Joshimath

Joshimath History

It is also known as Jyotirmath which is a city in Chamoli district, Uttarakhand. This is also one of the starting points of a scenic beautiful place in Uttarakhand, considered as Valley of the flower. It is close to Auli (about 7km ) which is also a famous destination for skiing. Joshimath is a very beautiful spot surrounded by Oaks and scenic views of the Himalayas peak with rich floral and fauna. One can also go for a religious tour or go for activities like skiing and trekking. This destination is best for chill and calms as well as thrilling views as well as it is the winter seat of Lord Badri which is a Hindu God that the idol is shifted from Badrinath to Joshimath during winters. There are more several temples and the best part is, it is less crowded and one can enjoy solace moments. Thus, temples are the key places to visit in Joshimath, and visiting Chenab Lake, Chenab Valley, Vishnuprayag, etc. are some of the things to Do in Joshimath.

Joshimath Geography

Joshimath is a small town located at 6150 ft above sea level which is a hill town in Chamoli District of Gharwal region of the Indian state of Uttarakhand, which serves as an important religious center. In the tiny town of Joshimath in Tinsel, there are two mighty rivers i.e Dhauli Ganga and Alaknanda that meet at the convergence of Vishnuprayag. It is nicknamed Jyotirmath, the winter seat of Lord Badri, at just 44km away from Badrinath, one of the famous Char Dhams founded by Guru Shankaracharya in the 8th century. Joshimath is also known as the 'gateway for trekking' and also a popular gateway for many places of religious importance.

Plan My Package Recommends: Places to Visit in Joshimath

Ropeway, Joshimath

The ropeway is one of the most popular attractions as well as regarded as the longest and one of the highest ropeway in Asia towards Auli. It is also known as Gondola locally and connects Auli from Joshimath, located at 3010 m above sea level. The ropeway service is only available during summers which witness the captive snow-clad, magnificent, and majestic Himalayas views. The travel distance is 4 km and travel time is about 30 min in a trip, with Rs. 500/ person from starting from Joshimath to Auli.

Narsingh Temple

It is located lower market of Joshimath, a presiding deity dedicated to Narsimha Avatar which is in the form of semi Lion and semi Man taken by Hindu Lord Vishnu also the fourth incarnation of Lord Vishnu as Narsingh avatar who is worshipped by many people. It is the winter abode where the idol of the Lord Badrinath rests during the winter season. Narsingh Temple is a famous temple and a sacred place to visit in Joshimath. It is easily accessible located near NH 58 and 0.5v km from Joshimath bus stand NN 58 which will take about 1 hour in exploring the temple.

Kalpavriksha, Joshimath

It is a holy tree believed to be around 1200 years old perhaps one of the oldest mulberry trees in the history of India. It is believed that this tree will grant every wish that all of its devotees wish. There is also a temple built right under the tree dedicated to Lord Shiva within the parameter of 21.5 m circumference which the believed that the lord Shankaracharya worshipped Lord Shiva under the tree. This marvellous tree is evergreen throughout the year without shedding a single leaf and the sacred tree bears flowers but has not borne fruit in a long time. Devotees can also pay a visit to the cave where Shankaracharya resided during ancient times. It is located just 3km from Joshimath bus stand NH 58 and the duration of exploring takes about 2 hours.

Vishnuprayag, Joshimath

It is located in the confluence of the Alaknanda and Dhauliganga and numerous Ashram and Vishnuprayag Temple along with various activities like river rafting, hiking, and other magnificent sceneries and ferocious water is here. It is situated at an altitude of 1400 m above sea level and makes its way through the Garhwal Himalayan ranges, which is famous for being one of the holiest Panch Prayag located on the lap of mountains dedicated to the Lord Vishnu. While exploring here one will come across amazing fantastic picturesque views of the Himalayan range and this place is for both religious and adventurous enthusiasts.

Govindghat, Joshimath

It is a beautiful town located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand on the way to Badrinath where the point of Alaknanda river and Lakshman Ganga meets. This is also a great religious place as well as one of the best adventures enthusiasts. Situated at an elevation of 1800 m, also known as a base for most of the treks including Hemkund Sahib and the marvelous Valley of Flowers. It also showcases the beautiful views of Govindghat showcases refreshing views of the alpine hills covered in mist and the best places to visit to experience peace and a perfect getaway to find solace to break away. Ghangaria is covered by a thick blanket of snow during winters hence remains closed between December-April.

Places near Joshimath

Nanda Devi National Park (approx 19.6 Km from Joshimath)

It is a getaway into the extravagant flora and fauna of Uttarakhand established in 1982 home to the second largest mountain in India at an elevation of 7816m above sea level. One can go for safaris into the sanctuary, bird watching, and spot some of the rare Himalayan animals and species. The park is set at an elevation of more than 3500 m above sea level, and it is a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in the year 1988, it’s adorned with an extensive range of flora with weather and climate is unique in its sense and way apart from other national parks in India. The Nanda Devi National Park is open to visitors for only six months a year i.e from May to October. The famous Valley of Flowers, Badrinath Temple, and Hemkund Sahib, located in the vicinity of the national park.

Vasundhara Waterfall (approx 52.8 Km from Joshimath)

It is an amazing mesmerizing waterfall place often a stopping point for tourists who trek from the Mana Village to this waterfall which is breathtaking water a long walk situated just 52 km from Joshimath and located near Badrinath temple.

Bagini Glacier Trek, Joshimath

It is located in Garhwal Himalayas with an average altitude of 14816 ft above sea level. It is in between the thick rows of rare unique species of alpine flowers as well as among the serene atmosphere and crystal clear water of the rivers. The unpolluted fresh and enchanting views of lovely snow-capped Changa Banga peak, Dunagiri peak, and Kalanka peak mesmerize the tourist.

Best Time to Visit Joshimath

The best time to visit Joshimath is between April to November, during winter i.e December and January, is very cold and snowfall is there. The monsoon season is also not recommended to visit Joshimath which will be suspected of having heavy rainfall and landslides. The summer season is perfect for outdoor activities like camping, trekking, and exploring the surrounding temples.

Joshimath Temperature

Summer in Joshimath (April – June)

The temperature in summer is between 12°C to 33°C consider to be the best time to visit here. Outdoor activities like camping, trekking, paragliding, and river rafting can be done in summer and are perfect timing as well as enjoy the natural beauty of this town. This is also the period when the Mahashivratri Festival is celebrated, which is exciting for visitors to explore.

Monsoon in Joshimath (July – September)

The temperature during monsoon season is between 13 to 22°C with an average rainfall of over 1200 mm that affects outdoor activities but the surrounding area is in full bloom with lush mesmerizing also considered as poetry season and peak time to visit. The monsoon season is a perfect mix of showers that create the mood with its clouds, trickling rains, colors, and scents. Tourist is highly recommended to travel here after checking the weather conditions.

Winter in Joshimath (December – February)

The temperature during winter is between 0°C to 7°C which is again an exciting time for visitors. The outdoor treks during this season offer stunning views surrounding the valley as well as the snow-capped Himalayas. And the most enjoyable moment is warming up in the surrounding hot springs. December to January is peak winter time witnessing snowfall. The town also receives heavy rainfall during this month. Winter and summer are the best times to visit Joshimath. Know More

How to Reach Joshimath

Joshimath by Air

The nearest Airport to reach Joshimath is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun which is 270 km from Joshimath. There is no direct flight to reach Joshimath. Also, no direct flights from Delhi to Joshimath, to reach one can take a flight to Dehradun from Delhi. From the airport, one can take a taxi/ cab which is six hours to get to Joshimath.

Joshimath by Train

The nearest railway station from Joshimath is Rishikesh that is connected to most of the major cities in India by train which is around 250 km on NH-58 from Joshimath. For tourists coming from Delhi the fastest route to reach Joshimath is to take a train that drops you off at the Ambala Cant Jn. One can hire a taxi/ cab or even a bus from the town of Rishikesh to Joshimath. One can also reach Joshimath from Haridwar by cabs, which is 275km via NH 7.

Joshimath by Road

To reach Joshimath there are many ways, from Dehradun it is well connected by road and takes 9hours, (267km), from Delhi 484km i.e 12 hours drive via NH334. There are also direct cabs/ taxis and both government and private buses that run from Delhi as well as traveling from Delhi, it's advisable to reach Rishikesh first and from Rishikesh, one can hire a taxi to reach Joshimath which is 254km i.e 7.30 hours.

Places to Stay in Joshimath

Nature Inn, Joshimath

This hotel is surrounded by lush green fields, lovely streams and snow-capped mountains and this accommodation provides a homely comfortable stay and modern service, located 292 km from Dehradun 255 km from Rishikesh. From here one can also visit the religious places like Badrinath Ji, Narshing Mandir, Adi Jagat Guru Sankaracharya Jyotish peeth, etc, and other tourist places with the scenic view of Auli, Valley of Flowers, bugyals. The rooms are well furnished, with all the modern and basic amenities.

The Tattva- A Boutique Resort

This accommodation will bring jaw-droppingly fantastic sights of snowfall and the beautiful surrounding, situated at serene foothills, climes, and tranquility of nature of Joshimath and 253 km from Rishikesh, 260 km from Dehradun. During summers, it is gulped with greenery all around and during winters the resort gets covered with snow. Staying here is the perfect retreat for a relaxing time and a peaceful mind and this Tattva is a musical realm that plays fantastic music throughout the day to enhance the atmosphere that surrounds it with melody. The view from the room was also breathtaking and eye-catching.

Nanda Inn Cottage, Joshimath

NANDA INN is located on the outskirts of Joshimath Auli town for a peaceful stay and also a budget homestay which is best for couples and families, situated about 290 km from Dehradun and 250 km from Rishikesh. By staying here one can do bird watching, interact with nature and feel complete rejuvenation as well as the view of Himalayas and can visit Auli for skiing. The stay here is an opportunity to soak into nature and converse our mind, soul, body in the aura of serenity and also offers daily yoga courses including meditation and others. Know More

Places To Eat In Joshimath

Hotel Auli D Nany's Quality Restaurant

It is located 2.6 km from Joshimath situated southwest of Dhauliganga River and provides a range of cuisine and beverages, it also provides facilities for a birthday celebration, family dining along with beautiful views.

Twenty 3rd Fast Food and Bakery

It is located 3.1 km from Joshimath situated near Narsingh Mandir which provides Indian, Chinese, Indo-Chinese, and a few Asian cuisines along with a variety of beverages with a different flavor for cakes and bakes items with fancy decorations.

Pahadi Cafe & Restaurant

It is located 1.8 km from Joshimath situated at Auli road with a selection of familiar drinks and variant foods along with a perfect environment and mountain views.

Do's & Dont's in Joshimath

Do`s

Always advise carrying a water bottle.
Inbound tourists are mandated for e-pass.
Tourists are required to carry vaccination certificates for both doses if not need an RT-PC negative test report
For locales not necessary for RT-PCR test report.
Wearing of the mask is advisable