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| HOLY CITIES |
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| Badrinath |
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Badrinath is considered the holiest of the four main shrines of Uttarakhand. The town, situated on the left bank of the Alaknanda, is equidistant from the twin mountains of Nara and Narayan Parvats. Badrinath is on the itinerary of every devout Hindu. The place is also known as Badri Van after the forest of Badri trees which grow here.
The present temple was built about two centuries ago by the kings of Garhwal. The principal idol in the temple is of black stone and represents Vishnu seated in a meditative pose, and flanked by Nara-Narayan. Badrinath is also known as Vishal Badri and is one of the Panch Badris.The temple remains closed from October to April due to severe winter conditions. During this period the idols of Utsavo murti are taken to Pandukeshwar. It is said that "There are many sacred spots of pilgrimage in the heavens, earth and the nether world, but there has been none equal to Badri, nor shall there be."
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Places Of Interest
Badrinath Temple : The temple has been renovated several times due to damage by avalanches. The present structure is 15 mtrs high and has a gilded cupola. The rawal or chief priest of the temple is a Namboodripad Brahmin from Kerala. The temple is divided into three parts-the garbha griha or sanctum sanctorum, the darshan mandap where the rituals are conducted and the sabha mandap where devotees assemble.
Tapt Kund And Surya Kund :The famous hot springs just below the temple. The sulphurous waters have a temperature of 55*C. A dip, considered holy and refreshing to the body as well as soul, is a must before offering prayers to Shri Badrinathji.
Mata Murti Mandir : About 3 km from Badrinath, on the right bank of the Alaknanda stands this temple, dedicated to the mother of Shri Badrinath.
Vasuki Tal : This is a high altitude lake which can be reached by an 8 km trek that ascends to 14,200 feet. Vyas Gufa, Ganesh Gufa, Bhimpul and Vasudhara Falls are 3-6 km. All these destinations are famous for their links with Hindu mythology and form part of the pilgrimage to Badrinath.
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Places to Stay
Chand Cottage, Gujrat Bhawan, Modi Bhawan, PWD Inspection House, Hotel Devlok, Travellers Lodge.
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Getting There
Nearest Railhead Rishikesh 292 km.
Road: Badrinath is connected to Rishikesh, Dehradun, Haridwar, Uttarkashi, Nanital.
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