Char Dham - Panchprayag - Panchkedar Yatra

Char Dham Yatra

BADARINATH: Abode of Lord Vishnu: Badarinath Dham is considered as one of the most sacred centers of pilgrimage situated in the lofty Himalayan heights in the Garhwal hill tracks (Uttarakhand) at the height of 10,248 feet above sea level. The route to Badarinath is one of the most fascinating one due to the lofty hilly terrain, curves and cliffs amidst the most scenically beautiful place on the earth.

Throughout the route to Badarinath there are numerous pilgrimage sites at Deo Prayag, Rudraprayag, Karana Prayag, Nanda Prayag, and Vishnuprayag; as well as Pandukeswar where king Pandu observed Tapasya with his queen Madri and where his sons Pandavas stayed during their pilgrimage to heaven, and the site where Bhima and Hanuman (sons of Vayu) met.

At Badarinath Lord MahaVishnu is believed to have done his penance. Seeing the Lord doing his penance in the open, Goddess Mahalaxmi is believed to have assumed the form of Badari tree to provide him shelter to face the onslaught of the adverse weather conditions, therefore the name Badari Narayan. It is believed that Lord Vishnu revealed to Narad rishi that Nar & Naryans forms were his own. It is also believed that Narad rishi, who also did his penance here, is even now worshipping the supreme God in the form of Nar and Narayan with Ashtakshara mantras.

The image of Badarinarayan here is fashioned out of Saligramam. Badarinarayan is seen under the Badari tree, flanked by Kuber and Garuda, Narad, Narayan and Nar. Mahalakshmi has a sanctum outside in the parikrma. There is also a shrine to Adi Sankara at Badarinath. For more information on Badarinath, please click here.

KEDARNATH: The Celestial Jyotirlingam: Lord Shiva manifested in the form of Jyotirlingam or the cosmic light. Kedarnath is highest among the 12 Jyotirlingas. This ancient and magnificent temple is located in the Rudra Himalaya range. This temple, over a thousand years old is built of massive stone slabs over a large rectangular platform. Ascending through the large gray steps leading to the holy sanctums we find inscriptions in Pali on the steps. The present temple was built by Adi Shankaracharya.The inner walls of the temple sanctum are adorned with figures of various deities and scenes from mythology. The origin of the revered temple can be found in the great epic - Mahabharata. According to legends, the Pandavas sought the blessings of lord Shiva to atone their sin after the battle of Mahabharata. Lord Shiva eluded them repeatedly and while fleeing took refuge at Kedarnath in the form of a bull. On being followed, he dived into ground leaving behind his hump on the surface. Outside the temple door a large statue of the Nandi Bull stands as guard. A conical rock formation inside the temple is worshipped as Lord Shiva in his Sadashiva form. The temple, believed to be very ancient, has been continually renovated over the centuries. It is situated at an altitude of 3,581 mt. It is a 14 km trek from Gaurikund.

At the approach of winters in the month of November, the holy statue of Lord Shiva, is carried down from Kedarnath to Ukhimath, and is reinstated at Kedarnath, in the first week of May. It is at this time, that the doors of the temple are thrown open to pilgrims, who flock from all parts of India, for a holy pilgrimage. The shrine closes on the first day of Kartik (Oct-Nov) and reopens in Vaishakh (Apr-May) every year. During its closure the shrine is submerged in snow and worship is performed at Ukhimath. For more information on Kedarnath, please click here.

GANGOTRI: The Eternal Gift of Baghirath's Penance: The shrine of Gangotri situated at an altitude of 3042 m above sea level amidst captivating surroundings, along the right bank of Bhagirathi is 100 km from Uttarkashi. The temple was constructed in the early 18th century by a Gorkha Commander Amar Singh Thapa. The existing temple is said to be the one reconstructed by the Jaipur dynasty. Every year hundred thousands of pilgrims throng the sacred shrine between May & October.

Like Yamunotri the shrine of Gangotri opens every year on the auspicious day of Akshaya-Tritiya & closes on the day of Diwali.

Location: Right Bank of River Bhagirathi
Altitude: 3042 M
Dedicated to: Goddess Ganga
Built in: 18th Century

GETTING THERE
Air: Nearest airport is Jolly Grant, 226 kms.
Rail: Nearest railhead is at Rishikesh, 249 kms.
Road: Well connected to Rishikesh, Haridwar, Dehradun and Delhi.

YAMUNOTRI: The Sacred Jewel of the Himalayas: The Shrine of Yamunotri at the source of river Yamuna is the western - most shrine in the Garhwal Himalayas. Atop is a flank of Bandar Poonch peak (3615 m). The actual source, a frozen lake of ice and glacier (Champasar Glacier) located on the Kalind Mountain at the height of 4421 m above sea level is about 1 km further up is not easily accessible. Hence the shrine has been located on the foot of the hill. The Temple of divine mother Yamuna was built by Maharaja Pratap Shah of Tehri Garhwal. The tiny Yamuna has icy cold water and its absolute innocence & the infantile purity heightens that deep feeling of reverence, which Yamunotri has for the devout. According to the legend ancient sage Asit Muni had his hermitage here. The trek to Yamunotri is truly spectacular, dominated by a panorama of rugged peaks and dense forests.

The Yamunotri Temple opens every year on the auspicious day of the Akshaya - Tritiya ( in April - May ) & closes on the sacred day of Diwali ( Oct. - Nov. ).

Location: Left Bank of River Yamuna
Altitude: 3235 M
Dedicated to: Goddess Yamuna

GETTING THERE
Air: Nearest airport is Jolly Grant, 196 kms.
Rail: Nearest railhead is at Rishikesh, 213 kms.and Dehradun 172 kms.
Road: Dharasu, 107 kms. Tehri, 107 kms. Rishikesh, 213 kms. and Dehradun, 172 kms.


PANCH KEDAR

Lord Shiva eluded the Pandavas repeatedly and on being detected by them assumed the form of a bull. The second Pandavas Bhima tried to pick him up, but Shiva sank into the earth and only the hump came in Bhimas's hand. Seeing their determination the lord was so pleased that he freed the Pandavas from their sin and asked them to worship his hump at Kedarnath which is the heights among the twelve Jyotirlingas. The other parts of Shiva's body, arms, face, nevel and hair locks appeared at Tungnath, Rudranath, Madmaheswar and Kalpeshwar. These four shrines along with Shri Kedarnathji are worshipped as "Panch Kedar". The Panch Kedar are the holy destination for all the Hindus. Five Kedars are:

KEDARNATH: Kedar is also another name for lord Shiva - the protector and the destroyer. There are 200 ancient shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva in Chamoli district itself, the most important is Kedarnath. Shrine of Kedarnath lying at the altitude of 3584 Mts. on the head of river Mandakini is amongst the holiest pilgrimages for the Hindus.

The origin of revered temple can be found in great epic Mahabharat. After the wars, the Pandavas lost their peace of mind after committing the great sin of slaying their Guru and brothers and sought the blessings of Lord Shiva for redemption. Lord Shiva avoided them repeatedly and while fleeing took refuge at Kedarnath in the form of bull. On being followed, He dived into the ground, leaving behind His hump on the surface. The hump is worshipped in the temple of Kedarnath in the conical Shiva pinda form. The remaining portions of Lord Shiva are worshipped at other places.

TUNGNATH: the arm of Lord Shiva came out at this place as per Kedarnath myth. The Tungnath temple is situated at an altitude of about 3680 m above sea level, the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is the highest Shiva Shrine among the Panch Kedar, 3 km uphill from Chopata. The sancity of the region of Tungnath is considered unsurpassed.

The peak of Tungnath is the source of three springs that form the river Akashkamini. Tungnath is reached through a path that wends through alpine meadows & rhododendron thickets. An hour's climb from here leads to Chandrashila with its panoramic views.

GETTING THERE
Air: Nearest airport is Jolly Grant, Dehradun 232 kms.
Rail: The nearest railhead, Rishikesh, is 215 kms.
Road: Tungath can be reached on the Kund-Gopeshwar road up to Chopta, 212 kms. from Rishikesh via Chamoli-Gopeshwar-Chopta route. Buses and taxis ply along the route. From Chopta, the Tungnath temple is 3 kms. trekaway.

RUDRANATH: The shrine is 23 km from Gopeshwar at 2286 m. The Mukhor face of Lord Shiva os worshipped as Neelkanth Mahadev here. The temple site provides splendid views of Hathi Parvat, Nanda Devi, Nanda Ghunti, Trishuli and other peaks. Suryakund, Chandrakund, Tarakund, etc. are the holy kunds situated nearby. The scenic beauty and the spiritual piousness of the place make it scenically beautiful as well as enchanting.

Anusuya Devi temple is located on the trek to Rudranath involving an additional trek of 3 km. Another route 13 km from Gopeshwar to Mandal then trek 6 km to reach Anusuya Devi. Devi Anusuya is revered as the Goddedd who blesses her devotees in their difficulties.

GETTING THERE
Air: Nearest airport is Jolly Grant, Dehradun, 258 km.
Rail: The nearest railhead, Rishikesh is 241 km.
Road: Rudranath is located on Gopeshwar-Kedarnath Road. From Rishikesh, the entry point, Sagar is 219 km. A 22 km trek from Sagar will end at Rudranath. Accommodation available at Dharamshala.

MADMAHESWAR: It is said that the navel of Lord Shiva reappeared at this shrine after disappearing at Kedarnath. Shiva is worshipped Madmaheshwar in the form of a navel shaped lingam. This Shrine is 31 km from Guptkashi at an altitude of 3289 m. The temple can be approached by a trek through the famous Sidha Peeth of Kalimath. Wild, unparalleled scenic beauty and incredible landscapes distinguish the distance from Kalimath to Madmaheshwar. Chaukhamba, Kedarnath and Neelkanth peaks are visible from here. Gaundar, at the conflux of Madmaheshwar Ganga and Markanga Ganga, is the last place that is worth a visit before one reaches this shrine.

GETTING THERE
Air: Nearest airport is Jolly Grant, 244 kms.
Rail: The nearest railhead, Rishikesh, is 227 kms.
Road: To reach Madmaheshwar, the distance of 196 kms. from Rishikesh to Kalimath is motorable. The balance 31 kms. has to be covered on foot.

KALPESWAR: the hair locks (Jata) of Lord Shiva are worshipped in this small rock temple at the height of 2134 m before the matted, tresses of Shiva enshrined in rock in the sanctum and sanctorum. The sanctum is preceded by a natural cave passage. This temple is located in Urgam valley. This shrine is a delight for the tourists with striking views of valley with terraced fields and lush green forests. The temple is reached after a trek of 12 km from Helang which is the motor head on Rishikesh - Badarinath route.

GETTING THERE
Air: Nearest airport is Jolly Grant, Dehradun 272 kms
Rail: The nearest railhead, Rishikesh is 255 kms
Road: Kalpeshwar can be reashed up to Helang, 243 kms. on the Rishikesh - Badrinath road by bus and taxis. From Helang, the 12 kms. trek is off the main road.


PANCH PRAYAG

The Prayag means the confluence of two (or more) rivers. And in India there are only six most sacred Prayags. The last Prayag, the great confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna & the mythical Saraswati is at Allahabad. Other the most revered confluences are the Panch (five) prayags of the Garhwal region. In Hindu mythology, rivers are personified as goddesses and even today, Hindus hold them in high veneration. The water of a holy river is supposed to wash away the sins. The confluence of two or more rivers makes them much more sacred. Five Prayags are:

DEO PRAYAG: Deoprayag is situated on the confluence of Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers. It is commonly believed to be the birthplace of earthly Ganga. It comprises the oldest route to Badrinath and Gangotri. The famous Raghunath Math (another name for Lord Rama's Temple) is situated here. Important pilgrim spots are Shiva Temple and Raghunath Temple. These temples are roughly 70 Kms from Rishikesh on Rishikesh-Badrinath motor road.

RUDRA PRAYAG: Named after Lord Shiva (Rudra), Rudraprayag is situated at the holy confluence of Alaknanda & Mandakini rivers, at a distance of 140 km from Rishikesh and 70 km from Deoprayag on Rishikesh Badari-Kedar motor road. It is believed that to master the mysteries of music, the sage Narad worshipped Lord Shiva, who appeared in his Rudra incarnation to bless the sage. It was here, also, that Shiva's wife Sati, was reborn after her self immolation because her father humiliated her husband. In her new life, as the daughter of Himalaya, she did penance here to ask the boon of Shiva as a husband once again. The ancient temple of Rudranathji is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Rudraprayag is the point where the two roads branch off to the holy Shrines of Kedarnath (84 km) & Badarinath (159 km).

KARAN PRAYAG: Situated at 12 km from Gauchar and 31 km from Rudraprayag, the icy flow from the Pindari Glacier becomes the Pindari river, and when it meets the Alaknanda at 788 m, the confluence is known as Karnaprayag. The wooded thickets of the hills surrounding Karnaprayag were the meeting ground for Shakuntala & Raja Dushyanta, immortalised in Kalidasa's immortal classic and a favourite ballad ever since. The place derives its name from Karna, the son of the Queen Kunti and Lord Surya (sun). Besides the temple dedicated to Karna, the temple dedicated to Goddess Umadevi at Dimmer village, Narayan & Gopal also stand at the confluence.

NAND PRAYAG: 20 km from Karna Prayag, Nand Prayag at 914 m forms the confluence of the Alaknanda & Mandakini (flowing from a glacier near Nanda Devi Peak) rivers. It is said that confluence is named for the pious Raja Nanda. According to one legend, the king had been promised the boon of Vishnu as a son. Unfortunately, the same boon had been granted to Devki, the sister of the tyrant king, Kansa who imprisoned her. Ultimately, the gods found an ingenuons solution: Vishnu would be born as Krishna to Devki but would be brought up by Raja Nanda's wife, Yashodha.

VISHNU PRAYAG: Formed by the confluence of the impetuous Vishnu Ganga (known after this point, as the Alaknanda) and the Dhauliganga river, Vishnu Prayag, 1372 m, has an ancient temple of Lord Vishnu. This temple stands here next to a pool called Vishnu Kund. It is at a distance of 13 km from Joshimath on Badarinath route. It is said that the sage Narad worshipped Vishnu at this sanctified spot. The Kagbhusandi Lake bewitching with its emerald green depths giving it a still surface, while on the banks, blossoms evoke the colours of nature in all her glory. The lake can also be approached from Vishnuprayag besides from Bhundhar village near Ghangaria.

Places To See AT Badarinath Dham

Places to see at and around Badrinath Temple:

Kund: Located just below the temple, the meeting point of Alaknanda and Rishi Ganga rivers, this thermal spring of hot sulphurous water has inviting freshwater pool. The bathing area, 16.1/2 feet by 14.1/4 feet, has separate arrangements for men and women. Although the normal temperature is 55°c, the water temperature keeps rising gradually during the day. It is considered to have high medicinal value. A dip here is considered to be a good cure for skin diseases.

Narad Kund: Located near Tapt Kund, this kund is believed to be the recovery source of the Badarinath idol. The hot water springs comes out from beneath the Garur Shila and falls into a tank. Darshan of Badarinath is always preceded by a holy dip in this kund. Apart from that there are many other hot water springs. Devotees take a dip in them for their religious and medicinal value. Suraj Kund at Badarinath and Gauri Kund on way to Kedarnath are another famous Kunds.
Caution: Avoid staying too long inside the hot spring water pool to prevent skin burn.

Mana Village - Vyas & Ganesh Gufa: 4 km from Shri Badarinath, inhabited by Indo-Mongolian tribe, it is considered to be the last Indian village boardering Tibet. The villagers of Mana are closely linked with the activities of Shri Badarinath temple for they offer a choli to the deity on the closing day of the temple - an annual traditional feat. The Mana village is full of caves and it is said that Ved Vyas dictated his famous epic of Mahabharat to Ganesh, in one of these caves, now known as Vyas Gufa (cave). Inside is a marble statue of Ved Vyas shown writing the granth (epic book). On this route a natural bridge over the Saraswati river and 125 m high Vasudhara falls form an important part of the pilgrimage to Badarinath.

The area around the remote village even in ancient times offered ideal setting and excellent shelter to philosophers and saints. The caves associated with ancient sages and yogis, like Ganesh Gufa, Bhima Gufa and Muchakanda Gufa are known since very long.

Govindghat, Valley of Flowers: Situated between Joshimath and Badarinath, Gobindghat is the starting point for the trek to the valley of flowers. The vicinity has Lakshman Temple and an imposing Gurudwar a named after tenth sikh Guru Govind Singh.

Lok-Pal Hemkund Sahib: One of the most famous Gurudwaras in India, Hemkund Sahib is located here, at an altitude of 4320 meters above sea level. Lying in heavenly environs, the place is revered both by Hindus and Sikhs, as well as for people from other faiths it is an important pilgrimage. Encircled by seven snow clad peaks and their associated glaciers, it reflects the surroundings enchantingly on its crystal clear screne waters. The glaciers from Hathi Parvat & Sapt Rishi Peaks feed the lake and small stream called Himganga flows out to this lake. It is believed that Lakshman, the younger brother of Lord Ram, meditated by the lake and regained his health after being severely wounded by Meghnath, son of the demon King Ravana, during battle. There is a Sikh Gurudwara and a Lakshman temple built on the bank of the lake.

The motorhead for Hemkund Sahib is Govind Ghat located 20 km from Joshimath & 270 km from Rishikesh. The trek upto Ghangaria is the same as for the Valley of Flowers. The trek from Govind Ghat to Hemkund Sahib is about 20 km and is steep climb. Porters & ponies are available at Govindghat. Private taxies & other light vehicles also ply between Rishikesh (nearest railhead) & Govind Ghat and back.

Mata Murti Mandir: About 3 km from Badarinath, on the right bank of the Alaknanda stands this temple, dedicated to the mother of Shri Badarinath (Maa Murti).


Vasuki Tal: This is a high altitude lake which can be reached by an 8 km trek that ascends to 14,200 feet. Vyas Gufa, Ganesh Gufa, Bhimpul and Vasudhara Falls are 3-6 km. All these destinations are famous for their links with Hindu mythology and form part of the pilgrimage to Badarinath.

Joshimath: It is the first math established by Shri Adi Sankara, is located at a distance of 14 kms from Helang enroute to Badari. Adi Sankara is believed to have got enlightenment here and authored Sri Sankara Bhashyam. This located at a height of 6150 ft above sea level. Here, there are separate temples for Lord Narasimha and Lord Vasudev (different forms of Lord Vishnu). This is one of the 108 Divya Desams (sung by Sacred Vaishnavaite Saints).

Atop the cave is the Kalpvriksha, a Mulberry tree that is said to be 2400 years old under which Adi Guru is believed to have attained enlightenment. It is one of the four 'Maths' organized by Adiguru, the other three are at Dwarika, Puri and Rameshwaram. Located at a height of 6150 ft above sea level, there are separate temples for Lord Narsimh and Lord Vasudev (different forms of Lord Vishnu). This is one of the 108 Divya Desams (sung by Sacred Vaishnavaite Saints).

In the temple for Lord Narasimha, separate statues of Badari narayan, Udhava, Kuber, Chandikadevi, Ram, Lakshman, Sita and Garud can be seen together in the sanctum. Outside the temple separate statues of Brahma, Krishana, Lakshmi & Anjaneya can be seen. Vyas Maharishi is believed to have worshipped Goddess Lakshmi here. The presiding deity Lord Narasimha is believed to have been established by Adi Sankara. It is widely believed that one hand of the presiding deity is getting weakened and the day it disjoints, the way to Badari will get eternally blocked and Lord Badari Narayan will thereafter give darshan only at either Bhavishya Badari or Adi Badari (part of Panch Badaris).

The temple of Lord Vasudev houses Lord Vasudev in the sanctum sanctorum as well as Sridevi, Bhoodevi, Leela devi, Oorvasi devi & Balram in the outer praharam. Further separate structures are available for Vinayaka, Brahma, Indira, Chandra(Moon), Navadurgas & Gauri Shankar.

Village Mana - Vyas Guha: This village, located at a distance of 3 kms from Badarinath is the last Indian Village situated at the Indo-China Border and has gained historical importance on account of Vyas Caves. This village located on the banks of River Saraswati (only place where this river can be seen) is very beautiful. Maharishi Vyas (Sage), author of the Mahabharat is believed to have lived in the caves, hence named after him. It was in these caves, Vyas Maharishi composed the Mahabharata. This was done at the orders of his mentor Kalpatru Maharishi who appeared in his dream. Mahabharata depicts the history of Pandavs, Kauravs including the epic war of Kurukshetra and most importantly Bhagawad Gita authored by Krishna (reincarnation of Vishnu). Ganesh, the son of Shiv and Parvati, is said to have helped Vyas Maharishi in putting this epic in the written form. In addition to Mahabharat, Vyas Maharishi composed 18 puranas (legendary stories), Brahma Sutras and classified the Hindu Vedas into 4 parts – Rig, Yajur, Sama and Atharva. It is only in this cave that Adi Shankara is believed to have met Maharishi Vyas and discussed his Sankara Bhashyam (explanatory notes) for Brahma Sutras.

Rock formation inside the Vyas Guha appears to resemble the orderly stacking of palm leave manuscripts – oldest writing material and is worshipped as Vyas Pusthak. Maharishi Vyas is also considered, by some, as reincarnation of Vishnu. Ganesh Guha (caves) is also located in Mana Village.

Pandukeshwar: This place is believed to have been established by King Pandu, father of Pandavas. It is situated at 4 kms from Govind Ghat, 219 kms from Kedarnath and 24 kms from Badarinath. There are two temples – one for Lord Yoga Badari Narayan and the other for Lord Vasudev. During winter, Lord Vasudev temple functions as the abode for Lord Badari Narayan and all the daily rituals connected with worship are performed here. Both the temples are centuries old.

Adi Badar: The main Temple is of the lord Narayan that is distinguished by a raised platform in the pyramidal form. Here a black stone idol of lord Vishnu is enshrined. Local tradition attributes the building of the temples to Adi Guru Shankaracharya. It is situated at a distance of 17 Kms from Karnaprayag and is easily approachable by motorable road. On way to Ranikhet are some beautiful remains of 16 small temples belonging to the Gupta period.

Brahma Kapa: In a quest to ensure a heavenly abode for the dead ancestors, the shradh ceremony (propitiating rites) or the offering of pind is an important part of Hindu rituals. After offering pind here, it is believed, the spirits of the dead are permanently enshrined in Heaven and no more pinds are to be offered elsewhere. The Brahma Kapal, on the bank of the Alaknanda is a flat platform a few yards north of the temple. Legend has it that when Shiva chopped off the fifth head of Brahma, it got stuck to his trident. Lastly with the blessing of Lord Vishnu at Badarivan, the head of Brahma fell down from the trident at this place & hence the name Brahma-Kapal (head).

Charan Paduka: 3 km away is a beautiful meadow carpeted with wild flowers in the summer. Here is a boulder bearing the footprints of Lord Vishnu. It is said that when Lord Vishnu descended from Vaikunth (the heavenly abode of Lord Vishnu) he stepped on this boulder. The area is a steep climb from the town and is full of caves & boulders.

Neelkanth Peak: At the back of the temple, a side valley opens to a conical shaped Neelkanth peak (6600 m.) It is popularly known as the Garhwal Queen. It is a shining pyramid of white crystals, which are ever ready to change their colour & hue. Reflecting the first glow of dawn into the valley & glittering like a golden temple, Neelkanth embodies all the divinity of this divine land.

Sheshnetre: On the opposite bank of the river Alaknanda, in the lap of Nar Parvat, there are two small seasonal lakes. Between these lakes is a boulder having an impression of the legendary snake, Sheshnag. The formation of eye on the boulder is natural.

Panch Dharas & Panch Shilas: The Panch Dharas (five streams) which are famous in Badaripuri are Prahlad, Kurma, Bhrigu, Urvashi & Indira dhara. The most striking of these is the Indira dhara, about 1.5 km north of the town Badaripuri. Bhrigudhara flows past a number of caves. The one on the right of river Rishi Ganga, originally from the Neelkanth range is Urvashi dhara. Kurma dhara water is extremely cold whereas Prahlad dhara has lukewarm water, which glides majestically down the rocks of Narain Parvat.

Around the Tapt Kund there are five blocks of mythological importance called Narad, Narsimh, Barah, Garur & Markandeya Shilas (stone).

Standing between Tapt and Narad Kund is conical formed Narad Shila. It is said that the sage Narad meditated on this rock for several years. Standing in the waters of Alaknanda just below the Narad Shila is a huge stone looking like a lion with its gaping jaws and hooked claws. It is said that Bhagwan Narsimh after killing the demon King Hiranyakashyapa remained in the shape of a block of stone forever.

Near the Narad Kund the Barah Shila has the shape of boar. Barah is believed to be an incarnation of Lord Vishnu.

The Garur Shila near the Tapt Kund had Garur (the carrier of Vishnu) fasted & meditated on this stone. Sage Markandeya on the advice of Narad left Mathura to meditate here in Badarivan and attained ultimate peace. Markandeya Shila is the stone on which the Sage meditated.

0Mata Murti Temple: On the right bank of Alaknanda opposite the Mana village is a small temple of Mata Murti dedicated to the mother of Shri Badarinathji. Once a year on the day of Vamana Dwadashi, the Narain (Badarinathji) pays a visit to Mata Murti, when she is worshipped by the Rawal of Badarinathji and the residents of Mana village organise a festival of prayer, havan & bhog. Belief is that Mata Murti has the power of granting Vairagya to those who sincerely meditate here for a few days.

Saraswati: 3 km north of Mana village emerges the river Saraswati from a lateral glacier. Saraswati is known as the Goddess of learning, blessed Ved Vyas to compose the epic Mahabharata at Mana. The river after touching Vyas Gufa, gets lost in the Alaknanda at Keshav Prayag. From here to Allahabad, Saraswati flows incognito. It is said that at the confluence of Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati at Allahabad, the Saraswati remains invisible.

Vasudhara Falls: 3 km from Mana village, the Vasudhara falls, 125 m high, against the backdrop of snow covered mountains and glaciers is a captivating sight. The torrents of water come gushing down and are diffused in fine showers and soft mist by wind blowing from different directions. Close to the falls are prominent peaks of Satopanth, Chaukhamba and Balkum. One is also able to see the glacial snouts from where the river Alaknanda emerges.

Bhimpul - Bhim Bridge: The bridge over the river Saraswati on the outskirts of Mana village is made of a huge slab of stone. It is believed that when the Pandavas and Draupadi were on their way to Swargarohan, Bhim bridged the river with the huge slab to get them across. The view from the bridge is truly spectacular.

Valley Of Flowers: An irresistible treat for naturalists, ecologists, environmentalists, zoologists, ornithologists, trekkers, tourist and pilgrims, the valley was introduced to the world in 1937 as the Valley of Flowers by Frank S. Smith mountaineer, explorer and botanist.
The valley remains snow covered from November to May but when the ice envelop thaws in June it is a signal for profusion of colors hidden in petals of alpine herbs to blaze during July & August. Some 300 species of wild flowers bloom here in a natural way.The valley remains in bloom for three months while the floral composition keeps on changing every few days. Best time to visit is between August 3rd week and September 2nd week.

The 19 km trek starts from Gobindghat, situated between Joshimath and Badarinath.The main land of the valley is about 4 km from Ghanghria. After trekking, 1 km from Ghanghria, a bifurcation point (one way leads to Hemkund Sahib & other to Valley of Flowers) is reached. Travel beyond Ghangaria is on foot since the entry of ponies is prohibited.

Auli (Skiing)

The Himalayas are the world's highest mountain chain, and also the youngest. Believed to be the home of gods, the sages have always come to the Himalayas to attain bliss, meditate and experience divinity.

People come from around the world to seek solitude from an increasingly The Himalayas are the world's highest mountain chain, and also the youngest. Believed to be the home of gods, the sages have always come to the Himalayas to attain bliss, meditate and experience divinity.

People come from around the world to seek solitude from an increasingly Auli in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttaranchal offers exciting skiing opportunities to Auli in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttaranchal offers exciting skiing opportunities to both, the beginner as well as the advanced skier. Snow capped slopes of Auli specially 3 km long slope (2519 m - 3049 m) flanked by tall stately Deodar forests cut the wind velocity to the minimum. Just 16 km from Joshimath on the Badarinath route, Auli offers a 180o panoramic view of Himalayan peaks like the Nanda Devi (7817 m), Kamet (7756 m), Mana Parvat (7273 m) & Dunagiri (7066 m).

It is found that the slopes compared favourably with those in Europe. Seasonal skiers have a clean stretch of 10-20 km of absolutely virgin slopes to sport on. Auli has been easily adapted for family with children too young to try the skill of skiing. They can enjoy the cable car rides & rope lifts. It is a spectacular sight to see the sun rising over the high snow peaks quite early in the morning. Auli is surrounded by places of pilgrims & destinations like Badarinath, Joshimath, Hemkund Sahib & Valley of Flowers.

The ideal time to be at Auli is from January to March. Auli is 253 km from Rishikesh & 13 km from Joshimath.

Shri Badrinath Dham

Badarinath Dham is considered as one of the most sacred centers of pilgrimage situated in the lofty Himalayan heights in the Garhwal hill tracks (Uttarakhand), situated at the height of 3133 m (10248 feet) above sea level. The route to Badarinath is one of the most fascinating one due to the lofty hilly terrain, curves and cliffs amidst the most scenically beautiful place on the earth.

Throughout the route to Badarinath there are numerous pilgrimage sites at Deo Prayag, Rudraprayag, Karnaprayag, Nandaprayag and Vishnuprayag; as well as Pandukeswar where king Pandu observed meditation with his queen Madri and where his sons Pandavas, stayed during their pilgrimage to heaven, and the site where Bhima and Hanuman (sons of Vayu) met.

At Badarinath Lord MahaVishnu is believed to have done his penance. Seeing the Lord doing his penance in the open, Goddess Mahalaxmi is believed to have assumed the form of Badari tree to provide him shelter to face the onslaught of the adverse weather conditions, therefore the name Badari Narayan. It is believed that Lord Vishnu revealed to Narad rishi that Nar & Naryans forms were his own. It is also believed that Narad rishi, who also did his penance here, is even now worshipping the supreme God with Ashtakshara mantras.

The image of Badarinarayan here is fashioned out of Saligramam. Badarinarayan is seen under the Badari tree, flanked by Kuber and Garuda, Narad, Narayan and Nar. Mahalakshmi has a sanctum outside in the parikrama. There is also a shrine to Adi Sankara at Badarinath.

Behind the temple of Lord Badarinarayan is the Lakshmi Narsimh mandir, with shrines to Desikacharya and Ramanujachary.At Badarinath one can witness one of the greatest wonders of Nature in the Hot water springs of Taptkund on the banks of ice chilled river Alaknanda. The temperature of the water in the Kund is 55 degree centigrade whereas the normal temperature in this region for most part of the year remains at 9-10 degree centigrade to sub-zero levels. Before visiting the temple the pilgrims take a holy bath in the Taptkund.

The Temple's present structure was built by the Kings of Garhwal. The Temple has three sections - Garbhagriha (Sanctum), the Darshan Mandap, and Sabha Mandap. The Garbhagriha (Sanctum) houses Lord Badari Narayan, Kuber (God of wealth), Narad rishi, Udhava, Nar & Narayan.

Lord Badari Narayan (also called as Badari Vishal) is armed with Shankh (Conch) and Chakra in two arms in a lifted posture and two arms rested on the lap in Yogamudra.The principal image is of black stone and it represents Vishnu seated in meditative pose. The temple also houses Garuda (Vehicle of Lord Narayan). Also here are the idols of Adi Shankar, Swami Desikan and Shri Ramanujam. Guru-Shisya parampara is supposed to have its roots here.

Door Opening:-The door of Shri Badarinath Temple will open on 19th May 2010 at 8:05 AM.

Best Time to visit:- The ideal time or peak season to go for a Char Dham Yatra is from May to October, except monsoons. This is because; all the four sacred sites are perched in Garhwal Himalayas, which is prone to heavy snowfall. As a result, all the passage leading to the shrines are blocked. Moreover, during the monsoon season, there is undue threat of having landslides, which can further disrupt the journey. For safety reasons, the gates of the temples are also closed for this period of time and the idols are shifted to nearby pilgrim points.

0SIGNIFICANCE

Chardham-And-The-Chaaryug: The Puranas chronicle the history of the Chardham (the four mosr sacred centres of Hindu pilgrimage) and the Four Yugas (eras). According to them Badarinarayan belongs to the Satyug, Rameshwaram to the Tretayug, Dwarkadhish to the Dwaparyug and Jagannath to the Kalyug.

Badarinath-Through-The-Age Lord-Narayan-And-Badarikas

Badarikashram has been known by different names in different times:

In the Satyug it was called the Muktiprada because in this era Lord Narayan himself resided in the Badarivan (the forest of Badari Trees), his devotees could see him whenever they wished to.

In the Tretayug Lord Narayan was only visible to those who had acquired the vision after great sadhana (penance) and those who were yogamukt. Since Lord Narayan could only be seen by the few, who had meditated, the place came to be known as Yogasiddhit.

In the Dwaparyug the region became widely known. His fame spread far and wide, as a result large number of people visited Lord Narayan and so the place came to be known as Vishala, which means very large.

Badari trees grew in abundance in this region, Hence this place came to be known as Badarikashram.

The Heenyaan did not believe in idolatry. On the other hand the Mahayaanis were idol worshippers. The road to the Tibet based Kailash Mansarovar passed through Badarikashram in those days. The people of the Mahayaan sect looked upon Lord Badarinath as another form of Buddha and paid their obeisance to him with reverence and faith. But the Heenyaan who were not idol worshippers started disturbing the peace of the Badarikashram. The situation worsened to the extent that the devotees found it difficult to protect the Lord’s idols. They came to the conclusion that since the earth is never seedless it will produce another great soul at some time. They put the idols of Lord Narayan back in the Naradkund. The mahayaana sect fled from the Badari region to other places.

Lord-Shiva-and-The-Sages

Wherever the ascetics of the Badari lived also came to be known as the Panch Badari. As a result the actual location of Badari became doubtful. When the divine bodied saadhakas (ascetics) could not see the idols of Lord Narayan in the Naradkund they were so much depressed thet they expressed their sorrow to Lord Shiva. They lamented that one could not achieve darshan of the lord even at the Badarikashram and wondered at the cause. Lord Shiva meditated on this question and then told them what was revealed to him. He said that the trouble was not only in Badarikashram but in entire Bharat (India). The people of Bharat (India) had forgotten the ways of the Vedas. To re-establish Vedic thought and to revive the lost significance of the pilgrimage centres he said he would have to take birth as a mortal. After reassuring them he asked them to leave.

"Vipra bhairav datsya gehe gatva sa ve shiva
Tatputro bhumiloke shankronama: vishruta"

Thus Lord Shiv took birth in Southern Kerala in a village called Kaladi in the family of a Brahmin named Bhairavdatta.

When Adi Shankaracharya was 11 years old he and his fellow disciples arrived at Badarikashram. When he reached early in the morning there the fresh and divine breeze of Sushmaand Gandhmadan mountain moved him greatly and he spontaneously started reciting the Ashtapadi. After a few days he started looking for the divine idols of Badarinath along the southern part of the Alaknanda river. As he delved along the left bank of the river he felt certain that the Naradkund also known as the Narayankund was between the Naradshila and the Varahshila. With this belief he dived into the pond and found an idol. On bringing it out of the water and closely inspecting it he felt that it did not have any distinctive features to indicate it was a divine idol.

He put it back into the water and again dived into the Narayankund and again found an idol but did not find anything distinctive about it. He dived the third time and again found an idol and just when he was about to put it back into the water a voice harkened him, which said

"I am Badarinath and have been consecrated by Brahma once before."

The voice asked him to give his divine idol its rightful place.

Thus about 2500 years ago Badarinath was consecrated and worshipped by Adi Shankaracharya. The rituals and procedure of worship as laid out by Adi Shankaracharya is being practised at Badarinath till today. Srimad Bhagvad Gita has explained the significance of the temple and glory of Lord Shri Badarinarayan.

FESTIVALS

Mata Murti Ka Mela

A grand fair is organized in Badarinath Temple in the month of September. On this day the mother of Lord Badarinath is worshipped and hence it is named as Mata Murti Ka Mela. According to a popular legend, when the river Ganges descended on earth for the welfare of the Human beings, she divided into twelve channels. The place where the river flowed became the abode of Lord Vishnu. This is precisely the holy land known as Badarinath.

Badari Kedar Festival

Held in the month of June, nothing could be a perfect manifestation of Hindu religion and culture. The Badari Kedar festival is held in the sacred shrines of Badarinath and Kedarnath in the month of June. The festivities go on for a stretch of eight days. The festival makes an attempt to bring under one platform, the greatest artists of the country. What could be a more apt tribute to the rich Indian culture?

TRAVEL-INFO

The sacred place boasts of beautiful scenic beauty apart from being one of the most sought-after pilgrim centre. The tourists fall for the exceptional beauty and the beautiful temples while the pilgrims feel like being in heaven after being so close to the historically sacred God's place.

Acclimatizing becomes torturing for an unplanned and naïve visitor. It needs advance planning and preparation on visitor's part to enjoy the stay. The links under Places-to-see on the right section provides information to help people chalk out the itinerary smoothly.

TIPS

This is true for travelers coming to India as most Indians are quite attuned to the travel conditions in the country.
Avoid drinking water at all cost unless it is bottled water from a reputed company.
Food-wise anything that is boiled, cooked or fried is a safer bet than anything cold or raw. So avoid cold salads, raw vegetables, drinks with ice etc.
Carry a mosquito/insect repellent wherever you go to avoid diseases like malaria or simply even the itchy discomfort.
Always carry a kit of the basic emergency medicines you might need for diarrhoea, fever etc. Also, keep on your personal band-aids and an antiseptic ointment.
Use sunscreen all the time to prevent sunburn. Try and wear a hat if you're going to be in the sun.
Initially, at least, avoid excessive alcohol and strenuous activity to stave off heat stroke.
Ensure you are physically and mentally fit to perform the journey as the Yatra involves trekking at an altitude of 1,4000ft. Get yourself medically examined and certified fit for the journey.
At least a month before the Yatra, it is advisable to start preparatory exercises: Even a brisk walk of about 4 to 5 km per day would be beneficial. Breathing exercises like Pranayama would help combat the lack of sufficient oxygen at high altitudes.
Do carry heavy woollens, including thermal body warmers, wind cheaters, raincoats, sleeping bags, blankets, water-proof shoes with sufficient grips, small water proof tents, torch with sufficient batteries and walking sticks.
Keep a slip with your Name, Address and the name of accompanying yatri in your pocket.
Women are advised to avoid sarees and opt for salwar kameez or trousers.
Carry water and dry eatables. Ration and firewood quota is available en route and can be purchased.
All medical facilities during Yatra are free. It is advisable to carry your own personal medical kit and First aid box.
Hire only a registered ponywalla or porter. Don't walk far away from ponies carrying luggage.
Move slowly and steadily, as this is an arduous pilgrimage and maintain discipline.
Don't relax at places where warning signs are fixed. Don't attempt short cuts on the route. Please carry an oxygen kit.