Nanda Devi National Park is situated in the Chamoli
district of Uttaranchal. One of the most magnificent backwoods of the
Himalayas, the park rises to an altitude of 2,400 to 6,817 m. Surpassing
Nanda Devi Wildlife Sanctuary of India is the peak of Nanda Devi,
towering at a height of over 7,800 m. The sanctuary was set up in the
year 1980 and boasts of a unique blend of flora and fauna. The best time
to visit Nandadevi National Park is during the months of April to
October. Nanda Devi Biosphere has been declared as a World Heritage Site
by UNESCO.
Flora
Nandadevi National Park of India is home to as many as 312 species of
plants. Out of these, approximately 17 are believed to be quite rare. A
major portion of the vegetation consists of fir, birch, rhododendron,
and juniper. The inner portions of the Nanda Devi Wildlife Sanctuary of
Uttaranchal experience dry weather conditions. As we move nearer to the
Nanda Devi Glacier, the vegetation starts decreasing at a rapid pace.
From Ramani onwards, the flora turns to alpine vegetation and juniper
scrubs are seen dominating the landscape. The terrain further changes to
areas with grasses, prone mosses and lichens.
Wildlife
The most popular animal species at Nandadevi National Park include
Leopard, Snow Leopard, Himalayan Black Bear, Brown Bear and Bharal. One
can also see Himalayan Tahr, Himalayan Musk Deer, Common Langur, Goral,
Serow, etc inhabiting the park.
Bird Species
Of the 80 species of birds found in the Nanda Devi Wildlife Sanctuary,
the most significant ones are Warblers, Gresbreaks, Rose Finches and
Ruby Throat.
How to Reach Nanda Devi National Park
By Air: The nearest airport is that of Jollygrant (Dehradun),
situated 221 km away.
By Rail: The nearest railway station is situated in the city of
Rishikesh.
By Road: Nanda Devi is well connected with Dehradun, Haridwar,
Rishikesh, Nanital and Almora, by road.
