Introduction
Situated 297 kms from the holy town of
Rishikesh and about 600 kms from Delhi, Badrinath lies at an elevation of
3,133 m. Considered to be amongst the most pious of the eternal Hindu
shrines of Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri and Yamunotri. Badrinath is
located in the lap of Nar-Narayan Parvat, with the Neelkanth peak(6,597m)
overlooking in the background. It is to the credit of Adi Guru
Shankaracharya, who in order to revive the lost prestige of Hinduism and to
unite the country in one bond, built four dhamas or pilgrimage centers in
four corners of the country. Badrinath temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is
located on the right bank of river Alaknanda, perched at an altitude of over
3000m in the middle of a valley full with scenic beauty. whether someone
agrees or not, it has been said that "there were many sacred spots of
pilgrimage in heaven, earth and the other world, but neither is any equal to
Badrinath nor shall there be one". Even minus this religious claim,
Badrinath has some scintillating scenic beauty and rare recreational spots
in the vicinity. Indeed, an universal attraction. The present temple was
built about two centuries ago by the kings of Garhwal. The principal idol in
the temple is of black stone and represents Vishnu seated in a meditative
pose, and flanked by Nara-Narayan. Badrinath is also known as Vishal Badri
and is one of the Panch Badris. The temple remains closed from October to
April due to severe winter conditions. During this period the idols of
Utsavo Murti are taken to Pandukeshwar. It is said that "There are many
sacred spots of pilgrimage in the heavens, earth and the nether world, but
there has been none equal to Badri, nor shall there be". .
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