Places to Visit in Chardham-yatra

Kedarnath is a town located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, India. It is situated in the Garhwal Himalayas at an elevation of approximately 3,583 meters (11,755 feet) above sea level. Kedarnath is renowned for its ancient and sacred Kedarnath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The Kedarnath Temple holds great religious significance for Hindus and is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, which are considered the holiest abodes of Lord Shiva. The temple is believed to have been constructed by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century AD. It attracts thousands of devotees each year, especially during the pilgrimage season from May to November when the temple is accessible. The journey to Kedarnath involves a trek of approximately 16 kilometers (10 miles) from Gaurikund, the base camp situated at an altitude of 1,982 meters (6,503 feet). It is a challenging trek, but there are also options to use ponies or palanquins to reach the temple. Helicopter services are also available for those who prefer a faster mode of transportation. Apart from the religious significance, Kedarnath offers breathtaking natural beauty with snow-capped mountains, lush green valleys, and the Mandakini River flowing nearby. The town was severely affected by flash floods in June 2013, resulting in significant damage and loss of life. However, efforts have been made to rebuild and restore the area for pilgrims and tourists. Visiting Kedarnath provides a spiritual experience for devotees and an opportunity to immerse in the serenity of the Himalayas. It is advisable to check the current accessibility and weather conditions before planning a trip, as the region experiences harsh winters, and the temple remains closed during this time.

Badrinath is a holy town located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, India. Situated in the Garhwal Himalayas, it is renowned for its sacred Badrinath Temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Badrinath is one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites and holds great religious significance for Hindus. The Badrinath Temple, also known as Badrinarayan Temple, is an ancient and revered shrine believed to have been established by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century AD. It is one of the 108 Divya Desams, the holiest abodes of Lord Vishnu. The temple is located on the banks of the Alaknanda River and offers stunning views of the surrounding snow-capped mountains. To reach Badrinath, one has to undertake a journey of approximately 315 kilometers (196 miles) from Rishikesh. The route takes you through scenic valleys, steep cliffs, and winding roads, offering mesmerizing views of the Himalayan landscape. The temple remains open for six months each year, from April to November, and is closed during the winter due to heavy snowfall. Apart from the Badrinath Temple, the town offers a tranquil and serene atmosphere, surrounded by natural beauty. The Neelkanth Peak, with its towering snow-covered peaks, adds to the majestic charm of the region. The town has limited accommodation options, including guesthouses, hotels, and dharamshalas, to cater to the needs of pilgrims and tourists. Badrinath is not only a religious destination but also a gateway to numerous scenic spots and trekking trails in the region. Mana, the last village of India near the Indo-Tibetan border, is located nearby and is worth visiting. The Vasudhara Falls, a picturesque waterfall, and the Satopanth Lake, known for its spiritual significance, are popular attractions in the vicinity. Pilgrims and visitors can immerse themselves in the spiritual ambiance of Badrinath, offer prayers at the temple, take holy dips in the Tapt Kund (hot springs), and seek blessings from Lord Vishnu. The town attracts a large number of devotees and tourists from across the country, especially during the peak pilgrimage season. Before planning a visit to Badrinath, it is advisable to check the weather conditions and accessibility, as the region experiences heavy snowfall during winter, making it inaccessible. The charm of Badrinath lies not only in its religious significance but also in the majestic Himalayan setting that surrounds it, making it a truly awe-inspiring destination.