Explanation: Nanda Devi is a prominent mountain peak located in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, India. It is the second highest mountain in India, standing at an elevation of 7,816 meters (25,643 feet) above sea level. The peak is part of the Garhwal Himalayas and is situated within the Nanda Devi National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The Nanda Devi peak is named after the Hindu goddess Nanda Devi, who is considered the patron goddess of the region. The mountain is surrounded by a ring of peaks known as the Nanda Devi Sanctuary, which forms a natural amphitheater around the main peak. This unique geographical feature makes Nanda Devi a significant landmark in the Himalayan range.
The Nanda Devi National Park, which includes the peak, is known for its rich biodiversity and unique ecosystem. The park is home to several rare and endangered species of flora and fauna, including the snow leopard, Himalayan black bear, and various species of birds. The park was established in 1982 and was declared a World Heritage site in 1988 due to its ecological and geological significance.
The confusion regarding the location of Nanda Devi might arise because several other high peaks are located in the Himalayan region, which spans across multiple states in India. Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, and Sikkim are all states in the Himalayan region and are known for their mountainous terrain. However, Nanda Devi is specifically located in Uttarakhand, which is why option D is the correct answer.
Understanding the geographical location of Nanda Devi is important for students studying the geography of India, particularly the Himalayan region. It is also relevant for those interested in the ecological and environmental aspects of the region, as the Nanda Devi National Park plays a crucial role in the conservation of the Himalayan ecosystem.