Nanda Devi Sanctuary is situated in Chamoli District at an altitude exceeding 4500 meters and is surrounded by seventy white colossal peaks, many named and some unnamed; the most famous being the majestic Nanda Devi. The sanctuary is in the form of a cup, with lush green meadows and splashing milky waterfalls. Herds of the blue mountain goats (Bharal) can be seen grazing around.

The starting point of this trek is Joshimath, which is easily reached by motor roads from the foothills of the Garhwal Himalaya. At Joshimath arrangement for guide, porters and last minute purchases can be made. Joshimath to Lata is 25 kms. By road and then the trek starts. From Lata to Lata Kharak is an arduous trek but one forgets the exhaustion on seeing the fabulous and fantastic views of the snow glistened peaks of Runti, Nanda Devi, Nanda-Ghunti and Bethartoli across the river Rishi Ganga.

Lata Kharak is an open wide-grassy hilltop, which is usually windy and chilly. The trek from Lata Kharak to Dharansi pass is a long one, featuring regular descents and ascents. On crossing the Dharansi pass, the Nanda Devi can be seen. This trek is through a ridge, traversing on rocky surface upto Malatuni pass. From here it is a continuous descent of 750 Mts. through alpine grassland. Snow, clinging on slopes; dense forests; expansive meadows of Debrugheta beside a river; are some of the marvelous sights.

In summer, Debrugheta meadow is bedecked with flowers such as potentillas. From Debrugheta to Ramni is a long trek. Initially there is a steep ascent after crossing the Rishi Ganga before one arrives at Deodi. Deodi to Ramni is through dense forests of Junipers and Rhododendrons, and one enters the world-famed Nanda Devi Sanctuary.