20-minute walk mostly downhill; after crossing Jimigad Bridge, we will then be walking on the motorable road that leads to Gauri Ganga Village. From the village, we would walk for almost 2 hours until we reached the Lilam / Pundeo village. In the evening, Trekup India’s high-altitude chef prepares a delicious dinner at the campsite, our rest stop for the day.

Day 4: Lilam to Bogdiyar by Trek

  • Stay – Overnight stay at the campsite.
  • Meal – Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Distance – 16 km
  • Time Taken – approx. 8 hrs
  • Altitude – Lilam (6070 ft / 1850 mtr), Bogdiyar (8038 ft / 2450 mtr)
  • Altitude Difference – 1968 ft / 600 mtr
  • Trek Grade – Gradual to Moderate

Our morning will begin with the picturesque sight of sunrays outlining the mountains and then falling on the campsite. We will also pass through a natural tunnel called Rilgari on this trek. We will begin our trek from Lilam, a long gorge, and climb uphill until we pass Mainsing Pass. From Mainsing Pass onwards, we will descend through dense and semi-tropical conifer forests. Then, we would pass through a forest section where Gori Ganga and Ralam meet. Also, we caught sight of some bamboo bushes, and after walking for a few hours, we would reach a stream which we would cross by the Rargari bridge. On the trail, there would come a section where we would see River Poting and Gori Ganga meeting. Now again, the trail would be uphill along the gorge, and within a few minutes, we could reach our campsite at Bogdiyar. Bogdiyar has beautiful meadows where we would be seeing sheep and goats grazing.

Day 5: Bogdiyar to Rilkote by Trek

  • Stay – Overnight stay at the campsite.
  • Meal – Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Distance – 16 km
  • Time Taken – approx. 6 hrs
  • Altitude – Bogdiyar (8038 ft / 2450 mtr), Rilkote (10,499 ft / 3200 mtr)
  • Altitude Difference – 2461 ft / 750 mtr
  • Trek Grade – Gradual to Moderate

We would begin our morning with a healthy and delicious breakfast prepared by Trekup India Chief. After we had had our breakfast, we would begin our trek by walking through the scenic gorge. The trek would be uphill, and we would be walking through a narrow gorge where we would see many waterfalls. After crossing the Rilkote checkpoint, we would reach the campsite, where we would stop for the day. Railkot is a village that lies above the Alalnanda River; there are a lot of ruins around the village which we could explore.

Day 6: Rilkote to Ganghar by Trek

  • Stay – Overnight stay at the campsite.
  • Meal – Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Distance – 13 km
  • Time Taken – approx. 7 hrs
  • Altitude – Rilkote (10,499 ft / 3200 mtr), Ganghar (10,827 ft / 3300 mtr)
  • Altitude Difference – 328 ft / 100 mtr
  • Trek Grade – Gradual to Moderate

When we woke up in the morning, we would be enthralled by the fresh air of the hills. On the trek today, we would be traversing through Burfu and the less populated village of Martoli, where we would also be seeing Martoli Peak along with Burfu Peak. We would then continue walking through the barren and less rainfall area of Gauri Ganga Valley. At ancient Ganghar village, we would be walking through lush green grasslands. Then, we would soon reach our campsite in Ganghar with the Gauri Ganga River flowing at the side and Pachhu Valley at the top. From here, we would start seeing Nanda Devi and Milam Village on the north side.

Day 7: Ganghar to Nanda Devi Base Camp by Trek

  • Stay – Overnight stay at the campsite.
  • Meal – Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Distance – 7 km
  • Time Taken – approx. 3 hrs
  • Altitude – Ganghar (10,827 ft / 3300 mtr), Nanda Devi Base Camp (12,795 ft / 3900 mtr)
  • Altitude Difference – 1968 ft / 600 mtr
  • Trek Grade – Moderate to Difficult

This is the primary day of your trek, where you will be doing the main climb to Nanda Devi Base Camp. As we begin our trek, we will pass through a trail that leads through rhododendron, birch and juniper forests. The trail is dotted with white and pink exotic flowers, making the trek magnificent. After a steep ascend, we would first reach Panchu Glacier, where we could spend some time and enjoy the view. Then, we would walk for a few hours and cross lush alpine meadows, after which lies Nanda Devi Base camp, where we would admire the Nanda Devi peak.

Day 8: Nanda Devi Base Camp to Martoli by Trek

  • Stay – Overnight stay at the campsite.
  • Meal – Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Distance – 12 km
  • Time Taken – approx. 5 hrs
  • Altitude – Nanda Devi Base Camp (12,795 ft / 3900 mtr), Martoli (10,991 ft / 3350 mtr)
  • Altitude Difference – 1804 ft / 550 mtr
  • Trek Grade – Gradual to Moderate

This day marks your return journey, and you will walk from Nanda Devi Base Camp to Martoli. From Martoli Village, we could enjoy panoramic views of Mount Nanda Devi East, Nanda Devi, Nanda Kot, Trishul, etc. We would be camping near the grasslands with the famous Goddess Nanda Devi temple nearby. You would be spellbound in the village with rustic houses with exquisite wooden carvings.

Day 9: Martoli to Bogdiyar by Trek

  • Stay – Overnight stay at the campsite.
  • Meal – Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Distance – 18 km
  • Time Taken – approx. 10 hrs
  • Altitude – Martoli (10,991 ft / 3350 mtr), Bogdiyar (8038 ft / 2450 mtr)
  • Altitude Difference – 2953 ft / 900 mtr
  • Trek Grade – Gradual

Today’s trek will be downhill, with river Gauri Ganga flowing at the side; we will be crossing Rilkote. This is a long trek through the dense forest and spread-out green meadows, after which we would finally reach our campsite at Bogdiyar. Then, have a hearty dinner and sleep under the stars.

Day 10: Bogdiyar to Lilam by Trek

  • Stay – Overnight stay at the campsite.
  • Meal – Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Distance – 16 km
  • Time Taken – approx. 8 hrs
  • Altitude – Bogdiyar (8038 ft / 2450 mtr), Lilam (6070 ft / 1850 mtr)
  • Altitude Difference – 1968 ft / 600 mtr
  • Trek Grade – Gradual

The trek route would be the same. We would begin by waking up early and getting ready for the trek. We would begin with an easy walk with an uphill climb for 3 hours, where we would be passing through dense rainforest and bamboo bushes. We would see the same vistas we saw while arriving, and soon, we would reach campsite Lilam.

Day 11: Lilam to Munsyari by Trek and Munsyari to Chaukori by Road

  • Stay – Overnight stay at the campsite.
  • Meal – Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Distance – Lilam to Munsyari by Trek (5 km), Munsyari to Chaukori by Road (95 km)
  • Time Taken – Lilam to Munsyari by Trek (approx. 3 hrs), Munsyari to Chaukori by Road (approx. 4 hrs)
  • Altitude – Lilam (6070 ft / 1850 mtr), Munsyari (7200 ft / 2200 mtr), Chaukori (6590 ft / 2010 mtr)
  • Altitude Difference – Lilam to Munsyari (1130 ft / 350 mtr), Munsyari to Chaukori (610 ft / 190 mtr)
  • Trek Grade – Gradual

Today marks the last day of the trek, where we will walk halfway and then do the rest by driving. The trail would be steep and uphill, but soon, the stone-paved village trek comes up, and in no time, you enter the main road of Munsyari Village.

Day 12: Chaukori to Kathgodam by Road

  • Stay – Overnight stay at the campsite.
  • Meal – Breakfast
  • Distance – 190 km
  • Time Taken – approx. 5 hrs
  • Altitude – Chaukori (6590 ft / 2010 mtr), Kathgodam (1483 ft / 554 mtr),
  • Altitude Difference – 5107 ft / 1456 mtr
  • Trek Grade – By Road

On the last day of your journey, you will be driving through scenic panoramas of the Kumaon hills for the last time. Our travel will begin in Chaukori and end in Kathgodam, where the Trekup India team will bid us farewell. From their own, we would begin our travel back home; we could also travel or explore other places from Kathgodam, which is on us. We will be returning some of the beautiful memories of the enchanting trek with you back home.

Nanda Devi Base Camp Trek Route Map

We’ve prepared a comprehensive Trek Route Map for your upcoming adventure to Nanda Devi Base Camp Trek, which outlines the entire journey including all stops and trails. This map provides detailed information on the terrain, distance between points of interest, and estimated travel time to help ensure a safe and enjoyable trek. We’ve carefully curated the map to ensure that you have all the necessary information at your fingertips. Please take a moment to review it thoroughly, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or concerns.

Nanda Devi Base Camp Trek Altitude Chart

The Trek Altitude Chart is a useful tool for Trekkers to monitor their altitude changes during their rides, allowing them to plan their routes more efficiently and track their progress over time. This Nanda Devi Base Camp Trek chart is beneficial for both casual and experienced Trekkers, helping them make the most out of their Trek experience.

Trek Cost Inclusions

  1. Stay: 10 Nights tented accommodation at respective campsites of Trekup India on a sharing basis and 2 days in a hotel.
  2. Meals: Trekup India provided cooked meals during the trek, starting with Dinner on Day 01 to Breakfast on day 12 (Meals are simple, nutritious, and vegetarian and non-repeated meals)
  3. Transport: Kathgodam to Kausani, Kausani to Munsyari, Munsyari to Chilamdhar, Munsyari to Chaukori, Chaukori to Kathgodam on sharing jeeps  
  4. Trek Insurance (Optional): Trekup India recommends that all trekkers consider getting trek insurance. This is optional, but highly recommended. Trek insurance covers unexpected events that may occur during your trek. The cost of the insurance starts from INR 210. Please read more about what is included in the coverage and why it is mandatory on treks.
  5. Trek Equipment:  Sleeping bag, Sleeping tents, Kitchen tent, Dining tent, Toilet Tent.
  6. Amenities: All utensils, sleeping mattresses (Black foam mats), Crampons, and Gaiters for snow.    
  7. Health & Safety:  First Aid Box, Oxygen Cylinders, Stretchers, Oxi meters, BP Machines, health.
  8. Permits: Forest Permits and Camping Permission Fee 
  9. Trek Crew: High Altitude Chef, Helpers, Trek Leader & Guides, and other support teams.
  10. Potters & Mules: Potters and Mules are to carry all trekking equipment, ration, and vegetables.

Trek Cost Exclusions

  1. GST 5% (it is Mandatory)
  2. Any Meals/accommodation beside the itinerary or not mentioned in the program.
  3. Any Bus / Airfare to/from trek start/end point 
  4. Personal Medical expenses do carry your medication. 
  5. Any personal services such as Laundry, phone calls, liquors, mineral water, etc.
  6. Any still / video camera fee 
  7. Any Entrance fee Monuments, Monasteries, Museums, Temples – Pay directly on the spot. 
  8. Mules or porter charges to carry private baggage (Offload Charges for bag 365 per day, per bag if paid online (at base camp 2,550). Note: Bag weight should not be more than 10 kg.
  9. Any emergency evacuation charges
  10. Any services that are not mentioned in the cost inclusion section.

What should you pack for the Nanda Devi Base Camp Trek

Nanda Devi Base Camp Trek is a high-altitude trek. The trekking gear you have to have for this particular trek differs from normal treks. Thus, read this whole segment. There is an important question that the trekker who is doing trek asks, like what all things to carry while trekking. Below, we have provided the details on everything you should take; an easy way to remember is by Head to foot or foot to head. We have prepared from Head to foot.

Things to Carry, pack for trek

Head Gears

When trekking it's important to carry headgear to protect your head and face.

Heading out for a trek? Don’t forget to carry headgear to protect your beautiful face and head from the sun, wind, and dust! It’s an essential accessory that keeps you safe and comfortable throughout your adventurous journey. So, make sure you pack it before you step out into nature!

  1. Head Lamps – When trekking at night, headlamps are essential to illuminate your path while keeping your hands free. Headlamps come in different sizes and lumens, so it is essential to choose one that suits your needs.
  2. Hats or Cap – Caps or hats are also necessary when trekking in different weather conditions. Caps protect your head from the wind and freezing temperatures at night, while hats provide shade and protection from the sun during the day. It’s essential to ensure that your hat has a strap to prevent it from being blown away by the wind.
  3. Sunglasses – Sunglasses are also essential for trekking. Your sunglasses should protect your eyes from harmful UV rays and fit your face perfectly to avoid falling off while climbing, jumping, or crossing obstacles. The glass of your sunglasses should also be designed for different weather conditions to provide optimal visibility.
  4. Buff / Balaclava – Lastly, a buff or balaclava is a must-have to protect your mouth or neck from extreme temperatures and keep them warm. Buffs and balaclavas come in different materials, thicknesses, and designs, so it’s important to choose one that suits your needs and preferences. Depending on the weather conditions and your activities, you can wear them as neck warmers, face masks, or headbands.
With these essential items, you can enjoy trekking safely and comfortably, no matter the weather or time of day.

Clothes

When trekking in high altitudes, prepare for cold weather by wearing layers. Layering traps heat, keeps you warm, and allows you to easily adjust your clothing as temperatures fluctuate.

Layering is important for different seasons when trekking. When planning a high-altitude trek, it is important to prepare for the cold weather. Wearing layers is the best approach as it provides both protection and flexibility when the weather changes frequently in the mountains. Layering helps to trap heat and keep your body warm, while at the same time allowing you to easily adjust your clothing as the temperature fluctuates. By wearing layers, you can enjoy your trek comfortably and stay safe in the unpredictable mountain weather

  1. For spring, summer, and monsoon treks, consider wearing three layers: a woollen sweater, a fleece, and a padded jacket.
  2. For autumn treks, add one more fleece layer to make it four layers.
  3. For winter treks, you may need five layers with thermals, a woollen sweater, two fleeces, and a padded jacket.
  4. T-shirt/sleeve shirt– Bring three T-shirts and two quick-dry trek pants, wearing one and carrying the others. Long sleeve shirts help to protect from sun UV rays. We recommend synthetic T-shirts as they get dry quickly when they get wet.
  5. Hiking / Trekking Jacket– down jackets (-5 to-10 C) or two-three-layer jackets.
  6. Thermals– at least two pairs of thermals help keep the body warm during cold weather.
  7. Undergarments– you can carry them according to your habitual and hygiene requirements.
  8. Gloves– 1 pair of gloves will keep your hand warm and nice.
  9. Trek Pants– Bring 2 to 3 comfortable trekking pants. Trekking pants play a significant role, as they are designed for comfort and mobility, making trekking easier. It should be Synthetic so that it gets dry quickly when wet.
  10. Rain Wear– you can carry a raincoat or Poncho. During long rains and snowfalls, the waterproof jackets start leaking. Still, the Poncho and raincoats keep you dry, so choose accordingly.

Tip: If you choose a raincoat on your trek, carry a small waterproof cover so things inside your backpack can’t get wet. If you carry a Poncho, you don’t need to worry. It protects both you and your backpack.