Badrinath situated between the two mountain ranges Nar and Narayan is the most sacred pilgrimage center of Hindus. Devotees visit in a large number to seek blessings and enjoy the picturesque beauty of the abode of Lord Vishnu. The graceful river Alaknanda and the beauty of the Neelkanth mountains make this sacred place a piece of Heaven on Earth. Apart from devotees, the holy town is a paradise for the nature lovers and the adventure buffs. The snowy peaks are a great visual treat and every adventure enthusiast try to reach the towering peaks.
Badrinath Shrine :
The famed Badrinath Shrine situated at a height of 3,133 mts is the most pious pilgrim center of the Hindus.The beautiful temple of Shri Badrinathji is dedicated to Lord Vishnu.The temple is surrounded by picturesque setting with Alakananda river flowing gracefully.It is believed that the temple was set up in 8th century by Adi Shankaracharya. It is 15m in height and is in black colour.
The main shrine is divided into three sections. The Grabha Griha or the sanctum sanitarium is is adorned with the deity of Lord Vishnu in a Padmasana Posture. Darshan Mandap and the Shobha Mandap are the other two major sections of the main temple. There is a beautiful shrine within the temple complex. It is dedicated to goddess Lakshmi. There are 15 idols in total in the complex, all in black stone.
During winters, the temple remains closed as the entire area comes under the clutches of snow. Summer is the ideal time to get a glimpse of the temple.
Panch Badri : The main temple of Badrinath along with four other temples or Badris forms Panch Badri , Panch meaning five. The temples of these other badris are lying within few kilometres of the main temple of Badrinath. Yog Dhyan Badri, Bhavishtya Badri, Adi Badri and Vriddha Badri are the four badris which were in existence much before Adi Shankaracharya established the main shrine of Badrinath.
Tapt Kund :
The natural thermal springs are situated on the bank of Alaknanda River. Pilgrims refresh themselves before entering the temple. It is believed the Tapt Kunds have medicinal properties.
Neelkanth Parvat :
The picturesque snow-peaks of the Neelkanth Parvat are in the shape of pyramids form beautiful background picture to the temple of Badrinath.
