Badrinath, one of the revered Chota Char Dham sites of Uttarakhand, holds immense spiritual significance. It is also among India's four Char Dham pilgrimage destinations. The iconic Badrinath Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is nestled between the majestic Nar and Narayan peaks in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district.
With the breathtaking Neelkanth peak as its backdrop and a rich tapestry of legends surrounding it, the temple serves as a haven for devotees. Open for only six months each year, Badrinath offers a unique blend of spirituality and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination.
# Badrinath Temple
# Neelkanth Peak
Known as the ‘Queen of Garhwal,’ Neelkanth Peak rises to a towering height of 6,597 meters, providing a magnificent backdrop to the Badrinath Temple. Named after Lord Shiva, this snow-covered peak is renowned for its mesmerizing glow at sunrise, making it one of the most stunning summits in the Garhwal region.
# Vasundhara Falls
Located in Mana, around 4 km from Badrinath, Vasundhara Falls cascades from a height of 400 feet. Legend has it that this was the resting place of the Pandavas. A short trek to this enchanting waterfall offers an unforgettable experience, though visitors should carry water and snacks, as there are no shops along the way.
# Tapt Kund
Tapt Kund, a natural hot water spring at the entrance of the Badrinath Temple, is believed to be the abode of Lord Agni. Known for its therapeutic properties, the spring has a temperature of 45°C, and devotees traditionally take a holy dip here before entering the temple. The hot water is believed to cure skin ailments, adding to its spiritual and medicinal significance.
Bheem Pul is a natural stone bridge over the Saraswati River, believed to have been created by Bheem, one of the Pandavas, during their final journey to heaven. According to legend, Bheem placed a massive rock across the river to help his family cross. This remarkable rock formation remains a popular attraction for visitors.
# Mana Village
Mana Village, located just 3 km from Badrinath, is the last inhabited village near the India-Tibet border. Perched at an altitude of 10,000 feet above sea level, this picturesque hamlet offers a glimpse into traditional Himalayan life. Visitors can explore its quaint houses, artisan shops, and scenic mountain trails, making it a perfect spot to connect with nature.
