Badrinath Temple, one of the most awaited pilgrimages of Hindu mythology is located at Uttarakhand (previously in Uttar Pradesh) and is also part of the Char Dham. Badrinath Mandir is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Being one of the most legendary temples, it has numerous mythical tales, according to which Lord Vishnu had performed much rigorous atonement at this place. During his intense meditation, he was unaware of the severe weather conditions. And after seeing him, his spouse Goddess Lakshmi protected him from the scorching heat of the Sun by acquiring the shape of the Badri tree and surrounded him. Witnessing this, Lord Vishnu was pleased by her devotion and hence he named the spot after her as Badri ka Ashram.
Badrinath Templeis located at an elevation of 3,133 m above mean sea level along the banks of Alaknanda River in Chamoli district. Even the river has an interesting story behind it. Legends state that the holiest and curse reliever river Ganga had granted the request of Bhagirath, for relieving humanity from the curse of sufferings and sins. While ascending to earth, the intensity of river Ganga was such that it could have immersed the entire Earth under its waters. To release the Earth from such unbearable consequences, Lord Shiva bore her onto his tresses and ultimately, the river Ganga got divided into twelve holy rivers and Alaknanda, which flows past the sacred Badrinath Temple was one of them.
Badrinath Dham Yatrais a prominent part of the Char Dham Yatra and Chota Char Dham Yatra. Devotees visit here to seek blessings from the Lord Badri. The temple is divided into three parts – the Garbha Griha – the sanctum sanctorum, the Darshan Mandap where the rituals are conducted, and the Sabha Mandap where devotees assemble. There are several Dharamshala in Badrinath near temple where devotees can stay during their visit.
Since the temple is located on a high altitude, it is open for six months every year (end of April to the starting of November). The opening date for the Badrinath darshan is announced on Basant Panchmi and the closing date on Vijaya Dashmi (Dusshera). The temple is surrounded by various tourist attractions and one of them is Tapt Kund - natural thermal spring which is also known for its medicinal values. And every devotee has to take a dip in the holy water. The most prominent festival celebrated here is Mata Murti ka Mela, named after a shrine Mata Murti Temple which is another popular shrine located nearby the temple.
Traveling to the temple is comfortable as it is just a distance of 536 km (approx.) away from Delhi and 298 km (approx.) from Rishikesh. Jolly Grant Airport, Rishikesh Road, Dehradun is the nearest airport to Badrinath which is well connected with motorable roads. Taking a trip during monsoons involves risks of floods, landslides, and other impediments. The best time to visit Badrinath Temple is during the summer season as the weather during this time is balmy and comfortable. During the winters, the temple is inaccessible due to the snowfall. The roads are closed during this time of the year.
Badrinath Temple Timing: 4:30 A.M. to 9:00 P.M.
Badrinath Temple Entry Fees: Nil
