Badrinath is situated in the lap of Nar-Narayan Parvat, with the towering Neelkanth peak (6,597mts.) in the background. Also known as the Vishal Badri, the largest among the five Badris, it is revered by all as the apt tribute to Lord Vishnu. It is believed that to revive the lost prestige of Hinduism and to unite the country in one bond, Adi Guru Sri Shankaracharya built four pilgrimage centres in four corners of India. Among them were Badrikashram (Badrinath) in the north, Rameshwaram in the south, Dwarkapuri in the west and Jagannath Puri in the east. Badrinath situated at an elevation of 3,133 mts. is considered to be amongst the most pious.

The revered spot was once carpeted with wild berries which gave it the name 'Badri Van' meaning 'forest of berries.' Built by Adi Shankaracharaya, the philosopher-saint of the 8th century, the temple has been renovated several times due to damage by avalanches and restored in the 19th century by the royal houses of Scindia & Holkar. The main entrance gate is colourful & imposing popularly known as Singhdwar.

HOW TO GET THERE
Airport: Jolly Grant Dehradun, 317 Kms.
Railhead: Rishikesh (300 Kms.), Kotdwar (327 Kms.)
Road: Well connected to Rishikesh, Kotdwar, Dehradun, Haridwar and other important hill stations of Garhwal and Kumaun region

GENERAL INFORMATION
Area: 3 Sq Kms.
Climate Summer: April-Aug. Cool during the day and cold at night.
Climate Winter: Sep. to Nov. cold during the day and chilly at night.
Rainfall: 1,475 mm.
Clothing: April to July: Light woolens
Clothing: Sep to Nov: Heavy woolens
Language: Hindi, Garhwali & English