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Char Dham Yatra

Karnaprayag

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Karnaprayag is among the five confluences of river Alaknanda (Panch Prayag). It is present at the point where both rivers namely, Alaknanda with Pindar unify. The meeting point of the two rivers is in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. A string of peaks like Trisul, Drona Giri, Narad Ghunti, Mrigathuni and Maiktoli wrap around the place.

Devotees believe Karnaprayag to be the place where Karna of Mahabharata rigorously worshipped the Sun God. Moreover, it is a famous pilgrimage destination that falls in the holy pilgrimage of Char Dham Yatra.

Karnaprayag is third among the five holy confluences of Alaknanda river starting from Vishnuprayag. Also, other confluences of river Alaknanda surpassing it are Rudraprayag and Devprayag.

Making donations after taking bath at the Holy confluence is considered meritorious.

Chronicles of Karnaprayag

There are a few mythological tales that relate to Karnaprayag like:

The first tale highlights the confluence as the place where Karna worshipped the Sun god. Hence, the Sun god granted him an impregnable armour.

Chronicles of Karna Prayag
Sun God Giving Karna the impregnable armor

However, the second story foretells that after the use of Anjalika Astra on Karna. Krishna found that Arjuna had wounded him, however, Karna was still alive. Hence, Krishna told Arjuna that Dharma Devta or the Goddess of Righteousness protected Karna for the charities he did in his lifetime.

So to break through the protective shield, Krishna put up the disguise of a brahmin and went to Karna. Further, he asked Karna for all his abilities as a warrior in charity. Hence, being how he was Karna respected the Brahmin’s wishes and donated his blood to him along with all his skills.

Hereafter, Karna requested Krishna to cremate him in a land that was still virgin. Hence, beliefs are that in honour of Karna’s wish Krishna cremated him at Karnaprayag. Also, we have a temple on that land dedicated to the great warrior, Karna.

Essence of the Confluence

Karnaprayag has a holy essence to it. The place has a mythological attachment to the epic occurrence of Mahabharata. Hence, we have a temple dedicated to Karna by the banks of Karnaprayag. Moreover, the place also flaunts a famous Uma temple, dedicated to Goddess Sati, the wife of Lord Shiva. Furthermore, Sati’s reincarnation as Goddess Parvati is quite popular.

Essence of Karnaprayag
Temple dedicated to Karna at Karnaprayag.

Swami Vivekananda is believed to have meditated here along with Guru Turianand Ji and Akharanand Ji for eighteen days in a row. Moreover, Karnaprayag lies on the pathway of the major shrines of the Charm Dham Yatra namely, Badrinath and Kedarnath.

Apart from religious strings, Karnaprayag stands out for its lush green scenic beauty that captures every eye-crossing the Prayag. So, it affirms its positions as a major stop on the tour of the Char Dham Yatra destinations within Uttarakhand.

Ways to Reach Karnaprayag

Different modes to reach Karnaprayag:

  • Air: Nearest airport, Jolly Grant is at a distance of 192 km.
  • Train: The nearest railway station is Rishikesh. It is 172 km away from the place.
  • Bus: Buses to Rishikesh are available from ISBT Kashmere Gate. Hereafter, one can avail state as well as private transport for commuting to Karnaprayag.

Stays nearby Karnaprayag

Stays near Karnaprayag that devotees can hail during the Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand are:

  • The Kedar Dev’s: The hotel offers a blend of all the modern facilities. Hotel rooms are given unique designs and have cozy interiors. Moreover, the rooms offer exclusive facilities and services.
  • Shri Krishna Palace Hotel and Restaurant: The hotel is set amidst beautiful natural surroundings. Moreover, it offers a comfortable and hygienic stay to its guests.
  • Hotel Riverview: Hotel River view offers comfortable accommodation with spic and span rooms. Also, the view from the rooms opens up to the soulful confluence.

Other Panch Prayags

The other Panch Prayag destinations are:

  • Vishnuprayag: Vishnuprayag is present 1372 metres above sea level and is the first Prayag falling on the route of river Alaknanda. It is 91 km away from Karnaprayag.
  • Nandaprayag: It is the second Prayag among the Panch Prayag. It is present at the confluence of the rivers Alaknanda and Nandakini. It is 20.9 km away from the Alaknanda-Pindar confluence.
  • Rudraprayag: It observes the confluence of river Alaknanda and Mandakini, in Uttarakhand. This place is at a height of 895 metres above sea level. Rudraprayag is the holy confluence number four starting from Vishnuprayag. It is 33.2 km away from Karnaprayag.
  • Devprayag: It maps the confluence of river Alaknanda and Bhagirathi, in Uttarakhand. Hereafter, the rivers Alaknanda and Bhagirathi unify and flow under the name Ganga or Ganges. It is 98.9 km away from Karnaprayag.

The Panch Prayag are a part of the Char Dham Yatra within Uttarakhand.

Frequently Asked Questions About Karnaprayag

Which rivers collide and merge at Karnaprayag?

It is the place of merging of river Alaknanda and Pindar.

How much budget is required to visit the place?

The place can be visited easily in around a budget of 4k-5k.

What is the temperatures in this Prayag?

The temperatures in summer vary from 15°C-40°C, however, in winter temperature can fall down to 2°C.

Read about the whole five Prayag in Panch Prayag – Five Sacred Confluences in Uttarakhand.

Mansa Devi Temple Haridwar Guide – Timings, Poojas and History

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Mansa Devi Temple is dedicated to Goddess Mansa. The temple is situated in Haridwar in the state of Uttarakhand. It is located on the top of the Bilwa Parvat and also known as Bilwa Tirth. It is one of the Panch Tirth within Haridwar. Mansa Devi temple is also included among the Char Dham Yatra destinations.

Planning to visit this temple? Have look at our Char Dham Yatra Tour Packages.

Mansa Devi Temple – Facts

DeityGoddess Mansa
LocationHaridwar, Uttarakhand
SignificanceSiddhpeeth
Best Time to Visit September to April
Darshan Timings 5:00 am to 12:00 pm. 2:00 pm to 9:00 pm
Entry FeesFree
Ropeway Timings7:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Ropeway ChargesRs. 90 per person (to and fro)
Dress CodeTraditional Wear
Festivals Navaratri and Kumbha Mela
Mansa Devi Temple – Full Darshan Guide

Mansa Devi Temple Timings

People can have darshan at Mansa Devi from 5 AM to 12 PM in the morning. There is an afternoon break from 12 PM to 2 PM. The evening darshan resumes at 2 PM and the temple closes at 9 PM.

Here are the timings of Mansa Devi temple:

Morning Darshan5 AM to 12 PM
Evening Darshan2 PM to 9 PM

Mansa Devi Cable Car and Trek Guide

Devotees can reach Mansa Devi Temple in two ways: on foot or by cable car.

  1. Walking requires a 3 km steep trek uphill. Trekking here is safe but can be difficult during summer. One might get heatstroke.
  2. Cable Car or Ropeway service is usually preferred by the people. The rope-way carries the pilgrims directly from the lower station to the temple. It is not only convenient but also shows you beautiful scenes on the way.

The Cable Car and Ropeway service is also called as Mansa Devi Udankhatola.

Udan Khatola at Mansa Devi Temple
The Udan Khatola is a popular mode of transport for the Mansa Devi Temple.

What is the significance of Mansa Devi Temple?

The term ‘Mansa‘ means ‘wish‘. It is a popular belief among the devotees that the goddess fulfills their wishes. So, they tie a thread to the branches of a tree present in the temple. Once the wishes are fulfilled, people come back to the temple again to untie the thread from the tree.

Mansa Devi temple is a famous Siddhpeeth. Siddhpeeths are known to fulfill the desires of the worshippers. It is one of three such Peeths located in Haridwar. The other two are Chandi Devi Temple and Maya Devi Temple.

View from Mansa Devi Temple
The sight from the Mansa Devi Temple is that of the beautiful Ganga and the city of Haridwar.

The top of the temple gives a beautiful view of the Ganga river and a panoramic view of Haridwar city.

Mansa Devi is considered a must visit for the pilgrims going to Haridwar. The temple is visited by thousands of devotees from various parts of the country. The count increases during Navaratri and Kumbha Mela.

Devi Mansa and Devi Chandi are the two forms of Goddess Parvati. It is said that they always reside close to each other. One can see Chandi temple from the top of Mansa temple in Haridwar. It can be found true since these temples are also close to each other in Haryana, Chandigarh too.

What is the history of Mansa Devi Temple?

Shine of Mansa Devi
Mansa Devi is believed to fulfill all her devotees’ wishes.

The history of Mansa Devi relates back to many centuries ago. Goddess Mansa is believed to have emerged from the mind of great Sage Kashyap. Mansa is regarded as the sister of the Nagas (serpent). She is also believed to be the daughter of Lord Shiva in his human form.

There is also a story about the Goddess. Mansa was a common girl. She was unaware of her truth from her guardians. Hence, she decided to meet Lord Shiva to ask him about her truth. She sat for Sadhana and after years of meditation, Lord Shiva appeared before her. After learning her truth from Shiva, she gained her power.

That common girl Mansa later came to know as the Goddess of Welfare.

According to another story, a cow used to offer milk to three shilas every day. These shilas were on the top of Shivalik hills. A local resident noticed this and over time, people started worshipping it. Later a temple was created at this place. It is believed that the forehead of Devi Sati was fallen at this place by the Sudarshana Chakra.

What are the festivals celebrated in Mansa Devi Temple?

Navratri
Navratri is a combination of two Sanskrit words – ‘nava’, which means ‘nine’ and ‘ratri’, which means ‘night’.
  1. Navratri: Navratri or Durga Pooja is celebrated as a symbol of victory of good over evil. As per the legend, Goddess Durga killed the demon Mahishasura on this day. This saved the world from the evil and restored Dharma. Mansa Devi temple is heavily decorated on this day. Stage decorations, storytelling, enacting of the story, & chanting of scriptures is done. The temple is heavily crowded during this festival.
  2. Kumbh Mela: The Kumbh Mela is held every 12 years at Haridwar. The exact date is determined according to Hindu astrology. An Ardh Kumbh (“Half Kumbh”) Mela is also held after six years. The fair has a religious significance to Hindus. It is also the biggest commercial event attended by merchants worldwide. The last Kumbh Mela took place in 2010 and the next one is scheduled in 2021.

How to reach Mansa Devi Temple?

Here’s how to reach Mansa Devi Temple:

  • Air: Jolly Grant Airport of Dehradun is at a distance of 37 km from the temple.
  • Train: Haridwar is the nearest railway station at a distance of 3 km from the temple.
  • Road: Buses are also available to Haridwar from ISBT, Kashmere Gate in New Delhi.

Where to stay near Mansa Devi Temple?

Some of the places where one can stay near Mansa Devi Temple are:

  • Radisson Blu Haridwar: It is a five-star hotel for a luxurious stay. It is provided for both business and leisure. It also provides spacious rooms, excellent food, high-speed internet, a steam room, and a gym. This hotel is at a distance of 13 km from Mansa Devi Temple.
  • Ganga Lahiri: This hotel provides pick-up facility from the railway station. It has an appealing interior. The windows of the rooms provide a beautiful view of the Ganga river.
  • Golden Tulip Haridwar: It is a four-star hotel which is 7.6 km away from Haridwar Railway Station. This hotel gives excellent service in food and cleanliness. Guests can also enjoy massage therapies at the in-house massage centres.

What are some temples near Mansa Devi Temple?

Some of the temples near Mansa Devi temple are:

  1. Chandi Devi Temple, Haridwar: Chandi Devi temple is situated on the top of Neel Parvat in Haridwar. The temple is in the honour of Goddess Chandi. It is also one of the Panch Teerth present in Haridwar. Devi Chandi is a form of goddess Parvati and always reside close to Mansa Devi. People can also reach Chandi Devi temple via cable car.
  2. Maya Devi Temple: This temple is among the three ancient temples of Haridwar that are still intact. The other two are Narayan-Shila and Bhairav temple. The deities of the temple include Goddesses Maya, Goddess Kali as well as Kamakhya.
  3. Har ki Pauri, Haridwar: ‘Har ki Pauri’ stands for ‘Steps of Shiva‘. Har ki Pauri is a religious bathing ghat in Haridwar. It is on the banks of Ganga at the point where Ganga leaves mountains and enters the plains. A dip in the Ganga river cleanses the person of all his sins. It is also a part of Char Dham Yatra destinations in Uttarakhand.
  4. Neeleshwar Temple, Haridwar: This temple is present on the foot of Neel Parvat near the Kushavarta Ghat. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Neeldhara, a stream of Ganga, flows near the temple. Here, devotees take a dip before visiting the temple. This temple is about 500 meters away from Har ki Pauri.
The Mansa Devi Temple Height
The Udan Khatola takes you to the Mansa Devi Temple in 45 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions about Mansa Devi Temple –

Is there online booking available for Mansa Devi Temple?

No, Online booking is not available. You can easily get the tickets from the ticket counter. The waiting time to get tickets is maximum 20 minutes.

Can I buy tickets for both Mansa Devi & Chandi Devi at the same time?

Yes, you can buy combination tickets for darshan of both temples.

What are the timings of Mansa Devi Cable Car or Ropeway facility?

Ropeway service can be availed from as early as 07:00 AM in the morning. Usually, it is functional the whole day. It closes when the temple closes in the noon time.

What are the charges of Mansa Devi Udankhatola?

The charges are around Rs 90 per head for going up and down to both sides of Mansa Devi temple.

Where we can stay near Mansa Devi?

You can stay in Ganga Ashram, Paramarth and many other Dharmasthalas. They are available at cheap rates.

What is the nearest airport to Mansa Devi?

Jolly Grant Airport of Dehradun is the nearest airport. It is at a distance of 37 km from the temple.

How to reach Mansa Devi from Har ki Pauri?

E-Rickshaws will take you from Har ki Pauri to Mansa Devi main entrance. From there, you can either walk or take Ropeway service.

What is the temperature in Mansa Devi temple, Haridwar?

The maximum temperature in summer can reach till 35°C. The minimum temperature that can fall down is 8°C in winter.

Tara Devi Temple Guide

Rudraprayag

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Rudraprayag is the fourth among the five confluences of river Alaknanda (Panch Prayag). It observes the confluence of the river Alaknanda and Mandakini. The place maps in Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. Moreover, the place is elevated at a height of 895 metres.

The place of holy confluence flaunts its temples like Kedarnath Temple, Omkareshwara Shiva temple, Madmaheshwara Temple and Trijuginarayan temple.

Koteshwar Mahadev is a cave like temple present at a distance of 3 km from the fourth Prayag. Here, Lord Shiva once meditated on his way to Kedarnath.

Originating from Kedarnath, Holy Mandakini is the major river of the area. This place is also a famous pilgrimage destination on the route of the four holy Dham pilgrimage.

Chronicles of Rudraprayag

The first legend talks about the creation of Rudraprayag. The tale dots a mythological king named Putraka. Putraka is believed to have brought Rudraprayag to life using magic for his beloved wife Patali. Hence, the place was earlier known as Pataligram, in which ‘Gram’ stood for the village. Further, the city was Kedarnath ‘Patliputra‘ in the honour of Patali’s son.

There are also stories revolving around Ajatshatru, the king of Magadh. Beliefs are that around 490 BC Ajatshatru took up Rudrapur as his capital instead of Rajgarh. Apparently, he also fortified this place for the same. Moreover, Gautam Buddha also graced the place during his nearing time.

Chronicles of Rudraprayag
Sage Narada worshipped Lord Vishnu at Rudraprayag after which Lord Vishnu appeared before him.

Kedarkhand states that sage Narada worshipped Lord Shiva on one foot at this holy confluence. After which Lord Shiva appeared before him and gave him a Harp.

Essence of the Confluence

Rudraprayag is known after the Rudra avatar of Lord Shiva. There also stands a temple of Rudranath by the banks of the holy confluence. Also, the place is home to various Shiv temples other than Rudranath.

Essence of Rudraprayag
Rudraprayag is known after the Rudra form of Lord Shiva.

Rudraprayag also happens to be the spot where Pandavas came for repentance after killing their brothers in the battle of Mahabharat. Hereafter, they left for heaven.

The significance of Rudraprayag is that the name of this confluence has been derived from ‘Rudra‘, which is a form of Lord Shiva. Hence, one can spot many Shiva temples in the vicinity of Rudraprayag. As per epics, Lord Shiva appeared here to bless sage Narad.

Devotees often refer to the place as ‘Abode of the Gods’ because of its beauty and serenity. Moreover, Agastamuni is present at a distance of 18 km from Rudraprayag. Rishi Agastya meditated at Agastamuni for many years which added up religious significance to the place.

Ways to Reach Rudraprayag

Here’s how to reach Rudraprayag:

  • Air: The nearest airport to the holy confluence is Jolly Grant Airport. It stands 155.9 km away from Rudraprayag.
  • Train: The nearest railway station is Rishikesh railway station. It is at a distance of 140 km from the holy confluence.
  • Road: Rudraprayag is present on NH58. Hence, buses going from New Delhi to Badrinath, via Haridwar and Rishikesh pass through Rudraprayag.

Stays nearby Rudraprayag

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

  • Chopta Meadows: The place has got an ideal location along with a package of all the amenities to offer to its guests. Moreover, it’s also budget-friendly.
  • V Resorts Pauri: This resort is a perfect retreat for the devotees on the Char Dham Yatra. It’s available with all the modern amenities and is light on the guest’s budget.
  • Riverside Resorts: This place has got beautiful interiors and the perfect hilltop view. Also, guests can avail all the luxuries here.

Other Panch Prayags

The other Panch Prayag destinations are:

  • Vishnuprayag: Present 1372 metres above sea level, this is the first Prayag, as per the route of Alaknanda. It is 123.4 km away from Rudraprayag.
  • Nandaprayag: Mythology predicts the place to have been the capital of Yadu Kingdom in ancient times. It is the second confluence following Vishnuprayag. It is at a distance of 53.3 km from Rudraprayag.
  • Karnaprayag: This place observes the confluence of river Alaknanda and Pindar, in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. It is third of the Panch Prayag. It is 33.2 km away from the fourth Prayag.
  • Devprayag: Placed at the last confluence of river Alaknanda and Bhagirathi, in Uttarakhand. This is the spot from where the rivers Alaknanda and Bhagirathi unify and flow as Ganga or Ganges. It is at a distance of 67.3 km from Rudraprayag.

The Panch Prayag are a part of the Char Dham Yatra within Uttarakhand

Frequently Asked Questions About Rudraprayag

Which rivers meet at the fourth Prayag?

Rivers Alaknanda and Mandakini meet at this place.

What is the best time to visit Rudraprayag?

The best time to visit this place is from March to October.

How much time is required to see around the place?

One might need at least 2-3 days to see around this place.

Read about Panch Prayag in Panch Prayag- Five Sacred Confluences in Uttarakhand.

Vishnuprayag

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Vishnuprayag is a pocket-sized city rooted at the Sangam of the river Alaknanda and Dhauliganga. Placed 1372 metres above the sea level, Vishnuprayag falls in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. Alaknanda flowing from Badrinath merges into Dhauliganga flowing from the Niti Valley at this place.

Beliefs suggest that sage Narada meditated at this Sangam to please Lord Vishnu. Eventually, Lord Vishnu did appear before him and bestowed him with the cosmic energy. Hence, 2 km away from the confluence of the two rivers is the Vishnu temple from which the Sangam derives it’s name i.e. Vishnuprayag.

It is a famous pilgrimage destination on the route to the Four Dhams of  Uttarakhand. Other confluences following it are Nandaprayag, Karnaprayag, Rudraprayag and Devprayag.

Vishnuprayag is the first among the Panch Prayag according to the flow of Alkananda from its origin.

Chronicles of Vipshnuprayag

Tales of the Hindu mythology point to the story of sage Narada and Lord Vishnu. So, once sage Narad meditated at this place to please Lord Vishnu. Consequently, Lord Vishnu appeared to bless the sage with cosmic energy. However, the incident occurred in a spot, 2 km away from the Sangam where a Vishnu temple was then constructed.

Chronicles of Vishuprayag
Ahalyabai, the Maharani of Indore is the one behind the construction of Vishnu temple at the holy confluence.

Credits for the construction of Vishnu Temple near the Vishnuprayag is held by the Maharani of Indore, Ahalyabai. Further, the royal highness constructed this temple of the octagonal structure near the holy confluence back in 1889.

Formerly built for the installation of a Shiva linga, it now has an idol of Lord Vishnu. A path of stairs in the temple leads to Vishnu Kund. The water of the holy confluence pours in the Vishnu Kund.

Essence of Vishnuprayag

Vishnuprayag is the holy intersection where Alaknanda and Dhauliganga unify. Also, this stretch of Alaknanda goes by the name ‘Vishnu Ganga’. Hindu traditions state that ‘Prayag‘ is the confluence of two or more rivers. Moreover, it is also where the river is worshipped as well as death rites are performed.

It’s a popular belief that Panch Prayag on the way to Badrinath is the ‘Svargarohana Route’ taken by Pandavas on their journey to heaven

Essence of Vishnuprayag
The hydroelectric power plant at Vishnuprayag.

Jaypee Industries hold the ownership of The Vishnuprayag Hydro Electricity Power Plant. Moreover, the plant stretches to a length of 12 km.

Ways to reach Vishnuprayag

Here’s how to reach Vishnuprayag:

  • Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun. It is 280 km away from Vishnuprayag.
  • Train: The nearest railway station is Rishikesh. It is 261 km away from Vishnuprayag.
  • Bus: One can avail taxis or buses from Rishikesh railway station to Joshimath. At Joshimath, there is the availability of local transport to reach Vishnuprayag.

Stays near Vishnuprayag

Here are some of the places where one can stay near Vishnuprayag while undertaking the Char Dham Yatra are:

  • Hotel Grand Kailash: Its a blend of luxurious amenities offered in Joshīmath. Guests can eat at the on-site restaurant. Moreover, free private parking is also available on site.
  • Hotel Mount View Annexy: The place accommodates all the modern luxuries for the guests. Also, the hotel’s window opens up to a beautiful mountain view.
  • Panchavati Inn: The place is a good holidays retreat. Rooms provide all the luxuries. Also, the hotel staff is very cordial.

Other Panch Prayag Destinations

Other Panch Prayags:

  • NandaPrayag: Devotees believe that a holy dip in the confluence of Nandaprayag can absolve one of his/her sins. It is the second confluence following Vishnuprayag.
  • KarnaPrayag: It is present at the confluence of river Alaknanda and river Pindar. It is located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. Also, it is the third confluence after Vishnuprayag and Nandaprayag.
  • Rudraprayag: It is present at the confluence of river Alaknanda and river Mandakini, in Uttarakhand. It is at a height of 895 metres from the sea level. It is the fourth confluence following Vishnuprayag, Nandaprayag and Karnaprayag.
  • DevPrayag:  It is present at the confluence of river Alaknanda and Bhagirathi, in Uttarakhand. From Devprayag both rivers unify and flow as Ganga or Ganges. Moreover, Devprayag draws its name from sage Devsharma who led his life here.

The Panch Prayag are a part of the Char Dham Yatra within Uttarakhand.

Frequently Asked Questions About Vishnuprayag

Which rivers meet at Vishnuprayag?

Alaknanda and DhauliGanga meet at this confluence.

Which is the best time to visit Vishnuprayag?

Devotees can visit the place all year round. However, try avoiding travel to the place during harsh winter months and monsoon season.

What activities can I do at Alaknanda-Dhauliganga confluence?

Devotees can enjoy activities like trekking and river rafting at Alaknanda-Dhauliganga confluence.

Know more about the string of these five confluences in Panch Prayag- Five sacred confluences in Uttarakhand.

Vriddha Badri – Sapta Badri

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Vriddha Badri Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is situated at Animath in Chamoli district, Uttarakhand. It is the third temple complex among the ‘Sapta Badri’ temples. It is a part of the famous ‘Sapta Badri‘ pilgrimage circuit. It is a part of the Char Dham Yatra Package within Uttarakhand.

Vriddha Badri – Facts

Deity Lord Vishnu
Location Auli Rd, Joshimath Army Area, Joshimath, Uttarakhand 246443
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.

Lord Vishnu appeared here as an old man before Narad who was performing penance at this place. This is why Vriddha Badri gets its name where the word Vriddha means ‘old‘ and Badri is the name of Lord Vishnu in Badrikshetra. It is a part of the Char Dham Yatra Package within Uttarakhand.

The temple is 1,380 meters above the sea level and 7 km from Joshimath in Joshimath-Badrinath road. Vriddha Badri lies on the way to Kalpeshwar Mahadev Temple and can be reached before Helang.

Vriddha Badri Temple is the destination of Char Dham Yatra that is open or reachable throughout the year for the worshiping Lord Vishnu.

What are the timings of Vriddha Badri?

The timings of the temple are:-

TimingsFromTo
Morning5 AM 12 PM
Evening2 PM 9 PM

What is the significance of Vriddha Badri?

The significance of Vriddha Badri is-

  • The temple is open for devotees and pilgrims throughout the year.
  • The temple has been built in the North Indian style of architecture and has a sanctum that contains representations of Lord Vishnu.
  • Moreover, the chief priests of the temple are from Southern India.

What is the history of Vriddha Badri?

According to a legend associated with the history of Vriddha Badri, Sage Narada performed penance in this region to appease Lord Vishnu. Later, Vishnu appeared in front of Narada in the form of an old man and answered to Narada’s prayer. Hence, the idol installed in this temple has the form of an old man.

Vriddha Badri History 1
Sage Narada performed penance in this region to appease Lord Vishnu.

Moreover, beliefs say that Vishwakarma carved the image of Badrinath and worshipped it. Years later, Shri Adi Shankaracharya found that image in this place and reinstalled it in the temple premises. Devotees also believed that Adi Shankaracharya worshipped Badrinath here before enshrining Him in the main Badrinath temple.

Vriddha Badri History 2
Vishwakarma carved the image of Badrinath and worshipped it.

Festivals celebrated at Vriddha Badri

Some of the festivals celebrated at Vriddha 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.
Vridha Badri Festivals
Makar Sankranti and Krishna Janmashtmi are celebrated at the Temple.

How to reach Vriddha Badri?

Here’s how to reach Vriddha Badri:

  • Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport about 269.2 km from Joshimath
  • Train: Rishikesh is the nearest railway station 251.8 km from Joshimath.
  • Road: Buses are available to Rishikesh from ISBT Kashmere Gate. One can use state transport to reach Joshimath. From there, one has to trek to Vriddha Badri.

Where to stay near Vriddha Badri?

Some of the places where one can stay near Vriddha 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 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 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.
  • 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.
  • 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

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