Dronagiri Parvat (Mount Dunagiri) - Hanuman Ji Picked Sanjeevani
- Thakur Aniket Singh
- Feb 15, 2023
- 6 min read
Updated: Aug 1, 2024
'तत्र द्रोणगिरिर्नामदिव्यौषधि समुद्भव: तमानय द्रुतं गत्वा संजीवय महामते'
That is, Ramchandra ji said when the Vanar Sena fainted, "O Hanuman, there is a divine medicine named "Sanjeevani" on Dronagiri Parvat, you go there quickly and bring it and revive the Vanar Sena."
Based on legends, Drona mountain is identified with Dunagiri located in Chamoli District. Even today many medicines are produced on Dunagiri. But it is known from the quotation of Valmiki Ramayana that this mountain was situated between Kailasa and Rishabh mountains. The Dronachal visible from Badrinath and Tungnath is probably a reference to the same in Valmiki Ramayana.
This mountain is also visible from the famous winter trek "Kuari Pass Trek"
Elevation:- 7,066 m (23,182 ft)
Prominence. 1,200 m (3,900 ft)
Coordinates 30°31′57″N79°50′02″E
Location: Uttarakhand, India
Parent range: Nanda Devi Group, Garhwal Himalayas
First ascent: 5 July 1939 by André Roch, F. Steuri, D. Zogg[2]
Easiest route: Southwest Ridge: rock/snow/ice climb
Geographical Features
Location: Situated in the Chamoli district, Dunagiri lies in the Nanda Devi region of the Garhwal Himalayas.
Elevation: 7,066 meters (23,182 feet).
Range: Part of the larger Himalaya range, specifically the Garhwal section.
Historical Significance
Mythological Importance: According to Hindu mythology, Dunagiri is mentioned in the Ramayana. It is believed that Hanuman carried the Sanjeevani herb from this mountain to save Lakshmana.
Exploration and Climbing History: A Swiss team's first recorded attempt to climb Dunagiri was in 1939. The peak was successfully summited in 1975 by an Indian team led by M.S. Kohli.
Climbing Routes
North Ridge: The most common route from the Juma village is moving through the Dunagiri Glacier to the north ridge.
Technical Challenges: The climb involves technical sections including ice walls, crevasses, and steep snow slopes.
Flora afgbergnd Fauna
Vegetation: The lower slopes are covered with dense forests of oak, pine, and rhododendron, while higher altitudes feature alpine meadows.
Wildlife: The region is home to various species such as the snow leopard, Himalayan black bear, and blue sheep. Birdwatchers can spot species like the Himalayan monal and various eagles.
Trekking and Expeditions
Base Camp: The base camp for Dunagiri is typically set up at Lata Kharak, which is accessed via the village of Lata.
Best Time to Visit: The optimal climbing season is from May to June and September to October when the weather is relatively stable.
Permit Requirements: Climbers need permits from the Indian Mountaineering Foundation (IMF) and should adhere to local regulations regarding environmental protection.
Nearby Attractions
Nanda Devi National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it offers rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes.
Auli: A popular ski resort located nearby, providing opportunities for winter sports and a beautiful panoramic view of the Himalayas.
Joshimath: A spiritual and tourist hub that serves as the gateway to several trekking routes and pilgrimage sites.
Preparation Tips
1. Physical Fitness: Extensive preparation involving cardiovascular and strength training, along with high-altitude acclimatization.
2. Technical Skills: Proficiency in ice climbing, crevasse rescue, and other mountaineering techniques.
3. Equipment: High-quality climbing gear including crampons, ice axes, ropes, and appropriate cold-weather clothing.
4. Guides and Support: Hiring experienced local guides and porters is recommended for safety and logistical support.
Dunagiri, towering at 7,066 meters, is one of the majestic high peaks of the Chamoli District in Uttarakhand, India. This awe-inspiring mountain stands proudly at the northwest corner of the Sanctuary Wall, a breathtaking ring of peaks encircling Nanda Devi and enveloping the serene Nanda Devi Sanctuary.
In Hindu mythology, as recounted in the epic Ramayana, Sanjeevani is a legendary herb with the miraculous power to cure severe nervous system ailments. This enchanted plant is said to have the ability to revive someone on the brink of death. The tale unfolds when Indrajit, the formidable son of Ravana, strikes Lakshmana with a devastating weapon, leaving him grievously wounded and near death. In a desperate bid to save Lakshmana, Hanuman is summoned to retrieve this life-saving herb from Mount Dronagiri (also known as Mahodaya) or the Gandhamardhan hills, nestled in the northern reaches of the Himalayas beyond the Vindhyas.
The mythical mountain, teeming with potent herbs, is often identified with the Valley of Flowers near Badrinath in Uttarakhand, on the majestic slopes of the Himalayas. Known interchangeably as Gandhamardan and Dronagiri, this sacred site becomes the focal point of Hanuman's quest. Upon reaching Dronagiri Parvata or Gandhamardan, Hanuman faces the daunting challenge of identifying the Sanjeevani herb among the myriad of plants. Unable to single it out, he resorts to an extraordinary feat of strength and devotion, lifting the entire mountain and carrying it back to the battlefield. This heroic act ensures that Lakshmana is revived, underscoring the boundless determination and unwavering dedication of Hanuman.
Historical Highlights
Dunagiri's rich climbing history began on July 5, 1939, when Swiss mountaineers André Roch, F. Steuri, and D. Zogg successfully reached its summit via the challenging southwest ridge. This pioneering ascent marked the mountain's entry into the annals of Himalayan exploration.
In 1975, Dunagiri witnessed a groundbreaking achievement in alpine-style climbing. Joe Tasker and Dick Renshaw tackled the formidable southeast buttress, carving out a particularly difficult route that remains a significant milestone in the climbing world.
Three years later, in 1978, the first Australian Himalayan expedition, organized by the Australian National University Mountaineering Club, made the mountain's fourth ascent. The team followed the southwest ridge, with Lincoln Hall and Tim Macartney-Snape leading the final push. Macartney-Snape's successful summit added another illustrious chapter to Dunagiri's storied history.
These ascents highlight Dunagiri's allure to climbers from around the world, each contributing to its legacy as a peak of both challenge and triumph.
Q&A on Mount Dronagiri / Dunagiri
Where is Dronagiri Parvat?
Dronagiri Parvat, also known as Dunagiri, is a mountain located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, India. It is part of the Garhwal Himalayas and lies in the northern part of the state, near the border with Tibet. The mountain is situated within the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve, a region known for its stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity. The area is also renowned for its religious significance and mythological connections, particularly the story of Hanuman retrieving the Sanjeevani herb from this mountain in the Ramayana. The peak of Dunagiri stands at an elevation of 7,066 meters (23,182 feet), making it one of the most significant summits in the region.
Which mountain did Hanuman lift?
In Hindu mythology, Hanuman is said to have lifted a mountain called Dronagiri Parvat, also known as Mahodaya or Gandhamardan. This episode is recounted in the Ramayana, where Hanuman is sent to retrieve the Sanjeevani herb to save Lakshmana, who was severely wounded in battle. Unable to identify the specific herb, Hanuman lifted the entire mountain and carried it back to the battlefield to ensure Lakshmana's recovery. The mountain is often associated with the region of the Himalayas in modern-day Uttarakhand, India. Some believe the mountain of herbs is identified with the Valley of Flowers near Badrinath in Uttarakhand.
Where did Hanuman place Dronagiri?
After lifting the Dronagiri (or Gandhamardan) Mountain to bring the Sanjeevani herb to the battlefield, Hanuman returned the mountain to its original place. According to the Ramayana, Hanuman's mission was successful, and after delivering the necessary herb to revive Lakshmana, he carried the mountain back and placed it where it belonged in the Himalayas. This act demonstrates Hanuman's immense strength, devotion, and sense of responsibility, ensuring that the mountain and its precious flora were restored to their natural habitat.
Is Sanjeevani booti real?
The Sanjeevani Booti, a magical herb from Hindu mythology, is most famously associated with the epic Ramayana. According to the legend, this herb was used by Hanuman to revive Lakshmana after he was struck down in battle. While the Sanjeevani Booti is a significant element in the mythological narrative, there is no scientific evidence to support its existence as a real, tangible plant. It remains a symbolic and legendary part of the story rather than a proven botanical fact.
Which village hates Hanuman?
In the context of the Ramayana, the people of Dronagiri (also known as Dronagiri Parvat) are sometimes depicted as having a negative sentiment towards Hanuman. The story goes that Hanuman, in his quest to find the Sanjeevani Booti for Lakshmana, uprooted the entire mountain of Dronagiri to bring it back to the battlefield. This act caused significant disturbance and inconvenience to the residents of the mountain, leading to their anger or resentment towards Hanuman.
In various retellings and regional adaptations of the epic, this incident may be portrayed differently, but the general idea is that the people of Dronagiri were upset due to the disruption caused by Hanuman's actions.
For adventure enthusiasts, the Dronagiri Trek is a must-try. The trekking trail is moderately challenging, offering trekkers a mix of experiences, from dense forests to rocky terrains. The trail takes you through small villages, allowing you to interact with the warm-hearted locals and gain insights into their way of life. The highlight of the trek is the Dronagiri Parvat base camp, where you can witness breathtaking panoramic views of snow-capped peaks.
Best Time to Visit
Dronagiri Parvat is accessible mainly during the summer months, from May to June, and again from September to October. This is when the weather is more favorable for trekking and exploration.
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