Nandaprayag

Nandaprayag is rooted at the Sangam of river Alaknanda and Nandakini (Panch Prayag). The holy confluence falls in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. In addition to this, the town is also a Nagar Panchayat, located 1358 metres above sea level.

Additionally, Hindu mythology states that Nandaprayag was once the capital of Yadu Kingdom. Devotees believe that a dip at Nandaprayag washes away one’s sins.

It is a famous pilgrimage destination on the Char Dham Yatra map route. Moreover, it is second in the line of the Panch Prayag destinations. The other confluences of river Alaknanda hereafter are Karnyaprayag, Rudraprayag, Devprayag.

Chronicles of Nandaprayag

Ages old tale about Nandaprayag says that King Nanda performed yagna at this holy confluence in the pursuit of having a son. Hence, the Sangam of the two rivers gets its name from Nanda.

Moreover, Sage Kanva also took over to perform penance at Nandaprayag. Furthermore, the famous king Dushyanta married Shakuntala at this place. 

There is also a temple nearby the confluence dedicated to Gopala, a form of Krishna. Hindu mythological tales suggest that Lord Vishnu granted the boon of a son to his devotees Nanda and Yashoda, as well as Vasudeva and Devaki.

Hence, to make it happen for both he made sure that the son that was born to Vasudeva and Devaki was fostered by Nanda and Yashoda.

Essence of Nandaprayag

Nandaprayag holds holy significance in the Hindu tradition. Further, ‘Prayag’ meaning the confluence of two or more rivers is the place of worship for Hindus. Also, devotees flock here to perform last rites for the dead. The serenity of Nandaprayag is ideal for meditation.

River Alaknanda arises from Satopanth close to Badrinath Dham. Similarly, Nanda Devi Peak gives birth to Nandakini, which meets Alaknanda at the second of the Panch Prayag.

Moreover, Panch Prayag is believed to be the ‘Svargarohana route’ that the Pandavas took on their way to heaven.

Ways to Reach Nandaprayag

Here’s different modes of transport to reach Nandaprayag:

• Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport. It is located at a distance of 214 km.
• Train: The nearest railway station here is Rishikesh railway station. It is 195 km away.
• Bus: Buses to Rishikesh are available from ISBT Kashmere Gate. One can then use state transport buses and taxis to travel up to Nandaprayag.

Stays nearby Nandaprayag

Here are some places where one can stay near Nandaprayag while undertaking the Char Dham Yatra are:

• Regal Restaurant and Hotel:  The stay offers economic and hygienic accommodation. Also, the staff at the hotel is very cordial.
• GMVN Tourist Rest House:  The hotel offers comfortable accommodation. Fine food and parking facility are some of its specialities. Moreover, this place is light on the pockets too.
• Ashwamegh Lodge: The hotel is a package of all luxurious amenities. Nonetheless, there is also a 24/7 reception desk available at the guest’s call. Nevertheless, its very budget-friendly.

Other Panch Prayags

The other Panch Prayag destinations are:

• Vishnuprayag: Vishnuprayag is present 1372 metres above sea level and is the first Prayag, according to the descent of the river Alaknanda. It is 70 km away from Nandaprayag.
• Karnyaprayag: It is the place of confluence of river Alaknanda and river Pindar. Falling in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, it is third of the five holy confluences. It is 23 km away from Nandaprayag.
• Rudraprayag: It is present at the meeting point of the rivers, Alaknanda and Mandakini, in Uttarakhand. It’s at a height of 895 metres above sea level. It is fourth of the Panch Prayag beginning from Vishnuprayag. It is 53.8 km away from Nandaprayag. The Panch Prayag is a part of the Char Dham Yatra within Uttarakhand.
• Devprayag: It lies at the confluence of river Alaknanda and Bhagirathi, in Uttarakhand. Hereafter, rivers Alaknanda and Bhagirathi unify and flow as Ganga or Ganges. It is fifth of the Panch Prayag. It is 119 km distant from Nandaprayag.

The Panch Prayag are a part of the Char Dham Yatra within Uttarakhand.

Frequently Asked Questions About Nandaprayag