Archive · 5 Sep 2026
Himalayan Mahakumbh 2026 Begins With Nanda Devi Badi Jat Yatra
The Nanda Devi Badi Jat is a large religious journey in Uttarakhand.
It is dedicated to Goddess Nanda Devi.
People from Himalayan villages join the procession to pray and take part in old traditions.
The pilgrimage covers about 280 kilometres.
It happens once every 12 years and is called the Himalayan Mahakumbh.
The journey includes ceremonies, music and village customs.
This year, organisers have planned 26 stops.
The procession is expected to finish at Homkund after passing through mountain landscapes.
The Nanda Devi Badi Jat Yatra began in Uttarakhand on Saturday, September 5.
The 280-kilometre pilgrimage is dedicated to Nanda Devi, regarded as Uttarakhand’s patron deity.
Held every 12 years, the Badi Jat is also known as Nanda Devi Raj Jat.
Organisers said this year’s journey will include 26 stops through the Himalayas.
The procession is expected to reach Van on September 16 and Homkund on September 20.
- Who
- Devotees, pilgrims and communities from Himalayan villages, honoring Nanda Devi.
- What
- The Nanda Devi Badi Jat, a 280-kilometre religious and cultural pilgrimage, has begun.
- When
- It began on Saturday, September 5; the procession is expected to reach Van on September 16 and Homkund on September 20.
- Where
- The yatra is taking place through Uttarakhand’s Himalayan region, beginning from the Chamoli area and ending at Homkund.
- Why
- Participants seek Nanda Devi’s blessings and preserve the region’s religious, cultural and traditional practices.
- Event
- Nanda Devi Badi Jat Yatra, also called Nanda Devi Raj Jat
- Location
- Uttarakhand, beginning in the Chamoli region
- Distance
- Approximately 280 kilometres
- Frequency
- Held once every 12 years
- Stops
- 26 stops are planned this year
- Expected milestone
- The palanquin is likely to reach Van on September 16
- Final destination
- Homkund, reached after the procession proceeds from Shila Samudra on September 20