Nanda Devi peak, one of the highest mountains located entirely within India, lies in which of the following Indian states?

Introduction / Context:
This question again tests awareness of Indian mountain geography, focusing on Nanda Devi, a prominent Himalayan peak. It reinforces knowledge that some peaks, although part of the wider Himalayas, are specifically associated with certain Indian states. Associating major peaks with their correct states helps build a clear mental map of high altitude regions and is a recurring theme in competitive examinations.

Given Data / Assumptions:
• The peak mentioned is Nanda Devi.
• It is one of the highest peaks located entirely within India.
• The options list Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, and Sikkim.
• We must choose the correct state where this peak lies.

Concept / Approach:
Nanda Devi is located in the state of Uttarakhand, within the Garhwal Himalaya. Earlier, before state reorganisation, the region now forming Uttarakhand was part of Uttar Pradesh, which can sometimes cause confusion. However, in present day administrative terms, Nanda Devi lies in Uttarakhand, and modern exam questions use the current state names. Himachal Pradesh and Sikkim are major Himalayan states, but they host other notable peaks and not Nanda Devi.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall that Nanda Devi is linked with the Garhwal region of the Himalayas. Step 2: Know that the Garhwal and Kumaon regions now form the Himalayan part of Uttarakhand. Step 3: Recognise that Nanda Devi National Park and Biosphere Reserve are officially designated within Uttarakhand. Step 4: Compare options and find Uttarakhand as the one matching this description. Step 5: Eliminate Himachal Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and Sikkim because they are not the present state locations of this peak.

Verification / Alternative check:
Authoritative maps and Himalayan peak lists place Nanda Devi in Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. After the creation of Uttarakhand in the year 2000, all references to this area in modern geography use the new state name. Checking government information about Nanda Devi National Park also shows Uttarakhand as the state. Thus the association with Uttarakhand is clear and confirmed.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Himachal Pradesh: Contains peaks such as Reo Purgyil and others in the Pir Panjal and Dhauladhar ranges, but not Nanda Devi.
Uttar Pradesh: This state once included the Garhwal region but now, in present division, Nanda Devi lies in Uttarakhand, not present day Uttar Pradesh.
Sikkim: Associated with Kangchenjunga and neighbouring peaks, not with Nanda Devi which lies further west.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusion often arises because older records refer to the area as part of Uttar Pradesh, and some learners may remember that outdated association. Another mistake is to assume that any high Himalayan peak might belong to any Himalayan state. To avoid this, focus on the modern administrative map and connect Nanda Devi firmly with Uttarakhand in exam preparation.

Final Answer:
The correct choice is Uttarakhand, because Nanda Devi and its surrounding national park are situated in that state.