Every year about 600,000 pilgrims visit Badrinath, one of the most sacred Hindu holy towns, which has a population of fewer than 1,000 people. Badrinath is located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand at an elevation of 3,100 m (10,170 feet) in the middle of the Garhwal Himalayas, between the Nar and Narayana mountain ranges. The town can be reached by National Highway 7 (NH 7) that connects Fazilka in Punjab to Mana in Uttarakhand, just a few kilometers north of Badrinath.
The road going along the right bank of Himalayan Alaknanda river is open during the warm period of the year from the end of April till the beginning of November. In winter extreme snowfalls make it impassable.
The road is party asphalted, partly grave with several steep sections of 15% gradient passes near Indo-Tibet border. In the summer season, thousands of pilgrims flood the area, so be ready for busy traffic and possible traffic on the road.
The main attraction of Badrinath is the Badrinarayan Temple (Badrinath Temple), dedicated to Vishnu. It was founded in the 8th century by Adi Guru Shankaracharya. The 50-m building was built from stone. A painted facade, arched windows, and a broad stairway resemble Buddhist temples. The mountains around Badrinath are mentioned in the Mahabharata. Badrinath was named after a berry "badri" that grows in the mountains. Badrinath Temple also closes during winter months, and usually opens its doors to visitors from early May to early November. You can find more detailed information on the Badrinath opening and closing dates over here.
Practical info
When is the best time to visit Badrinath?
Visit Badrinath from late April to early November when tourism is possible and the conditions are favorable. During winter months, heavy snowfall renders the route inaccessible to tourists. Thousands of pilgrims visit Badrinath during peak season, making it an ideal time to enjoy a festive atmosphere. Show more
How can I reach Badrinath?
National Highway 7 (NH 7) provides the only access to Badrinath. The road is open from the end of April to early November and is closed in the winter months. The route is steep, but the breathtaking views of the Garhwal Himalayas make for a scenic journey. The road is crowded during peak season and is best avoided by inexperienced drivers. Show more
What is the significance of Badrinath Temple?
Badrinath Temple, an ancient Indian Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is one of the most revered pilgrimage destinations amongst Hindus. Adi Guru Shankaracharya founded the temple in the 8th century. The temple architecture, a painted facade, arched windows, and stone construction, adds to the spiritual ambiance. Serene surroundings in the Himalayan Mountains make the temple a picturesque location. Show more
What should I expect during my visit to Badrinath in peak season?
Peak season in Badrinath is characterized by thousands of tourists thronging the area, causing traffic congestion. Visitors are advised to pre-book accommodation and expect to pay a premium during this period. The festive atmosphere is enhanced by the spiritual devotion of pilgrims, making it an unparalleled experience. Show more
Are there any specific activities or attractions to explore in Badrinath beyond the temple?
While Badrinath Temple is the primary attraction, this region also offers a host of activities to adventurous tourists. Trekking, hiking, and other offbeat activities are favorites amongst visitors. The last village before the Indo-Tibet border, Mana village, holds a unique cultural heritage that visitors can explore. The beautiful Satopanth Lake and the Vasundhara waterfall are other nearby attractions. Show more
