Nanda Devi Badi Jaat Yatra 2026 Announced: 21-Day Sacred Pilgrimage to Begin on September 5
The long-standing uncertainty surrounding the famous Nanda Devi Raj Jaat Yatra in Uttarakhand has now largely come to an end, with the Kurud Temple Committee officially announcing the Nanda Devi Badi Jaat Yatra 2026 along with its complete 21-day pilgrimage schedule. The sacred journey will commence on September 5, 2026, from the revered Siddhpeeth Kurud Temple, marking Goddess Nanda Devi’s symbolic departure for Mount Kailash.
According to traditional beliefs, Goddess Nanda Devi reveals her wish to undertake the journey through her chief spiritual representative, and based on this divine indication, the auspicious dates of the pilgrimage are determined. On the occasion of Vasant Panchami, Gaud Brahmins formally declared the travel calendar at the Kurud Temple premises, following which preparations for the grand yatra have officially begun.
Earlier, the Shri Nanda Devi Raj Jaat Committee had announced plans to hold the pilgrimage in 2027, while the Kurud Temple Committee organized a Mahapanchayat and declared that the journey would instead take place in 2026. This difference of opinion led to a period of confusion. To maintain distinction, the 2026 pilgrimage has now been named “Badi Jaat”, and its organization is being led by the Kurud Temple Committee. Traditional right-holders from the Badan, Dasholi, Lata, and Band regions will actively participate in this historic event.
Meanwhile, the official Nanda Devi Raj Jaat Yatra will be conducted in 2027. At the Nanda Devi Temple in Nauty village, Rajkunwar Dr. Rakesh Kunwar announced that the ceremonial declaration (Dinpatta) for the Raj Jaat will be issued on Vasant Panchami 2027. Authorities have requested one year to put in place proper government arrangements for the massive pilgrimage.
It is important to note that the Nanda Devi Raj Jaat, held once every twelve years, is considered the world’s longest religious foot pilgrimage, covering nearly 280 kilometers over 20 to 21 days. Often referred to as the Himalayan Kumbh, the journey is traditionally led by the sacred four-horned ram known as Chausinga Khadu, believed to be the living symbol of Goddess Nanda Devi. The pilgrimage begins in Nauty village of Chamoli district and concludes at the remote high-altitude site of Homkund, regarded as one of the most challenging spiritual journeys in the Himalayas.
With the announcement of the Badi Jaat Yatra 2026, devotion and excitement have once again surged among pilgrims, while structured preparations are also underway for the grand Raj Jaat Yatra of 2027.
