Overview
Badrinath is the most important of the four sites in India's Char Dham pilgrimage, home to the sacred Badrinath Temple dedicated to Hindu god Vishnu. Located at 3,133m elevation in the Garhwal hills on the Alaknanda River, it offers a dramatic Himalayan setting with access to treks like Vasudhara Falls, Satopanth Tal glacial lake, and the Valley of Flowers.
Nature · Trekking
Before you go
Culture
Badrinath is a sacred Hindu pilgrimage site. Temple open only May-October. Respect dress codes appropriate for religious sites.
Food
Strictly vegetarian only beyond Rishikesh. Budget meals around ₹60-₹160. Several restaurants around temple serve Indian and Chinese cuisine.
Health
Altitude sickness is a serious risk above 3,100m. Allow time for acclimatization and stay hydrated. Tapt Kund thermal spring is believed to have medicinal properties for skin.
Transport
10-hour journey from Kedarnath or plains. Many start from Joshimath early morning. Mana Village is 4 km from temple, accessible by road.
Weather
Cool and chilly year-round at 3,133m elevation. Best visiting: May-June and September-October. Winter brings severe cold and snowfall. Avoid monsoon (July-mid September) due to landslides.