Badrinath

Uttarakhand welcomes thousands of tourists and pilgrims every year from different parts of the country and overseas too. Chardham destinations are the most popular religious attractions in the state and one of these is Badrinath Dham located in the Chamoli district. Badrinath lies between Nar and Narayan mountain ranges.

The town is located at an elevation of 3133 meters above the sea level and situated on the left bank of Alaknanada River. Geographically the town lies in the Garhwal region and appears very beautiful and divine. According to Hindu mythology, the temple was established by Adi Guru Shankaracharya originally and after that it was renovated several times. The place is sacred to Lord Vishnu, particularly in his dual form of Nar and Narayan.

The mountains around Badrinath are mentioned in Mahabharata also and as per the local legend, Pandavas passed through Badrinath and the town of Mana on their way to heaven (Swarga). There is also a cave where Rishi Ved Vyas is believed to have written Mahabharata in Mana. According to other legend, when goddess Ganga was requested to come down to earth for humanity, the earth was unable to withstand the force of her descent. Therefore, the mighty Ganga was split into 12 holy channels with Alaknanda as one of them.

The weather of Badrinath is always chilly throughout the year and it is advisable to carry heavy woolens when you are visiting. The pilgrimage to Badrinath is not as difficult as Kedarnath but you may feel little dizzy due to less content of oxygen in air. Travelling to Badrinath in Monsoons is risky due to frequent landslides and road blockages.

Pilgrims can spend their leisure time in shopping here and can buy Ayurvedic medicines, holy books, woolens, beads, bracelets etc. Follow all the religious rules and guidelines while you are travelling to this holy place Badrinath. Alcohol consumption is strictly prohibited here and non-vegetarian food is also not allowed.