About Badrinath
Raiganj to Badrinath distnce : 1637 km
Estimated travel time : 34 hours
Badrinath is a sacred city located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, India. Situated at an elevation of 3,133 meters (10,279 feet) above sea level, it is one of the prominent destinations for Hindu pilgrims. Known for its breathtaking natural beauty and divine significance, Badrinath attracts numerous tourists every year. The city is believed to be the residence of Lord Vishnu, making it one of the four holy abodes (Char Dham) in India. The iconic Badrinath Temple, surrounded by the majestic Himalayas, is the main attraction that draws devotees from all over the world.
Badrinath, nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas, is a city of immense religious and cultural importance. Perched on the banks of the Alaknanda River, it offers a serene and tranquil environment that is highly revered by pilgrims and nature enthusiasts alike. The imposing Neelkanth Peak forms the backdrop of this enchanting city, adding to its charm. The Badrinath Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is the focal point of religious fervor in the region. The temple, built in the 9th century, is a prime example of ancient Indian architecture, adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures. Pilgrims flock to this holy shrine during the summer months to seek the blessings of Lord Vishnu. The city also boasts a number of hot springs, known as Tapt Kund, where devotees take a dip to cleanse themselves before visiting the temple.
Apart from its religious significance, Badrinath offers breathtaking vistas of snow-clad peaks and picturesque landscapes. It is a gateway to several trekking routes, making it a haven for adventure seekers. The city is surrounded by an array of captivating natural wonders, including the Mana village, which is the last inhabited village on the Indo-Tibetan border. Mana village holds historical and cultural importance and offers a glimpse into the unique lifestyle of the local populace.
Furthermore, the city of Badrinath is home to several other smaller temples and pilgrimage sites. These include the Tapt Kund, Narada Kund, and Saptarishi Cave, which are visited by devotees seeking spiritual solace. The Vasudhara Falls, located close to Badrinath, adds to the allure of the city, offering a majestic sight of cascading water amidst the tranquil surroundings.
In conclusion, Badrinath stands as a testament to the rich spiritual and natural heritage of Uttarakhand, attracting devotees and travelers from near and far. The city's divine aura, coupled with its awe-inspiring landscapes, makes it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a blend of spirituality, adventure, and natural beauty.
Taxi from Raiganj to Badrinath is readily available at CabBazar.
Route Information
Raiganj to Badrinath by car is well connected by road and is very convenient and comfortable drive. Raiganj to Badrinath distance is 1637 Km and is 34 hours journey. Other famous tourist places on this route and nearby are :
1. Rudraprayag - Located at the confluence of the Mandakini and Alaknanda rivers, Rudraprayag is known for its scenic beauty and religious significance.
2. Rishikesh - A spiritual hub and gateway to the Himalayas, Rishikesh offers numerous ashrams, yoga centers, and the famous Lakshman Jhula suspension bridge.
3. Haridwar - One of the holiest cities in India, Haridwar is famous for its sacred Ganges river ghats, temples, and the Kumbh Mela festival.
4. Corbett National Park - If you are interested in wildlife and nature, a detour to Corbett National Park can be worthwhile. It is famous for its Bengal tigers, elephants, and diverse wildlife.
5. Lucknow - The capital city of Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow is known for its rich history, architectural marvels like the Bara Imambara, and delicious Awadhi cuisine.
6. Varanasi - Considered the spiritual capital of India, Varanasi is known for its ancient Ghats along the River Ganges, religious ceremonies, and cultural heritage.
7. Bodh Gaya - Another detour option, Bodh Gaya is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the place where Gautama Buddha is said to have attained enlightenment. It is a significant pilgrimage site for Buddhists.
8. Kolkata - Depending on the route you take, you may pass through Kolkata (formerly known as Calcutta). The city offers colonial-era architecture, cultural festivals, and iconic landmarks like the Victoria Memorial.
Tourist Attractions
Badrinath Temple: A famous Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Vishnu, situated at an altitude of 3,133 meters.
Mana Village: The last village of India, located near the Indo-China border.
Tapt Kund: Natural hot water springs where devotees take a holy dip before entering the Badrinath Temple.
Vasudhara Falls: A mesmerizing waterfall nestled amidst the Himalayas, offering breathtaking views.
Charanpaduka: A rock face that bears Lord Vishnu's footprints, believed to be where he stepped while descending to Earth.
Neelkanth Peak: A majestic snow-covered peak towering over the Badrinath valley, offering spectacular panoramic vistas.
Narad Kund: A sacred pond where devotees believe the heavenly musician Narada meditated.
Brahma Kapal: A holy ghat on the banks of the Alaknanda River, known for performing ancestral rituals and offering prayers to deceased ancestors.
Alaknanda River: A sacred river originating from the Satopanth Glacier, known for its pristine beauty and significance in Hindu mythology.
Bheem Pul: A natural rock bridge over the Saraswati River, believed to have been built by the Pandava prince Bheem during the Mahabharata period.