BADRINATH

### **Badrinath: Sacred Himalayan Shrine** 

**Location:** Badrinath is one of the holiest pilgrimage sites in Hinduism, nestled in the **Garhwal Himalayas** of **Uttarakhand, India**. 

It lies along the banks of the **Alaknanda River**, at an elevation of **3,133 meters (10,279 feet)** above sea level. - 

**District**: Chamoli - 

**Nearest Town**: Joshimath (about 42 km away) - 

**Accessibility**: The temple is open from **April/May to November** (due to heavy snowfall in winter). - 

**Route**: The nearest major transport hub is **Rishikesh** (295 km away), connected by road. Pilgrims often trek through scenic routes like **Valley of Flowers** and **Hemkund Sahib**. --- ### 

**History & Significance of Badrinath Temple** ####

 **1. Ancient Origins & Legends** - **Mythological Connection**: According to Hindu tradition, **Lord Vishnu** meditated here for millennia under a **Badri (berry) tree**, giving the place its name—**Badri-Vishal** or **Badrinath**. - 

**Adi Shankaracharya’s Role**: The 8th-century philosopher-saint **Adi Shankaracharya** is credited with reviving the temple. He found the **Saligram (stone idol) of Lord Badrinarayan** in the Alaknanda River and enshrined it here. - 

**Part of Char Dham**: Badrinath is one of the **four sacred Char Dham pilgrimage sites** (along with **Dwarka, Puri, and Rameswaram**). #### **

2. Temple Architecture** - **Style**: Built in a traditional North Indian **Nagara style**, with a brightly painted facade, a conical roof, and a small cupola. - **Main Deity**: The **black stone idol of Lord Badrinarayan (Vishnu)** seated in a meditative pose, flanked by **Nara-Narayana** (sages). - 

**Other Shrines**: Dedicated to **Lakshmi, Narasimha, Ganesha, and Kubera**. #### **3. Historical Mentions** - 

**Scriptures**: Referenced in the **Vedas, Mahabharata, and Skanda Purana**. - 

**Medieval Period**: The temple was repeatedly damaged by avalanches and rebuilt by Hindu kings. - 

**Modern Era**: The **King of Garhwal** reconstructed it in the 17th century, and the **current structure dates back to the 19th century**. --- ### 

**Spiritual & Cultural Importance** - **Pilgrimage (Badrinath Yatra)**: Millions visit annually, especially after the **Kapat (doors) open** in **April-May** (Akshaya Tritiya). - **Tapt Kund**: A natural hot spring where devotees bathe before worship. - 

**Mata Murti Ka Mela**: A festival honoring Vishnu’s mother. Badrinath remains a symbol of 

**faith, endurance, and divine beauty**, 

attracting seekers of spirituality and adventure alike. Would you like details on the best time to visit or nearby attractions like **Manā Village (last Indian village near Tibet)**?