In the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, Badrinath Dham is one of the most significant religious yatras. Every year, devotees undertake a challenging journey through the high-altitude region to seek the divine darshan of Badri Vishal (Lord Vishnu). Nestled between the Nar and Narayan Mountain ranges, the serene surroundings of Badrinath — with snow-capped peaks and the Alaknanda River flowing nearby — enhance the spiritual atmosphere of the place.
Many pilgrims take a holy dip in the Tapt Kund, a natural hot spring located near the Badrinath Temple, as it is believed to purify the soul. Visiting Badrinath Dham is a truly life-changing experience, and one must visit this sacred abode of Lord Vishnu at least once in a lifetime.
Location: Badrinath Dham is situated in the Chamoli district of the Garhwal region, on the sacred banks of the Alaknanda River.
Altitude: Badrinath is perched at an average elevation of 3,133 meters (10,279 feet) above sea level..
Shri Badrinath Dham is a spiritual haven in the Himalayas. Pilgrims visiting the Badrinath Dham temple in Uttarakhand must also visit the following nearby and popular sightseeing attractions in Badrinath.
Narad Shila is a sacred formation situated between Tapt Kund and Narad Kund. It is one of the most prominent attractions around Badrinath. It is located less than 5km from the shrine. Narad Shila rock holds a deep religious significance. It is believed that Narada performed prayers to Lord Vishnu for 60,000 years without food at this place.
Markandeya Shila is another sacred rock in Badrinath which is located near Tapt Kund. It is a significant stop for those on a pilgrimage to Badrinath. It is believed that Lord Vishnu gave darshan to Sage Markandeya in Quadrilateral form at this place.
Barahi Shila is a part of Panch Shila in Badrinath. It is said that once a demon Hiranyaksh took earth into the Abyss. Thus, Lord Barah defeated Hiranyaksh and saved earth. Lord Barah stays in the form of a Shila (rock) which today is known as Barahi Shila.
Garud Shila is a sacred rock attraction situated near Badrinath, where the mythical bird Garuda is said to have meditated for 30,000 years as he wished to become the vahana (Vehicle) of Lord Vishnu. The Shila is located near Adi Kedareshwar Temple.
Narsingh Shila is dedicated to Lord Narasimha, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Lord Narasimha is the Singha avatar of Lord Vishnu. It is believed that the sight of Narasimha Shila liberates devotees from sins and they ascend to Vaikunth Dham.
Tapt Kund is a natural hot spring located between Badrinath shrine and Alaknanda River. Pilgrims take a dip in these holy waters for spiritual liberation. It is believed that the water of Tapt Kund has healing properties.
Narad Kund is a spot where sage Adi Shankaracharya discovered the idol of Lord Vishnu. It is a bay in the Alaknanda River and naturally enclosed by a rock. It is one of the most popular religious destinations in Uttarakhand.
Brahma Kapal is located on the banks of Alaknanda River and an important site for performing the ritual of shraddh or ancestor worship. It is located within a 2km range from the shrine of Badrinath.
Sheshnetra is a divine resting place for Lord Vishnu. It is a rock that resembles the eye of the divine serpent Shesha, which is the divine bed of Lord Vishnu. The sight is a symbol of protection of Lord Vishnu over the region.
Panch Dhara is a group of five water streams that flows into a single channel. These five streams are five holy rivers namely Prahalad Dhara, Kurma Dhara, Bhrigu Dhara, Urvashi Dhara and Indira dhara. Pilgrims often visit this location for purification of mind, body and soul.
Located just a few kilometers from Badrinath, Mana Village is one of the most popular places to visit in Uttarakhand. It is the last village on the Indian side of the border with Tibet and China. It is also known as a Tourism village by the Uttarakhand government. Bhotias (Mongol tribes) live in Mana village. According to a popular legend, it is said that Pandavas passed through Mana village to heaven.
Vasudhara Falls is a beautiful waterfall situated near Badrinath. This pristine cascade of water is an enchanting spot for nature lovers. The trek from Mana to Vasudhara Falls is a beautiful one. You will also get the divine blessings of Ma Saraswati at Saraswati Temple along the way.
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