Nanda Devi is India’s second highest mountain, after Kangchenjunga, and the only one that is entirely within the country. It is situated in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli Garhwal district, between the Rishiganga and Goriganga valleys to the west and east, respectively. The peak, whose name translates as “Bliss-Giving Goddess,” is considered the patron goddess of the Garhwal and Kumaon Himalayas. Nanda Devi is a two-peaked highland with a long, high ridge that runs east-west. The western summit is higher, while the eastern summit, known as Nanda Devi East, is lower. The peaks known collectively as the heights of the goddesses Nanda and Sunand appear together in ancient Hindu literature and are worshipped as twins in Kumaon, Garhwal, and elsewhere in India.

Nanda Devi East Base Camp is the closest a trekker can get to admire the beauty of the Nanda Devi and Nanda Devi East peaks. It is a tough trek ranging from easy parts at the beginning of Munsiyari village which escalates to harsher terrain in later stages, hence an adequate preparation is a must. Considering its tricky terrain and high altitudes, only experienced trekkers are suggested for this trek.