Badrinath, also known as Vishal Badri, is the largest and most revered among the five Badris. Nestled in the lap of the Nar–Narayan Parvat and set against the majestic Neelkanth Peak (6,597 metres), Badrinath stands as a sacred tribute to Lord Vishnu. Situated at an elevation of over 3,100 metres, it is among the most pious pilgrimage destinations in India and holds immense spiritual significance for devotees from across the world.
Spiritual Significance & Historical Background
According to tradition, Adi Guru Sri Shankaracharya, the 8th-century philosopher-saint, established four major pilgrimage centres to revive Hinduism and unite the country spiritually. These include Badrikashram (Badrinath) in the north, Rameshwaram in the south, Dwarkapuri in the west, and Jagannath Puri in the east. Among these, Badrinath is considered exceptionally sacred.
The region was once covered with wild berries, giving it the name Badri Van, meaning “forest of berries.” The temple was originally established by Adi Shankaracharya and has been renovated several times due to natural calamities like avalanches. In the 19th century, it was restored by the royal houses of Scindia and Holkar.
Architecture & Temple Layout
The colourful and imposing main entrance of the temple is known as Singhdwar. A flight of steps leads pilgrims into the temple complex, which is divided into three main sections:
- Garbha Griha (Sanctum Sanctorum)
- Darshan Mandap, where rituals are conducted
- Sabha Mandap, where devotees assemble
The sanctum’s canopy is covered with a gold sheet donated by Queen Ahilyabai Holkar. The temple houses 15 idols, the most prominent being a one-metre-high black stone idol of Lord Badrinath, depicted in a meditative Padmasana posture.
Deities in the Darshan Mandap
Lord Badrinarayana is seated in Padmasana. To the right stands Uddhava, followed by Nara and Narayana. Narada Muni kneels in front, while Kubera and a silver Ganesh are on the left. Garuda is positioned kneeling near Lord Badrinarayana.
Puja Rituals & Temple Timings
All pujas are preceded by a holy dip in the Tapt Kund. Special pujas can be performed on behalf of individuals and must be booked in advance.
Morning Pujas
- Abhishek
- Mahaabhishek
- Geeta Path
Evening Pujas
- Aarti
- Geet Govind
The Rawal, the chief priest and administrator of the temple, is well-versed in Sanskrit and puja rituals and is expected to remain celibate.
Badrinath Temple Opening & Closing Dates 2026
- Opening Date: April 24, 2026
- Closing Date: November 13, 2026
The opening date is decided on Basant Panchami, while the closing date is fixed on Vijayadashmi. During winter, prayers continue at the Narsimha Temple in Joshimath.
Daily Temple Timings
- Morning Opening: 4:30 AM
- Afternoon Closure: 1:00 PM
- Reopens: 4:00 PM
- Final Closure: 9:00 PM
The evening concludes with Geet Govind (Mangal Aarti). After this, flowers and ornaments are removed from the idol, leaving only sandal paste, which is distributed as Prasad the next morning.
Festivals Celebrated at Badrinath
- Mata Murti ka Mela
- Krishna Janmashtami
- Badri–Kedar Utsav
These festivals add spiritual vibrancy and cultural richness to the pilgrimage experience.
Panch Badri & Mythological Beliefs
Badrinath is part of the Panch Badri, which includes Bhavishya Badri, Yogdhyan Badri, Bridha Badri, and Adi Badri. It is believed that the idol’s Padmasana posture reflects influences from Buddhist traditions, though Hindu mythology considers Buddha as the ninth incarnation of Lord Vishnu.
Location & Route to Badrinath
Badrinath is located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, on the banks of the Alaknanda River, at an elevation of approximately 11,204 feet. Surrounded by the Nar and Narayan mountains, it is the most significant among the Char Dhams.
How to Reach Badrinath
By Road
Badrinath is well connected by road and lies on NH-58, which connects Delhi to Mana Pass.
- Distance from Delhi: 525 km
- Distance from Rishikesh: 296 km
Regular buses operate from Delhi, Haridwar, and Rishikesh. Roads become narrow after Joshimath, and travel is not permitted after sunset.
Travel Tip:
A traffic gate at Joshimath opens every two hours from 6 AM to 4 PM. Pilgrims arriving after 4 PM must halt overnight at Joshimath.
By Train
Nearest railway stations:
- Rishikesh – 297 km
- Haridwar – 324 km
- Kotdwara – 327 km
Haridwar is the most convenient railhead due to better connectivity.
By Air
The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (317 km). Helicopter services from Dehradun to Badrinath are also available.
Weather & Best Time to Visit Badrinath
- Best Season: May to November
- Peak Crowds: May to June
- Ideal Period: September to October
Monsoon (late June to August) may bring heavy rainfall and landslides. Summers are pleasant with temperatures around 18°C, while winters are extremely cold with snowfall. The temple remains closed for six months during winter.
Places to Visit In & Around Badrinath
Major Pilgrimage Sites
- Tapt Kund
- Narad Kund
- Brahma Kapal
- Panch Shila
Natural Attractions
- Neelkanth Parvat
- Vasudhara Falls
Other notable spots include Sheshnetra, Charanpaduka, and the sacred Panch Dharas.
Distances from Major Locations
- Delhi – 518 km
- Haridwar – 321 km
- Rishikesh – 297 km
- Joshimath – 42 km
Final Travel Tips for Badrinath Yatra 2026
- Plan travel timings carefully due to road restrictions after sunset
- Book special pujas in advance through the Mandir Committee
- Prepare for weather changes, especially during monsoon and early winter
Where is Badrinath Temple located?
Badrinath Temple is located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, on the banks of the Alaknanda River, at an elevation of about 11,204 feet, in the shadow of the Neelkanth Peak.
Why is Badrinath considered one of the holiest pilgrimage sites?
Badrinath is one of the Char Dham pilgrimage centres established by Adi Guru Sri Shankaracharya and is revered as a sacred abode of Lord Vishnu, making it one of the most pious Hindu shrines.
What is the opening and closing date of Badrinath Temple in 2026?
Opening Date: April 24, 2026
Closing Date: November 13, 2026
The temple remains closed for six months during winter due to extreme climatic conditions.
Who decides the opening and closing dates of the temple?
The opening date is decided on Basant Panchami, and the closing date is fixed on Vijayadashmi by the temple priests.
What are the daily timings of Badrinath Temple?
Opens at 4:30 AM
Closes at 1:00 PM (afternoon recess)
Reopens at 4:00 PM
Final closure at 9:00 PM after Geet Govind (Mangal Aarti)
Is it mandatory to take a dip in Tapt Kund before darshan?
Yes, all pujas and darshan are preceded by a holy dip in the Tapt Kund, as per temple traditions.
Can special pujas be booked in advance?
Yes, special pujas such as Abhishek, Mahaabhishek, and Geeta Path can be booked in advance through the Badrinath Mandir Committee by paying the prescribed fees.
Who is the Rawal of Badrinath Temple?
The Rawal is the chief priest and administrator of the temple. He is well-versed in Sanskrit and puja rituals, expected to remain celibate, and traditionally belongs to Kerala.
How can devotees reach Badrinath by road?
Badrinath is connected via NH-58 and is accessible by road from Delhi, Haridwar, and Rishikesh. Regular buses and taxis operate during the yatra season.
Are there any travel restrictions on the Badrinath route?
Yes, after Joshimath, road travel is not permitted after sunset. A traffic gate at Joshimath operates from 6 AM to 4 PM at two-hour intervals.
Which is the nearest railway station to Badrinath?
The nearest railway stations are:
Rishikesh (297 km)
Haridwar (324 km)
Among these, Haridwar is the most convenient railhead.
Which is the nearest airport to Badrinath?
The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun, located about 317 km from Badrinath. Helicopter services are also available from Dehradun.
What is the best time to visit Badrinath?
The best time to visit is from May to November, with September to October being ideal for fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
Is it safe to visit Badrinath during the monsoon?
Travel during late June to August can be challenging due to heavy rainfall and the risk of landslides. Visitors may face travel difficulties during this period.
What festivals are celebrated at Badrinath?
Major festivals include:
Mata Murti ka Mela
Krishna Janmashtami
Badri–Kedar Utsav
What are the Panch Badri?
The Panch Badri includes Badrinath, Bhavishya Badri, Yogdhyan Badri, Bridha Badri, and Adi Badri, all dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
Which important places can be visited near Badrinath Temple?
Key nearby attractions include Tapt Kund, Narad Kund, Brahma Kapal, Panch Shila, Sheshnetra, Charanpaduka, Neelkanth Parvat, and Vasudhara Falls.
Why is Brahma Kapal significant?
Brahma Kapal is the sacred site where shradh and pind daan ceremonies for departed souls are performed, believed to grant eternal peace to ancestors.
Why does the idol of Lord Badrinath sit in Padmasana posture?
The Padmasana posture is believed to reflect ancient traditions. Hindu mythology also considers Lord Buddha as the ninth incarnation of Lord Vishnu, which explains the meditative posture.
What is the best travel tip for first-time pilgrims?
Pilgrims should plan travel timings carefully, as those reaching Joshimath after 4 PM must stay overnight and continue their journey the next day.