Badrinath Yatra is one of the most revered Hindu pilgrimages and an essential part of the Char Dham Yatra of Uttarakhand. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the Badrinath Temple is located at an altitude of approximately 3,300 meters, along the banks of the Alaknanda River.
Thousands of devotees visit Badrinath every year seeking spiritual blessings and inner peace.
Significance of Badrinath Temple
Badrinath is one of the 108 Divya Desams and holds immense importance in Vaishnavism. According to legends, Lord Vishnu meditated here, while Goddess Lakshmi took the form of a Badri tree to protect him.
The temple was re-established by Adi Shankaracharya, making it a major pilgrimage centre.
Badrinath Yatra Opening & Closing Dates
Opening: Usually April–May
Closing: October–November (around Bhai Dooj)
Dates are announced annually by the temple committee based on Hindu calendar calculations.
How to Reach Badrinath
By Road
Haridwar / Rishikesh → Joshimath → Badrinath
Well-connected by motorable roads.
By Air
Nearest airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun
Continue by road thereafter.
By Rail
Nearest railway stations: Rishikesh, Haridwar
This journey being a part of the Main Char Dham Yatra circuit is ideal for senior citizens and pilgrims with limited time.
Best Time to Visit Badrinath
May to June: Pleasant weather, peak season
September to October: Clear views, fewer crowds
Monsoon months may cause roadblocks due to landslides.
Weather Conditions in Badrinath
Summer: 7°C to 18°C
Evenings are cold
Sudden temperature drops are common
Carry warm clothing at all times.
Suggested Badrinath Yatra Itinerary (Brief)
Day 1: Arrival at Haridwar / Rishikesh
Day 2: Travel to Joshimath
Day 3: Joshimath → Badrinath Darshan
Day 4: Return journey
There is one more option wherein Badrinath, combined with Kedarnath Yatra, becomes the ultimate Do Dham Yatra. So, if time allows, you can plan for it as well.
Important Travel Tips for Badrinath Yatra
Carry woollens even in summer
Avoid travelling at night in hilly areas
Keep medicines handy
Follow temple and local authority guidelines
Pre-book accommodation during peak season
Accommodation Near Badrinath Temple
GMVN guest houses
Budget hotels
Dharamshalas
Availability may be limited during peak months.
Badrinath & Char Dham Connection
Badrinath is one of the four sacred shrines of the Char Dham Yatra, along with:
Yamunotri
Gangotri
Kedarnath
Many pilgrims combine Badrinath with Kedarnath or Do Dham Yatra.
