Nanda Devi East Base Camp and Milam Glacier Trek

Straddling the districts of Garhwal and Kumaon, close to the Nepalese border, Nanda Devi (7817m) 'Goddess of Joy' is the highest peak in the Indian Himalaya. For Indians of Hindu faith it is among the most sacred mountain after mount Kailash. Surrounding the peak is an oceanic expanse of high 6,000 and 7,000 meter peaks. It was the goal of many early 20th century expeditions-all of which failed to reach the sanctuary until Eric Shipton and Bill Tilman reached it via the Rishi gorge in 1932. Tilman eventually climbed the peak for the first time with Charles Houston in 1936. 
Since the inner sanctuary is closed for any trekking or expeditions we cannot follow the Shipton and Tilman up the Rishi gorge to the inner sanctuary. However we approach from equally beautiful Saryu and Ramganga valley and later the Goriganga. This valley is accessed by hiking up the Gori Ganga river gorge which separates the Nanda Devi group from the beautiful peaks of the Panch Chuli group and the trek provides continuous fantastic views of the mountains.

Trip Facts:

Duration: 20 days

Grade:  Strenuous

Maximum elevation:  3952m (Nanda Devi East Base camp)

Best season:  September to November – March to May

Trekking type: Camping

Trip Highlights:

• Spectacular view of Nanda Devi and Panchachuli peaks
• Expansive meadows and panoramic views of the Himalaya
• Trekking through summer villages
• Glacier walks