Nanda Devi Raj Jat
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Nanda Dev Raj Jat is a Hindu pilgrimage stretching 280 km through the Central Himalayas. Held in the months of August/September every 12 years, it starts in the middle Himalayas and traverses alpine meadows finally ending in the Himalayan Tundra region.^-~
The pilgrimage is described as a powerful spiritual experience by the participants. Dating back to the 9th century AD, this pilgrimage is symbolic of seeing off Goddess Nanda to her consort Lord Shiva's abode in higher Himalayas after her stay at her parent's place in the lower Himalayas. Nanda as a maternal figure is intricately intertwined into the socio-cultural fabric of Uttarakhand.
The pilgrimage is led by a four horned ram on its 19 day schedule from Nauti till Homkund. The ram is said to be born every 12 years in Chandpurpatti region of Karnaprayag.The ram is called KHADU in local language.
Recent research has indicated that the human skeletons at Roopkund may be the remains of devotees participating in the Nanda procession who got caught in an avalanche or a blizzard.
Other notable Nanda processions are held in the cities of Almora and Nainital every year.Next RAJ JAT will be held in 2012.
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