Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra Mahapanchayat Held – Final Decision on 23 January
Uttarakhand’s world-famous Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra, which is held once every 12 years, has recently come into major discussion after an important update from the Raj Jat committee. According to recent reports, the Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra has been postponed and is now planned for 2027 instead of 2026.
The postponement has been linked to concerns regarding unpredictable climate conditions in the high Himalayan region, including sudden rainfall, hailstorms, early snowfall and extreme cold, especially since the auspicious dates for 2026 were falling in late September. This period is considered risky because the yatra route passes through sensitive and difficult high-altitude stretches, and the safety of lakhs of pilgrims remains the top priority.
Mahapanchayat of 480+ Villages Held After Postponement Announcement
After the postponement announcement, there was strong reaction from local communities. A Mahapanchayat was held with representatives from around 480–484 villages, where villagers and local stakeholders discussed the yatra decision and the future plan.
In the Mahapanchayat, it was stated that many people do not agree with postponing such an important traditional yatra and there should be a strong and clear decision that respects the faith of devotees as well as the cultural sentiments of the region. This meeting became a major turning point in the matter and brought the voice of local villages into focus.
Final Decision Expected on 23 January (Basant Panchami)
As per the latest update, the final decision and official announcement will be taken on 23 January, on the auspicious occasion of Basant Panchami. This date is important traditionally, as major yatra-related rituals, vows and planning are often formally declared on this day.
It is expected that the committee will announce the confirmed roadmap, next steps, and official program after the 23 January meeting, following traditional rituals and astrological calculations.
📌 In short: The postponement has created major discussion across the region, and after the Mahapanchayat involving 480+ villages, all eyes are now on 23 January for the final official decision.
