One of the legendary Char Dham, Badrinath is among the most sacred spots for Hindus. Snuggled charmingly, flanked by the Nar and Narayan ranges of the Garhwal Hills, Badrinath is situated on the side of the river Alaknanda in the Chamoli area of Uttarakhand. The term ‘Badrinath’ was taken from Badri, which signifies the area where berries grow in lavishness. Badrinath is uniquely celebrated for its tourism with mystical doorways, hypnotic backdrop and opulent legacy. Additionally, Badrinath presents an exceptional chance for treks and fun events. Its charming splendour sees tourisim thriving year round. To learn more, check out this travel guide to Badrinath. 

By Air:

The nearest domestic airport to Badrinath is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun, some five hours away by road. There are also a few helicopter services operated by Pawan Hans that cut your trekking route to less than half.

By Road:

The most efficient way to reach Badrinath is by road as it is interconnected to Delhi, all main towns in Uttarakhand and neighbouring states. NH 58 is the most significant freeway joining Badrinath to the rest of the country. The journey from Haridwar to Badrinath is 318 km (12 hours) and 298 km (10 hours) from Rishikesh

By Rail:

The closest Railway Station is Rishikesh Railway Station (298 km away) and is linked to all the key cities around Uttarakhand. There are several taxi and bus options available to reach Badrinath from all the above mentioned railway stations.

The recommended visitation months are May to June and additionally, from September to October. Summer time here is from May to June.

Summer (May – June):

Summers are the ideal time for tourist visits to Badrinath, with temperatures ranging between 18 - 20°C. With snowfall gradually reducing, tourists and locals can truly enjoy the majesty of Badrinath during these months.

Winter (October – April):

Winter months see temperatures dropping to sub-zero levels. Snowstorms and excess snowfall leads to majority of roads closing down for a period of approximately six months. Winter time visits are not recommended and even the temple shuts down at this time.

Monsoon (July – September):

Caution is advised when travelling during the monsoon months to Badrinath. Hefty showers bring with the danger of landslides and floods. The weather is around 5–15° C.

Visit Badrinath temple:

Often considered to be the greatest and most significant temple of Vishnu, the Badrinath memorial was established by Adi Shankaracharya. The temple is open to visitors from April to November and makes for one of the most visits pilgrimages in the country.

Trekking around Badrinath:

A trekker’s paradise, Badrinath is concealed between the mountaintops of Nar and Narayana Parbat and the gargantuan Neelkanth, an enormous 697 metres beyond sea-level. You have the opportunity to not only satiate your spiritual soul but also feed the adventurer in you.

Visit the Valley Of Flowers:

An extensive stretch of 87 square km in the Chamoli Region of Uttarakhand, Valley of Flowers is set in the background of the royal Zanskar Ranges. The valley is best in spring and summer seasons when the landscape blooms with multi-coloured Rhododendrons. The best months to visit are between March and October.

Hemkund Sahib:

Shri Hemkund Sahib is a vital spiritual location for Hindus as well as Sikhs. Visitors can enjoy the remarkable Lokpal Lake located at a height of 4329 metres beyond sea-level.  

Bargain hunting in Badrinath is branded by numerous workshops that vend jewellery and other trifling mementos. These comprise of 'Saligram Silas' or the holy pebble of Lord Vishnu, who is supposed to be the god ruling over this temple city. Additionally, a number of shops sell woollen objects, a mainstay of hill stations. Badrinath is also famous for products made of brass.

Badrinath sees hundreds of thousands of pilgrims visiting year round. Hence, one can find quality eateries, guesthouses and dhabas around town. Majority of restaurants here are pure vegetarian. Brahma Kamal and Saket Resteraunt are two famous eateries in the city.