Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve, a natural wonder we are in awe of
Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve, situated in the high reaches of Chamoli district in Uttarakhand, is one of the most impressive nature reserves you will come across in India.
This ecologically diverse region is easily one of the most beautiful places in the state, thanks to the lofty mountains, the lush vegetation and wildlife.
Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve’s core area includes the Nanda Devi National Park and the Valley of Flowers National Park; together, for their exceptional beauty and ecological significance, they were inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988.
The biosphere reserve includes reserve forests, community forests, alpine meadows and more. These meadows are where you will find a large number of rare plant species, most of which are medicinal in nature. For these rare and endemic species, the nature reserve is so revered and protected. The biosphere reserve is also home to a large number of animal and bird species, out of which, seven are endangered. Some of these animal species are snow leopard, Himalayan black bear, brown bear, musk deer and bharal.
The Nanda Devi Peak is undoubtedly the star of the reserve. Standing tall at 7,816 meters, one can’t help but feel humbled in the presence of such imposing majestic mountains. It is also interesting to know that Nanda Devi peak is one of the very few peaks in the country where trekking or any other adventure activities are not allowed. They say it’s for environmental reasons. But one can explore the surrounding landscape, small villages and forests that are located on the foothills of Nanda Devi.
While Nanda Devi peak is off limits, Valley of Flowers is highly trekkable. This spectacularly beautiful national park is open to the public from June to October. The trekking routes are breathtakingly beautiful but it is wiser to avoid going there when there is heavy rainfall in the region. Monsoon tends to bring landslides and flash floods, so it’s best to visit after the rains.
It’s these restrictions that are helping Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve safe from the ills of overtourism. The outer buffer zone allows controlled and regulated ecotourism, offering visitors a chance to experience the reserve’s splendor while ensuring minimal impact on its delicate environment.