Badrinath
Badrinath is one of the holy Hindu pilgrimage sites in India but there is a lot more in store for the traveler in the form of the exquisite natural beauty of this place. Badrinath is tucked between the Narayan and Nar mountain ranges and this site in Uttarakhand is witness to thousands of tourists visiting every year.
Historical Background:
There are several mythological stories woven around this place. While some suggest that Badrinath was once the place for Lord Shiva before he was unseated by Lord Vishnu, the other story says that Ganga while descending to Earth split into twelve streams and thus the Alakananda channel fell on Kedarnath.
Things to Do and Major Attractions:
The beauty of this place knows no bounds and the sight of the Neelkanth mountain peak mesmerizes the tourists. There is much to do besides the mandatory visit to the Badrinath Temple which is among the most sacred places in India. The deity worshipped here is that of Lord Vishnu. Tourists also visit the Tapt Kund which is a thermal spring. A holy dip here is essential before entering the premises of the temple and it is said that there are medicinal values in the water here which can cure certain ailments.
You can also visit the Neelkanth peak which is a beautiful snow-capped peak. The site is famous for providing content for some of the finest pictures captured in the region. The Mata Murti Temple which is located around 3km from Badrinath is also a popular destination and it is a place of worship which is dedicated to Lord Narayan’s mother. In August every year, a fair in this temple is popularly attended by the locals and the tourists.
Brahma Kapal is another beautiful destination situated on the banks of the Alaknanda River. Tourists to this region also stop by places such as Narad Kund which is another hot water spring and Mana which is one of the last villages for India and is close to the border of Tibet. Other notable tourist attractions near Badrinath are the Panch Dharas and Panch Shilas, Bheel Pul, and Sheshnetre.
People and Culture:
People here mostly speak Hindi and Garwali languages and the population consists of predominantly Hindus.
Local Food and Popular Shopping Items:
You will find decent places to eat in Badrinath and some of the places like Saket Restaurant, Sardeshwari Restaurant, and Chandralok Hotel are fairly popular. You can shop for tiny souvenirs such as idols of Gods and metal lamps.
Best Time to Visit:
Due to the very cold conditions that prevail during the winter months, it is best to visit during the summertime from May to June and then from September to October. The rainy season makes the weather here unpredictable and it is best to avoid such seasons in Badrinath.
Availability of Accommodation Type:
You can choose from comfortable hotels to economical Ashrams for your stay here. There are places such as Manav Kalyan Ashram which is located at the Badrinath Temple Road. Other notable hotels include Clifftop Club, Blue Poppy Resorts, Mountain Village Stay, etc.
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