Nanda Ghunti

History related to Nanda Ghunti

The peak is named after its distinctive shape, resembling the back of a nag (snake) with a hump (ghunti) at the end, according to local folklore.Here are some historical and geographical aspects related to Nanda Ghunti:

Mountaineering History: Nanda Ghunti has attracted mountaineers for decades due to its challenging routes and stunning beauty. The first successful ascent of Nanda Ghunti was made by a British team led by T. Graham Brown in 1937.

Nanda Devi Sanctuary: Nanda Ghunti is situated within the Nanda Devi Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The sanctuary is renowned for its rich biodiversity and unique alpine flora and fauna.

Cultural Significance: The region surrounding Nanda Ghunti holds cultural significance for the local inhabitants, who revere the peak as sacred. Nanda Devi, the goddess after whom the peak and the sanctuary are named, is highly revered in Hindu mythology. The Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra, a famous pilgrimage in Uttarakhand, takes place once every 12 years and involves circumambulating the Nanda Devi peak.

Exploration and Research: Apart from mountaineering expeditions, Nanda Ghunti and its surrounding areas have also been subjects of scientific exploration and research. Various expeditions have studied the geology, glaciology, and ecology of the region, contributing to our understanding of high-altitude environments.

Adventure Tourism: In recent years, Nanda Ghunti and the surrounding Himalayan region have become popular destinations for adventure tourism, including trekking, camping, and skiing. The breathtaking landscapes and the challenge of scaling the peaks attract adventurers from around the world.

Overall, Nanda Ghunti holds both historical and cultural significance, attracting adventurers, researchers, and pilgrims alike to its majestic slopes and the pristine wilderness of the Garhwal Himalayas.