Badrinath, located in the twin mountain ranges heights 10400 feet above sea level is the holiest of four main shrines. With the splendid Neelkanth mountains as a backdrop, it is a pilgrimage center held in the greatest esteem all over India. Once upon a time this destination was covered with ‘Badris’ or ‘Wild Berries’ and hence was famous as Badri Van. It is an important shrine on the sacred itinerary of every devour Hindu dedicated to Vishnu. It remains closed six months in a year because the roads get blocked with landslides during the monsoon season.
About two centuries ago the present temple was constructed by kings of Garhwal. According to Hindu Mythology, the revered shrine is still alive whose sanctity is emphasized in the ancient scriptures as "There are many sacred spots of pilgrimage in the heavens and the world, but there has been none equal to Badri, nor shall there be".
MAJOR TOURIST ATTRACTIONS IN BADRINATH
Badrinath Temple
Encircled by a beautiful valley on the right bank of Alaknanda river lies the sacred temple dedicated to Vishnu, the preserver and falls in the religious itinerary of every devout Hindu. It is a conical structure and has small cupola of gilt bull and spire. It is believed to have been constructed by Adi Guru Shankaracharya – an important saint in 8th century AD. After several renovations the temple looks quiet modern due to its main entrance gate also known as ‘Singh Dwara’. It has been divided into three parts – ‘Garbha Griha’ also known as sanctum sanctorum, ‘Darshan Mandap’ meant for pujas and ‘Sabha Mandap’ meant for devotees to assemble.
Tapt Kund
Tapt Kunds are the natural thermal springs on the banks of river Alaknanda where devotees refresh before entering the temple. Its water is believed to be infused with medicinal properties.
Brahma Kapal
Brahma Kapal is a flat platform situated on the bank of river Alaknanda where devotees performs rites of their deceased ancestors.
Mana Village
4 kms from Badrinath, it is considered to be the last Indian Village before Tibet on this route. This village was inhabited by Indo-Mangolian tribe. Near to this village you will find ‘Bhim Pul’ which is a natural bridge over Saraswati river, ‘Vyas Gufa – the rock cave of Ved Vyas and ‘Vasundhara Falls’ which is about 122 metres high.
Mata Murti Temple
Situated at a distance of 3 kms from Badrinath stands the temple dedicated to mother of Shri Badrinath or the abode of Lord Vishnu on the right bank of Alaknanda river.
EXCURSIONS FROM BADRINATH
Hemkund Sahib
Hemkund, an important pilgrimage for Sikhs and Hindus is situated near the valley of flowers. Along its shores you will came across sacred Sikh Shrine where Guru Gobind Singh had medidated. There is a Lakshman temple on the bank of the lake where Lakshman, the brother of Lord Rama performed his penance.
Satopanth
Satopanth is a three cornered lake named after the Hindu Triad - Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh. According to Hindu Mythology it is believed that Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh occupy one corner each of the lake. One will actually feel the need of experienced guide because the trek is hazardous with dramatic landscapes.
Joshimath
Joshimath, located at a distance of 44 kms from Badrinath is the winter 
home of Shri Badrinath. Established by Adi Guru Shankaracharya it is considered as one of the four maths situated on the slopes above the confluence of Alaknanda and Dhauliganga.
Panch Prayag
The five important confluences – Deoprayag, the confluence of Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers ; Nandprayag, the confluence of Alaknanda and Mandakini rivers ; Rudraprayag, the confluence of Alaknanda and Mandakini rivers ; Karnaprayag, the confluence of Alaknanda and Pindar rivers and Vishuprayag, the confluence of Alaknanda and Dhauliganga rivers all together constitutes the Panch Prayag.
HOW TO REACH BADRINATH
By Air
The nearest airport to Badrinath is Jolly Grant which is situated at a distance of 317 kms from there.
By Rail
The nearest railhead from Badrinath are Rishikesh at a distance of 300 kms and Kotdwar at a distance of 327 kms.
By Road
Badrinath is well connected to Rishikesh, Haridwar, Dehradun, Kotdwar and other hill stations of Garhwal and Kumaon region.
BEST TIME TO VISIT BADRINATH
The best time to visit Badrinath is between May-June and September-November.
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