Nandanvan, Gangotri - Timings, Accessibility, Best Time to Visit

At a distance of 27 km from Gangotri, 12 km from Bhojbasa and 8 km from Gaumukh, Nandanvan is a small meadow located on the base of Bhagirathi Glacier at an altitude of 4330 m past Tapovan in Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand.

Nandanvan offers the astounding view of famous peaks like Shivling, Bhagirathi, Sudarshana, Thalay Sagar, and Kedar dome. From Gaumukh to Nandanvan, one has to trek along the Gangotri and Chaturangi glaciers. The trek is not a very tough one but needs good physical fitness. The scenic Nandanvan is the base camp for the Bhagirathi peaks that offers a panoramic view of the surrounding Shivaling peak.

The trek to Nandanvan begins from Gangotri. This is a long trek over terminal glacial moraine and steep ascents and descents. One has to trek 14 km to reach Bhojbasa from Gangotri. Gaumukh Glacier is 5 km from Bhojbasa and Nandanvan is 8 km from Gaumukh. Most of the terrain is with loose rocks that are prone to fall. The trek is considered difficult and it is a 4 day trek from Gangotri to Nandanvan and back. An experienced guide is a must.

While there is direct access from Gomusk to Nandanvan, tourists can also trek to Nandanvan from Tapovan by crossing the massive Gaumukh Glacier. The 7 km trek starts with steep descent from Tapovan to reach the glacier and ends with steep climb of approximately 100 m to reach Nandanvan. A further ascent starting from Nandanvan and following the Chaturangi glacier brings one to the Emerald green Vasuki Tal. It is a 6 km trek from Nandanvan to Vasuki Tal and takes about 4-5 hours.

The trail to Nandanvan is open for trekkers and pilgrims from May to October. However, the best time to visit is between May to June and September to November.