Joshimath, also known as ‘Jyotirmath,’ is a city in Chamoli district, Uttarakhand. Situated at an altitude of 1875 meters, it opens to several sports like Himalayan mountain climbing expedition, trekking, and pilgrimage centers like Badrinath Dham, one of the pilgrimage sites of the Chardham Yatra including Kedarnath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri.

Joshimath, besides being a pilgrim spot, is also a tourist spot. There are multiple activities that you can engage in once in Joshimath. Apart from possessing religious temples, there are a few parks and adventure sports that Joshimath offers.

Joshimath demographics

According to the 2011 census, Joshimath has a total population of 48,202. 58% of this population is male, and 42% is female. The literacy ratio of the city is 87%, with 37,159 people being literates. Among the literates, 63% of the literate population is male, and 37% is female. Out of the employed population, 26,035 residents of Joshimath are employed, out of which 17,850 are male, and 8,185 are female.

The religious aspect of Joshimath

Joshimath or Jyotirmath is one of the four cardinal institutions established by Adi Shankara, the other three being at Dwarka, Puri, and Shringeri. It is home to Shankaracharya Math. The four institutes are located in all the four regions of India- north, south, west, and east. The four disciples of Shankara, Padma-Pada, Hasta-Malaka, Totakacharya, and Suresvaracharya were assigned to look after these four centers.

Joshimath is like a station for pilgrims going to the Char Dham. The Chardham camps are situated at a height of 1875 ft. A pilgrimage to the shrines of the four holy sites (Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri) includes many holy places on their way to the journey. Joshimath is one such place. People going for Char Dham Yatra Uttarakhand, visit Joshimath, and have a night’s halt. You can visit temples and indulge in other resources that the place has to offer. This gateway to the Char Dham makes Joshimath a place of religious significance.

Tourist attractions

• Ropeway or Cable Car- the ropeway in Joshimath is one of the longest ropeways in Asia. This ropeway connects to Auli. The charges for ropeway can go up to Rs.500 per person. This ropeway attracts many tourists and visitors. The breathtaking experience of watching the blooming meadows and dazzling mountains from that height is surreal.
• Narsingh temple is dedicated to Lord Narsingh, who people believe is the incarnation of Lord Vishnu. This temple is also known to be the abode of Lord Badrinath. It is believed that Shankaracharya himself installed the idol in the temple. Narsingh temple stands as an embodiment of religiosity and spirituality.
• Vishnuprayag- Vishnuprayag lies in the Chamoli district, Uttarakhand. It lies at the confluence of two rivers, Alaknanda and Dhauliganga. ‘Prayag’ means confluence, and Vishnuprayag is situated at the confluence of these two rivers. It is one of the Panch Prayag and is respected for the temple and the numerous ashrams. Vishnuprayag is famous for river rafting and for the temple that attracts many devotees to visit and perform religious rites and rituals.
• Trekking- many interesting treks have their base point at Joshimath. Trekking trails to the Valley of Flowers, Kauri Pass, Bagini Glacier, Hemkunth Sahib start from Joshimath. The trekking in Joshimath can be an exuberating experience for all adventure lovers and adventure seekers.
• Valley of Flowers- the scent and aroma of the flowers, the freshness of the atmosphere, and the place’s ethereal beauty make the visit worth it. Bestowed with the wondrous and captivating flora of the Himalayas, the Valley of Flowers is eternally beautiful. This place has been listed among the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Accommodations at Joshimath

There are many hotels available in Joshimath, a few of them are The Himalayan Abode, Devi Darshan Lodge, Hotel Nature Inn, The Tattva Resort, Nanda Inn Wild Cottage, Hotel XRA, Hotel Malari Inn.

Best Tour Package around Joshimath

Joshimath is known to be the winter seat of Lord Badrinath because the idol of Lord Badri was shifted from Badrinath temple to Joshimath. When the Char Dham Yatra Uttarakhand is closed in winters, Joshimath is a gateway to several pilgrim expeditions like Badrinath. The Chardham Yatra Tour Package includes a must-visit to Joshimath because of its religious element.

Apart from Char Dham, you can opt for the below packages.

Kauri Pass Trek.
Valley of Flowers Trek.
Satopanth Lake Trek.
Panch Kedar Yatra.

Joshimath has made its place among the top cities in Uttarakhand for both religious and adventurous reasons. Its spiritual aspect overshadows all other elements in the sense that the place contains remarkable temples and ashrams that give the place a religious aura. Being a route to the Chardham Yatra embodies a special spirituality and religiosity that enchants many devotees and pilgrims.

Delve deep into the spirituality of the Yamunotri Temple

Yamunotri is a holy location surrounded by trees, greenery, and pure nature. It’s known for its famed glaciers and thermal springs. It is the first of Chota char Dham Yatra circuit destinations. This is the origins of the river Yamuna and goddess Yamuna’s abode. Yamunotri is cradled in Garhwal Himalayas in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, at a fluttering height of 3,293 meters. As history suggests, Asit Muni, a respected sage, lived here. The holy Yamuna River’s real origin is ice and snow lake on the Kalind Mountain is recognized as the Champasar Snow.

Take a sneak peek at the origin of the temple

As the true place of origin is remote and unapproachable, the temple is for devotees to give prayers at the foothill. Yamunotri Dham is one of India’s and perhaps the world’s most widely regarded dhams. As the name implies, from its position on the banks of the holy river Yamuna and the presiding deity of Goddess Yamuna, this Dham gets its name. People on a Char Dham Yatra pilgrimage begin their journey from Yamunotri dhams and then go on to their other destinations.

Yamunotri temple is believed to be the oldest and holiest shrines in India.

Encircled by unparalleled serene natural elegance and situated on top of a flank of the Bandarpoonch Parvat, this temple is considered one of India’s oldest and most holy shrines. Surrounding the temple is a variety of fascinating locations for an interested traveler to try and discover. One of the key attractions here is a natural hot water source used by the pilgrims to cook rice and potatoes, which is later served to the devotees as Prasadam. The temple is renowned for its picturesque charm, unique spiritual vibes. Yamunotri temple is a significant pilgrimage destination for any pious Hindu. The ‘significance’ of the Yamunotri temple can be criticized from various angles.

The temple comes with significance- let’s take a look
Significance from the spiritual purpose

The Temple of Yamunotri is an important pilgrimage site for every pious Hindu. You can assess the ‘symbolic importance’ of the Yamunotri temple from different angles. The devotees find Goddess Yamuna, to whom the Yamunotri temple is devoted, to be a divine mother goddess. Both Hindu devotees firmly assume that by attending the Yamunotri shrine, by praying at the feet of Goddess Yamuna, by having the opportunity to experience the sacred ‘Prasadam’ and by taking a sacred dip in the Yamuna River, they will be able to absolve both their mortal sins and heal from the most immense mortal terror, the ‘fear of death.’ Cooking ‘Prasadam’ from the water of nearby hot springs is a practice inside the temple. The hot spring-fuming water will quickly help to cook rice, pulses, and boil vegetables. So you can assume how hot the water is.

Significance from the architectural point

The Yamunotri temple was first built in 1839 AD at the initiative of the King of Garhwal, Tehri Naresh Sudarshan Shah, and it was constructed over the original ancient temple. But later, an earthquake caused significant damage to the temple, which was then repaired and reconstructed by Jaipur’s Maharani, Guleria. This was in the nineteenth century. But what we see today as the Yamunotri temple is the culmination of several repairs and architectural projects, under the patronage of the wealthy royal families.

Significance from the mythological point

Hindu mythology states that Yamuna Devi is the daughter of Sun God or Surya Dev, and her mother is Saranyu Devi, and her brother is the ‘Angel of Destruction’ Yama. Thus Yamuna Devi assumes considerable divine significance for Hindus due to the legendary facts linked to her conception and origin. Devotees claim they will also satisfy and thereby get blessed by Surya Dev, Yama, Sughna Devi by worshiping Yamuna Devi.

Do you know why the color of the river is black?

Yamunotri temple reflects the origins of the holy Yamuna water. The river’s real source is a frozen glacier called Champasar glacier, at an altitude of 4421 m. A Kund or Lake emerges from this area and is known as the Sapta Rishi Kund. Trekking to this location is incredibly challenging, but it’s worth a visit as this is the spot where the holy flower, ‘Brahma Kamal,’ blooms once a year in July – Aug. In Hindu Mythology, the flower has spiritual meaning. It is said that Lord Krishna represents the white stamen of the herb and that the 100 Kauravas are considered to be the reddish stalks. Lord Shiva is believed to have swapped Lord Ganesha’s head with an elephant’s head using Brahma Kamal.

There is a pervasive myth that the river’s color is black because it has engrossed Lord Shiva’s misery and sorrow since his wife Sati’s demise.

The benefits of revisiting the Yamunotri temple

• Yamunotri is one of Uttarakhand’s Chota Char Dham Temples loops.
• Some Puranas, such as Padma Purana, state that having a holy bath in the Yamuna River washes away an individual’s sins and grants Moksha or redemption.
• To cook a handful of rice and potatoes in muslin cloth at Surya Kund’s hot water sulfur bath. This is the rite, which is mandatory for all pilgrims.
• It is considered to be a “Prasadam” or gift intended as a spiritual cleanser.

Festivals that you can experience while visiting the Yamunotri temple

1. Basant Panchami.
2. Phool Dei.
3. Olgia.

Basant Panchami, January – February:

• Worshippers offer the ‘puja’ to Goddess Saraswati during this festival.
• People wear yellow clothes during the day, adorn their foreheads with yellow-colored tilak made from turmeric paste.
• People use handkerchiefs crafted from yellow pieces of fabric.

Phool Dei, March:

• Devotees sell peers a bag or platter full of beans, vegetables, jaggery, and coconut.
• They also get blessed in turn with food, rice, sweets, and jaggery.
• On this day, Goddess Yamuna is given a rare savory called Sei.

Olgia, August:

• The day is characterized by unique ghee adornment on citizens’ foreheads and Dal Chappatis feeding with ghee.
• Nephews and sons-in-law are also given presents to maternal uncles and fathers-in-law respectively.

Yamunotri Dham is preferably the first camp to launch the Uttarakhand Chota Char Dham Yatra. Among Hindu pilgrims, this holy place holds a firm belief that Yamunotri Dham downpours its blessings to the tourists for a free, pleasant, and unforgettable spiritual journey ahead. It is situated in a location that is the source of the Yamuna River.

The historical and religious significance of Yamunotri

The holiest Hindu Shrine Yamunotri is located in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, at an altitude of around 3185 meters above sea level. Yamunotri is preferably the first destination to launch the Char Dham Yatra Uttarakhand. It is claimed that Yamunotri Dham rains its blessings to the devotees to have a healthy and memorable spiritual journey ahead.

Here the temple devoted to the goddess Yamuna stands at the height of 3, 293 meters and along the majestic Yamuna River. Yamunotri is the source of the river Yamuna. The area is known primarily for its hot springs and glaciers. Asit Muni, a respected philosopher who used to live here, according to a Hindu text. The Yatra to Yamunotri can’t be fulfilled without the Prasad. The Prasad is made from potato and rice cooked in Surya Kund’s hot spring near the holiest shrine.

The top attractions in Yamunotri are

Yamunotri temple, Surya Kund Hot water spring, Kharsali Shani Dev Temple, Hanuman Chatti, Jankichatti, Hanuman Chatti, Darwa Top, Dodi Tal, Divya Shila.

Why is the Yamunotri temple one of the most popular places to visit?

Being one of the Chardham Yatra Uttarakhand, the Yamunotri temple is the most popular region of this place. Almost 80% of the tourists visit this place for the fantastic history behind it.

The temple has a shrine on the river’s left bank founded by Maharaja Pratap Shah of Tehri Garhwal dedicated to the goddess Yamuna. In due course of time, a large part of the ancient temple was heavily destroyed by a natural calamity such as an earthquake. The temple was eventually restored and rebuilt in the 19th century AD by Maharani Guleria Devi of Jaipur. The temple design shows the solely Nagar theme.

The temple is built of granite stones, and the top has a cone-shaped minaret with a light vermillion border colored pale yellow. The holy Goddess is portrayed in the shape of a black marble god. The temple’s inner chambers consist of the Garbha Griha or Sanctum Sanctorium, where the mother goddess rests, and the Mandap or assembly hall where visitors normally assemble for worship.

The most popular activities to perform in the Yamunotri temple

• Mangala Aarti is done in the morning hours, and in the evening, Shayan Aarti.
• There’s also a puja package for the devotees to purchase from local shops and give to the lord.
• The pilgrims’ list of auspicious items is coconut, sugar, incense stick, and stuff linked to ‘Saubhagya’ or good fortune, particularly for Hindu married women such as sindoor bindi, red saree, pebble, mirror, nail polish, etc.
• In the area of the temple, there are several hot water springs, the most prominent being Suryakund. Men tie in a bowl of cloth rice and potatoes and cook them in hot water to give it to the goddess and carry home as prasad.

Some more unknown facts about Yamunotri

According to the widespread assumption based on an ancient myth, Yamunotri once acted as a hermitage to one of the most esteemed Hindu thinkers, Sage Asit Muni. He is renowned for taking baths regularly in both the holy Ganga and Yamuna rivers. When his old age advanced, though, he was unable to visit Gangotri, as a way of expressing reverence for the aged sage, a line of Ganga had emerged only for him opposite Yamunotri.

The temple recognizes this beautiful saint’s existence as well as a means of celebrating some of India’s holiest rivers. The new standing temple is a modern development as the temples constructed in the past have been demolished owing to many factors such as extreme shifts in the environment, including landslides and avalanches.

The tentative expense to visit Yamunotri

From Haridwar: INR. 16, 500
From Delhi: 26, 500
The above price is based on a private vehicle.

Here are some travel tips for all the tourists out there

• Yamunotri is a sacred holy city that has immense spiritual importance to devotees. Maintain the place’s sanctity by shunning alcohol and non-vegetarian products.
• The temperature at Yamunotri stays cold throughout the year, at an elevation of more than 3,200 meters. When visiting the area, bring sufficient woolens.
• Tourists and pilgrims, particularly during the monsoons, should inquire about the weather and road conditions before planning their visit to the Yamunotri shrine. Incessant rains often obstruct the highways and interrupt traffic.
• Photography within the temple, particularly within the sanctum sanctorum, can be prohibited because of religious beliefs.
• You should not carry heavy bags while trekking. It is because heavy bags can slow down your speed, making your walk challenging to complete.

A city claimed to have its origins in Hindu legend, Haridwar, is as an ancient location as it can be. Ancient temples of ages, interesting worship rituals, locals who are all too eager to teach you about Hindu mythology. Get lost into the Ganga ghats’ serenity at sunrise or see the beautiful aarti throughout the evening; it’s the stuff that makes up spiritual encounters. It is a quickly growing hub of yoga, meditation, and ayurvedic traditions other than its theological importance. Join it for a lifelong experience and is nothing short of ever. In case you want to go for Char Dham Yatra, Haridwar is always the best option to start with.

Best time to visit Haridwar.

You can visit Haridwar all around the year.

October to February
The weather is as low as 10 degrees Celsius, so cold winds can be around. At this time, you can easily enjoy pilgrimages and sightseeing tours. November is the best month to visit Haridwar, as the November winter season begins. Climate for different activities is becoming fun. In these months, you even get to see spectacular views of the sunset. When you intend to visit Haridwar in winter, we recommend you bring woolens.

March to June
During this season, March is the perfect month to travel. It’s not hot or cold at night. In reality, the sightseeing is wonderful. At this time, many people visit Haridwar to celebrate Ramnavami. The temperature starts to increase from April and stays warm until June. Hey, having a holy dip in the Ganges in the scorching sun is wonderful. Each year in June, thousands of devotees visit Haridwar for the Saavan Festival. We recommend you have sunscreen and an umbrella ready.

July to September
Monsoon starts in Haridwar in July. The region gets relief from the heat of the season, and the atmosphere is fairly agreeable. The Kanwar Mela is conducted in July, which annually attracts a gathering of more than 2 million people.

The famous attractions in Haridwar:

Throughout the year, Haridwar City continues to draw numerous tourists. Har ki Pauri is the hub of activity in Haridwar, and there are numerous Hindu rites and ceremonies held on Ganga banks. And the authentic elegance is of the Ganga Aarti evening when the Har ki Pauri ghats dominate the audience’s attention, and other attractions include the Chandi Devi Temple on top of the Neel Parvat and the Bharat Mata Temple overlooking the small town. Then there is Shanti Kunj, which houses 24 images of Gayatri in its Gayatri shrine. Moti Bazaar, Upper Street, and Jwalapur are amongst the famous areas.

Why Haridwar is a popular tourist spot?

Haridwar also serves as the base destination for some of Rishikesh and Devprayag’s other tourist towns, as Hardwar is well supported by trains and highways. Haridwar is now also evolving as a multifaceted cultural and spiritual center, aside from the theological perspective. Kachoris at Kashyap Kachoriwala and the aloo puri at Mohanji Puriwale are renowned for their cuisine and some of the must-try dishes.

Ganga Aarti in Haridwar: Significance and Timings

Ganga Aarti means river Ganga offering. The offerings are for gods and goddesses. River Ganga in India is not only a river, it is Holy Mother. The River Ganga brings life in water shape. Even the same bath sweeps away sins as you dive into the sacred water. Even the River Ganga brings souls salvation. It’s not just a channel, it’s a whole world. Historically millions of people stay on the banks of the Ganga canal. Water is also important to India for agriculture. River Ganga is believed to be a goddess who originally existed in heaven.

People have been granting the river Ganga as a sacred river for thousands of years, and it has been a part of their life where they come to get moksha for their passing relations and erase their sins. The Aarti Ganga is a thank you to River Ganga.

Timings of Ganga Aarti

Ganga Aarti Morning Timings

January – 7:10
February – 6:45
March – 6:10
April – 5:35
May – 5:15
June – 5:20
July – 5:25
August – 5:35
September – 5:55
October – 6:10
November – 6:25
December – 6:50

Ganga Aarti Evening Timings

January – 17:30
February – 17:50
March – 18:10
April – 18:30
May – 18:50
June – 19:10
July – 19:05
August – 18:40
September – 18:10
October – 17:30
November – 17:15
December – 17:20

All you need to know about Haridwar’s tour package

• The Haridwar travel package offers Indian tourists a chance to witness the holiest river Ganges, sacred bathing ghats, ancient temples, ashrams, priestly hymns, and numerous religious ceremonies.
• Haridwar is a veritable kaleidoscope of India’s history. Haridwar means “Gateway to Heaven.” Haridwar is one of India’s most famous holy towns. Haridwar is commonly visited around the world by Hindus. Hindus from all over the world seek to get once in a lifetime tour in Haridwar. Haridwar tour for Hindu citizens involves wiping away their sins.
• Haridwar tour for certain people is a part of their religious rituals. Groups of pilgrims go on a holy tour in Haridwar through the year.
• Standard Haridwar tour ends and commemorates with enchanting sounds of temple bells and priestly hymns.
• Har Ki Pauri is a big attraction during vacations in Haridwar. Throughout the evening at Har Ki Pauri, a citizens perfume worship goddess Ganga with earthen lamps, roses, and incense sticks.

Tourist Attractions nearby Haridwar City

Once you’re in Haridwar city with the key points of attraction, engage in some interesting locations. Unlike the Sapt Rishi Ashram and Kanva Rishi Ashram, different neighboring ashrams offer a quiet hideaway for the spiritually inclined.

Haridwar Travel tips for you

• Ganga Aarti playing at Har Ki Pauri every evening is a sight to recall. It shouldn’t be skipped through at Haridwar.
• Within the temple, photography can be prohibited, particularly within sanctum sanctorum. Please conform to the instructions set out by the temple authorities.
• Haridwar gets crowded, especially during Kumbh Mela. During that moment, extra precautions will be taken to prevent running into big crowds and bridging on the Ganges river.
• Here stop non-vegetarian food and alcoholic drinks as Haridwar has a strong religious significance for the devotees. There is no liqueur shop in Haridwar if you doubt.

Haridwar keeps engrossing the hearts and minds of those who explore it. Called ‘Lord Vishnu’s abode, Haridwar is a place of mythology and immense spiritual strength, situated in Uttarakhand. It is revered as one of India’s seven holiest cities and attracts millions of local and foreign tourists flocking to it year in and year out to give prayers or even try forgiveness for their sins by bathing in the Ganga River. The main attraction is Har Ki Pauri and making Haridwar a top-notch tourism location. Ganga Aarti’s appearance as the sun goes down is a beautiful sight, where the whole city comes to a halt to watch this spectacular display. The numerous temples, centers of Ayurveda, and contemplation places make it a popular location for visitors.

Read the travel guide and schedule your journey to fall in love with Haridwar.

How to reach Haridwar?

Haridwar is claimed to be the Hindus’ stairway to heaven and deliverance and the best place to start with Chardham Yatra Uttarakhand. Uttarakhand’s Haridwar district is the holiest spot for Hindu pilgrims and renders a busy place almost all year round. This particular purpose is well connected via train, road, or air to most of the significant Indian cities. Read below to find out more about quickly going to Haridwar.

BY AIR: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant airport in Dehradun, roughly 37 km away. Flights to and from the jolly grant are operated by Air India local, Indigo, Jet Airways, and Spicejet. Additionally, you can also travel from Indira Gandhi International airport in Delhi (223 km away).

BY RAIL: Haridwar railway station is the central railroad station. It is a part of the northern railway zone and is linked to India’s major metro cities and tourist capitals. Several trains depart from Delhi’s H. Nizamuddin railway station to Haridwar, taking about 5-6 hours. Three overnight trains depart from separate Delhi railway stations.

BY ROAD: The road ride to Haridwar is a picturesque and pleasant one. It links Haridwar to Chandigarh (205 km), Delhi (210 km), Dehradun (59 km), and Nainital (223 km). Similar roads are traversed by several public and private buses. Visitors may select between a / c, non-a / c, luxurious buses, vehicles, etc.

Finalize your favorite thing to do in Haridwar from the list:

1. Visit Har ki Pauri.
If you’re in Haridwar, you can’t skip exploring the ghat. This ghat is situated near the Ganga River, and thousands are gathered for the Aarti at the river Ganga bank. Lamps are being illuminated and floated along the water, during this Aarti, when the tourists chant prayers. The strength arising from this singing of ‘Jai Maa Ganga’ reverberates across the region. That is this hymn’s power and significance. The Ganga River is deemed holy as it enriches every grain of soil it affects, enabling India’s cultivation. It is considered pure because it flows directly through Uttarakhand and comes from the Himalayan foothills. In this channel, many people dive. Most people swim in the water because they hope their offenses will be swept away.

2. Do not miss the Ganga Aarti.
The Ganga Aarti is a magical event attended by hundreds of devotees. The view and reflection of thousands of diyas in the shimmering Ganges will undoubtedly remain with you. Har Ki Pauri Ghat keeps the aarti at the shore of the Ganga River. The priests pray with clocks of fire in their pockets. The tourists will float Diya and flowers on the river that the goddess Ganga is claimed to have blessed. The Aarti Ganga begins at 6:30 and starts at 8:00. Please ensure that you visit by this time.

3. Tour to Mansa Devi Temple.
It is a Hindu temple of the goddess Mansa Devi situated on the peak of the Bilwa Parvat in the district Shivalik. There are two ways to get to this shrine: climbing to the peak and the other is by walking (also the most fun). It gives you a striking view of the Ganga river and Haridwar plains and makes you feel like a child all over again! We would suggest taking the rope path. One of the best activities to do in Haridwar is temple hopping. You will visit other Temples in Haridwar, such as Mansa Devi Temple, the Mayan Devi Temple, and Neel Parvat Temple if you are Religious. The temple in Mansa Devi is located on a hill. When you don’t like it, you might take a cable car on your foot.

4. Another visit to Chanda Devi Temple.
This is a Hindu shrine, which is situated on the Neel Parvat in the Shivalik area and is dedicated to the deity Chandi Devi. Again, there are two different ways to get to this sanctuary: walking up, and the other is by following the path. During Navratri and Kumbh Mela, many people visit this temple.

5. A stroll around the Jungle.
Haridwar is a beautiful town where people enjoy the splendor of the Ganges. But you will be welcomed at the Rajaji Wilderness Sanctuary only 18 km away from the city by wild bears, tigers, cats, elephants, and many endangered species. A large variety of flora and fauna were introduced to the sanctuary. The thick woods give spectacular images of the supernatural forces of nature. It’s the best thing for nature and wildlife enthusiasts in Haridwar in the morning.

6. World-famous lassi.
Walk around the Barra Bazar is exciting with evening activity. They will teach you how you can savor the finest, creamy lass in a long time. It is impossible to extract the taste buds from the cold milk delicacy. And ask us later for this suggestion to help you wash your day’s exhaustion.

A dense yogurt shake served in glass tubers is the milk product Lassi. At night in Haridwar, one of the most famous street food restaurants in the region is the Prakash Lok.

7. The food at Hoshiyar Puri.
This restaurant is one of the oldest in the region. The business was founded in 1937. Exquisite vegetarian delights are offered in the kitchen. There is no comparison between Dal Makhani and Kheer served in the restaurant. Among the locals, who rate the meals they serve very highly, the restaurant is one of the best things to do at night in Haridwar.

8. The world-famous Kumbha Mela.
Celebrated every 12 years, Kumbha Mela is the world’s most prominent religious gathering you will ever come across. The Haridwar sites are spectacular during the Kumbha festival. It is a pure paradise for the shutterbugs where each pilgrim’s face has a unique background. Pilgrims all over the world head to Haridwar in the Ganga, to wash their sins.

9. Meditate like never before.
One of Haridwar’s best things to do is meditate. There are many ashrams in the town that teach meditation and yoga. Many options are given in which the quietness needed for reflection and yoga may be taken advantage of. Ashrams such as Shanti Kunj and Patanjali Yogapeeth are well-known institutes that operate various programs all year round. Such ashrams provide the best atmosphere, food, and remain to enjoy the tranquility.

Gangotri is the origin of the River Ganga, (where it is known as the River Bhagirathi) and the seat of the goddess Ganga. The name changes to Ganga from Devprayag onwards, where it meets the River Alaknanda. The origin of the holy river is at Gaumukh, set in the Gangotri Glacier, and is a 19 km trek from Gangotri. It is one of the four sites in the Chota Char Dham(or Chardham) pilgrimage circuit.

The original Gangotri Temple was built by the Nepalese general Amar Singh Thapa. The Semwal family of pujaris supervises the ritual duties of the temple. These pujaris hail from Mukhba village.

The historical significance of Gangotri

According to Hindu mythology, Goddess Ganga took the form of a river to absolve King Bhagiratha’s predecessors’ sins, following his severe penance of several centuries. Bhagiratha, the grandson of King Sagar, is believed to have meditated to please the Goddess Ganga enough to cleanse the ashes of his ancestors, and liberate their souls, granting them salvation or Moksha.

Another legend states that the river Ganga descended to earth on this day.

The Gangotri temple architecture

The beautiful temple architecture of Gangotri has drawn the attention not only of pilgrims for religious purposes but also generated deep interest among architects and scholars of history. You may take a closer look at the features of the temple, below:

• The Gangotri Temple architecture is built following the Nagara style with 5 Small apexes, 20 ft. In height.
• Intrinsic carvings on the exteriors— unprecedented for any Hindu temple architecture—give the temple its elegant appearance. The temple has been created by following the Katyuri style of architecture, common in Nepal and its foothills. The class started from the regime of the Nepalese Katyuri dynasty.
• However, the interiors of the temple follow a typical temple architectural pattern.
• After entering the premises, the pilgrims are directed inside the assembly hall or the temple’s sabhagriha. This assembly hall makes its way and leads up to the GarbhaGriha or the temple’s inner sanctum, where the idol of the presiding deity is placed.
• The inner sanctum consists of a raised platform where the idol of Ganga idols of various goddesses like Yamuna, Saraswati, Annapurna, etc. are also present. This shrine is also built in a way where the presiding idol faces east so that the very first rays of the sun are felt on it.

Historians and architects agree that the most permanent sign of history in architecture. The Gangotri temple once again proves the point. Not only is it aesthetically beautiful, but also indicates the cultural exchanges between two different cultures, had resulted in a rich heritage a long time ago.

Touristic significance of the Gangotri Temple and the adjoining area

• It is to be remembered at this point that Gangotri is generally visited by the tourists who opt for any of these: the Char Dham, the Chardham Yatra Uttarakhand, Chardham Yatra (or Char Dham Yatra), for these save time, the strain of journey and money. This means tourists and pilgrims generally touch upon Gangotri while they also visit the other three pilgrimage sites– Kedarnath, Badrinath, and Yamunotri.
• Subsequently, Gangotri occupies a prime position in all the Chardham Tour Packages or any Chardham Yatra package. As per the figures, Indian tourism expects more than 15 lacs (1.5 million) pilgrims to visit Chardham in 2022.

Also, there are significant and popular places to visit near the Gangotri Temple. These include:

1. The Bhagirath Shila, which is believed to be the holy rock where King Bhagirath prayed to Lord Shiva.
2. Pandava Gufa— located 1.5 km from Gangotri— is the place where the Pandavas are believed to have meditated and rested en route Kailash.
3. In the pilgrimage journey of Chota Char Dham, Gangotri is often visited after Yamunotri (located in the western region of Garhwal Hills). Pilgrims generally make Uttarkashi their base camp.
4. The time taken from Uttarkashi to Gangotri temple is about 4 hours by road.

The ideal time to visit the Gangotri Temple

The temple is closed from Diwali day every year and is reopened on Akshaya Tritiya. During this time, the idol of the goddess is kept at Mukhba village, near Harsil.

Also remember that each year the Chardham Yatra commences on specific dates, which corresponds with the temples being open to the public.

How to travel to Gangotri

Gangotri can be reached via trains and flights and cars.  However, it is best to book a travel agency to take off your troubles.
Minibusses, jeeps, and cars are readily available. The nearest train station is Haridwar and Dehradun, the nearest airport is Dehradun.

Vehicles reach the nearest motorable points to Badrinath temple and Gangotri, Yamunotri, and Kedarnath. These points are at a distance of 10 to 15 km from the nearest motorable road.

Now there are many facilities, including road trips, and even helicopters, too.

It is easier than ever to reach Gangotri now

The under-construction Char Dham National Highway will soon be accessible. two-lane (in each direction) express National Highway connecting the four holy places in Uttarakhand states, namely Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri. The project includes 900 km of national highways, which will connect the whole of Uttarakhand state. The proposed road will complement the under-construction Char Dham Railway.

The Ministry of Tourism under the Govt. of India has already set upon the undertaking of the construction of the Chota Char Dham Railway project, commencing since 2017, it is now extremely convenient to plan your trip to the Char Dham.

The construction, a 321 km long route, will connect nearly the North of the country. The railway has a Y-shaped route divided into two directions: The Gangotri–Yamunotri spurs: The prominent spur will go to Gangotri, another Y–fork for the spur to Yamunotri.
Kedarnath–Badrinath spurs: The prominent spur will go to Kedarnath, which leads as a Y–fork for another spur to Badrinath.

Rishikesh is also known as the ‘Gateway to the Garhwal Himalayas’ and ‘Yoga capital of the world.’ Its captivating beauty, architectural speculation, and grand temples and culture make it a place to visit often. There are plenty of places in Rishikesh to visit. The Char Dham Yatra, a major pilgrimage for the Hindus to the holy shrines of Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri, encompasses Rishikesh on the way to the Yatra. The journey generally starts from Rishikesh. Rishikesh is one of the ideal ways to start the Char Dham Yatra. The adventure sports in the place also attract people.

There are many places to explore in Rishikesh.

Lakshman Jhula
The Lakshman Jhula glorifies Rishikesh tourism. It is a 450 feet long run suspended bridge. It does not require any entry fee and is open at all times. The Lakshman Jhula was built in 1939, with a height of 70 feet above the river. This Jhula also has a religious significance. According to Hinduism, this bridge stands in the same place where Lakshmana crossed the Ganges River on a jute rope. Thus, the name ‘Lakshman Jhula’.

The Beatles Ashram
The name ‘Beatles Ashram’ was originated after The Beatles visited the ashram in 1968. The Beatles visited the ashram to learn transcendental meditation. The ashram is located in the Rajaji National Park. This visit changed the world’s outlook on Indian spirituality. Its tranquil and serene atmosphere attracts visitors to spend time with nature.

Swarg Ashram
Swarg Ashram is known to be one of the oldest ashrams in India. This ashram was built in memory of Swami Vishudhanand. This place is famous for yoga, meditation, spirituality, and solitude. It is situated on the left of the River Ganges, where people sit by the river and embrace the river’s calmness and serenity.

Rafting in Rishikesh
Rishikesh is known as a place for adventure sports. Rafting is one such sport that Rishikesh is famous for. There are three stretches of the river that ranges from 9-26 km; these three stretches are open for rafting. Rafting in Rishikesh is a must-go for all visitors. The open sky above and blue waters below creates an enchanting and bewitching aura.

Parmarth Niketan
Parmarth Niketan is an ashram founded by Swami Shukdevanand Maharaj. It is the largest ashram in Rishikesh and consists of over a thousand rooms. This ashram is famous for

• Ayurvedic treatments.
• Yoga.
• Meditation.
• And Ganga aarti at sunset.

Rajaji National Park
Full of flora and fauna, this place aims to achieve the calmness of the soul. Located 16 km away from the city, this National Park has nature’s beauty in bounty. Things that one can do here- jeep safari, live in small cozy cottages, visit the Sureshwari Devi temple. It is widely famous for wildlife and adventure.

Kaudiyala
Kaudiyala is one of the most viewed places in Rishikesh. It is located 40 km from Rishikesh on Badrinath road. Kaudiyala is a beautiful camping site and is famous for its white river rafting. It is situated on the banks of the River Ganga. The thrills and perils associated with this place are a must-have for many tourists.

Bairaj Lake
Bairaj Lake adds to the go-to places when in Rishikesh. The scenic beauty of the lake adds to the bounteous beauty that nature offers us. It is one of Rishikesh’s best places if you want to relax and calm your mind and soul, an ideal place for peace and meditation.

Bungee Jumping
Since Rishikesh is a place full of adventures, Bungee Jumping is one such adventure sport that every adventurer must try. It is generally done from a height of 83 meters and makes it to India’s highest bungee jumping platform. The sky, the mountains, and the trees let your body fall, but your soul flows through nature’s stillness.

Shivpuri
The name ‘Shivpuri’ got its name after a temple here was dedicated in the name of Lord Shiva. It is situated 19 km away from Rishikesh. This place is widely famous for the different kinds of adventure sports it provides: Camping, Trekking, Kayaking, Rappelling, and river rafting are the adventure sports that this place offers. It is located on River Ganges banks and is known as ‘abode of Lord Shiva’.

Timings and prices of these places

Lakshman Jhula opens at all times, with no entry fee.
The Beatles Ashram open all days, till sunset ₹150(Indians) and ₹600(foreigners).
Swarg Ashram opens all days during the daytime, with no entry fee.
Rafting 7 a.m to 10 p.m starting from ₹600.
Parmarth Niketan opens all days during the daytime, with no entry fee.
Rajaji National Park, open all days ₹150(Indians) and ₹600(foreigners).
Kaudiyala opens all days at all times, with no entry fee.
Bairaj Lake opens all days at all times, with no entry fee.
Bungee Jumping 9:30 a.m to 4 p.m from ₹3550 per person.
Shivpuri opens at all times, with no entry fee. Charges for adventure sports.

Chardham Yatra and Rishikesh

Rishikesh is also known as the gateway to the holy shrines of Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri. The Chardham, a pilgrimage that encompasses these four locations, can be well started from Rishikesh itself. The Lakshman jhula strikes to be a good starting point for the pilgrimage to these four holy shrines. Rishikesh is known to be a famous route for the Chardham Yatra. It is because of the River Ganges in Rishikesh that people prefer going to and taking a purifying dip before starting their journey for the pilgrimage. Chardham Yatra Uttarakhand, in most cases, starts its journey from Rishikesh.

The Chardham Tour Package from Rishikesh starts from ₹35,000 to ₹60,000, depending on its route. 50% of the people opting for Chardham Yatra choose to start their journey from and to Rishikesh.

Rishikesh’s ethereal beauty, the breathtaking view of the valleys, the mountains and the Rivers, and the lush greenery give us a natural therapy and takes us on a rejuvenating journey to calm our body and soul. It is a very famous tourist spot in India because of its spectacular road to nature. It is also a significant gateway to the Char Dham Yatra because of the holy temples that the place contains.

Badrinath is considered one of the holiest Hindu pilgrimage sites. It got its name after a temple in Badrinath was dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The place is famous for the Char Dham Yatra that makes Badrinath a significant site. Badrinath along with Kedarnath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri form the Char Dham Yatra of Uttarakhand.

The other Char Dham Yatra that originally takes place in India, covering all four parts of India, encompasses Badrinath and Puri, Dwarka, and Rameswara. Hence, the name ‘Char Dham.’ Badrinath is most famous for this pilgrimage.

Other reasons to visit Badrinath

• The mystical architecture. The Badrinath temple’s architecture forms a sort of magical look when the vibrant colors of the temple complement the greenery outside the temple. It is believed that Adi Shankara transformed this temple. The roof of the temple is artistically painted golden to add richness to it. During winters, amidst the snow, the temple looks surreal.
• The Vasudhara falls. Vasudhara falls located 9 km from Badrinath. It originates from Nar Narayan Peak of the Himalayas. The calmness of the fall and the gushing sound of waters give the pilgrims a state of eternal peace. The fall at an altitude of 12,000 ft meets the River Alaknanda.
• The queen of Garhwal, locally known as the Neelkanth Peak, stands at 6,597 meters. This snowy mountain adds a mystic charm to the Badrinath temple when it falls at the backdrop. With the sun shining bright at the top of the hill, it looks like an enchanting beauty. This place makes it to the list of go-to places in Badrinath.
• Bheem Pul. A bridge made out of big rocks stands on top of the River Saraswati. Bheem, a Pandav sibling, built this bridge. This bridge is considered iconic as it is located on the country’s border with Tibet.
• Tapt Kund serves as another attraction for visitors. It is the holiest site in Badrinath. Tapt Kund is a hot water spring that flows below the Badrinath temple. It is believed that whoever takes a bath from this water is cleansed of all his sins.

What are the nearby attractions when in Badrinath?

Apart from Badrinath being a sacred and holy place, other attractions enchant visitors to the place.

Brahma Kapal
The Brahma Kapal has a little history attached to it. Located 2 km from Badrinath, it is considered that Lord Brahma lives in Brahma Kapal Ghat. This place has a history of Lord Brahma himself. People come here to give their obeisance to the deceased so that they get salvation from re-birth.

Charan Paduka
The historical context of this place lies in the fact that it contains the footprints of Lord Vishnu. It lies 3380 ft above sea level and is located 3 km from Badrinath. People come here to visit and witness the footprints of Lord Vishnu. It is believed that Lord Vishnu started his journey on Earth from this point and, therefore, stepped on the rocks and left his mark. The road is uneven and risky to travel through, but this does not stop the pilgrims from visiting this place. The place also has a beautiful natural view, which intensifies the occurrence of visitors in this place.

Mata Murti Temple
This place is located 3 km away from Badrinath. The most special about this place is that if you meditate in this temple sincerely, it is believed that the Goddess will grant you, detachment, from all things material. There is a full big Mela held here in September ‘Mata Murti ka Mela’. Everybody comes together and unites as one while singing and chanting songs during the arti done in the evenings. The feeling is extraordinary, and it gives you a sense of spirituality.

Mana Village
Mana village stands on the Indo-Tibetan border, approximately 5.5 km away from Badrinath. It is located on the banks of River Saraswati with an altitude of 3219 m. Bhotias, an Indo-Mongolian tribe, are the inhabitants of this place. Mana village associates itself with the ceremonies of the Badrinath temple and also indulging in the activities of Matha Murti. Mana village comprises several caves, the Vyas Cave, Ganesh Gufa, etc. Mana village is a must-visit for camping and trekking activities.

Weather in Badrinath

Summers Months, March to June: The climate during this time is pleasant, with a temperature around 18°. This season is perfect for pilgrimage.

Monsoon Months, July to September: The temperature during these months drops to 15°.

Winter Months, October to February: The temperatures during winters become 5° to -10 degrees. Snowfall is very often during winters.

Every year there are thousands of people visiting Badrinath either because of sightseeing or for a pilgrimage. On average 20,000,000 people visit Badrinath every year. Out of which 10% visit for tourism purposes. In the year 2018, the Char Dham Yatra witnessed the highest number of visitors, with over 27, 69,508 people visiting the four shrines of Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri.

Badrinath is a sacred and holy spot. Every Hindu must visit the sacred place of Badrinath once in their lifetime. Apart from its spiritual aspect, the beautifications in this city are also found in abundance, which attracts many tourists. Badrinath is also an ideal place for tourism where one can have a good time and appreciate beauty. Winters in Badrinath are the most beautiful.

The hills, the river flowing beneath, and the holiest Badrinath temple that stands amidst the snowy mountain are a visual delight. According to the 2011 census, Badrinath had a population of 2,438; out of which 2,054 were male and the rest 384 were female. Badrinath consists of 95% male literacy and 79.9% female literacy. The warmth and helpful nature of the residents of Badrinath make it a bigger attraction for people to visit. With such warmth any place holds a better place in everyone’s heart, and so does Badrinath.

Spiritual trips or Yatras hold a very important place in the Hindu religion. Amongst all of these trips, the ‘Chota Char Dham yatra’ consists of Kedarnath, Badrinath, Yamunotri, and Gangotri. The Yatra is an essential step towards the pursuit of salvation according to Hindu scriptures. Moksha is one of the four principles of human life, according to Hinduism; the other three are Karma, Artha, and Dharma. It is yearning for moksha and divine serenity that draws thousands of pilgrims to Badrinath Dham.

Badrinath Dham – A beginning

Badrinath Dham temple, a Char Dham located between the Nar and Narayan mountains, is a regal sight to behold. The temple is dedicated to Badrinathji or Lord Vishnu. Badrinath temple is part of both the Chota char Dham pilgrimage as well as the bigger circuit of Char Dham yatra of India. The other three places are Jaggantha Puri in the east, Rameshwaram in the south, and Dwarka in the west.

Badrinath Mandir – The Mythology

It is believed that Lord Vishnu, the Supreme Being meditated in Badrinath for 1000 years for the salvation of humankind. It is also believed that the Pandavas came here during their journey to heaven. It is also mentioned as the place where Veda Vyas wrote the great Epic of Mahabharata along with Lord Ganesha. There is also a cave called Vyas cave; it is believed that in this cave, the Ved Vyas wrote Mahabharata. Thus, Badrinath holds tremendous religious importance for Hindus.

Badrinath temple- An inside view

The Shinghadwar or the main entrance of the Badrinath Mandir is very colorful and intricately decorated. The temple is approximately 50 ft tall with a gold gilt roof. The mandir is divided into three parts the ‘sabha Mandap,’ the ‘Darshan Mandap,’ the Garbha Griha’, or the sanctum sanctorum where the idol is placed. Some facts quick facts about the Badrinath temple are mentioned below.

• Badrinath’s main gate has the idol of Bird Garuda, who is the vahana (vehicle) of Lord Vishnu.
• The Garbha Griha has idols of Lord Vishnu, Narda Rishi, Lord Kuber, Udhava, Nar, and Narayana. In total, there are 15 idols.
• The present temple was constructed in the 16th century by the King of Garhwal.
• Adi Shankaracharya found the idol of Lord Vishnu dipped in the water of Alakananda.
• The Badrinath idol is seen under the Badari tree.
• Every puja at Badrinath must be preceded with a dip at Tapt Kund.
• Lord Vishnu is seated in a meditative pose in the temple.

Pooja in Badrinath temple

Pooja in this sacred temple is an elaborate affair. It starts with the Mahabhishek, Abhisek, Gitapath, and Bhagwat Path. In the evenings there are Geet Govind and Aarti. The devotes can their place for participating in these pujas. The temple committee has a process for the same. The devotees can also offer special pujas, even online now. There are no tickets for general pujas and darshan.

• Puja timings – The pujas start as early as 4:30 am with Mahaabhishek.
• Temple opening time- The temple is opened for darshan around 7-8 am.
• Recess – There is a recess from 1-4 pm. The temple opens at 4 pm after recess.
• Closing time- The temple closes at 9 pm.

The Rawal, who belongs to a community from Karnataka and Kerala, is dedicated to offering pujas. The temple is opened for six months of the year from April- May to October-November. Every year, the temple opens on the day of Vasant Panchami.

Top places to visit at Badrinath

• Seek blessings at Badrinath temple – The prime attraction is the Badrinath temple. The spiritually charged environment of the temple appeases the visitors. As you offer puja here, there is a sense of divine bliss that fills your heart. For an enriching experience, spend some quiet moments here, the divine emancipates in every temple element.
• Tapt Kund – No visit to Badrinath is considered incomplete without a dip at the Tapt Kund. The pool is believed as the home of Lord Agni. It is also believed to wash away the sins committed during a lifetime. A dip in the hot ware spring takes away all the tiredness and is extremely rejuvenating.
• Vyas Gufa – Located in close proximity of the Badrinath temple, the Gufa is known to be the very place where Veda Vyas is said to have written the great epic Mahabharata. The place is very sacred and is visited by several devotees every day. You can also offer small pujas here.
• Mana Village – Mana Village, the last Indian village on the Indo- Chinese border is 4 km from Badrinath town. If enthusiastic about hilly villages, you can add Mana village to your itinerary. These added perks make Char Dham Yatra even more enriching.

How to reach Badrinath?

• By flight – The nearest airport is located in Dehradun. You can drive from Dehradun to Badrinath via Chamba-Missouri Rd. It is a long journey of around 8 hours; you can take breaks and even a night halt at Joshimath.
• By train – The nearest railway station is Haridwar. From here you can take a bus or hire a car to reach Badrinath.
• By Bus – There are no direct buses for Badrinath; however, tourist buses take devotees from Haridwar and Rishikesh. They offer single or Chardham Yatra.
• By Helicopters– Badrinath can also be reached by helicopter. Helicopter services are available from Dehradun.

The Chardham Tour Packages include all these kinds of travel options for tourists.

Accommodation in Badrinath

Badrinath is a quaint town in the Chamoli region of Uttarakhand. You can visit Badrinath as a part of the Chardham Yatra Package. At least 90% of pilgrims coming for pilgrimage prefer Packages. It offers a wide range of accommodation choices for travelers. From luxury hotels to budget accommodations, Badrinath welcomes every type of devotee with the best possible compromise. There is a government-run GMVN resort also. For a better understanding of accommodation, choices, and prices, look at the below table.

Accommodation Types
Standard from INR. 2500.
Resort from INR. 5000.
Luxury Hotels from 6000-8000.
Dormitory / Dharmashala from INR. 600-800.

Thus, ready to your bags for Chardham Yatra Uttarakhand divine destinations and unlock its mysteries.

Hinduism is the oldest religion in the world. Rooted in Vedic philosophy, Hinduism is also famous for many beautiful temples that enthrall. Spread far and wide in the Indian subcontinent, the Hindu temples hold high spiritual value and are architectural marvels. One such gem is the Badrinath Temple, also known as Badrinarayan Temple, located in Badrinath town in the Chamoli region of Uttarakhand. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is also among 108 Divya Desams and even one of the Char Dham (the divine four).

Badrinath Temple – The location

Badrinath temple nestled in the Himalayan region called Garhwal hills; the temple is located by the banks of river Alakananda River and between Nar and Narayana mountain peaks. The temple dates back several centuries. Located at an elevation of 3, 133m above sea level, it is one of India’s most visited religious shrines. Not only people from India but travelers from abroad in theological missions come here. Owing to harsh climate conditions, the temple remains open only for six months. May to October.

The Deity – Lord Vishnu

Some fascinating facts about the idol here are as follows.

• The black granite idol of Lord Vishnu is placed inside the ‘Garbha Griha’ of the temple. The idol is 1 ft high and is in the form of Badrinarayan. The idol is of immense importance as it is believed to be of Lord Vishnu’s eight self-manifested deities.
• The Shaligram or the black stone deity of Lord Vishnu is seen holding Shankha (conch), and a Chakra (wheel), in two of his lifted arms.
• The idol here is placed in the Yogamudra or Padmasana posture. There are fifteen other idols in the temple that includes one of Goddess Laxmi, the consort of Lord Vishnu, and Kubera, the lord of wealth.
• Believed to be found in the river Alaknanda by Adi Shankaracharya, the deity was later shifted to the temple on its construction by the King of Garhwal.

The temple has also been mentioned in religious texts like Vishnu Puranas, dating back to the Vedic age. This validates the fact that Badrinath has been a revered religious place since time immemorial.

Mata Murti ka Mela

The Mata Murti ka Mela is one of the most famous festivals celebrated at Badrinath Temple. According to Hindu mythology, the festival is celebrated to commemorate the descent of Goddess Ganga on earth.

Every year the festival is celebrated by great zest in September. Thousands of devotees come here to take part in pujas and the festival. A large fair is organized in the temple area. The locals and devotees take part equally in the festivities.

Janmashtami or the birth anniversary of Lord Krishna is also celebrated at Badrinath. The festival is celebrated with much fanfare and devotion.

Tapt Kund – The hot spring

No visit to the Badrinath is complete without a dip at any one of the hot springs just below the temple. Named as the Narad Kund and the Suraj Kund, hot springs are no less than a geographical wonder. As if the Lord himself arranged his devotees to wash the sins away and step inside his court free and pure. These are hot Sulphur springs that maintain a 55 degree Celsius temperature where the general temperature is below 17 degrees Celsius. The temperature slips to the sub-zero mark during the winter months. Throughout the Char Dham Yatra, devotees are treated with many such natural wonders.

History of Badrinath Temple

There is no recorded history of the Badrinath Temple; some evidence shows that the temple has been mentioned in the Vedic scriptures, which was later transformed into a temple by Adi Shankaracharya in the ninth century. He used to live here for a few years. He is also known to have found the deity of Lord Vishnu in the deep waters of the river Alakananda. The King of Garhwal later renovated the temple after being badly hit by an avalanche in the 17th century. But irrespective of the historical accounts, the temple holds an indelible place amongst Hindu devotees.

Visit Badrinath – The devotee’s guide

Chardham Yatra is truly fascinating. The sheer devotion, the will to have a darshan of the Lord, the variety of pilgrims, the valleys, the roads, and nature, everything is so vibrant that the entire atmosphere is wrapped in an aura of divine presence. Nothing beats the indomitable spirit of devotes. If you are planning to visit Badrinath alone or as a part of Chardham Yatra Uttarakhand, you must plan it well. Chardham Tour packages may be tailor-made to suit the individual preferences of the pilgrims.

Travel Badrinath from Delhi/ Dehrdaun/ Haridwar

From where ever you are coming to Badrinath, you must come to Haridwar or Dehradun, by train, bus, or flight. From here you can take a bus, jeep, or car to Badrinath. The temple is accessible by road, and the pilgrims need not trek to the temple, unlike other dhams like Kedarnath and Yamunotri. The other Dhams / shrines that are accessible by road is Gangotri.

The buses from Haridwar to Badrinath Dham experience a lot of rush, you can book a ticket in advance or plan for a day’s stay at Haridwar and get the tickets for the next day. The next alternative is to hire a car. The approximate car rates are given below.

SUV, Xylo / Ertiga / Innova INR. 16, 000.
Sedan, Indigo / Swift Dezire INR. 13, 500.

Alternately, pilgrims can also go by shared jeep. There are varied care rental services, in Haridwar and Dehradun, they provide professional car services and very polite and efficient drivers. If you do not want any hassle, you can also choose from any of the Chardham Yatra Package.
The road condition is very good, and it is an overall pleasing journey. On the way, there are some other splendid places like Devprayag,
Rudraprayag, Vishnuprayag, and Nandaprayag. Each of these places has religious significance and splendid natural beauty. You can take short breaks here to enhance your spiritual experience.

So, people can be diverse, but devotion and longing for blessings from Lord Vishnu unite them all Badrinath.

Those wanting to escape the concrete jungles to the abode of tranquility and mesmerizing natural beauty can think of Char Dham Yatra. Heaven to the spiritually inclined, the snow-capped mountains’ scenic beauty is so imposing, and the gurgling of Mandakini makes it mandatory in your travel list. In addition to a spiritual sojourn, Kedarnath is an amazing trekking and sightseeing destination.

Kedarnath- A kaleidoscope of nature and divinity

Kedarnath is the farthest of all the Jyotirlingas, set at a high altitude of the Himalayan Mountains; the temple has opened its door for local pilgrims this year. Lord Shiva’s journey back to his abode in Kedarnath set in flower palanquin was a sight to behold even amid the worldwide pandemic. Recently, the government has opened the shrine for local devotees.

The temple is generally open for six months a year, the rest of the time it remains shrouded in thick snow. The absence of any motorable road to Kedarnath makes it the most extended trek among the Char Dham. Yet, these problematic roads may not be able to scare scared souls. The temple is named after King Kedar, who was one of the kings from Satyuga.

Ways you can travel to Kedarnath

• Trek to the temple – The trek for Kedarnath starts from Gaurikund. Yatris have to trek for 14 km from Gaurikund to reach the temple. The road to the temple has been altered to some extent after the 2013 floods. The trek can be challenging at times, but determination and sheer devotion act as the driving force for thousands of devotes. The expected time taken for the trek is 6-8 hours. Yatris generally take a very early morning trek to reach the temple early in the day.

As you trek high, there are various shops and resting places. You can take small breaks, have refreshments and water and avail toilets. They serve hot tea and local food along with noodles. The warm hospitality of the shop owners is truly heart-touching. Apart from the Garhwali language, they speak Hindi. There are also posts of the Uttrakhand government; the officials here are ready to help the yatris on any occasion.

• Take a horse ride – You can also ride horses, which take you up to the temple from the base locations and drop you back. Some of the tourists may want to stay around for a night; others may return on the same day. A visit to the temple and its picturesque surrounding, the tiredness melts away.
• Alternatively, you can also avail of the helicopter service for ease of access to the temple.

Online helicopter tickets

Uttarakhand tourism has now introduced an online helicopter ticket reservation system for pilgrims. The tickets are being offered in phases of 1000 pilgrims. The pilgrims can cancel the tickets 24 hours to cancel the tickets before the commencement of the journey. The tickets will also be available from counters in Guptkashi and Phata. New helicopter services are also being introduced from Sirsi. Earlier tickets were available from the websites of individual companies offering the service. Per person price of the helicopter, tickets are Rs 7000 approximately from Phata-Kedarnath-Phata.

Helicopter services are also available for Badrinath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri.

Kedarnath – Tourist Attractions

The delight of visual senses and the spiritually enchanted atmosphere soothes the souls from deep within. After Visiting the Kedarnath Mandir, make sure to spend some time around Kedarnath to feel the unique vibe of the place. You can explore some other areas of attraction.

• Adi Shnakaracharya Samadhi Mandir

The revered Adi Shankaracharya Samadhi mandir is situated just behind the Kedarnath Temple. Adi Shankaracharya, the religious head who also revived the Kedarnath temple, gained moksha in this very place.

• Bhairav Temple

The belief says that the Bhairav is the protector of Lord Kedarnath. The fierce manifestation of Lord Shiva, the temple is located near to the Kedarnath Temple, in an approximately one km trek uphill. The panoramic view of the Himalayas is a treat to the soul.

• Chorabari Tal

Located in the proximity of the Kedarnath Temple, it is almost 5 km away. The lake is also known as Gandhi Sarovar, the lake has water from the Chorabari Bamak glacier. The crystal clear water of the lake and the surrounding mountain peas make it a heavenly place.

• Rudra meditation Cave, Kedarnath

The seekers of complete isolation to meditate can recede to the Rudra meditation camp in Kedarnath. Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam manages the place; the cave gained immense popularity after hosting Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

An important point to note

There are a few important things that travelers must take note of before traveling to Kedarnath. After the 2013 natural disaster, the government has taken some strict steps to regulate the number of tourists and make the Kedarnath Darshan a hassle-free experience for tourists. Tourists must make a note of the below-mentioned points.

The Kedarnath Yatra, like the Char Dham Yatra, now requires registration. There are both online and offline registration procedures. Yatris must complete the registration process and carry all the necessary documents. You must provide transparent information about how many dhams you are visiting and your planned duration of stay. Visitors of Kedarnath must carry a fitness certificate.

How to prepare for the journey?

As the journey is physically exhausting, you must take extra precautions both physically and mentally before the journey. Start preparing for the journey well in advance. Start preparing with the travel itineraries, whether you reach Dehradun by Train or Fight. You can take a bus or car from Haridwar or Dehradun for Kedarnath whether you want to travel on your own or enlist for Chardham Tour Package. You must also prepare your body by going for regular walks and mild exercise.

Travel Expenses for Kedarnath

The expenses to Kedarnath include train/flight tickets/ car/bus fares, accommodations, food, extra expenses, etc. The Chardham Tour packages may cost differs according to the facilities offered. Tentative expenses can be chalked out as below.

By Helicopter.
From Rishikesh, INR. 20,000
From Dehradun, INR. 25,000
From Delhi, INR. 32,000

By Car
From Rishikesh in SUV, INR.13/km
From Dehradun in SUV, INR.14/km
From Haridwar in SUV, INR.13/Km
Fro Delhi in SUV, INR.15/Km

So, ready to experience the ethereal in the abode of Lord Shiva- Kedarnath.

Lord Shiva is an integral and intriguing figure of Hindu mythology, and the holy trinity Bharmha, Vishnu and Maheswar. Across India, several temples are dedicated towards the eternal master, among them, the twelve Jyotirlingas are of importance. The Kedarnath Temple nestled amidst lofty snow-covered mountains in the Rudraprayag district of Uttrakhand is the seat of Lord Shiva and one of the twelve Jyotirlingas. Kedarnath Temple is more than 3000 years old and it is mentioned in Mahabharata. The current temple is almost 1200 years old was built by Adi Shankaracharya. This temple is a re-creation of the temple built by Pandavas. An architectural marvel, the temple holds enormous religious significance.

Kedarnath Temple – A preface

Kedarnath is one of the four important shrines of Chardham Yatra of Uttarakhand. Some quick facts about the Kedarnath temple are below.

• Situated in Kedarnath’s holy town, in the bans of river Mandakini, and the Kedarnath Mountain in its back flanks the mysterious river Saraswati, this abode of Lord Shiva.
• The temple is situated at an altitude of 3584 meters, above sea level.
• Every year thousands of tourists conquer chilling cold and rough trek of 16 km from Gaurikund to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva. Shiva is an embodiment of timelessness and eternal devotion and union, the temple elucidates the same. Illuminating the souls and granting freedom from sins, the temple has won over the wrath of nature time and again.
• From forest fires to 2013 floods, the temple stands strong on devotions and divine power pillars.
• The temple opens for pilgrims as the Sun enters the zodiac sign of Aires. This is from April to November.

The mystical architecture of the Kedarnath temple

The Kedarnath temple touches hearts with its holiness, and its architecture intrigues the minds. Set at this high altitude, the temple is built on a large rectangular platform. The temple is built of big blocks of stone, how these blocks were carried to such high altitude in an era that dates back thousands of years is still a mystery. The inner walls of the temple sanctum have a beautiful engraving of the mythological figures and deities. The temple has first is its Mandap, which is for the devotes to gather for darshan, and then there is the ‘Garbha Griha,’ which is where the triangular Shiva Linga is placed. There is the symbolic bull or the Nandi in front of the temple.

The temple’s architecture has always been a subject of awe for architects even in this era, but the 2013 floods made them wonder even more. The devastating floods caused by a cloud burst caused extensive damage to the whole area but the temple was saved almost magically. Call it the divine enchantment, power of devotion, or architectural mastery; the temple proved that it is not to be swayed away. Neither could the flood reduce the enthusiasm of devotes going for Char Dham Yatra.

Inside the temple

As with the exterior, the interior of the temple is equally fascinating. The status of the five Pandava brothers, Draupadi, their wife, Lord Krishna, and other deities, adorn the walls. The rough conical stone is worshipped as the Siva Linga, placed inside the Garbhagriha. It is the Sadashiva form of Lord Shiva. One of the mystical elements of the temple is the head of a man engraved on a stone. The significance of this element is still not known. Char Dham Yatra Uttarakhand is full of many such surprise elements.

What the Legend has?

Temples in India are never without a legend. Mostly from the Vedic ages, the mythological stories enliven the era that holds the roots and the emancipation of divine presence in all-natural elements. The Char Dham also treats with many of such legends.

The story behind the Kedarnath temple is a chapter from Mahabharata. It says that the Pandavas, after winning the war of Kurukshetra against their cousins Kauravas, suffered from the inner guilt of killing their kin. To get renunciation, they looked for the blessings of Lord Shiva. They searched for him at various places on their journey towards heaven, but Shiva unwilling to grant them freedom from their guilt eluded them. He transformed himself into a bull and grounded himself. Later found by Bhima, he promised to stay there at Kedarnath. Actually, the bulls’ hump was found in Kedarnath, the other body parts were scattered in different places called Pancha Kedar. The Pandavas built a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva at Kedarnath. People believe that offering prayers to divine light at Kedarnath attain them moksha or freedom from the sins. Tourists may take Chardham Yatra Packages, for visiting this ancient shrine.

Kedarnath Temple- The rites and rituals

Kedarnath temple is also known for its distinctive rituals worshipping Lord Shiva. Apart from having historical and mythological significance, the temple also has immense cultural significance for modern India. Priests from Karnataka belonging to the Rawal community who are part of the Verra Shaiva Sangam Community of Karnataka perform puja here. Thus the temple also stands as a symbol of north-south unity.

The Rawal or the head priest does not perform the puja himself, his assistants conduct the puja. There are five senior priests in totals, who become head priests for one year in rotation. The puja is carried out in the Kannada language and the same pattern and sequence since the 10th century AD. The Shiva Linga is carried to Ukhimath in winters and brought back to Kedarnath temple by a massive procession on a flower-decked palanquin.

Kedarnath as a part of Char Dham Yatra

Kedarnath can be visited solitary or as a part of Char Dham Yatra, consisting of Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri. Kedarnath is one of the most challenging treks among the four dhams. The temple is accessible through trek; people can hire porters who carry pilgrims on their pony. Also, helicopter services have been introduced. It is a part of the Chardham Yatra Package. Get an idea about the average accommodation in Kedarnath. 90% of travelers stay in and around Gaurikund, from where the trek starts. Ramwada also has accommodation facilities.

Type of Accommodation
Single room Occupancy, Charges during peak months @2500, Charges lean months @1800.
Double room Occupancy, Charges during peak months @2500, Charges lean months @2000.
Deluxe Rooms, Charges during peak months @ 5000, Charges lean months @3500.
The dormitory starts at @800.

The long trek of 16 km is full of natural splendor. With Mandakini winding its way on one side and the lofty Himalayas on the other, the air is balmy, and the spirit is high on spirituality.