About Badrinath
Badrinath is one of the holiest pilgrimage sites in India, nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas in Uttarakhand, at an elevation of about 3,133 meters (10,279 ft) above sea level. It is part of the sacred Char Dham Yatra and Chhota Char Dham circuit in Uttarakhand, attracting lakhs of devotees every year.
Religious Significance:
- The main temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his form as Badrinarayan.
- According to legend, Adi Shankaracharya discovered a black stone (Shaligram) image of Lord Badrinarayan in the Alaknanda River and enshrined it in a cave. Later, the current temple was built by the Garhwal kings.
- It is believed Lord Vishnu meditated here while Goddess Lakshmi shaded him in the form of a Badri tree, giving the place its name.
Badrinath Temple Highlights:
- Temple Architecture Built in traditional North Indian style with a conical-shaped top and brightly painted facade.
- Tapt Kund A natural hot water spring near the temple, where pilgrims take a holy dip before darshan.
- Darshan Season The temple opens in April/May and closes around October/November due to heavy snowfall in winter.
