If adventure and spirituality in your blood and you’re always looking for a reason to hit the road. And you are ready to take road trips, particularly to places with a wide range of activities. So, what’s the plan now? Where are you going to have a better time this year? Is it near hills or greenery? Is it a shrine destination with trekking trails? Wait! Let’s take a guess! Is it the one that has everything?
And when we consider a place that has it all, we think of Uttarakhand. Yes, Uttarakhand it is! Without a doubt, the entire state is a glorious gift, but some special places here are totally enticing and worth visiting. You guessed correctly. We’re talking about Badrinath road trip.
You’ve undoubtedly heard of this town steeped in natural beauty and spirituality. But did you know that you can also indulge in some very exciting adventurous activities here? Yes, one of the most important towns, Badrinath, is always ready to welcome visitors with devotional stories, alluring peaks, and lovely rivers.
So, are you ready to get up close and personal with all of these? And enjoy the places that you encounter enroute your road trip to Badrinath.
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Devprayag: The site of godly confluence
After traveling 72 kilometres since you begin your climb of the mighty Himalayas from Rishikesh, the last town in the plains comes the first stop on your way to Badrinath at Devprayag, a religious centre in Uttarakhand that is one of the Panch Prayags, defined by the confluence of the rivers Alaknanda and Bhagirathi. It is very popular among tourists who come for a pilgrimage or to find solitude while being close to nature.
Devprayag, located amid the rolling Himalayan ranges, is a popular Hindu pilgrimage site. This place is beautiful and serene, with ancient temples and idols set among lush green surroundings. It derives its religious significance from the vibrant rivers and natural elements that surround it. Dasharathachal Peak, Chandrabadani temple, and Raghunathji temple are among the popular attractions here. Water sports and trekking are enjoyable activities in Devprayag.
Places to visit in Devprayag
Confluence of Alaknanda and Bhagirathi
This is one of the Panch Prayags where Alaknanda meets Bhagirathi and from here the river officially becomes Ganga. The name Devprayag literally means “Godly Confluence,” and it refers to one of the most sacred river confluences.
Raghunathji Temple
Raghunathji temple, one of Lord Rama’s oldest temples, is made of massive rocks and is believed to have been built in the 19th century. The temple is open all year and is located at the confluence of the Bhagirathi and Alaknanda rivers.
Chandrabadani Temple
A popular Shaktipitha Chandrabadani Temple enshrines an idol of the Goddess Sati in the sanctum, as well as ancient statues and iron trishuls outside the temple. The Chandrabadani temple, 22 kilometres from Devprayag, is well-known for its ancient.
Related Post: 5 top places to visit near Badrinath
Srinagar: The hidden gem enroute Badrinath
The next stop on your road trip to Badrinath is Srinagar. You read it right! Yes, Uttarakhand has its own Srinagar. The quaint town falls on the NH-58 that conjoins Delhi and Badrinath and is 104 kilometres from Rishikesh, the last town in the plains of Uttarakhand. Srinagar is known for its natural beauty, which includes green rolling mountains, lush forest, and the meandering Alakananda River, which is said to have submerged the evil Sri Yantra (Rock) that Sri Adi Shankaracharya hurled into it.
It is a historic town nestled on the pristine banks of the Alaknanda River. It is situated at an elevation of 560 metres above sea level and is an important cultural and educational centre.
Srinagar is the largest town in the Garhwal hills and despite being on the lap of nature it is the hottest due to low altitude.It’s surprising that the largest city in Uttarakhand’s Garhwal region goes unnoticed by most tourists and travellers.
Places of interests in Srinagar
There are many beautiful places to visit in Srinagar’s stunning and serene mountains. Tourist attractions of the place include natural as well as cultural endowments. For your convenience and reference, the list below includes some of the tourist attractions.
Dhara Devi Temple
You’ll find the temple of Dhari Devi between Srinagar and Rudraprayag, in the Garhwal Region of Uttarakhand during your road trip to Badrinath.. The goddess Dhari’s lower half is worshipped in Kalimath, where she is regarded as a manifestation of the goddess Kali, while the upper half of her idol is kept in the temple.
She is regarded as the protector of the Char Dhams and the guardian deity of Uttarakhand. The shrine is believed to be one of the 108 Shakti peethas in India.
Baba Gorakhnath Cave
On the Rishikesh-Badrinath route you will come acrossGorakhnath which is a revered cave that is only a short distance from Srinagar. Here, it is thought that Guru Gorakhnath, a revered sage connected to Hatha Yoga, taught and trained his disciples for the path of renunciation and Hatha Yoga.
HNB University Museum
You can also visit the Himalayan Archaeological and Ethnography Museum in the town’s University district if you’re interested in learning more about the rich history and culture of Srinagar. The mid-central Himalayan region was the place of the excavation, and the museum displays pottery, sculptures, and antiques from that area.
Keshorai Math
It is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Narayan that is significant for its architectural beauty and devotion to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Laxmi. The temple was built out of massive stones, and an inscription on the stone of the main door reveals that it was built around 1682 A.D. by a man by the name of “Keshorai.”
Gole Bazaar
This bazaar, one of the largest in Garhwal Uttarakhand, is an important hub for locals from throughout the valley’s commercial activity. One can find almost anything and everything here, from different restaurants to stores selling traditional Garhwali goods like clothing and fruits and vegetables.
Sri Yantra Tapoo
This charming little area is where the city gets its name. This slab, which is sort of an island-shaped patch of land in the middle of the Alaknanda River, is an important shrine for the city of Srinagar and is said to be endowed with powerful divine energies. Apart from its mythological and divine significance, this place is a wonderful place to relax and soak up the warm sun while being surrounded by the river’s shimmering blue waters.
Do read: All You Need To Know About Badrinath Dham
Rudraprayag: The gateway to Kedarnath and Badrinath
Regarded as one of the Panch Prayags, Rudraprayag, located at the confluence of the rivers Alaknanda and Mandakini, is a sacred site and a place of great religious significance. This beautiful town in Uttarakhand is full of mysterious charm and spiritual vibes that will soothe your senses.
The town boasts of being blessed by Mother Nature in all her splendor, with spectacular views and mesmerising panoramic vistas. The town was named after the Hindu deity Lord Shiva, who is said to have appeared in the form of Lord Rudra here.
Rudraprayag is dotted with ancient temples and serves as a gateway to the two major pilgrimages of Kedarnath and Badrinath, providing visitors with a serene and tranquil environment. Tourists are also enthralled by its natural dazzling beauty and spellbinding landscapes. Tourists and devotees alike flock here in large numbers in search of spirituality as well as the splendours of nature.
Must visit places in Rudraprayag
Augustyamuni
Augustyamuni is a town on the banks of the Mandakini River named after one of the most revered teachers in Indian mythology, Rishi Augustya. Augustyamuni is important for the Char Dham yatra because it has a helipad from which helicopter tours of the Char Dham are conducted.It is 7 kilomeres away from Rudrapyayag.
Augustyamuni appears to be a magical and spiritual place in the beautiful Himalayan surroundings and on the banks of the Mandakini River. The small village town named after the famous Rishi Augustya, who used to have his own gurukul here, is a wonderful place to relax and rejuvenate one’s inner self.
Koteswar Mahadev Temple
3 kilometres from Rudraprayad, Koteshwar Mahadev Temple is a cave temple on the banks of the Alaknanda River. It is widely held among devotees that Lord Shiva meditated in the caves on his way to Kedarnath, where the naturally formed idols can be seen. During Maha Shivaratri, the temple hosts a fair, which attracts a large number of devotees.
Ukhimath
Ukhimath, also known as winter Kedarnath, is famous for the Lord Shiva Temple, which houses the Lord during the winter months when Kedarnath is closed. Ukhimath is another stunning Himalayan hill station. The hill station attracts devotees and travellers from all over the state and country. It is located in the lower hills of Uttarakhand’s Rudraprayag district, at an elevation of 1300 metres.
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Karnaprayag: Where Karna meditated
One the way to Badrinath is Karnaprayag which is one of the sacred Panch Prayags, situated at the confluence of the Alaknanda and Pindar rivers. It is a holy site blessed with abundant natural beauty and is considered one of the most important travel destinations in Uttarakhand. Karnaprayag is located in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district at an elevation of 860 metres above sea level, with a stunning backdrop of lofty mountains and the adornment of the shimmering river that runs through it.
This religiously significant place is supported by an intriguing story of Karna from Mahabharat, who was given Kavach and Kundal by his father Lord Surya to provide him with safety during the war. Legend has it that Karna meditated at this very site.This holy place is also said to be where Swami Vivekananda meditated, so its sanctity can be estimated.
Places to visit in Karnaprayag
The sightseeing tour of Karnaprayag includes a number of temples such as the popular Chandika Mata Mandir, Uma Devi Temple, Adi Bari Temple, and Karna Temple, which are visited by thousands of devotees each year to seek their blessings. The intrepid mountains covered in lush greenery and the mystical surroundings provide the ideal environment for pilgrims who wish to become one with nature and establish a solemn connection with God Almighty. Apart from the beautiful temples, the nearby Nauti Village is worth visiting to get a glimpse of the local people’s culture and lifestyle.
Uma Devi Temple
This sacred site is dedicated to Goddess Parvati. The Goddess’s self-manifested idol was consecrated centuries ago and is now worshipped as one of the Shaktipeethas. This temple is crucially significant and attracts tens of thousands of pilgrims each year.
Karna Temple
An ancient sacred temple located at the confluence of the Alaknanda and Pindar rivers is an architectural site that holds a significant place in Hindu religion. As a result, many devotees visiting Karnaprayag pay a visit to this shrine.
Adi Badri
You can visit Adi Badri which is one of sixteen Gupta-era temples that make up the famous Panch Badri Temples. Among them is a temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, which is enshrined by a three-foot-high black stone idol of him. This temple, situated about 20 kilometres from Karnaprayag, holds great religious significance for Hindus.
Chandrika Devi Temple
You can also visit this temple, popular as the Raj Rajeshwari Chandika Mata Mandir, is dedicated to Goddess Kali. Located in the small village of Simili in Karnaprayag, this temple has become a hub for tantriks and sages, as well as pilgrims, who come to worship the Goddess Kali, the destroyer of all evil forces, as well as other regional deities such as Raj Rajeshwari Mata, Gunsai, and Govind..
Nauti Village
This small village blessed with scenic delights is located in the Chamoli district, some 24 kilometres from Karnaprayag. Nauti village is known as the pious hermitage of Goddess Nanda and the starting point of the majestic Nanda Raj Jat Yatra procession.
Must Read: How to plan your Badrinath Trip-A complete guide
Nandaprayag: Capital of Yadu Kingdom
Nandaprayag which lies on the way to Badrinath on NH-58 is one of the Panchprayags at the meeting point of the rivers Alaknanda and Nandakini. It is a place of spirituality and devotion, as well as stunning scenery. Nandaprayag is a special place with religious, natural, and spiritual significance. It is one of the five meeting points of the Alaknanda River with other rivers that flow into it.
The place is situated at an elevation of 914 metres and is surrounded by beautiful mountains and scenery. The town was also the capital of the erstwhile Yadu Kingdom, whose king built the famous Nanda Temple. Nandaprayag is a place of seamless natural beauty, notwithstanding its religious significance.
Things to do in Nandaprayag
Visiting Nanda Temple
This Temple is located at the confluence of the Alaknanda and Nandakini rivers. Raja Nanda performed yagna on a stone that was later used as the foundation of the Nanda temple in Nandaprayag. A must visit place when you are in Nandaprayag.
Visit the nearby Bangali village
You also have the choice to visit the nearby Bangali village and become acquainted with the rural lifestyle, rich customs, and beliefs, as well as witness the natural beauty that this must-see place has to offer.
Pipalkoti: Enchanting valley town
Pipalkoti is a small and lovely town in Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, at an elevation of 1260 metres above sea level. It is 17 kilometres from Chamoli on NH58. It is frequently visited by tourists and pilgrims on their way to Badrinath, Auli, Valley of Flowers, and Hemkund Sahib for a stopover. The emerald green tranquil valleys and high Himalayan Mountains, as well as terraced fields, provide a welcome respite from long journeys.
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Joshimath: The gateway to Himalayan wonders
Located at a distance of 46 kms from Badrinath.It is one of the ‘Maths’ set up by Guru Adi Shankaracharya and serves as the winter abode of Shri Badrinath. Joshimath also known as Jyotirmath is connected with Auli by cable car, the highest cable car of Asia, Joshimath is located at an altitude of 1,890 mts above the sea level. Joshimath is situated in the Vishnuprayag region, where two rivers, the Dhauliganga and the Alaknanda, meet.
While in Joshimath, you can also visit Narsingh and Kalpavriksha temples. The sacred wish-fulfilling tree Kalpavriksha, which is said to be about 1200 years old, is not to be missed.. Beautiful flora and exotic fauna, Himalayan mountain ranges, valley of flowers, and scenic Hemkund Sahib are some breathtaking sights to see when visiting Joshimath. It is one of the best places to visit in the vicinity of Badrinath.
Do Read: Visiting Taratarini Temple, the Adi Shakti Peetha in Odisha
Vishnuprayag: The first prayag
Vishnuprayag, the first of the famous Panch Prayags, is a beautiful spot where the Alaknanda and Dhauliganga rivers meet. The place is also home to many ashrams and the Vishnuprayag Temple, as well as being a great place for river rafting. The spot is enchanting, with raging rivers, lush greenery, mountains, and wildlife, making it an ideal location for soul searching and relaxation.
Vishnuprayag, at an altitude of 1400 metres, is a natural wonder of the highest order. The place is named after Lord Vishnu, who is said to have appeared here to bless Rishimuni Narad. The lovely town is nestled between the majestic Himalayan Mountains and is ideal for those looking for adventure.
Top places to visit
Vishnu temple and Vishnu Kund
There is a Vishnu temple near the confluence dating from the 19th century and is credited to the Maharani of Indore, Ahalyabai. A stairway leads from this temple to the point of confluence. Before entering the temple, most pilgrims take a dip in the nearby Vishnu Kund. Because of the strong current, taking a dip in the confluence at Vishnuprayag is prohibited.
Hanuman Chatti
This is a small orange (saffron) temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, an ardent devotee of Lord Rama. Almost every pilgrim on their Badrinath Yatra visits this shrine. Hanuman Chatti is a small point with only a few minutes to visit the temple. There are no restaurants or major stores. There are only a few small shops selling Pooja items.
Pandukeshwar: Where pandavas lived
Pandukeshwar is a sacred village in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district, 22 kilometres from Badrinath and 21 kilometres from Joshimath. You can spot the village on the way to Badrinath at an elevation of 1829 metres. It is a well-known pilgrimage site located between Joshimath and Badrinath.
According to legend, King Pandu, the father of the great Pandavas of the Mahabharata epic, founded Pandukeshwar. He was living in Pandukeshwar with his wives Kunti and Madri after abdicating the throne to his elder brother Dhritharashtra. Pandu went hunting in the jungle one day and unintentionally killed a sage who was making love in deer form. While the sage was dying, he cursed Pandu with the inability to have sexual relations with anyone and would instantly die if he does.
To atone for the sage’s killing, Pandu installed a bronze image of Vishnu in the Yogadhyan Badri shrine and mediated. Meanwhile, Kunti and Madri gave birth to the Pandavas through yogadhyan. Pandu was once drawn to Madri while she was bathing in the Alakananda River; however, Pandu died as a result of the sage’s curse.
Pandukeshwar is open to pilgrims and tourists all through the year due.
Must visit temples in Pandukeshwar
Pandukeshwar is home to two famous temples that you must visit. One of the Sapta Badri shrines is Yogadhyan Badri Temple, and the other is Lord Vasudev Temple.
Yogadhyan Badri Temple
Yogadhyan Badri, also known as Yoga Badri, is located in Pandukeshwar, near Govind Ghat on the way to Badrinath. It is as old as the main Badrinath temple. King Pandu is thought to have installed the bronze image of Lord Vishnu in the Yogadhyan Badri shrine. The life-size idol of Lord Vishnu is in a meditative posture, hence the name Yoga-Dhyan Badri. Yogadhyan Badri’s religious significance as one of the Panch Badri shrines attracts thousands of Hindu pilgrims each year.
Vasudev Temple
This is another temple that you must visit during your trip to Badrinath. Lord Vishnu is the presiding deity at the temple. Pandavas are said to have built the Lord Vasudev Temple. During their 12 year exile, the Pandavas visited Pandukeshwar and performed their father Pandu’s funeral. Arjun meditated here during his exile and received Indra’s blessing.
Also Read: Everything you need to know about Ranipur Jharial temples
Govindghat: Base point for pilgrims and trekkers
Govindghat is a beautiful town sutuated on the way to Badrinath at the confluence of the rivers Alaknanda and Lakshman Ganga. It is a pristine Garhwal destination which attracts both devotees and adventure seekers. Govindghat, located at an elevation of 1800 metres, is considered an appropriate base for those travelling to the popular pilgrimage site of Hemkund Sahib and the breathtaking Valley of Flowers.
This popular tourist destination is a popular stopover after Joshimath for both pilgrims and trekkers who want to trudge in the Garhwal Himalayas to either seek the divine blessings at Hemkund Sahib or to absorb the beauty of nature in the Valley of Flowers. Obviously, there are a good number of accommodations in Govindghat, which overlooks the pristine rolling hills and lush greenery and provides incredible peace to all who visit.
Badrinath road trip FAQs
The most exciting part of your road trip is that you can visit all the five holy confluences or Panch Prayags.
You have to cover 270 kilometres from Rishikesh to Badrinath.
Is it possible to reach Badrinath the same day from Rishikesh?
Yes. It is possible if you start early. But, it is always recommended to make a stopover. Pipalkoti and Joshimath are the most preferred places for overnight stay.
April to June and Septembet to November are the best time to take the trip. July and August should be avoided altogether due to bad weather which causes landslides.