This decision was made unanimously by the Raj Jat committee during a meeting in Karnaprayag, located in Chamoli district, as reported by news agency PTI.
In announcing the delay, Raj Jat committee chairman Rakesh Kunwar mentioned that the pilgrimage, initially planned for August–September this year, will now take place next year. “The decision has been made unanimously,” Kunwar stated.
The Nanda Devi Raj Jat yatra occurs once every 12 years, navigating through snow-covered Himalayan peaks and enchanting alpine meadows, with over 22 stops along the route. It is widely acknowledged as the longest and most challenging foot pilgrimage in the region. The last yatra occurred in 2014.
Weather and infrastructure challenges
Kunwar clarified that the auspicious dates for this year’s pilgrimage are set for September 19–20, a time when the weather in the upper Himalayan zones becomes particularly severe.
“During this period, there is a chance of hailstorms, snowfall, and rain, the cold becomes more intense, and essential construction work in the currently uninhabited areas is still ongoing,” he was quoted saying by PTI.
Read more: Western disturbances to bring rain and snow to Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Himachal
“In these circumstances, it did not appear feasible to conduct the Nanda Devi Raj Jat yatra safely, hence the postponement,” he added.
Next steps for 2027 yatra
Preparations for the 2027 pilgrimage will officially commence on January 23, coinciding with Basant Panchami.
Chairman Kunwar indicated that a ceremonial vow will take place in Nauti village, where the royal prince of Kansuwa village in Garhwal will pray at the Shri Nanda Devi Temple and declare the program based on astrological evaluations.
He noted that no official schedule had been established for this year, as it would adhere to traditional rituals on Basant Panchami.
Wildfires and environmental stress in Nanda Devi region
The postponement also coincides with increasing environmental stress in the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve.
Forest fires have erupted unusually early this winter due to low snowfall and insufficient rainfall, leaving forests dry and highly vulnerable, as reported by India Today.
Read more: Vande Bharat Sleeper flagged off: Features, route, timings and more
Environmental specialists caution that this trend needs to be addressed and emphasize the necessity of enhancing surface soil humidity through initiatives like water holes and trenches. The fires have raised new concerns about ecological stability in the region, contributing to the careful approach taken for the pilgrimage.
