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  • Vishal Badri Badrinath Temple

    Jai Badri Vishal or Badrinath Temple in Uttarakhand's Chamoli is a key Vishnu shrine, part of 5 Panch Badri. Visit from May to Nov for history, Nature and peace



Vishal Badri, more commonly known as Badrinath Temple, is one of the most revered Hindu pilgrimage sites dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is situated in the town of Badrinath, in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, India. This sacred temple is nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas at an altitude of approximately 3,133 meters above sea level, on the banks of the Alaknanda River. The temple is flanked by two mountain ranges, Nar and Narayan, with the majestic Neelkanth peak providing a stunning backdrop.

Badrinath is part of the Panch Badri temples, a group of five sacred shrines dedicated to Lord Vishnu in the Uttarakhand region. The other four temples in this circuit are Adi Badri, Bhavishya Badri, Yogdhyan Badri, and Vridha Badri. Badrinath, also referred to as Badri Vishal or Badri Narayan is the most prominent and visited among these.

History:

The history of Badrinath Temple is rich and interwoven with Hindu mythology. The origins of the temple are traced back to ancient times, with mentions in Vedic texts like the Vishnu Purana and Mahabharata. According to legend, the area was originally a place where Lord Vishnu sat in meditation. The name "Badrinath" derives from "Badri" (a kind of berry tree) under which Vishnu is believed to have meditated, and "Nath" meaning lord.

The temple's current structure is attributed to Adi Shankaracharya, who is credited with reviving Hinduism and establishing four mathas (monasteries) across India, one of which was at Badrinath. It's believed that Shankaracharya discovered the deity in the Alaknanda River and installed it in a cave near the Tapt Kund hot springs.

Attractions:

Best Time to Visit:

The Badrinath Temple is open to pilgrims from late April or early May to November, due to the harsh winter conditions that make the region inaccessible. The ideal time to visit is during the summer months from May to June when the weather is pleasant, and the pilgrimage routes are clear. September and October also offer favorable conditions with cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.

  • Summer (May - June): Temperatures range from 10°C to 18°C, with clear skies and lush landscapes.
  • Autumn (September - October): Cooler weather, around 5°C to 15°C, with the added benefit of less crowded routes.
  • Monsoon (July - August): Travel can be challenging due to heavy rainfall, which often leads to landslides.
  • Winter: The temple is closed as the area is blanketed in snow, and the deity is moved to the Narsingh Temple in Joshimath.

How to Reach:

  • By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is approximately 314 km away. From there, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to Badrinath.
  • By Rail: The closest railway station is Rishikesh, about 297 km from Badrinath. Regular trains connect Rishikesh with major Indian cities. From Rishikesh, one can continue the journey by road.
  • By Road: Badrinath is well-connected by road:
    • From Delhi, it's an overnight journey by bus or car via Haridwar, Rishikesh, Devprayag, Srinagar, Rudraprayag, and Joshimath.
    • Regular bus services are available from Haridwar, Rishikesh, and other towns in Uttarakhand.
    • For those travelling from within Uttarakhand, routes like Haridwar - Rishikesh - Joshimath - Badrinath are well-trodden pilgrimage paths.
  • Helicopter Services: During the pilgrimage season, helicopter services are available from Dehradun, Haridwar, and other nearby towns, providing a quicker route for those willing to bypass the long road journey.

In summary, Badrinath Temple stands as not just a religious monument but as a testament to the enduring faith and culture of Hinduism. Its location amidst the Himalayas offers not only a spiritual experience but also a visual feast of natural beauty, making it a must-visit for those seeking both divine blessings and the tranquility of nature. Whether you're a pilgrim or a tourist, the journey to Badrinath is filled with scenic attractions, historical depth, and spiritual fulfillment.

1. Adi Badri 2. Bhavishya Badri 3. Vishal Badri Badrinath Temple 4. Vriddha Badri 5. Yogadhyan Badri