About Badrinath

At an elevation of 10,826 ft above sea level is the holy town of Badrinath, located between the Nar Narayan mountain ranges in the Kumaon region of the Himalayas, Uttarakhand. The region is famous for its Badrinath Temple which is one of the four Char Dham sites, namely Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. Thus the main attraction is the Badrinath Temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. People from all over the country visit the Char Dham pilgrimage sites to seek blessings from Lord Vishnu. The term Badrinath stands for Lord of Mount Badri. According to the mythology, when the Nar Narayan mountain implodes into each other then the routes taking you to Badrinath will be closed altogether and the devotees will have to move to Bhavishya Badri for worshipping. Apart from the holy temple, there are several places in Badrinath including the Tapt Kund which is a hot water spring, Vasudhara Falls, and also several beautiful places in the nearby areas that one can explore. Snow-capped mountains, spectacular views, lush greenery, and the panorama will make you fall in love with the place over and over again.

Badrinath Geography

Badrinath is at an elevation of 10826ft above sea level and is located on the banks of the Alakananda River, between the Nar and Narayan mountain ranges in the Kumaon region of the Garhwal Himalayas. The most important attraction here is the Badrinath temple. Situated on the banks of the Alaknanda River, Badrinath welcomes the gushing flow of the river in the valley. Offering beautiful backdrops stands the Nar Narayan mountain in between which lies the Badrinath Temple, which is one of the holiest shrines in Uttarakhand.

Plan My Package Recommends: Places To Visit In Badrinath

Badrinath Temple

Located on the banks of the Alaknanda River in the Kumaon region of Garhwal Himalayas is the holy shrine of Badrinath Temple, which is one of the four Char Dham sites namely, Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. About 50 feet tall, the Badrinath temple insides has 15 idols in the complex, including Lord Badrinarayan, Nar and Narayan, Udhava, Kuber, Narad Rishi, and a fine black sculpture of Lord Badrinath which is one meter high. The temple has three parts one of which is called the Garbha Griha, where only a few people are allowed to enter, the other one is Darshan Mandap where the rituals are held and then there is the Sabha Mandap, where all the devotees assemble. The entrance gate of the Badrinath Temple is known as Singhdwara. Almost 45km from Joshimath, one can see the Neelkanth Peak which is right in front of the temple. Legend has it that Lord Vishnu meditated here and was unaware of the weather so to protect him from the scorching sun, his spouse Goddess Laxmi transformed herself into Badri tree. Seeing her love and devotion towards him, Lord Vishnu named the place after her, Badrikashram. Being one of the most important pilgrimage sites, Badrinath Temple welcomes hundreds of pilgrims and tourists every year. One can visit the Badrinath temple between May to October as the temple remains closed from October to April. One should wear proper clothes before entering the temple and make sure that one follows all the instructions and the rules of the temple. Out of all the Char Dham Pilgrimage sites, it is believed that Badrinath is the most accessible to tourists.

Vasudhara Falls

After a 3km drive from Badrinath to Mana Village and then a 6km trek will lead you to the majestic Vasudhara Falls. Every wonderful thing has an interesting story or a myth behind it and so does Vasudhara Falls. According to mythology, Pandavas passed through Mana Village before they began their journey to heaven but Yutisthira and his dog had the opportunity to pass through this wonderful waterfall. Another myth that follows is that this waterfall turns away from people whose hearts are not as pure as they should be. Situated at an elevation of 12000ft above sea level, Vasudhara Falls is just a 6km trek away from Mana Village, which will take about 2 hours. While trekking, the initial trek is easy but as one moves forward towards the Saraswati Mandir, it becomes a little difficult but once you reach the waterfall, you can get glimpses of Chaukhamba Peak, Neelkantha, and Blakun Peaks. The trek to Vasudhara Falls is easy, even beginners can do it. As beautiful and as wonderful as it sounds, Vasudhara Falls is even more beautiful in reality. It should be a must-visit place for everyone who comes to Badrinath.

Satopanth Tal

Satopanth Tal is an emerald lake that is triangular-shaped at an elevation of 4600m above sea level and is surrounded by snow-capped peaks, a serene environment, stunning views with crystal clear water. This is a holy lake and the trek for Satopanth Lake starts from Mana Village, which is just 3km from Badrinath. Before reaching the lake, one has to pass through Laxmiban and Chakrateerth, following the Alaknanda River. Satopanth Lake is at a high altitude and is surrounded by pristine beauty and charm. Usually, people trek during the months between May to June and September to October, which is said to be the best time for the Satopanth trek. Since the lake is at a high altitude, the trek is a little difficult and requires more strength and stamina than the easy to moderate level treks. Thus it is advised that beginners should avoid doing it or they get some experience and then try out this wonderful trek.

Mana Village

Located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, on the banks of the Saraswati river, Mana Village is also called the Last Indian Village from the India/Tibet border. Mana Village’s history goes back to the time when the Pandavas came to Mana Village before they left for heaven. Mana Village has several attractions to explore, like the Bhim Pul. There is a belief that Bhim, who was one of the 5 Pandava brothers and also the strongest among them, made the bridge by lifting a stone because his wife couldn’t cross the river. Despite being called a bridge, Bhim Pul is a large boulder and is located on the opposite side of the Vyas Cave. Since Mana Village is called the Last Indian Village, there are several shops and tea stalls that go by the name, ‘The Last Tea Shop Of India’ ‘Last Restaurant Of India’ ‘Last Post Office Of India’, and so on. These names attract tourists and compel them to buy things from these shops. You can sit at the ‘Last Tea Shop Of India’ have a bowl of Maggi while sipping tea and admiring the lush greenery and tranquility and leave all your troubles behind.

Vyas Cave

On the Opposite side of the Bhim Pul lies the Vyas Cave which is about 5.5km from the Badrinath Bus stand. The cave is famous because of its historical and religious significance which dates back to the time of Mahabharata and the story of Sage Vyas who is one of the characters in the Mahabharata epic. Pilgrims go inside the cave to worship the statue of Maharishi Vyas, installed inside the cave. An interesting story of Lord Ganesha and Sage Vyas follows when Sage Vyas asked Lord Ganesha to take down his dictation to which Lord Ganesha kept a condition that the sage is not supposed to stop even for a second else Lord Ganesha will stop writing and leave. Sage Vyas started dictating and there came a moment when Lord Ganesha’s pen broke so he took a part of his tusk and used it as a pen. Such fascinating stories draw travelers’ attention and make them curious to check the place out.

Places Near Badrinath

Auli (approx 482.5 Km via NH7 from Badrinath)

Auli is the most popular winter destination famous for skiing. Also called the European Village, Auli offers several activities from cable car rides to skiing to biking adventures in summers to wooden huts to romantic vistas, probably everything you look for is there at Auli. Most people plan their honeymoon at Auli because of the snow-clad peaks, panoramic views, and a sheet of snow-covered roads, Auli is a heaven for people who love snow and adventure activities. Another thing that is popular here is photography. While looking at the mountain sparkle when the sun shines on them and watching the birds fly, one cannot resist taking out his camera and capture the moment and keep that as a memory. Apart from being the hotspot for skiers, Auli also has an artificial man-made lake which is the highest man-made lake in the world. It also boasts of the highest ropeway in Asia which is 4km long and connects Auli to Joshimath. Auli is at a distance of 57km from Badrinath.

Gopeshwar (approx 101.8 Km via NH7 from Badrinath)

Perched at an elevation of 1300 mt above sea level, the name Gopeshwar is associated with Lord Krishna. Gopeshwar, having pleasant weather and scenic beauty, is one of the most important towns in Uttarakhand. There are several temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, attracting thousands of tourists who come to seek blessings every year. Some famous temples present in Gopeshwar are Anasuya Devi, Tungnath, and Rudranath. It is also famous for the Gopinath Shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. Gopinath temple, being an important attraction of the town, is famous for its unique architectural style. It has 24 entrances and a trident made out of 8 different metals dating back to the 12th century. Adventure enthusiasts, trekkers, and nature lovers are in for some treat as the town provides pristine natural beauty, snow-clad mountains, and the most pleasant weather. So take a break from the chaos and hustle-bustle of your routine life and admire the natural charm of Gopeshwar. Badrinath is just 1.8km away from the holy town of Gopeshwar.

Swargarohini

Swargarohini, about 38km from Badrinath, is a mountain in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand. Swargarohini trek is quite famous as it allows trekkers to go deep into the Greater Himalayas. Four peaks form the Swargarohini, out of which Swargarohini 1 stands at an elevation of 6252 m above sea level and attracts several tourists. The name of this place is derived from legends who claim that this path leads to heaven and was followed by Draupadi and Pandavas. Swargarohini trek starts from Badrinath and that which starts from Mana Village is a little difficult and you may need a local guide to go through with it. Since it is a long 6-day trek, trekkers need to take their food with them. 

Best Time To Visit Badrinath

Badrinath Weather

Badrinath In Summer

• Summers in Badrinath is pleased with a moderate climate with maximum temperatures rising to 22℃ and the minimum temperature drops to 9℃. Summers are the ideal time for sightseeing and pilgrimage and are very pleasant. Badrinath witnesses hundreds of tourists enjoy the pleasant weather.

Badrinath In Monsoon

• July marks the onset of monsoon in Badrinath lasting till September. Monsoon is followed by heavy rains with maximum temperatures rising to 16℃ and minimum temperatures dropping to 11℃. Monsoon brings heavy rains and may bring landslides leading to road blockages.

Badrinath In Winters

• Winters in Badrinath is between November to April. The weather is chilly and snowfall is very frequent during winters with maximum temperatures rising to 16℃ and minimum temperature drops to 1℃.
• The best time to visit Badrinath is from May to October. Know More

How To Reach Badrinath

Badrinath by Air

• The nearest airport from Badrinath is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun situated at a distance of 314km from Badrinath. There are daily flights from Delhi to Badrinath. Taxi services are available from the Jolly Grant Airport. Spice Jet, Indigo, and Air India are some common airlines running from Delhi to Jolly Grant Airport.

Badrinath by Rail

• The nearest railway station from Badrinath is Rishikesh Railway Station which is about 295km away from Badrinath. Indian Railways has a well-connected network with major cities of India connecting to Badrinath. DDN Janshatabdi is the most preferred train by tourists taking them from Delhi to Dehradun.

Badrinath by Road

• Badrinath has a well-connected road network with major districts of the state of Uttarakhand and also to major cities of India. Several taxi and bus services are available from various cities which directly take you to Badrinath.
• Kedarnath: The distance from Kedarnath to Badrinath is 247km.
• Badrinath: The distance from Haridwar to Badrinath is 324km.
• Rishikesh: The distance from Rishikesh to Badrinath is 298km.
• Delhi: The distance from Delhi to Badrinath is 535km.

Places To Stay In Badrinath

Hotel Bhagat

Hotel Bhagat is located in Govindghat which is just 45 minutes away from Badrinath, providing you the comfort of your own home. At an elevation of 6000 ft above sea level, Hotel Bhagat offers the most amazing views of the snow-clad peaks. During the Badrinath season, hotels may get full and due to such high demand, the prices of the hotels may rise and become a little expensive so most of the pilgrims resort to Hotel Bhagat because of the top-notch service it offers. The hotel has deluxe, super deluxe to premium rooms for you to choose from. Clean rooms, attached washrooms, a helipad, and free parking space, this hotel has everything to offer.

Charan Paduka Hotel 

Located near the Badrinath Bus Stand, is the Charan Paduka Hotel welcoming you to Badrinath and providing you a comfortable stay at reasonable prices. The hotel provides an in-house restaurant, luggage storage, laundry facilities, a doctor on call, power back-ups, toiletries, and so on. Providing you with a comfortable and relaxing stay during your Badrinath trip is what Charan Paduka Hotel strives for.

Sarovar Portico

Sarovar Portico, just 1km away, is the nearest Hotel to Badrinath Temple. Pilgrims often choose this hotel for one reason that it is very near to the temple and also because of the excellent service that it provides. It offers panoramic views of the Mountains and tranquility. Apart from the mesmerizing views, the hotel also boasts 56 well-furnished rooms, a multi-cuisine vegetarian restaurant, a cafe, and aesthetically pleasing interiors. The hotel also has an ayurvedic center that provides healing therapies. Perched at an elevation of 3133 mt above sea level, Sarovar Portico Hotel is a luxury in itself. Know More

Places To Eat In Badrinath

Vasudhara Restaurant

Fill your mouth with North Indian delicacies at Vasudhara Restaurant. Since Badrinath is famous for its pilgrimage, most hotels serve only vegetarian food. Paneer Curry with roti is a must-try dish over here. Serving authentic North Indian food with the perfect blend of original spices, Vasudhara serves mouth-watering delicacies to your platter. Vasudhara restaurant is located near the Badrinath Bus Stand.

Sardeswari Restaurant

Located near Badrinath Dham, Sardeswari Restaurant offers some fulfilling meals and one of the best coffee in town with an aroma that will make you drool. This restaurant is the best place for you because, after a tiring day, you can have mouth-watering food while hanging out with your loved ones and have the best time of your life.

Cafe In The Park

Located in Badrinath, Cafe In The Park is an in-house restaurant in the Sarovar Portico Hotel, offering North Indian and South Indian Food. The restaurant boasts high-end interiors and serves only vegetarian food. Alu Paranthe and Matar is a must-try at Cafe in the Park restaurant.

Do’s & Dont's In Badrinath

Do’s

• Do carry your essentials while traveling.

• Do carry your medical kit prescribed by Doctor.

• Do wear a mask and maintain proper distance.

• Do carry your sanitizer.

• Do try the local dishes and explore nearby places.

Dont's

• Do not litter in mountains.

• Do not spit in public places and especially in temple surroundings.

• Do not harass the locals and don't blindly trust any strangers.

• Do not take off your mask.

• Do not wear improper clothes to the temple.

• Do not consume alcohol.

Pincode

The pin code for Badrinath is 246422.