Myoksha Travels

Powered by The Temple Girl

Char Dham Yatra

Narsingh Temple Joshimath

, Leave a Comment Filed Under: Char Dham Yatra, Uttarakhand Temples Tagged With:

Narsingh Temple Joshimath is a dedication to Lord Narasimha, the fourth avatar of Lord Vishnu. Moreover, the temple sits in Joshimath, which is in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand.

Nevertheless, this shrine is also one of the 108 ‘Divya Deshams‘ of Vishnu. Since the temple is a part of ‘Sapt Badri’, it is also popular as Narsingh or Narsimha Badri among its devotees. Moreover, Adi Shankaracharya set up this temple as a dedication to Lord Vishnu’s Narsimha avatar.

Introduction of Narsingh temple
Adi Shankracharya established the Shaligram idol of Vishnu’s Narsimha avatar here.

Reportedly, devotees observe shrinking in the right wrist of Narsingh idol which continues to occur. Moreover, an existing prophecy hints towards the occurrence of a destructive landslide after the wrist of the idol falls off.

Hereafter, the route to Badrinath will close forever. Nevertheless, this temple makes its place in the Char Dham Yatra packages within Uttarakhand.

According to the prophecy, after route for Badrinath temple is closed, Bhavishya Badri will be the place of worship for the devotees of Lord Badrinath.

Narsingh or Narsimha Temple – Facts

DietyLord Vishnu’s Narasimha or Narsingh Avatar
Temple timings6 am – 7:30 pm
Time required for Darshan30 minutes
Best time to visit the templeMarch – June
Entry feeNo fee
Nearest AirportJolly Grant Airport
LocationJoshimath, Uttarakhand

What are the timings of Narsimha Badri, Joshimath?

Devotees can visit the temple during the following timings:

TimingsFrom
Open6 am
Close7:30 pm

What is the significance of Narsingh Temple Joshimath?

Narsingh Temple Joshimath holds major significance as the fourth incarnation of Vishnu that depicts him being half-human and half-lion. Diety’s idol in the temple is 25 cm high and sits on a lotus. On the left-hand side of Lord Narsingh, there is an idol of Goddess Chandika.

While, on Lord Narsingh’s right-hand side are Lord Ram, Goddess Sita, Lord Hanuman and Garuda. However, the temple has also installed idols of Badrinath, Kuber and Uddhav. Devotees believe that Badrivishal rests in the temple during winters. Hence, the priests move the idol of Badrinath temple to Narsingh Temple during winters and place it alongside the Narsingh idol.

The idol of Lord Vishnu in Narsingh Avatar located inside the temple is made of Shaligram.

What is the history of the Temple?

Narsingh Temple Joshimath has a history of around 1200 years and was home to a sage called Badri Nath. Also, the idol that sits inside was constructed during the reign of Lalitaditya Yukka in the 8th century.

History of Narsingh temple
Lord Vishnu appeared in Narsimha avatar to kill the arrogant demon Hiranyakashyap.

An ages-old tale states that Lord Narsingh saved his devotee Prahlad from the tyranny of his father. Eventually, Lord Narsingh took the life of the demon Hiranyakashyap.

What are the festivals celebrated at Narsingh Temple Joshimath?

Some of the festivals celebrated at Narsimha Badri in Joshimath are:

  • Holi: It is a Hindu festival which relates with the story of Lord Narsingh saving his devotee Prahlad from his aunt Holika. Hence, when Holika sat in the fire with Prahlad on his father’s order, she was burnt off while Prahlad came out alive.  The festival signifies the victory of good over evil and is played with colours.
  • Narsingh Jayanti: It calls for a celebration on the day when Lord Vishnu appeared in his half-human and half-lion form, popular as ‘Lord Narsingh’. This festival falls on the Shukla Chaturdashi in the month of Vaisakh.
Festivals celebrated at Narsingh Temple
This festival of colours called Holi is celebrated to signify Lord Vishnu’s win over Hiranyakashyap.

How to reach Narsingh Temple Joshimath?

Here’s how to reach Narsingh Temple Joshimath:

  • Air: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun is the nearest airport available to reach Joshimath. It is at a distance of 268.4 km from Joshimath.
  • Train: There are two railway stations near to the temple namely, Dehradun ( 294Km) and Rishikesh ( 256Km).
  • Road: There are buses available for Rishikesh/Badrinath from ISBT Kashmere Gate. The temple is at walking distance from the Joshimath bus stop.

Where to stay near Narsingh Temple Joshimath?

Some of the places where one can stay near Narsingh Temple Joshimath while undertaking the Char Dham Yatra are:

  • Super 8 Temple: This hotel offers a comfortable and hygienic stay. Both exteriors and interiors are a sight to watch and enjoy. Moreover, everything is available in a budget.
  • Country Inn & Suits: This place is an amazing blend of scenic beauty and high-tech luxuries. Moreover, everything can be availed in a budget. Also, the place is a divinity for travellers.
  • Temple Travelodge: This hotel offers an entire bunch of modern amenities. Moreover, it slips easily into one’s budget. Also, it is located quite close to the temple.

What are some places to visit near Narsingh Temple Joshimath?

Some of the places to visit near Narsingh Temple Joshimath are:

  • Rudraprayag: It is the confluence of river Alaknanda and Mandakini in Uttarakhand. Moreover, it is fourth in the Panch Prayag. It’s home to numerous Shiva temples. Also, It is a part of part of the holy Dham Yatra within Uttarakhand. This confluence is 115 km away from Narsimha Badri.
  • Vasudeva Temple: It holds its place in the list of famous Vishnu temples in India. Nonetheless, the temple resides 30 yards away from the Narsimha Badri. The main deity of the temple is Vasudeva whose idol is carved out of black stone and is 6 feet high.

Adi Badri – Sapta Badri

, Leave a Comment Filed Under: Char Dham Yatra, Uttarakhand Temples Tagged With: ,

Adi Badri is a famous temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple is located on the confluence of the Pindar river and Alaknanda river in Chamoli district, 17 kilometers beyond the Karnprayag. It is the second temple complex among the “Sapta Badri” temples. It’s part of the famous ‘Sapta Badri’ pilgrimage circuit. It is a part of the Char Dham Yatra Package within Uttarakhand.

This place is within the Badrikshetra, and Badrinath being the name for Vishnu, the temple is known as the Adi Badri. In ancient times, the path to the temple went through the Badri van (Forest of berries). Hence, the suffix ‘Badri‘ is added to the seven holy shrines of Lord Vishnu.

Adi Badri – Facts

Deity Lord Vishnu
Location Adi Badri Road, Karna Prayag, Uttarakhand
Best Time to Visit May to June and September to October
Darshan Timings 5 AM to 12 PM
2 PM to 9 PM
Entry Fees Free
Dress Code Traditional Wear
Festivals Krishna Janmashtmi, Makar Sankranti
Exploration Time2 hr.

Adi Badri is a group of 16 temples. The main temple is dedicated to Narayan (Lord Vishnu). It’s part of the famous Sapta Badri pilgrimage circuit. It is also believed that the temple was built during the Gupta period (5th -8th century).

The temple is located 3 kilometers (1.9 min) from Chandpur fort or Garhi located on the hilltop. The fort was built by the Parmar kings of Garhwal. On shifting of Badrinath (also known as Raj Badri) to Bhavishya Badri, Adi Badri will be called the Yog Badri.

The other name of this temple is Helisera according to revenue records.

What are the timings of Adi Badri?

The timings of the temple are:-

TimingsFrom To
Morning 5 AM12 PM
Evening2 PM9 PM

What is the significance of Adi Badri?

The significance of the temple is that whenever Badrinath temple remains closed due to extremities in weather, devotees worship Lord Vishnu in Adi Badri temple. Moreover, the sanctum of the temple has an image of Lord Vishnu which is 1 meter high and has been carved out of black stone.

Adi Badri Significance
The image of Lord Vishnu holding a mace, lotus as well as a chakra.

The chief temple priests are Brahmins from Southern India.

What is the history of Adi Badri?

According to history, Adi Shankaracharya built Sapta Badri temples, including Adi Badri during the Gupta period. As per beliefs, he did so to promote and spread Hinduism to all parts of the country, however remotely accessible. As per ancient texts, it is believed that Vishnu resided in Adi Badri during Satyug, Treta, and Dwapar. It is moved to Badrinath in Kalyug.

Adi Badri History 1
Adi Shankaracharya built Sapta Badri temples to promote and spread Hinduism.

Another historical significance of the temple lies in the fact that Maharishi Ved Vyas divided the Vedas into Rigveda, Samveda, Yajurveda, and Atharvaveda in this temple.

Adi Badri History 2
Maharishi Ved Vyas wrote the holy text of Bhagwat Gita in this temple.

People beleive that pandavas came here after giving up their kingdom Hastinapur to King Parikshit.

According to prophecy, it is believed that the Lord Vishnu will shift to Bhavishya Badri with the end of Kalyug and Satyug begins thereafter. After the lord Vishnu shall shift to Bhavisya Badri, Adi Badri shall be known as Yog Badri as per the religious texts.

The architecture of Adi Badri Temple

  • The complex of the temple consists of the area of 14-meter x  30 meters.
  • The height of the temples varies from 2 meters. to 6 meters.
  • The main temple is of Lord Vishnu, which is raised on a platform.  The Vishnu idol is 1 m, tall black stone, which depicts Lord Vishnu holding a mace, lotus, and chakra.
  • The other temples are dedicated to Shiva, Mantra Devi and a Kund (pond) which are also located within the premises; the Kund is believed to be the original source of the Saraswati river.

Festivals celebrated at Adi Badri

Some of the festivals celebrated at Adi Badri are:

  • Krishna Janmashtmi: It is a popular Hindu festival that celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna, the eighth incarnation of Lord Vishnu. It occurs according to the Hindu lunisolar calendar and is a very important festival for the followers of Lord Vishnu.
  • Makar Sankranti: The festival is celebrated in January. It is to appease the Sun God. It is the first day when Sun enters Capricorn and marks the lengthening of daytime in the forthcoming days. This day includes colorful decorations, preparation of sweets with sesame seeds and children asking for treats and pocket money.
Adi Badri Festivals
Makar Sankranti and Krishna Janmashtmi are celebrated at the temple.

How to reach Adi Badri?

Here’s how to reach Adi Badri:

  • Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun (206.7 km away from Adi Badri)
  • Train: Rishikesh(189.3 km) and Haridwar(212.8 km) are the nearest railway stations.
  • Road: Buses are available to Rishikesh from ISBT Kashmere Gate. One can avail taxis or state transport buses for Chamoli district.

Where to stay near Adi Badri?

Some of the places where one can stay near Adi Badri while undertaking the Char Dham Yatra are:

  • Hotel Sudarshan Palace: Hotel Sudarshan Palace has facilities such as 24-hour front desk, garden area and parking facility within its premises. Amenities such as bed, bottled drinking water, access to the common balcony and attached bathroom with hot/cold running water facility and toiletries are available at the Hotel.
  • Hotel Kuber Annex: The facilities offered here are front desk, room service, power backup, STD PCO facility, doctor on call. Massage service is also available here so that guests can relax after trekking. A helicopter booking facility is also available at the hotel.
  • Hotel Heaven: The hotel offers facilities suchlike parking and telephone. With a team of skilled professionals, the property ensures the fulfillment of all needs of the guest. Moreover, in case of medical emergencies, one can avail the doctor on call facility at the hotel.

Please carry valid ID proof such as Aadhar Card. It is needed at the time of booking of the hotel rooms.

What are the other SaptaBadri destinations?

The other Sapta Badri destinations are:

  • Vriddha Badri: It is the third among the ‘Sapta Badri’ temples. Devotees also believed that Adi Shankaracharya worshipped Badrinath here before enshrining Him in the main Badrinath temple. Vriddha Badri is temple is open for devotees and pilgrims throughout the year.
  • Bhavishya Badri: It is the fourth among the ‘Sapta Badri’ temples. According to beliefs, Lord Badri will take abode in Bhavishya Badri at the end of Kaliyuga. Even the name of the place literally translates to ‘Future Badri’, implying that it will be the future residence of Lord Badri.
  • Yogadhyan Badri: It is the fifth among the ‘Sapta Badri’ temples. As per mythology, the Pandavas were born here, and Pandu attained salvation and died here. Yogadhyan Badri has a bronze image of Lord Vishnu. Devotees believe that Pandu installed this meditating (Dhyan) image. Hence, the name of the shrine comes from the posture of the image, and it is popular as yoga-Dhyan’ Badri.
  • Dhyan Badri: It is the sixth among the ‘Sapta Badri’ temples. The image of Lord Vishnu which was established by Urvarishi.  The image of Vishnu is four-armed, made of black stone and in a meditative posture. 
  • Ardha Badri: It is the seventh among the ‘Sapta Badri’ temples. In comparison to other temples, the idol of Lord Vishnu here is smaller. Hence, the name of the temple roughly means Tthe little Badri‘.

These temples are also a part of the Char Dham Yatra within Uttarakhand.

Adi Badri Nearby

Ardha Badri – Sapta Badri

, 3 Comments Filed Under: Char Dham Yatra, Uttarakhand Temples Tagged With: ,

Ardha Badri Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand. It is the seventh temple complex among the ‘Sapta Badri’ temples. It’s part of the famous ‘Sapta Badri‘ pilgrimage circuit. It is a part of the Char Dham Yatra Package within Uttarakhand.

Ardha Badri – Facts

Deity Lord Vishnu
Location Garhwal region, Uttarakhand
Best Time to Visit May to June and September to October
Darshan Timings 5 AM to 12 PM
2 PM to 9 PM
Entry Fees Free
Dress Code Traditional Wear
Festivals Krishna Janmashtmi, Makar Sankranti

It extends from Satapanth to Nandaprayag in the Alaknanda river valley. In ancient times, the path to the temple went through the Badri van (Forest of berries). Hence, the suffix ‘Badri‘ is added to the seven holy shrines of Lord Vishnu. 

What are the timings of Ardha Badri?

Here are the timings of Ardha Badri:

TimingsFrom To
Morning5 AM12 PM
Evening2 PM9 PM

What is the significance of Ardha Badri?

The significance of Ardha Badri is that in comparison to other temples, the idol of Lord Vishnu here is smaller. Hence, the name of the temple roughly means ‘the little Badri‘. As per mythology, Vishnu is the ‘preserver’ among the holy trinity that also includes Lord Shiva and Lord Brahma.

What is the history of Ardha Badri?

According to history, Adi Shankaracharya built Sapta Badri temples, including Adi Badri during the Gupta period. As per beliefs, he did so to promote and spread Hinduism to all parts of the country, however remotely accessible. Devotees believe that Lord Vishnu moved to Badrinath in Satya yuga.

Adi Badri History 1
Adi Shankaracharya built Sapta Badri temples to promote and spread Hinduism.

However, ancient saints prophesied that he will shift his abode to Bhavishya Badri after the Kali Yuga, which is also a part of the Char Dham Yatra destinations within Uttarakhand.

What are the festivals celebrated at Ardha Badri?

Some of the festivals celebrated at Ardha Badri are:

  • Krishna Janmashtmi: It is a popular Hindu festival that celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna, the eighth incarnation of Lord Vishnu. It occurs according to the Hindu lunisolar calendar and is a very important festival for the followers of Lord Vishnu.
  • Makar Sankranti: This festival is celebrated each year in January and is to appease the Sun God. It is the first day when Sun enters Capricorn and marks the lengthening of daytime in the forthcoming days. This day also includes colorful decorations, preparation of sweets with sesame seeds and children asking for treats and pocket money.
Adi Badri Festivals
Makar Sankranti and Krishna Janmashtmi are celebrated at the temple.

How to reach Ardha Badri?

Here’s how to reach Ardha Badri:

  • Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun.
  • Train: Rishikesh and Haridwar are the nearest railway stations.
  • Road: Ardha Badri temple is present near the Joshimath-Tapovan road in a remote village and can be approached only by trekking along a steep bridle path.

Where to stay near Ardha Badri?

Some of the places where one can stay near Ardha Badri while undertaking the Char Dham Yatra are:

  • Hotel Sudarshan Palace: Hotel Sudarshan Palace has facilities such as 24-hour front desk, garden area and parking facility within its premises. Amenities such as bed, bottled drinking water, access to the common balcony and attached bathroom are available.
  • Hotel Kuber Annex: The facilities offered here are front desk, room service, power backup, STD PCO facility, doctor on call. Massage service is also available here so that guests can relax after trekking. A helicopter booking facility is also available at the hotel.
  • Hotel Heaven: The hotel offers facilities suchlike parking and telephone. With a team of skilled professionals, the property also ensures the fulfillment of all needs of guests. Moreover, in case of medical emergencies, one can avail the doctor on call facility at the hotel.

Please carry valid ID proof such as Aadhar Card. It is needed at the time of booking of the hotel rooms.

What are the other Sapta Badri destinations?

The other Sapta Badri destinations are:

  • Adi Badri: It is the second among the ‘Sapta Badri’ temples. When Badrinath temple remains closed due to extremities in weather, devotees worship Lord Vishnu in Adi Badri temple. Moreover, the sanctum of the temple has an image of Lord Vishnu which is 1 meter high and has been carved out of black stone.
  • Vriddha Badri: It is the third among the ‘Sapta Badri’ temples. Devotees also believed that Adi Shankaracharya worshipped Badrinath here before enshrining Him in the main Badrinath temple. Vriddha Badri is temple is open for devotees and pilgrims throughout the year.
  • Bhavishya Badri: It is the fourth among the ‘Sapta Badri’ temples. According to beliefs, Lord Badri will take abode in Bhavishya Badri at the end of Kaliyuga. Even the name of the place literally translates to ‘Future Badri’, implying that it will be the future residence of Lord Badri.
  • Yogadhyan Badri: It is the fifth among the ‘Sapta Badri’ temples. As per mythology, the Pandavas were born here, and Pandu attained salvation and died here. Yogadhyan Badri has a bronze image of Lord Vishnu. Devotees believe that Pandu installed this image, which depicts Vishnu to be meditating (Dhyan). Hence, the name of the shrine comes from the posture of the image, and it is popular as ‘Yoga-Dhyan’ Badri.
  • Dhyan Badri: It is the sixth among the ‘Sapta Badri’ temples. It has an image of Lord Vishnu which was established by Urvarishi.  This image of Vishnu is four-armed, made of black stone and in a meditative posture. Also, Brahmins from Southern India serve as head priests in the temple.

These temples are also a part of the Char Dham Yatra within Uttarakhand.

Vridha Badri Nearby

Dhyan Badri – Sapta Badri

, Leave a Comment Filed Under: Char Dham Yatra, Uttarakhand Temples Tagged With: ,

Dhyan Badri Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is located in Urgam Valley near Kalpeshwar,  in the Chamoli district, Uttarakhand at an elevation of 2,135 m above sea level. It is the sixth temple complex among the ‘Sapta Badri’ temples. It’s part of the famous ‘Sapta Badri‘ pilgrimage circuit. It is a part of the Char Dham Yatra Package within Uttarakhand.

In ancient times, the path to the temple went through the Badri van (Forest of berries). Hence, the suffix ‘Badri‘ is added to the seven holy shrines of Lord Vishnu.

Dhyan Badri – Facts

Deity Lord Vishnu
Location Badri to Mata Murti road, Badrinath,
Uttarakhand 246422
Best Time to Visit May to June and September to October
Darshan Timings 5 AM to 12 PM
2 PM to 9 PM
Entry Fees Free
Dress Code Traditional Wear
Festivals Krishna Janmashtmi, Makar Sankranti

Dhyan Badri temple is dedicated to legend Urvarishi, son of the King Puranjaya, a descendant of Pandavas who meditated in the Urgam Valley for Lord Vishnu and established this shrine Tirth Dham dedicated to him.

The idol made of black stone and is a four-armed in a meditative form.

What are the timings of Dhyan Badri?

Here are the timings of the temple:

TimingsFromTo
Morning5 AM 12 PM
Evening2 PM9 PM

What is the significance of Dhyan Badri?

The significance of Dhyan Badri is that-

  • The temple has an image of Lord Vishnu which was established by Urvarishi.
  • Moreover, the temple is sometimes included in the Panch-Badri list.
  • Also, Brahmins from Southern India serve as head priests in the temple.

This image of Vishnu in the temple is four-armed, made of black stone and in a meditative posture.

What is the history of Dhyan Badri?

The legend of Dhyan Badri is related to Urvarishi, son of King Puranjaya of the Pandavas lineage. He meditated in Urgam valley and established a temple of Lord Vishnu here. Moreover, Kalpeshwar temple in honor of Lord Shiva is present at a distance of 2 km from Dhyan Badri.

Dhyan Badri History
Urvarishi meditated in Urgam valley and established a temple of Lord Vishnu.

Devotees also believe that Shri Adi Shankaracharya established Kalpeshwar Temple.

What are the festivals celebrated at Dhyan Badri?

Some of the festivals celebrated at Dhyan Badri are:

  • Krishna Janmashtmi: It is a popular Hindu festival that celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna, the eighth incarnation of Lord Vishnu. It occurs according to the Hindu lunisolar calendar and is also a very important festival for the followers of Lord Vishnu.
  • Makar Sankranti: This festival occurs each year in January to appease the Sun God. It is the first day when Sun enters Capricorn and marks the lengthening of daytime in the forthcoming days. This day also includes colorful decorations, preparation of sweets with sesame seeds and children asking for treats and pocket money.
Adi Badri Festivals
Makar Sankranti and Krishna Janmashtmi are celebrated at the temple.

How to reach Dhyan Badri?

Here’s how to reach Dhyan Badri:

  • Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun.
  • Train: Rishikesh and Haridwar are the nearest railway stations.
  • Road: One can reach Helang Chatti which is on the NH7 (Chamoli – Joshimath road). From there, one has to drive to Ugram Valley where the temple is present.

Where to stay near Dhyan Badri?

Some of the places where one can stay near Dhyan Badri while undertaking the Char Dham Yatra are:

  • Hotel Sudarshan Palace: Hotel Sudarshan Palace has facilities such as 24-hour front desk, garden area and parking facility within its premises. Amenities such as bed, bottled drinking water, access to the common balcony and attached bathroom are available.
  • Hotel Kuber Annex: The facilities offered here are front desk, room service, power backup, STD PCO facility, doctor on call. Massage service is also available here so that guests can relax after trekking. A helicopter booking facility is also available at the hotel.
  • Hotel Heaven: The hotel offers facilities suchlike parking and telephone. With a team of skilled professionals, the property ensures also the fulfillment of all needs of guests. Moreover, in case of medical emergencies, one can avail the doctor on call facility at the hotel.

Please carry valid ID proof such as Aadhar Card. It is needed at the time of booking of the hotel rooms.

What are the other Sapta Badri destinations?

The other Sapta Badri destinations are:

  • Adi Badri: It is the second among the ‘Sapta Badri’ temples. When Badrinath temple remains closed due to extremities in weather, devotees worship Lord Vishnu in Adi Badri temple. Moreover, the sanctum of the temple has an image of Lord Vishnu which is 1 meter high and has been carved out of black stone.
  • Vriddha Badri: It is the third among the ‘Sapta Badri’ temples. Devotees also believed that Adi Shankaracharya worshipped Badrinath here before enshrining Him in the main Badrinath temple. Vriddha Badri is temple is open for devotees and pilgrims throughout the year.
  • Bhavishya Badri: It is the fourth among the ‘Sapta Badri’ temples. According to beliefs, Lord Badri will take abode in Bhavishya Badri at the end of Kaliyuga. Even the name of the place literally translates to ‘Future Badri’, implying that it will be the future residence of Lord Badri.
  • Yogadhyan Badri: It is the fifth among the ‘Sapta Badri’ temples. As per mythology, the Pandavas were born here, and Pandu attained salvation and died here. Yogadhyan Badri has a bronze image of Lord Vishnu. Devotees believe that Pandu installed this image, which depicts Vishnu to be meditating (Dhyan). Hence, the name of the shrine comes from the posture of the image, and it is popular as ‘Yoga-Dhyan’ Badri.
  • Ardha Badri: It is the seventh among the ‘Sapta Badri’ temples. In comparison to other temples, the idol of Lord Vishnu here is smaller. Hence, the name of the temple roughly means ‘the little Badri’.

These temples are also a part of the Char Dham Yatra within Uttarakhand.

Vridha Badri Nearby

Hemkund Sahib – Timings, Significance, and History

, 2 Comments Filed Under: Char Dham Yatra, Uttarakhand Temples Tagged With:

Hemkund Sahib (Formerly Gurudwara Shri Hemkund Sahib Ji) is a Sikh place of worship in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. The place is in devotion to the tenth Guru of Sikhism- Shri Guru Gobind Singh. Guru Ji has himself mentioned the place in his work ‘Dasam Granth‘.

Sri Hemkund Sahib Yatra 2019 | Live Darshan | Full of Snow

Hemkund Sahib is an important stop in the Char Dham Yatra within Uttarakhand.

Hemkund Sahib – Facts

Deity Shri Guru Gobind Singh
Location Chamoli district, Uttarakhand 249401
Best Time to Visit Summers (May – June)
Post Monsoon (September – mid-October)
Darshan Timings 5 AM to 12 PM
2 PM to 9 PM
Entry Fees Free
Dress Code Traditional Wear
Festivals Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti, Maghi

The name ‘Hemkund Sahib‘ comes from the words ‘Hem‘ meaning ‘Snow‘ and ‘Kund‘ meaning ‘reservoir or pond‘, hence meaning ‘The reservoir of snow‘. This is because the location of the pilgrimage site is amid the snow-capped Himalayas and the water of the ‘Kund’ in its front is as cold as snow.

It is also a part of the Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand, the holiest pilgrimage in India.

Hemkund Sahib, formally known as Gurudwara Shri Hemkund Sahib Ji.

What are the timings of Hemkund Sahib?

Here are the timings:

TimingsFromTo
Morning5 AM12 PM
Evening2 PM9 PM

What is the significance of Hemkund Sahib?

The significance of the temple is that it is one of the most religiously important Sikh pilgrimage sites. As per beliefs, Lakshaman, the younger brother of Lord Ram meditated near the lake of Hemkund Sahib.

Hemkund Sahib Significance
Lakshaman, the younger brother of Lord Ram meditated near the lake of Hemkund Sahib.

Pilgrims cannot access the site from October to April due to harsh weather conditions. Pilgrims arrive in May and repair the damage of the path to Hemkund Sahib that occurred over the winter, which is traditionally popular as ‘Kar Seva‘ (selfless service), an important concept of Sikhism.

Due to its religious importance, it becomes an important stop in the Char Dham Yatra within Uttarakhand.

What is the history of Hemkund Sahib?

According to the history of the temple, initially, local inhabitants built it under the name of ‘Lokpal‘ which means ‘the one who sustains people‘. Later, when the famous Sikh historian Bhai Santokh Singh narrated the tale of ‘Dusht Daman‘ and the place of worship or ‘Tapasthan‘.

Hemkund Sahib History 1
Bhai Santokh Singh narrated the tale of ‘Dusht Daman’.

However, Sant Sohan Singh of Tehri Garhwal discovered the present form of the temple. He visited the place with Baba Kartar Singh Bedi in 1934. Also, according to Pandit Tara Singh Narotam, it is one of the places where King Pandu meditated.

Moreover, the Dasam Granth says that God ordered Guru Gobind Singh to take birth while he was in deep meditation at the mount of Hemkund Sahib.

Hemkund Sahib History 2
God ordered Guru Gobind Singh to take birth while he was in deep meditation at the mount of Hemkund Sahib.

Festivals celebrated at Hemkund Sahib

Some of the festivals celebrated are:

  • Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti: This is the day on which Guru Gobind Singh was born. Gurudwaras take out processions on this day. Moreover, people sing devotional songs during the procession and share sweets and a cold drink or a sharbat among adults and children.
  • Maghi: This day celebrates the martyrdom of the “Forty Immortals,” forty followers of Guru Gobind Singh who had previously deserted him. They fought bravely against overwhelming Mughal army forces and died. Later Guru Gobind Singh blessed them and said that they had attained ‘Mukti‘ or salvation.
Hemkund Sahib Festivals
Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti and Maghi are the festivals celebrated at the temple.

How to reach Hemkund Sahib?

Here’s how to reach:

  • Air: Jolly Grant Airport of Dehradun, 268 km from Hemkund Sahib is the nearest airport.
  • Train: The nearest railway station is Rishikesh, 189 km away.
  • Road: Buses are available from ISBT Kashmere gate to Rishikesh. From there one can reach Gobind Ghat via road and then trek to Hemkund Sahib.

Where to stay near Hemkund Sahib?

Some of the places where one can stay near while undertaking the Char Dham Yatra are:

  • Hotel Heaven: The hotel offers facilities suchlike parking and telephone. Backed by a team of skilled professionals, the property ensures that all needs of guests are fulfilled timely.
  • Hotel Sudarshan Palace: Amenities such as bed, bottled drinking water, access to the common balcony and attached bathroom with hot/cold running water facility and toiletries are available within all the 14 rooms in this two-floored accommodation.
  • Shri Krishna Palace Hotel: This accommodation in Chamoli features a multi-cuisine restaurant. Guests can avail services like room service, medical assistance, and laundry during their stay at the property.

Please carry valid ID proof such as Aadhar Card. It is needed at the time of booking of the rooms.

What are some places to visit near Hemkund Sahib?

Some of the places one can visit near-by are:

  • Badrinath Temple: Badrinath Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand. The majestic River Alaknanda flows beside the temple. Devotees believe that the statue of the Deity Lord Vishnu is Swayambhu in nature meaning that it is self-manifested.
  • Hanuman Chatti: The presiding deity of the temple is Lord Hanuman, and the temple derives its name from an interesting mythological event involving Hanuman and Bhima. Moreover, it is present at the head of a very popular trekking destination.
  • Narsingh Temple, Joshimath: It is an ancient temple for Lord Narshimna, the fourth incarnation of Vishnu. It is present in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand and is one of the 108 ‘Divya Deshams’ of Vishnu. Since the temple is a part of ‘Sapt Badri‘, it is also popular as Narsingh Badri Temple. This temple along with the Badrinath temple and Hanuman Chatti is a part of the Char Dham Yatra within Uttarakhand.
  • Valley of Flowers: It is an Indian National Park present in the Western Himalayas in Uttarakhand. It is region rich in diversity of flora and fauna including rare and endangered species of plants and animals. This place also finds the reference in Hinduism because yogis are known to have visited the valley for meditation.
Hemkund Sahib Nearby

Frequently Asked Question about Hemkund Sahib

Who found Hemkund Sahib?

It was discovered by a Sikh soldier during a cartographic mission in 1930.

What is the best time to visit Hemkund Sahib?

The best time to go for Hemkund Sahib is in summers (May – June) and Post Monsoon (September – mid-October).

What is the height of Hemkund Sahib?

4,633 m is the height of Hemkund Sahib.

What is the opening date of Hemkund Sahib for 2019?

1st June 2019 is the opening date of Hemkund Sahib for 2019.

What is the closing date of Hemkund Sahib for 2019?

10th October 2019 is the opening date of Hemkund Sahib for 2019.

What is the trek duration for Hemkund Sahib?

3 days is the trek duration for Hemkund Sahib.

From which place the trek for Hemkund Sahib start from?

The place from where the trek for Hemkund Sahib start is Govindghat.

What is the trek distance of Hemkund Sahib?

19 km is the trek distance of Hemkund Sahib.

Contact Us