Kedarnath, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is situated at an altitude of around 3,583 meters and is considered one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, where Shiva is worshipped as the protector and savior. Located in the Garhwal Himalayas, the temple’s remote setting adds to its mystique and spiritual energy, drawing countless pilgrims who trek through challenging terrain for a chance to connect with Lord Shiva. The temple is believed to have been established by the Pandavas, who sought the lord’s blessings after the Mahabharata war.

To reach Kedarnath, pilgrims travel from Haridwar or Rishikesh to Gaurikund by road and then trek 16 kilometers to the temple. Chardham travel agents often arrange mule or palanquin services for those who may find the journey physically demanding. Helicopter services, organized by several tour operators in uttarakhand, also offer a quicker, scenic route for devotees looking to avoid the trek.

Badrinath Temple: The Abode of Lord Vishnu

Badrinath, located at an altitude of 3,300 meters, is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. This temple is considered one of the 108 Divya Desams (holy abodes of Vishnu), and it is believed to be the place where Lord Vishnu meditated under the Badri tree for thousands of years. The temple architecture, surrounded by the Nar and Narayana mountain ranges, is as awe-inspiring as the spirituality of the place itself. Pilgrims visit Badrinath to offer prayers for salvation and seek Lord Vishnu’s blessings for a life filled with peace and devotion.

The journey to Badrinath is smoother than Kedarnath’s trek. Pilgrims can travel by road up to the temple, and various chardham travel agents offer comfortable and organized transportation services. Helicopter packages, organized by Tour Venture India, are available for those looking to experience the beauty of the Himalayas from above.

Kedarnath to Badrinath Yatra Route

The kedarnath to badrinath Yatra covers around 230 kilometers and offers one of the most scenic and serene routes in the Garhwal Himalayas. Here’s a suggested itinerary for this journey, commonly arranged by tour operators in Uttarakhand.

Day 1: Kedarnath to Guptkashi

After completing the Kedarnath darshan, pilgrims trek back to Gaurikund, where vehicles arranged by tour operators like Tour Venture India are ready to take them to Guptkashi. Guptkashi is a small town with comfortable accommodations, giving pilgrims a chance to rest before proceeding to Badrinath.

Day 2: Guptkashi to Joshimath

The next day, the journey continues from Guptkashi to Joshimath, a beautiful hill town and an important pilgrimage site itself. Many Chardham travel agents organize short sightseeing visits here, where pilgrims can explore places like the Narasimha Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Overnight stays in Joshimath are often arranged, allowing travelers to acclimatize before heading to Badrinath.

Day 3: Joshimath to Badrinath

Early in the morning, pilgrims depart from Joshimath to Badrinath, which is about 45 kilometers away. Upon arrival in Badrinath, devotees can experience the morning rituals and perform a holy dip in the Tapt Kund (a hot spring near the temple) before entering the temple for darshan. Pilgrims spend the day exploring Badrinath and surrounding attractions like Mana Village, Vasudhara Falls, and the Saraswati River confluence, arranged by tour operators in Uttarakhand.

Return Journey: After visiting Badrinath, pilgrims can either return to Haridwar or Rishikesh with pre-arranged transport by Chardham travel agents. Helicopter services may also be available for a swift journey back.