Sri Badrinath Dhama Yatra

Sri Badrinath Dhama Yatra

The Abode of Lord Nara-Narayana Rsi

Important places to visit in and around Badrinath:

1. Sri Badri Vishal Temple

2. Charana Paduka – Footprints of Lord Nara-Narayana

3. Neelkantha Mountain – The Shining Pyramid

4. Keshav Prayag and Sarasvati River at Mana Village

5. Vyasa Gufa - The Cave of Vyasadeva

6. Bhima Pul - Bridge of Bhima

7. Leela Dungi - Appearance site of Lord Nara-Narayana

8. Urvasi Temple

9. Mata Murti Temple

10. Pancha Dhara (Five Streams)

11. Pancha Shilas

12. Tapta Kunda and Brahma Kapal

13. Narada Kunda

14. Ghanta Karna Temple

15. Sesha Netra

16. Satopanth Lake – Glacial Lake of Divine Trinity

17. Laksmi-vana, Cakra-tirtha, Swargarohini Mountain

18. Ekadasi Gufa

The most sacred, prominent, and endowed with nature’s bountiful magnificence, Badrinath Dhama or Badarikasrama, close to the India-China border, quietly ensconced on the bank of Alakananda River, situated on a plateau between twin sentinels of Nara and Narayana mountains, and in the shadow of the Queen of the Himalayas, Neelkantha peak, is the abode of the Supreme Personality as Nara-Narayana Rsi.

Srimad-Bhagavatam Canto 3.4.23 states: “There in Badarikasrama the Personality of Godhead, in His incarnation as the sages Nara and Narayana, has been undergoing great penance since time immemorial for the welfare of all amiable living entities.” Badrinath Dhama was visited by great personalities like Uddhava and Pandavas, even 5000 years ago. It is one of the eight self-manifested holy tirthas in India (Svayam Vyakta Ksetras).

Pivotal of devotion, Lord Badri Vishal, a self-manifested black, two feet high Saligrama-sila, inside the beautiful canopy-shaped, ornate Sri Badri Vishal Temple attracts millions of pilgrims from throughout the world every year! Lord Badri Vishal is in the centre seated in a meditative siddhasana posture with palms locked and the matted hair flowing over the shoulders. On His left are Nara and Narayana, the former in padmasana (lotus yogic posture) and the latter in dhanurasana. Kuvera is on His right side. Uddhava stands in front of the Lord, side by side with a silver deity of Garuda and Narada Muni is kneeling. The sanctum sanctorum also has Sudarshana Yantra in silver. Within the courtyard of the temple to the right, stands a small temple of Laksmi, Hanuman Ji, Ghantakaran (ksetrapal of Badrinath), and a black stone murti of Sripad Sankaracarya. One can also partake the charnamrita of Lord Badri Vishal emerging from the base of the temple. There is also a Prasadam stall from where one can buy special Himalayan style ladoo prasada offered to the Lord. The views of the spectacular Nara and Narayana mountains from the courtyard are astounding.

Srimad-Bhagavatam Canto 3.4.30 states: “One who is transcendentally advanced can gain direct inspiration from the temple Deity, and thus a devotee of the Lord always takes shelter of a recognized temple of the Lord in order to make tangible advancement in transcendental knowledge by the grace of the Lord.” The mood at Badrinath is vibrant and steeped with devotion. The devotees loudly chant “Jai Badri Vishal” while taking the darshans. Attending Mangala-arati (5AM) followed by the abhiseka of the Lord Badri Vishal is a life-time experience! Nambudiri Brahmins priests from Kerala engage in strictly regulated worship. The principal priest is called ‘Rawal’. Throughout the day when Badri Vishal Temple is open (5AM to 1PM and 3PM to 9PM), several aratis and pujas are offered to the Lord. Devotees can attend these ceremonies by prior booking of the tickets and take the opportunity to sit for the most sublime darshans of Their Lordships. When Buddhism was in its prime, the worship of Sri Badri Vishal was neglected, and the Lord was hidden in the nearby Narada kunda. The Lord stayed there for several years until Sripad Adi Sankaracarya recovered the deity and installed it in the present temple in the 8th century.

Charana Paduka are the most blessed footprints of Lord Nara-Narayana, which are distinctly visible on a large sacred boulder. This is where the Lord stepped when He descended from Vaikuntha. It is located on a 2.5 km climb behind Badri Vishal temple and the journey is invigorating through a tract carpeted with wildflowers. Around this area there are numerous and rare sacred Bhoj Patra trees that grow only in this Himalayan region. Bhojpatra has been used for writing sacred mantras since time immemorial. One can see breathtaking panoramic views of Badrinath from here.

Neelkantha Mountain is also called the "Queen of the Himalayas" or the "shining pyramid". It is located against the backdrop of Sri Badri Vishal temple. This tremendously beautiful snow-capped mountain is manifested by Lord Siva. The colour of this peak changes during the day. Particularly, at the sunrise and at sunset, it is mesmerizing golden orange. In ancient times, this was the location where a path existed that led to Kedarnath, and the priests from Badri Vishal temple used to daily carry maha-prasada offerings to Lord Siva at Kedarnath. Kedarnath is located behind Neelkantha mountain. In September, unique and rare Brahma Kamal (lotus flowers) grow at the foothills of Neelkantha peak, that are offered to Lord Badri Vishal.

Keshav Prayag is the confluence of the sacred Saraswati and Alakananda rivers. It is located at Mana Village, which is 4 km from Badrinath. Indeed, this is a unique confluence as the Saraswati River is visible only here. It emerges from Deotal Lake and a glacier north of Mana, touches Vyasa cave, and then merges into the river Alakananda at Keshava Prayag. The entire area is tranquil, and the flow of the Saraswati River is mellow to facilitate Srila Vyasadeva to compile Srimad-Bhagavatam.

Vyasa Gufa - The Cave of Vyasadeva is on the banks of the Saraswati River. This is where Srila Vyasadeva recited Srimad-Bhagavatam and Ganesa wrote it. Srimad-Bhagavatam 1.4.15 purport describes, "The river Sarasvati is flowing in the Badarikasrama area of the Himalayas. So, the place indicated here is Samyaprasa in Badarikasrama, where Sri Vyasadeva is residing." Inside the cave there is a life-size deity of Srila Vyasadeva. The rocks above the cave look like layers of paper and represent his works of writing down Srimad-Bhagavatam. A short walk from Vyasa cave is Ganesa’s cave.

Bhima Pul - Bridge of Bhima is located downwards from Vyasa cave towards the origin of the Saraswati River. When the Pandavas along with Draupadi were on their journey to Swargarohini, Bhima was assigned the duty of taking his family members safely across the rugged Himalayan terrain. At this place, the Pandavas stopped when Draupadi found it difficult to climb further into the Himalayas. To cross the Sarasvati River, Bhima kicked a huge rock, creating a natural bridge across the waters. The bridge is a marvel of nature and the view from here is awe-inspiring. The river Saraswati thunders down through the sculpted gorge with a deafening sound.

Leela Dungi - The Appearance site of Lord Nara-Narayana is in Bamni village. It is 1 km from Sri Badri Vishal temple. Srimad-Bhagavatam Canto 11, chapter 4, text 6 describes: “Nara-Narayana Rsi, who is perfectly peaceful and is the best of sages, was born as the son of Dharma and his wife Murti, the daughter of Daksa.” Srimad-Bhagavatam Canto 4, chapter 1, texts 49-59 also describe the appearance of Lord Nara-Narayana.

Urvasi temple is ensconced on the outskirts of Bamani village, at a short walk from Leela Dungi. Indra's pride was shattered here when Lord Nara-Narayana manifested the most beautiful celestial damsel, Urvasi, to humble the Cupid sent by Indra, as described in Srimad-Bhagavatam Canto 11.4.6-16.

“Lord Nara-Narayana preached by His own practical demonstration the science of naiskarmyam, or the devotional service of the Lord, which eradicates material work. King Indra became fearful, thinking that Nara-Narayana Rsi would become very powerful by His severe penances and seize Indra’s heavenly kingdom. Thus, Indra, not knowing the transcendental glories of the incarnation of the Lord, sent Cupid and his associates to His residence in Badarikasrama. Cupid attacked the Lord with arrows in the form of the irresistible glances of beautiful women. The Lord welcomed Cupid as an honored guest and said, “Do not fear, O mighty Madana. Rather, please accept these gifts I am offering you and kindly sanctify My asrama by your presence.” When Nara-Narayana thus spoke, Cupid bowed their heads with shame and offered prayers. While Cupid was thus praising the Supreme Lord, the all-powerful Lord manifested before their eyes many women, who were astonishingly gorgeous, and all faithfully engaged in His service. When Cupid gazed upon the fascinating mystic beauty of the women created by Nara-Narayana Rsi, their own opulence was completely diminished. The Supreme Lord then asked Cupid to choose one of these women who would become the ornament of the heavenly planets. Cupid selected Urvasi and returned to Indra. When Cupid explained the supreme power of Nara-Narayana Rsi, Indra became aware of his offense, he was both frightened and astonished.”

Mata Murti Temple is dedicated to the mother of Lord Nara-Narayana Rsi. It is near Keshava Prayag. Near this temple is a mountain called Maninag Parvat. Yudhisthira Maharaja was able to answer all the questions asked by Yamaraja here to bring his brothers back to life.

Pancha Dhara, the Five Streams, namely, Kurma, Prahlada, Urvasi, Bhrigu, and Indra emblazon the divine ambience of Badrinath. Near Sri Badri Vishal temple are several kundas filled with hot sulphur water. Each hot spring has a different temperature.

Tapta Kunda is a sacred hot sulphurous water tank at the base of the temple steps. Brahma Kapal is 100m from Tapta kunda. It is a broad rock of stones, jutting into the Alaknanda River. Sri Adi Kedareshwar temple is just above Tapta kunda. It is dedicated to Lord Siva. Lord Siva originally chose this place to meditate. However, Lord Narayana resolved to move in here. Lord Siva then abandoned this place and moved to Kedarnath along with Parvati to continue his meditation. Ekadasi Gufa (cave) is close to Sri Badri Vishal temple.

To take the darshans at Badri Vishal Temple, one has to cross the footbridge across the Alaknanda River. Around the temple there are Panch Shilas, five transcendental shilas. Namely, Narada shila in front of the temple, Varaha shila next to Narada shila and is in the shape of a boar; Markandeya shila is sited in the cascading waters of the Alaknanda; Garuda shila next to Adi Kedareshwar temple and Nrsimha shila on the riverbed of Alakananda river.

Sesha Netra is nestled 1km from Badrinath on the opposite bank of Alaknanda on Nara Parvata. He is Ananta Sesha who is having the darsana of Lord Badri Vishal eternally. Ghanta Karna Temple is in Mana village and is the ksetra palaka of Badrinath. Vasudhara falls are 5km further up from Mana.

Satopanth Lake is also known as the Glacial Lake of the Divine Trinity. This stunningly beautiful triangular shaped lake is further up in the Himalayas, 25km from Badrinath. Lord Brahma, Lord Siva, and Lord Vishnu meditate at the three corners of this crystal-clear, green-water lake. Tremendous views of Chaukhamba, a mountain summit of the Garwal Himalayan range, can also be seen.

Alka Puri is the venerated source of the Alakananda river. It is situated at the base of Balakun peak near Badrinath. This enormous glacier spreads into two valleys that lead to Satopanth and Gaumukh. To the north of this plateau emerges the Bhagirathi River and to its south-east, the Alaknanda River, flowing in different directions. The Alaknanda River, tracing its origin from the Alkapuri glacier, touches the feet of Lord Badri Vishal and paves its way to Devprayag, where it meets the Bhagirathi River, thus forming the holy Ganges River. Skanda Purana mentions that the river Ganges, while descending from the dreadlocks or 'Jata' of Lord Siva, was caught on the Sumeru Parvat (Narain Parvat) and flowed out in seven streams, two of which are the Bhagirathi and Alaknanda River.

Laksmi Vana is located 12 km from Badrinath. This is where Laksmi Ji meditated in a forest of Bhoj Patra trees. Cakra-tirtha is 9km from Laxmi vana. Arjuna received Lord Siva's Pashupati Astra here. Swargarohini Mountain (Stairway to Heaven) is associated with the last journey by the Pandavas. Satopanth and Laksmi Vana are restricted areas and special permission has to be taken. Trek is rough and traveling there is not easy.

Opening and Closing: Badrinath Dhama remains closed for 6 months during the winter. Every year the darshans open a few days after Aksaya-tritya. After Deepavali, the darshans are closed to the public. Opening and closing ceremonies at Sri Badri Vishal temple are marked with tremendous fervour and festivities. The Temple is beautifully bedecked with the choosiest flowers on the opening day. The closing ceremony extends for 5 days. On the closing day, young girls from Mana village bring a woollen blanket woven by them for Lord Badri Vishal. The blanket is soaked in 16 kg of ghee and the deities are snuggled in this basket known as ‘Ghrit Kambal’ to brave the harsh winter. The sanctum sanctorum is then closed by the Rawat, and the Akhand Jyoti (lamp) is kindled in the ‘Sabha Mandap.’ When the temple is reopened for the pilgrims after 6 months, the ghee lamps are still lit. The great sage Narada Muni and demigods come during the winter months to carry on worship. The residue of the ‘Ghrit Kambal’ is distributed as Prasadam among the devotees.

Travel tips to Badrinath: Badrinath is easily accessible by motorable road. It is an 11-hour drive (301 km) from Rishikesh. Helicopter service is also available from Dehradun. September-October is the best time to visit Badrinath. Whereas the Badri Vishal temple opens after Aksaya-tritya, there is an enormous rush due to summer school holidays in May-June. From July to early September, although the darshans at dharma are open, due to heavy rainfall in the Himalayas, there is a possible risk of landslides and roadblocks to reach Badrinath. So, travelling from mid-September is ideal. It is recommended to carry warm clothes as the weather is very cold in Badrinath. The sacred journey from Rishikesh to the divine abode of Badrinath promises a spiritual odyssey through the heart of Uttarakhand. The road trip unfolds along scenic routes adorned with breathtaking landscapes, picturesque towns, and pilgrim hubs. Sacred towns Devprayag, Rudraprayag, Augustmuni, Karnprayag, Nandaprayag, Chamoli, Joshimath and Vishnuprayag come on the way to Badrinath. Also, the sacred abodes – Kedarnath, Gangotri and Gomukha (the origin of the Ganges River), and Yamunotri (the origin of the Yamuna River), which are locally known as the Char Dham of the Himalayas are in Uttarakhand.

Indeed, it is a transcendentally surcharging experience to visit the timeless holy adobe of Supreme Personality Nara-Narayana Rsi, especially to visit Charana Paduka, Vyasa cave, Saraswati River, Leela Dungi, Mata Murti temple and other holy places at Badrinath. Lord Krishna says in Bhagavad Gita 10.25, amongst mountains He is the Himalayas. Visiting Badrinath, and witnessing the breathtaking natural beauty of the Himalayas, we appreciate those words more than ever before. Badrinath region is also an integral part of Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve (NDBR) on the world heritage list.

1. Sri Badri Vishal Temple

The customary opening ceremonies of Badrinath shrine begin on Vasanta Panchami when the king of Tehri Garhwal announces the date of the annual opening of the Badrinath Temple. This is called the Gadoo Ghadi ceremony and takes place at Narendra Nagar. It involves the extraction of sesame oil that is collected in a silver vessel called Gadoo Ghadi. This oil is anointed to Lord Badri Vishal before worship. Two days before the opening of Badrinath temple, a special puja ceremony is held in Lord Nrsimhadeva Temple at Joshimath. The chief pujari, Rawal, presides over the ceremony. Thereafter, the traditional Doli Yatra begins. The yatra arrives at Vishnu Prayag, the confluence of Alaknanda and Dhauli Ganga rivers. It then proceeds to the Yogdhyan Temple in Pandukeshwar, which is the winter sojourn of Uddhava and Kuvera deities. Doli Yatra resumes with Uddhava and Kuvera deities also part of the holy procession. Upon arrival at Hanuman Chatti, the procession offers prayers at the Hanuman temple and proceeds towards Badrinath. On reaching Bamani Gaon in proximity to Badrinath, the devotees circumambulate the Leela Dungi temple and move towards the Badrinath shrine. Raj Purohit of the king of Tehri Garhwal, acts as his representative and opens the main lock of the temple. Concomitantly, the Rawat enters the temple and places the deities of Uddhava and Kuvera in the Garbha Graha. Subsequently, the deity of Laxmi Ji is taken from Garbha Graha and placed at Lakshmi temple in the courtyard for worship during the ensuing 6 months.

Brahma Vaivarta Purana Brahma kanda 29 and 30 chapter explains the reason why Lord Narayana came to Badrinath. The great sage Narada requested Lord Narayana to perform His pastime, tapasya, instead of His usual sleeping pastime, Yoga Nidra. Happily, Lord Narayana made a plan, and sent Lakshmi devi to Nagaloka, and then He left Vaikuntha to go to Badrinath, where Lord Siva and Parvati were residing. Lord Narayana came in the form of a child weeping. Parvati took compassion on that beautiful yet sorrowful child and brought Him to their home. After some time, the small child started crying again. Lord Siva and Parvati, thinking that the child was hungry, went to fetch something to appease His hunger. When both returned, the child had locked the doors and smilingly said that now the home was His. The child requested them to relocate to another place. Understanding the child to be non-different from Lord Narayana, Lord Siva moved to Kedarnath. Not finding Lord Narayana in Vaikuntha, Narada came to Badrinath in His search. He found Him in Badrinath performing dhyana. Narada asked the Lord as to who the object of His dhyana is. Narayana replied that it was He Himself.

Sri Badri Vishal Temple

View of Sri Badri Vishal Temple from the courtyard

Rare Darshans of Sri Badri Vishal

Lord Badri Vishal, a self-manifested black, two feet high Saligrama-sila, is in the centre seated in a meditative siddhasana posture with palms locked and the matted hair flowing over the shoulders. On His left are Nara and Narayana, the former in padmasana (lotus yogic posture) and the latter in dhanurasana. Kuvera is on His right side. Uddhava stands in front of the Lord, side by side with a silver deity of Garuda and Narada Muni is kneeling down.

Laksmi Ji

Within the courtyard of the temple to the right, stands a small temple of Laksmi, Hanuman Ji and Ghantakaran (ksetrapal of Badrinath)

Sripad Sankaracarya

View of Sri Badri Vishal Temple from the courtyard

Sri Badri Vishal Temple

In Satya-yoga, Lord Badri Vishal gave darshan to everybody. In Treta-yuga, the Lord gave darshan only to highly advanced devotees. In Dvapara-yuga, as the virtues deteriorated, Lord's darshans became rare. Towards the end of Dvapara-yuga, the demigods gathered, and requested the Lord to bestow His darshans on the living entities. Lord Badri Vishal agreed to bestow His darshan in His deity form in Kali-yuga.

Pastime of Lord Nara-Narayana and Sahasra Kavacha: A great demon by name Sahasra Kavacha once performed severe tapasya for thousands of years at Badrinath. Being pleased by his austerities, when Lord Brahma appeared, the demon asked the boons that he get one thousand layers of kavacha (armour) and that if anybody came to fight with him, it would take one thousand continuous years of fighting to cut one kavacha, and whoever breaks the kavaca would get fainted. After receiving the boons, he created immense disturbances for the demigods. Demigods then prayed to the Supreme Lord for His protection. Lord Nara-Narayana decided that at a time, one of them would fight with Sahasra Kavacha and the other would perform penance, and then They would switch-over, taking turns to fight for one thousand years each and give the results of each other’s tapasya to regain from faintness. Like this, Lord Nara-Narayana fought with Sahasra Kavacha, taking turns and cutting off 999 kavachas. Sahasra Kavacha was utterly surprised at this. He became scared and ran. Seeing the sun rising, he took the shelter of Surya-deva (sun-god), as Nara came running behind him. Surya-deva gave him shelter and kept him at his home. In the Dvapara-yuga, Nara and Narayana appeared as Arjuna and Krishna as described in Srimad-Bhagavatam Canto 4 chapter 1 text 59, "That Nara-Narayana Rsi, who is a partial expansion of Krishna, has now appeared in the dynasties of Yadu and Kuru, in the forms of Krishna and Arjuna respectively, to mitigate the burden of the world." Sahasra Kavacha appeared as Karna who was the son of Surya and Kunti. Finally, at the battlefield of Kuruksetra, Lord Krishna reminded Arjuna that Karna in his previous birth was Sahasra Kavacha and asked Arjuna to kill him.

Daily worship and Festivals: Daily worship at the temple starts with the Abhishek of Lord Badri Vishal. The lord is offered bhoga four times. First, the dry fruit after Abhishek in the morning. Second, is kheer (sweet rice) after Kapoor arati. Third, the Kesari chawal (saffron rice) at noon. Fourth is doodh bhat (milk and rice) before the Shayana arati. Unlike many temples, the shringar of the deities is performed in the presence of the devotees. Sri Krishna Janmastami festival is celebrated for two days in Badrinath, and it is one of the rare occasions when the gates of the temple are kept open throughout the day. At 12 midnight, a special bhoga is offered to the Lord that consists of lentil soup, sweetened rice, panjeeri prepared with carom seeds, ginger powder, turmeric, dry fruit, watermelon seeds and edible gum roasted in ghee. The temple gates close at 1:30am but the Lord, with His attire and shringar, does not retire on that night.

Nara Narayana Jayanti, the Appearance Day of Lord Nara Narayana, is celebrated during the month of Shravana. On the first day of the utsava, the deities of Nara-Narayana are taken on a beautifully decorated palanquin to Mata Murti temple where special worship is offered. The next day, the nagar sankirtana is organized in which deities are taken in a procession through the township of Badrinath. The procession concludes at Leela Dungi temple. Besides, Ganga Dusshera, the day the river Ganges descended, Annakut, Vijaya Dashami, Diwali, Nandastami and Nanda festivals are celebrated fervently. During the month of Kartik, when it is very cold, Lord Badri Vishal is offered khichadi bhoga to brave the severe cold.

Dhruva Maharaja also came to Badarikasrama, and he retired to the forest in the Himalayas as described in Srimad-Bhagavatam 4.12.16-17. "In Badarikasrama, Dhruva Maharaja’s senses became completely purified because he bathed regularly in the crystal-clear and purified water. He fixed his sitting position and, by yogic practice, controlled the breathing process and the air of life; in this way, his senses were completely withdrawn. Then he concentrated his mind on the arca-vigraha form of the Lord, which is the exact replica of the Lord and, thus meditating upon Him, entered into complete trance."

Lord Kapila, Kasyapa and Sripad Ramanujacarya also visited Badrinath. Sripad Madhvacarya visited Badrinath twice as described in Sri Caitanya-caritamrta Madhya 9.245. Krishna Book Chapter 87 describes the pastime of meeting the great sage Narada Muni with Lord Nara-Narayana Rsi. Deva Darshini is at a short distance from Badri Vishal Temple. From here, the demigods come to have darshan of the holy town of Badrinath.

2. Charana Paduka - Footprints of Lord Nara-Narayana

Charana Paduka are the most blessed lotus footprints of Lord Nara-Narayana. They are distinctly visible on a large sacred boulder located on a 2.5 km climb behind Sri Badri Vishal temple. This is where the Lord stepped when He descended from Vaikuntha. At this place there is also an ancient cave called Rishi Cave, where the akanda lamp has been burning since centuries, signifying the immense importance of this sacred place. Around this area there are numerous and rare sacred Bhoj Patra trees that grow only in this Himalayan region. On the way to Charana Paduka there is an ancient cave that has the deity of Hanuman Ji. One can also witness rare wild Himalayan flowers.

Charana Padura

Charana Padura – Lotus Feet of Lord Narayana

Most blessed darshans of Charana Padura – Lotus Feet of Lord Narayana

Charana Padura – Lotus Feet of Lord Narayana

Himalayan Ranges and terrain near Charana Padura

3. Neelkantha Mountain – The Shining Pyramid

Neelkantha Mountain is also called the "Queen of the Himalayas" or the "shining pyramid". It is located against the backdrop of Sri Badri Vishal temple on the way to Charana Paduka. This tremendously beautiful snow-capped mountain is manifested by Lord Siva. The colour of this peak changes, prominently visible at sunrise and at sunset. In ancient times, this was the location where a path existed that led to Kedarnath, and the priests from Badri Vishal temple used to daily carry maha-prasada offerings to Lord Siva at Kedarnath. Kedarnath is located behind Neelkantha mountain. At September-end, unique and rare Brahma Kamal (lotus flowers) grow at the foothills of Neelkantha peak, that are offered to Lord Badri Vishal.

Neelkantha Mountain, "Queen of the Himalayas"

Beautiful view Hanuman Ji temple on the way to Charana Paduka

Hanuman Ji temple inside a cave on the way to Charana Paduka

Spectacular views of Himalayan Ranges at Badrinath Dhama

4. Keshav Prayag, Sarasvati River at Mana Village

Keshav Prayag is the confluence of the sacred Saraswati and Alaknanda rivers. It is located at Mana Village, which is 4 km from Badrinath. Indeed, this is a unique confluence as the Saraswati River is visible only here. It emerges from a glacier north of Mana, touches Vyasa cave, and then merges into the river Alakananda at Keshav Prayag. The entire area is tranquil and the flow of the Saraswati River is mellow to facilitate Srila Vyasadeva to recite Srimad-Bhagavatam.

Keshav Prayag – The Confluence of Alaknanda and Saraswati Rivers

On the left is Alaknanda merging with Saraswati coming from right

Beautiful view of Keshav Prayag

Spectacular views of the Himalayas at Keshav Prayag

Beautiful Saraswati River

5. Vyasa Gufa – The Cave of Vyasadeva

The revered Vyasa Gufa, the cave of Vyasadeva, is on a hillock on the banks of the Saraswati River. This is where Srila Vyasadeva recited Srimad-Bhagavatam and Ganesa wrote it. Inside the cave there is a life-size murti of Srila Vyasadeva. The atmosphere inside this cave is surcharged with reverence. There is a massive rock above the cave, resembling the records of manuscripts piled up one over another. A short walk below the Vyasa cave is Ganesa’s cave. Vyasadeva narrated these works, and Ganesa wrote them down, under the condition that Vyasadeva would not stop reciting. Near this location, Lord Siva also narrated the glories of the Himalayas to the sage Skanda, who wrote the Skanda Purana. Much later, Sripad Madhvacarya also visited here and met Srila Vyasadeva.

Srimad-Bhagavatam Canto 1 chapter 2.4 mentions, "Before reciting this Srimad-Bhagavatam, which is the very means of conquest, one should offer respectful obeisances unto the Personality of Godhead, Narayana, unto Nara-Narayana Rsi, the super most human being, unto mother Sarasvati, the goddess of learning, and unto Srila Vyasadeva, the author."

Vyasa Gufa – The Cave of Vyasadeva

Massive rock above the cave, resembling the records of manuscripts piled up one over another.

Srila Vyasadeva inside the cave

The Cave of Srila Vyasadeva

Ganesa Cave is a short walk from Vyasa Cave

Srila Vyasadeva reciting Srimad-Bhagavatam to Ganesa

6. Bhima Pula – Bridge of Bhima

Bhima Pul is located downwards from Vyasa cave towards the origin of the Saraswati River. Near the Bhima Pul, there is a temple dedicated to mother Sarasvati. Further up from the Bhima Pul is Draupadi Temple, and Vasudhara falls. The Himalayan path becomes steeper and less defined from here. The famous Shyam Karan hill is nearby. This hill is associated with Lord Badri Vishal's pastime with the Buddhists.

Mana Village: In ancient times, this place was called Mani Bhadrapuri. The villagers of Mana are an integral part of Badrinath and are closely associated with the festivities of the temple and the annual worship of Mata Murti. On the closing day of the temple, the villagers offer, with great love and devotion, attire to Lord Badri Vishal to keep Him warm during the winter. This clothing is spun and woven by the unmarried girls of the village. The villagers belong to the Marcha tribe of Garhwal. At Mana village, one can find a lot of high-quality woollen clothing hand-sewed by the local villagers. Apart from this, locally grown Himalayan kidney beans and potatoes are famous. The villagers in Mana live in small cottages that are decorated and carved gracefully. Prior to 1962, the main source of income for the villagers was trade with Tibet.

Bhima Pula - The Bridge of Bhima

Sarasvati River emerging from beneath the rocks near Bhima Pul

Mother Sarasvati - the goddess of learning

Ancient Draupadi Temple

Draupadi

Shyam Karan Hill associated with Lord Badri Vishal's pastime with Buddhists

7. Sri Mata Murti Temple

Mata Murti Temple is dedicated to the mother of Lord Nara-Narayana Rsi. It is near Keshav Prayag. Every year a grand fair takes place at the temple. Nara Narayana Jayanti, the Appearance Day of Lord Nara Narayana, is celebrated during the month of Shravana. On the first day of the utsava, the deities of Nara-Narayana are taken on a beautifully decorated palanquin to Mata Murti temple where special worship is offered. Near this temple is a mountain called Maninag Parvat. This is where Yudhisthira Maharaja answered all the questions asked by Yamaraja to bring his brothers back to life. They lost their lives when they did not answer the questions.

Sri Mata Murti Temple with majestic Himalayas at the background

Sri Mata Murti, the mother of Nara-Narayana Rsi

8. Leela Dungi - Appearance site of Lord Nara-Narayana

Leela Dungi in Bamni village is the appearance site of Lord Nara-Narayana. It is 1 km from Sri Badri Vishal temple. Srimad-Bhagavatam Canto 11 chapter 4 text 6 describes: “Nara-Narayana Rsi, who is perfectly peaceful and is the best of sages, was born as the son of Dharma and his wife Murti, the daughter of Daksa.” Here there is a shila where Dharma and his wife Murti sat and performed the penance. One can have the darshan of murties of Dharma and Mata Murti. In the backdrop there is a beautiful, majestic Himalayan mountain range.

Leela Dungi - Appearance site of Lord Nara-Narayana

Leela Dungi Temple

In front is the shila where Dharma and his wife Murti sat and performed the penance.

Dharma and his wife Murti

9. Urvasi Temple

Urvasi temple is a short walk from Leela Dungi. This is where Indra's pride was shattered when Lord Nara-Narayana manifested the most beautiful celestial damsel, Urvasi, as described in Srimad-Bhagavatam Canto 11.4.6-16. It is a pleasing experience to visit the Bamani village, as the residents there are self-sustained by adapting to local farming and content with their livelihoods in service to Lord Badri Vishal. Nanda Devi temple is close to Leela Dungi, who is a revered worshipable deity for the entire Himalayan region.

Urvasi Temple

Nara-Narayana Rsi Humbles Cupid

Cupid attacked Nara-Narayana Rsi with the arrows of the glances of beautiful women, thinking the Lord could be tempted by mundane sex life. The Lord was simply amused by the whole situation. Cupid and the heavenly women however realized their offense and were trembling before the Lord. Nara-Narayana Rsi spoke laughingly to Cupid and his followers: "Do not fear, O mighty Madana, O wind-god and wives of the demigods. Rather, please accept these gifts I am offering you and kindly sanctify My ashram by your presence." (Srimad-Bhagavatam 11.4.8)

Urvasi

Sign board at Bamani village

10. Pancha Dhara - The Five Streams

Pancha dhara are five streams that originate at Badrinath. They are Indra dhara, Urvasi dhara, Bhrigu dhara, Kurma dhara and Prahlada dhara. They are located around Badrinath. Indra Dhara is the most striking stream among these five. It is located at about 1.5 km north of Badrinath while walking towards Mata Murti temple. It cascades down majestically through the rocky terrain of Narayana Parvat and is named after Indra. Urvasi Dhara flows from the Neelkantha range and forms the right arm of the river Rishi Ganga. Bhrigu Dhara passes through a number of caves. It is about 1km from Badrinath. The water of Kurma Dhara is icy cold and is named after Kurma avatar, while Prahlad Dhara has lukewarm water.

Urvasi Dhara

Indra’s seat and Indra Dhara on far right

11. Panch Shilas

Around Sri Badri Vishal temple there are five shilas (Panch Shilas) – Narada shila in front of Badri Vishal temple, Varaha shila next to Narada shila, Markandeya shila is sited in the cascading waters of the Alaknanda, Garuda shila next to Adi Kedareshwar and Nrsimha shila on the riverbed of Alaknanda river.

Narada shila is a conical shape. It is between the Tapta Kunda and the Narada Kunda. Lord Siva, while describing the importance of Narada Shila to Skanda, stated that once the great sage Narada Muni undertook penance for several years by sitting in a posture on a rock (shila), which was later named as Narada Shila. It is described in the Varaha Purana that Narada Muni wrote Sri Narada Pancaratra after receiving it from the Supreme Lord for five nights.

Markandeya shila is sited in the cascading waters of the Alaknanda and is scarcely visible. Before the close of Treta-yuga, sage Markandeya went on a pilgrimage to Mathura, where he met Narada. Narada informed him about the significance of Badrinath and advised him to pay a visit. Markandeya went to Badrinath and immersed himself in devotion to the Lord. After perching on a shila, he chanted the names of the Lord. He was bestowed with the darshans of Lord Nara Narayana. Srimad-Bhagavatam Canto 12, chapter 8 describes the prayers of Markandeya Rsi to Nara-Narayana Rsi.

Nrsimha shila is in the middle of the river Alaknanda. It is a huge shila in the shape of a lion with a wide mouth and its paws are elevated. One can have the darshan of this shila while crossing the footbridge over Alaknanda on the way to the Badri Vishal temple. Varaha shila is in the shape of a boar. It is next to Narada shila. Garuda shila is near Tapta kunda.

Narada Shila

Nrsimha Shila in the middle of Alaknanda River

Nara and Narayana Appear Before Markandeya Rsi

Desiring to bestow His mercy upon the saintly Markandeya, who had perfectly fixed his mind in self-realization through penance, Vedic study and observance of regulative principles, the Supreme Personality of Godhead personally appeared before the sage in the forms of Nara and Narayana. One of Them was of a whitish complexion, the other blackish, and They both had four arms. Their eyes resembled the petals of blooming lotuses, and They wore garments of black deerskin and bark, along with the three-stranded sacred thread. In Their hands, which were most purifying, They carried the mendicant's waterpot, straight bamboo staff and lotus-seed prayer beads, as well as the all-purifying Vedas in the symbolic form of bundles of darbha grass. Their bearing was tall and Their yellow effulgence the color of radiant lightning. Appearing as austerity personified, They were being worshiped by the foremost demigods. (Srimad Bhagavatam 12.8.32-34)

12. Tapta Kunda and Brahma Kapal

Below the main temple and connected with a flight of steps is the sacred Tapta Kunda. It is recommended that the darshan of Sri Badri Vishal is preceded by taking a holy dip in the Tapta Kunda, hot sulphurous water at a temperature of about 55 degrees centigrade. The hot water of the spring emerges from beneath the Garuda Shila. Lord Vishnu had commanded Agni, the fire demigod, to retire to the source of the spring, which enables the water to remain at a high temperature. Because Agnideva was engaged in burning the body of Sati during the yajna performed by Daksha, Agnideva felt very remorseful for this act. So, Lord Vishnu told him to retire here, which would please the devotees coming here to take the holy dip of Tapta Kunda as the water of the river Alaknanda is very cold to bathe. Around the Tapta Kunda, one can experience nature’s magnificence in a gem-like setting, especially after snowfall.

Brahma Kapal is 100m from Tapta kunda. It is a broad rock of stones, jutting into the Alaknanda River. Here the pilgrims offer oblations to their forefathers. Sri Adi Kedareshwar temple is above Tapta kunda. It is dedicated to Lord Siva. Lord Siva originally chose this place to meditate. However, Lord Narayana resolved to move in here. Lord Siva then abandoned this place and moved to Kedarnath along with Parvati to continue his meditation.

Tapta Kunda

Sri Adi Kedareshwar temple

Sri Adi Kedareshwar
Brahma Kapal

13. Narada Kunda

Narada Kunda is in front of Badri Vishal temple. When Buddhism was in its prime, the worship of Sri Badri Vishal was neglected and the Lord was hidden in the nearby Narada kunda. The Lord stayed there for several years until Sripad Adi Sankaracarya recovered the deity and installed it in the present temple in the 8th century. Narada Kunda is one of the most revered places in Badrinath. The water in Narada Kund remains hot in spite of being encircled by snow-capped peaks. It is sheltered by a bare rock, which breaks the force of the river Alaknanda and renders the place fit for bathing.

14. Sri Ghanta Karna Temple

This temple is in Mana. Ghanta Karna is the ksetra palaka of Badrinath. Ghanta means bell and Karna means ear. As per the local legend, Ghanta Karna was earlier a demon. He was known by this name because he had hung bells to his ear to avoid hearing the name of Lord Narayana. He caused destruction and death wherever he went. Although he was an ardent devotee of Lord Siva, he hated Lord Narayana. He spent thousands of years meditating on Lord Siva. When Lord Siva appeared before him, he asked for the boon of liberation. Lord Siva tried offering him alternatives like opulence and said, "if you want liberation, you must take shelter of Lord Narayana". Lord Siva informed him that he could find Narayana as Lord Krishna currently in Dwarka. When Ganta Karna reached Dwarka, he was informed that Lord Krishna had gone to Kailash. He started for Kailash. En-route to Kailash, he reached Badrikasrama and found many sages meditating on Lord Narayana. Upon seeing them, Ghanta Karna joined them and started chanting the holy names of Lord Narayana. At that time, Lord Krishna was also at Badrikasrama. Ghanta Karna started to meditate deeply and lost sense of his body and transcended to samadhi. Lord Krishna was delighted with his meditation and appeared before Ghanta Karna. The Lord asked him to abandon all his cruel activities. Ghanta Karna was satisfied with the Lord's darsana. From that day onwards, he stayed in Badrikasrama as Badri Narayana's doorkeeper.

Sri Ghanta Karna Temple at Mana village

Sri Ghanta Karan

15. Sesha Netra

Nestled on the opposite bank of Alaknanda in the lap of Nara Parvat, there are two small seasonal lakes, which at times dry up completely. Between the lakes, there is a large block of stone on which is embedded the impression of an eye known as Sesha Netra. He is Ananta Sesha who is having the darshan of Lord Badri Vishal eternally.

Sesha Netra

16. Satopanth Lake

Satopanth is called the Glacial Lake of the Divine Trinity. It is 25km from Badrinath and is triangular shaped, covering 4,402m/14,442 ft in area, adorned in the midst of the snow-shrouded peaks. Lord Brahma, Lord Siva, and Lord Vishnu meditate at the three corners of this crystal-clear, green-water lake. On every Ekadasi, Lord Vishnu comes and takes bath here.

Satopanth Lake is in a restricted area and special permission has to be taken. Trek is rough and traveling there is not easy. To get here one has to walk past Mana village crossing Vasudhara falls. Walking across a meadow full of flowers, the path becomes more difficult until one reaches the source of the Alakananda River, which is near where the Bhagirath Kharak and Satopanth glaciers meet. Walking across the Cakra-tirtha meadow, one has to cross over the steep rise of the glacier to get to Satopanth Lake. At this point, one is surrounded by the mountains Swargarohini (7.898m), Chaukhamba (7,164m), and Neelkanth (6,558m), which is a most sensational sight. Stunning views of Chaukhamba, a mountain summit of the Garhwal Himalayan range, can also be seen.

Alka Puri is the venerated source of the Alakananda River and is situated at the base of Balakun peak near Badrinath. This enormous glacier spreads into two valleys that lead to Satopanth and Gaumukh. The mighty Narayana Parvat almost divides the two glacial zones of Alkapuri and Gaumukh. To the north of this plateau emerges the Bhagirathi River and to its south-east, the Alaknanda river, flowing in different directions. The Alaknanda River, tracing its origin from the Alkapuri glacier, touches the feet of Lord Badri Vishal and paves its way to Devprayag, where it meets the Bhagirathi River, thus forming the holy Ganges River. Skanda Purana mentions that the river Ganges, while descending from the dreadlocks or 'Jata' of Lord Siva, was caught on the Sumeru Parvat (Narain Parvat) and flowed out in seven streams, two of which are the Bhagirathi and Alaknanda River.

17. Laksmi Vana, Cakra-tirtha, Swargarohini Mountain

Laksmi Vana is 12 km from Badrinath. This is where Laksmi meditated in a forest of Bhoj Patra trees. Srimad-Bhagavatam Canto 6.19.6 describes Laksmi as the internal energy of Lord Vishnu. Cakra-tirtha is 9km further up from Laxmi vana. Arjuna received Lord Siva's Pashupati Astra here. In proximity to it, there is a large formation of glaciers, which extends to the Gaumukh. The Swargarohini peak is vividly visible here and at Cakra-tirtha, the Nara and Narayana mountains meet and form a magnificent circular valley. Icy cold waters, which cascade down from different sources, weave surreal designs like canals flowing through meadows.

Swargarohini Mountain, popularly known as the Stairway to Heaven, is associated with the last journey by the Pandavas. Badrinath to Kailash Mansarovar is 305 km.

Vasudhara water stream

Rare and sacred Bhoja Patra trees that grow mostly in this region

Map of the places beyond Badrinath

18. Ekadasi Gufa

Ekadasi personification appeared from Lord Narayana's body in this cave to slay the demon Mura. Mura had arrived at this cave to attack the Lord while He was resting. When Mura's head was separated by Ekadasi, Lord Narayana woke up to see Mura being killed by Ekadasi. The Lord asked Ekadasi to ask for a boon. Ekadasi said, "Should you be pleased with my service, then kindly give me the power to deliver people from the greatest sins, that person who fasts from grains, beans and legumes on this day. Also, one who controls his senses on this day may go to Your abode." The Lord granted this boon and named her Ekadasi. This cave is near Badri Vishal temple.

Panch Badris: Four other temples or 'Badris' are found near the main Badri Vishal temple. Together, they form the Panch Badri. Located near Joshimath is Yog Dhyan Badri, where the Pandavas handed over their empire to King Pariksit before retiring, along with Bhavishtya Badri, Adi Badri and Vriddha Badri. Bhavishya Badri is known as the 'future Badri'. When demoniac forces overtake the world, the two mountains, Nara and Narayana, at Badrinath, will close up on each other at this point and destroy the route to the present Badrinath. Lord Badrinath will then appear at the Bhavishya Badri temple to be worshipped. Jai Sri Badri Vishal!

Directions to reach Badrinath Dhama:

Badrinath Dhama is situated 301 km, about a 10-hour drive from Rishikesh. Badrinath is easily accessible by motorable road. A helicopter service is also available from Dehradun to reach Badrinath by pre-booking. September-October is the best time to visit Badrinath. Whereas the Badri Vishal temple opens after Aksaya-tritya, there is an enormous rush due to summer school holidays in May-June. From July to early September, although the darshans at the dharma are open, due to heavy rainfall in the Himalayas, there is a possible risk of landslides and roadblocks to reaching Badrinath. So, travelling from mid-September is ideal. It is recommended to carry warm clothes as the weather is very cold in Badrinath. The sacred journey from Rishikesh to the divine abode of Badrinath promises a spiritual odyssey through the heart of Uttarakhand. The road trip unfolds along scenic routes adorned with breathtaking landscapes, picturesque towns, and pilgrim hubs. Sacred towns Devprayag, Rudraprayag, Augustmuni, Karnprayag, Nandaprayag, Chamoli, Joshimath and Vishnuprayag come on the way to Badrinath.