Divya Desams refer to the 108 Vishnu temples that are mentioned in the works of the Tamil Azhvars (saints). Divya in the Tamil language indicates "premium" and Desam indicates "place" (temple). Of the 108 temples, 105 are located in India, one in Nepal and two outside of the Earthly realms. Most of the Divya Desams in Tamil Nadu follow the Thenkalai tradition. This includes the important temples of Srirangam and Triplicane.
The Divya Desams are revered by the 12 Azhvars in the Divya Prabandha, a collection of 4,000 Tamil verses. Lord Shiva, the other major deity in Hinduism, is similarly associated with the Paadal Petra Sthalams, 275 Shiva temples which are praised in the Tevaram canon by the 63 Nayanars.
PRESENT NAME : BADRINATH
MOOLAVAR : Lord Badrinarayanan/Badri Vishal
THIRUKKOLAM : Irundha
THIRUMUGAMANDALAM : EAST
THAYAR : Sri Aravindavalli Nachiyar
MANGALASASANAM : 21 PAASURAMS
PRATYAKSHAM : Naran
THEERTHAM : Taptha Kund Theertham, Surya Kund Theertham
VIMANAM : Thaptha Kanchana Vimanam
WORSHIPPED BY : Prahlada, Gayasura, Vishnuvathi, Bhramadatta, Sri Adi Sankara
VIRUKSHAM : Badri Viruksham (Date tree)
SANNIDHIS : Lord Ganesha, Lord Nara Narayana, Lord Narasimha, Goddess Sri Mahalakshmi, Maharishi Narada, Uddhava, Lord Kubera, Garuda, Navadurga, Sri Ramanuja, Sri Vedanta Desika
Badrikashram/Swayam Vyaktha Kshetram/ Pancha Badri is one of the 108 Divya Desams of Lord Vishnu located on the river banks of Alakananda in a hill town Badrinath, Uttarakhand. This is one of the oldest temples of Lord Vishnu built during the 9th century with the close resemblance of Buddhist Vihara temple. Badrikashram was known in different names in each Yugas, in Krutha Yuga it was known as Mukthiprada, in Tretha Yuga it was Yoga Siddhi, in Dwapara Yuga it was Vishala and in Kaliyuga it is known as Badrikasham/Badrinath. This temple remains open for six months in an year due to the extreme climatic conditions in the Himalayan regions and remaining six months the idol of Lord Badri Narayana resides in Joshi Math. This is one of the Pancha Badri Kshetram located in Badri town - Vishal Badri and others are Yogadhyan Badri, Bhavishya Badri, Vriddha Badri & Adi Badri respectively. Badri is the holy land where Lord Narayana represents himself as Acharya and advices the glories of Ashtakshara Manthra to Maharishi Narada.
The legend has that Lord Vishnu took incarnation as Nara Narayana and underwent severe penance on the hill of this scared land. This penance continued for several years for the welfare of mankind. Lord Indra felt insecure at the severe austerities of Nara Narayana and sent celestial dancers Ramba & Menka down to Earth in order to disrupt the penance without knowing the fact that it was Lord Vishnu. Lord Vishnu reacted in such a way that he created a stunning celestial dancer Urvasi from his Uru (theigh) and sent back to Lord Indra. Lord Indra felt ashamed of his ignorance.
Before having the darshan of the lord in the morning, a dip at Tapta kund is a must. Tapta Kund is a hot water spring arriving between the Badrinarayan temple and the Alaknanda River. It is a natural hot water spring inspite of cold and lots of snow fallings, this Tapta kund extracts hot water from the underground and has lot of healing qualities. Its soo cozy to be in tapta kund which is around 40 degree when its minus two outside.
After taking bath in tapta kund, devotees to climb some steps upwards to worship Garudalwar. After worshipping him, we can reach the pragaram. The place is known as ‘Simh Dwaram’ where Garudalwar statue is situated. In front of Badrinath temple, the Nara and Narayanan mountain are located. Inside the temple, Lord Sri Badrinarayana in sitting position which is termed as “Padmasana” pose. On his left is Naran and Narayana and to his right, Kubera with his face adorned in silver. Narada Maharishi is also there along with them. A Sudharsana Chakkaram (A power of Wheel in Lord’s right hand) to spiritualise the kshetram. The Utsavar is Uddhava and in front of him is a small Garudalwar statue. It is said that a big date tree (Elandhai) is covering the Badrinarayana temple and it will not be visible to any person in Kali yugha. The tree is said to symbolize Sri Mahalakshmi and she is protecting Badrinarayana from cold by covering him.
The Moolavar Badrinarayana is said to be made of Salagramam. He is along with Aravindhavalli thaayar, Garuda, Kubera, Naradha, Utthavar, Devarishi and Narayana. He is in sitting pose and has 4 hands. His left hand holds the Sangu the Conch and in his right hand hold the Wheel the chakkaram and lifted upwards and remaining two hands are joined together and found as Yoga mudra and Abhaya Varadhan.
Thaayar and her Sannadhi: On the south pragharam of the temple is the sannadhi for Aravindhavalli thaayar is situated and She is called as “Mahalakshmi”. On the west side, Aadhi sankara sannadhi and behind the temple, Lakshmi Narasimha Mandir and Sannadhis for Sri Swami Desikar, Udayavar Ramanujar are located.
On the north side of the temple on the bank of River Ganges, a big rock named “Brahma Gobalam”; it is believed that if we dedicate Pindam (a ball made of rice) here for the departed souls known as Pithrus, for the next 14 generations people are said to go to heaven and Moksha.
Another legend has that the demon Sahasrakavacha who was having 1000 armors started harassing sages and deities. He continued his atrocities for several years and arrived at Badri, he found Nara Narayana undergoing severe penance. Sahasrakavacha created innumerable impediments to the penance of Nara Narayana. It enraged Lord Nara Narayana entered in a fierce battle with the demon Sahasrakavacha and beheaded him. The 1000 armors of the demon transformed into two hills and remained on both the sides where Lord Nara Narayana underwent austerities. The Nara Narayana peaks positioned here is also known as Kuber Bhandar, the treasure chest of Lord Kubera. Alakapuri was the capital of Kingdom of Lord Kubera, the place where river Alakananda originates.
Describing the spiritual glories of Badarikashram to Arundathi, Sage Vasishtha says that only those who have worshipped Him for hundreds of births get to see Lord Badarinarayana. Whoever, with a pure heart filled with devotion, performs darshana of the Lord starting from his crown (kirita) and finishing at his feet (charana) attains moksha in a single birth with no other Japa or Tapa whatsoever. The very mention of His name under any circumstance is enough to wipe out all sins. The sins of great sinners that do not get cleansed anywhere, vanish in a second at Badarikashram. Whoever offers mahaabhishekham (with pancha dravyas) along with vastras and aabhushanas to the Lord attains Vaikuntha forever. Even a naivedya offered with a single fist guarantees good fortune. The parikrama of the Lord is equivalent to a bhoodaana. Even the Devas respect the spiritual accomplishment of bathing in the Tapta Kund and having darshana of the Lord while situated in Dhyaana. Each step taken in this state gives the fruit of an Ashvamedha yagna. He who takes the charanamruta of the Lord becomes worthy of worship by the Devas themselves.
There are pancha shilas near Tapta Kunda. Sri Narada Shila is there just opposite to the Tapta Kunda. Below this (in Alakananda waters at the time we went), there is Narada Kunda where Sage Narada had done deep penance. Sri Markandeya Shila is near Tapta Kunda in the Alakananda dhaara. Here Sage Markandeya had done aaradhana of Lord BadriNarayan. Above Narada kund, in waters, there is a shila in the shape of Lion, which is Sri Narasimha Shila. After killing Hiranyakashipu Lord Narasimha bhagwan had come here. One can clearly see Sri Varaha Shila in Alakananda waters. After killing demon Hiranyaksha, and having saved Prithvi, Lord Varaha Bhagwan stayed at Badrikashram in shila roop here. In the Alakananda there is Prahlada kund, Karmadhara and Lakshmidhaara tirth. After following small stairs towards the temple, one finds Kedareshwar temple near Sri Garuda Shila. The water flows into Tapta Kunda from below Garuda Shila. After paying worship we went to AdiGuru Shakaracharya sannidhi. One can purchase flower garlands, vana Tulsi maala and prasad items before entering the temple.
Thiruppirudhi(Joshi mutt) is just on the foot hills of Badrinath. Its from here, the actual altitude of the hills rises steeply and the temperature drops drastically. Until this point there is not need for sweaters or warm clothing during summer season, but from this point until Badri which is approx 2 hours journey gets a bit colder around 5 to 6 degrees during evenings in summer and around 0 degrees to minus 3 to 4 degrees during nights.
Thiruppirudhi which is otherwise called as Joshi mutt explains that it has a close relation between the Lord Emperumaan and His devotees. In winter season, when Badrikashramam sthalam is closed, the Badrinath utsavar is took from Badrinath and kept in here and gives his seva as Badri Narayanan for his bhaktas for six months. Only, Thirumangai alwar has done the Mangalasasanam on his perumal. Among his 10 Paasurams, in 3 Paasurams he compares the perumal as 3 avathaars (ie) as Rama, Krishna and Narasimha avathaar of Sri Vishnu. Sri Aadhi Sankarar has constructed a temple here for Sri Narasimha and standing posture Sri Vasudeva.
Moolavar: The Moolavar of this sthalam is Paramapurushan. He is in sleeping posture (Kidantha kolam) in Bujangha sayanam facing east. Prathyaksham for Parvathi devi.
Thaayar: The Thaayar of Thiruppirudhi sthalam is Parimalavalli Naachiyaar.
Lord Badrinarayan, the presiding deity of the temple is armed with Shankh(Coch) and Chakra in two arms in the lifted posture and two arms rested on the lap in Yogamudra. The principal image is of made up of Black Salagram and it represents Lord Vishu seated in meditative pose. On the left side of the main deity Goddess Lakshmi, Nara and Narayan are situated and on the right side of the Badrinarayan, Kubera, are seated.
The idol of Narada Maharshi is located opposite to the main deity and beside it the silver idol of Garuda is situated here.
The temple was built on "SUDHARSHAN CHAKRAM" and therefore the temple always glows with spiritual power. Holy Deepam is enlighten in the Garbha Griha through out the year. In the temple the daily puja's, naivedyam and rituals are being offered to the lord by the priests belong to the caste of Nambrudri of Kerala State.
Tapt Kund or Surya Kund
The famous hot springs are located just below the temple
Neelkanth:
A majestic peak of the Himalayas, towering to a height of 6,600 m. Other places of interest are the Mata Murti, Sesh Netra and Urvashi temples & Charanapaduka
Mana Village (4 km):
Considered as the last village on the Indo-Tibet border. Further 4 km from Mana village are the Vasundhara waterfalls, one of the biggest in India.
Satopanth Lake (18 km):
A natural lake situated amidst high mountains. On Route Rishikesh-Badrinath
Kaudiyala:
At an altitude of 480 m, the mighty waters of the River Ganga here are ideal for white water rafting. Rock climbing can also be arranged. GMVN conducts river-rafting courses at Kaudiyala. Accom: Rest Tent Colony (GMVN) Kaudiyala, Dist Tehri, Tel 01378 262911.
Deoprayag:
Situated at the confluence of the rivers Alakananda and Bhagirathi, it is an important pilgrim centre with its Shiva and Ragunath temples. Accom: Tourist Rest House (GMVN), Deoprayag, Tehri Dist., Tel: (01378) 266013
Srinagar (Garhwal):
The old capital of Garhwal. Places of interest here are the Kamleshwar and Kalpaveshwar temples and the Shankar Math. Accom: Tourist Rest House (GMVN), Srinagar, Dist. Pauri, Tel: 01346 252199, 257109
Rudraprayag:
Situated at the confluence of the Alaknanda and Mandakini. The temples that dot this region are those of Rudranath and Chamunda Devi. Accom: Tourist Rest House (GMVN), Rudraprayag, Dist. Pauri, Tel: 01364 233347.
Gauchar:
A beautiful valley. Accom:Tourist Rest House (GMVN), Gauchar, Dist. Chamoli, Tel: 01363 240611.
Karnaprayag:
The base for treks to Roopkund and Bedni Bugyal. Accom: Tourist Rest House (GMVN) , Dist. Chamoli, Tel: 01363 244210.
Nandaprayag: An important pilgrim centre with a temple of Gopalji. Accom: Tourist Rest House (GMVN), Nandprayag. Tel: 01372 261215
Pipalkoti:
Known for its scenic beauty. Accom: Tourist Rest House (GMVN), Chamoli Dist. Tel: 01372 266237.
Joshimath:
It is believed that Adi Shankaracharya performed penance here. After enlightenment, he established a religious centre (Math) here, which he called ‘Jyotirmath’. Joshimath has temples dedicated to Goddess Durga and Ugra Narsimha, the lion incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Accom: (1) New Tourist Rest House (GMVN), Dist. Chamoli, Tel: 01389 222226 : (2) Old Tourist Rest House (GMVN), Joshimath, Dist. Chamoli, Tel: 01389 222118; (3) Badri-Kedar Temple Trust Dharamshala.(4) Birla Guest House. (5) Forest Rest House. (6) The Camp Chardham. www.theleisurehotels.com.
Govindghat:
Govindghat is the starting point of the trek to the Valley of Flowers and Hemkund. Accommodation is available at the Gurudwara in Govindghat.
Pandukeshwar:
Famous for the temple of Yogdhyan Badri, one of the Panch Badris. The other four are Vishal Badri (Badrinath), Adi Badri (17 km from Karnaprayag), Bhavishya or future Badri and Vridha or old Badri (Joshimath). Pandukeshwar houses the idol of the Badrinath temple during the winter months.
Hemkund Sahib:
(20 km from Govind Ghat by foot). This sacred Sikh shrine is situated on the shores of the Hemkund Lake (4,320 m). It marks the place where Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth and the last Guru unified with God after meditation.
Valley of Flowers:
(19 km trekking from Govind Ghat:): A beautiful scenic valley in the Himalayas, flowers blooms from July till end of August. (Trekking route: Govindghat-Pulna-Bhyunder-Ghangaria-Valley of Flowers-Hemkund).
Vishnuprayag:
It is believed that this is the place where Pandu King did strong tapas towards the Emperumaan Sri Vishnu and it is believed to be the birth place of Panja Pandavas.
Next to Vishnu Prayag is a place called Hanuman Ghat where Lord Hanuman and Bheema met each other. Once, Bheema thought he was the strong person in the world and was traveling along this side. At that time, Hanuman laid there as an old monkey. Bheema say an old monkey lying before him in the path and shouted at the monkey to give way for him. But, the old monkey (Hanuman) told that since he is so weak, he unable to move and requested that if Bheema could move the tail, he can move it and go along with his way. Bheema, not knowing that the Monkey is none other than the so powerful Hanuman, thought he can move the tail with his one hand, but he could not do so. Using his full strength, he tried, but he could not even move the tail for an inch. Finally, he thought, the old monkey might be some Demon known as Arakkan (or) Magician. But finally, Anjaneya revealed his original posture (Roopam) and explains him that they are brothers (since both them are sons of Lord Air known as Vaayu). Bheema fell to the feet of Sri Anjaneya and asked that he should be along with them during the war against the Gauravas (Duriyodhanan and his troop). Sri Anjaneya told that he will be along with them in the flag which is on top of the Chariot of Arjuna.
Since, Naran and Narayanan came to this sthalam, two mountains on the names of them are found. The Nara Parvatham (mountain) is on the Eastern bank of Alknanda river and Narayana parvatham on the west bank of Alknanda river. These two mountains are almost covered by snow, in all times.
Nara Parvatham is also called as Kubera Bhandar since lots of precious gems and diamonds are found on its glaciers. Once, there lived an arakkan (demon) by name "Sahasrakavacha", who gave lots of trouble for the Rishis and yogis. All of them prayed towards the perumal to save them out from the Demon. At that time, both Naran and Narayanan did tapas towards the perumal. On hearing that these two persons were doing severe tapas towards the Emperumaan, Sahasrakavachan rushed towards them to kill them. Both, Naran and Narayanan fought strongly with the demon and finally killed him. Thus, they permanently stayed in Badrinath to save all the Rishis and Yogis from all the demons.
About 5 miles away from Badrinath, is a place known as "Dharma Shila". It is believed that in this place, Dharma Rajan and his wife Kala did tapas towards the Lord Sri MahaVishnu. As a boon from the Lord, Dharma Raja and his wife asked that the Lord should also be along with them and that's the reason why Dharma shila is found near Badrinath.
How to Reach Badrinath:
By Air
1) The nearest Domestic Airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun, nearly five hours journey from Badrinath by road. 2) The second nearest International Airport is Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi which is located at a distance 540 Kms away from Badrinath.
By Road
Badrinath is 1)21 Kms from Nanda Devi, 2)45 Kms from Joshimath, 3)100 Kms from Gopeshwar, 4)104 Kms from Nandaprayag, 5)152 Kms from Rudraprayag, 6)187 Kms from Srinagar, 7)293 Kms from Rishikesh, 8)313 Kms from Haridwar and 9)521 Kms from New Delhi. Being located on National Highway 58, it is well connected with Delhi and also with Mana Pass in the state.
By Rail
The nearest railway stations are 1)Rishikesh (at 297 km), 2) Kotdwara (at 327 km) and 3) Haridwar railway junction, 24 km farther from Rishikesh, has train connections to most of the major cities in India
Shri Badrinath Temple Office Address at Various Locations
I)Chief Executive Officer,
Shri Badrinath Kedarnath Mandir Samithi,
Joshimath,
Uttranchal-246443, India.
Contact Numbers: 01389-222124/222083
II)Chief Executive Officer,
Shri Badrinath Kedarnath Mandir Samithi,
Joshimath-II(Badrinath),
Uttranchal-246422, India.
Phone Numbers: 01381-222204/5/6
Shri Badarinath Kedarnath Temple Committee Address
Shri Badrinath Kedarnath Temples Committee,
Kargi Grant, Haridwar By-pass road,
Dehradun,
Uttaranchal(Uttarakhand)-248001, India.
Office Phone Number: 0135-2430261
The Divya Desams are revered by the 12 Azhvars in the Divya Prabandha, a collection of 4,000 Tamil verses. Lord Shiva, the other major deity in Hinduism, is similarly associated with the Paadal Petra Sthalams, 275 Shiva temples which are praised in the Tevaram canon by the 63 Nayanars.
Divya Desam 101 - Sri Badri Narayana Perumal Temple:
PLACE : BADRINATHPRESENT NAME : BADRINATH
MOOLAVAR : Lord Badrinarayanan/Badri Vishal
THIRUKKOLAM : Irundha
THIRUMUGAMANDALAM : EAST
THAYAR : Sri Aravindavalli Nachiyar
MANGALASASANAM : 21 PAASURAMS
PRATYAKSHAM : Naran
THEERTHAM : Taptha Kund Theertham, Surya Kund Theertham
VIMANAM : Thaptha Kanchana Vimanam
WORSHIPPED BY : Prahlada, Gayasura, Vishnuvathi, Bhramadatta, Sri Adi Sankara
VIRUKSHAM : Badri Viruksham (Date tree)
SANNIDHIS : Lord Ganesha, Lord Nara Narayana, Lord Narasimha, Goddess Sri Mahalakshmi, Maharishi Narada, Uddhava, Lord Kubera, Garuda, Navadurga, Sri Ramanuja, Sri Vedanta Desika
Badrikashram/Swayam Vyaktha Kshetram/ Pancha Badri is one of the 108 Divya Desams of Lord Vishnu located on the river banks of Alakananda in a hill town Badrinath, Uttarakhand. This is one of the oldest temples of Lord Vishnu built during the 9th century with the close resemblance of Buddhist Vihara temple. Badrikashram was known in different names in each Yugas, in Krutha Yuga it was known as Mukthiprada, in Tretha Yuga it was Yoga Siddhi, in Dwapara Yuga it was Vishala and in Kaliyuga it is known as Badrikasham/Badrinath. This temple remains open for six months in an year due to the extreme climatic conditions in the Himalayan regions and remaining six months the idol of Lord Badri Narayana resides in Joshi Math. This is one of the Pancha Badri Kshetram located in Badri town - Vishal Badri and others are Yogadhyan Badri, Bhavishya Badri, Vriddha Badri & Adi Badri respectively. Badri is the holy land where Lord Narayana represents himself as Acharya and advices the glories of Ashtakshara Manthra to Maharishi Narada.
The legend has that Lord Vishnu took incarnation as Nara Narayana and underwent severe penance on the hill of this scared land. This penance continued for several years for the welfare of mankind. Lord Indra felt insecure at the severe austerities of Nara Narayana and sent celestial dancers Ramba & Menka down to Earth in order to disrupt the penance without knowing the fact that it was Lord Vishnu. Lord Vishnu reacted in such a way that he created a stunning celestial dancer Urvasi from his Uru (theigh) and sent back to Lord Indra. Lord Indra felt ashamed of his ignorance.
Before having the darshan of the lord in the morning, a dip at Tapta kund is a must. Tapta Kund is a hot water spring arriving between the Badrinarayan temple and the Alaknanda River. It is a natural hot water spring inspite of cold and lots of snow fallings, this Tapta kund extracts hot water from the underground and has lot of healing qualities. Its soo cozy to be in tapta kund which is around 40 degree when its minus two outside.
After taking bath in tapta kund, devotees to climb some steps upwards to worship Garudalwar. After worshipping him, we can reach the pragaram. The place is known as ‘Simh Dwaram’ where Garudalwar statue is situated. In front of Badrinath temple, the Nara and Narayanan mountain are located. Inside the temple, Lord Sri Badrinarayana in sitting position which is termed as “Padmasana” pose. On his left is Naran and Narayana and to his right, Kubera with his face adorned in silver. Narada Maharishi is also there along with them. A Sudharsana Chakkaram (A power of Wheel in Lord’s right hand) to spiritualise the kshetram. The Utsavar is Uddhava and in front of him is a small Garudalwar statue. It is said that a big date tree (Elandhai) is covering the Badrinarayana temple and it will not be visible to any person in Kali yugha. The tree is said to symbolize Sri Mahalakshmi and she is protecting Badrinarayana from cold by covering him.
The Moolavar Badrinarayana is said to be made of Salagramam. He is along with Aravindhavalli thaayar, Garuda, Kubera, Naradha, Utthavar, Devarishi and Narayana. He is in sitting pose and has 4 hands. His left hand holds the Sangu the Conch and in his right hand hold the Wheel the chakkaram and lifted upwards and remaining two hands are joined together and found as Yoga mudra and Abhaya Varadhan.
Thaayar and her Sannadhi: On the south pragharam of the temple is the sannadhi for Aravindhavalli thaayar is situated and She is called as “Mahalakshmi”. On the west side, Aadhi sankara sannadhi and behind the temple, Lakshmi Narasimha Mandir and Sannadhis for Sri Swami Desikar, Udayavar Ramanujar are located.
On the north side of the temple on the bank of River Ganges, a big rock named “Brahma Gobalam”; it is believed that if we dedicate Pindam (a ball made of rice) here for the departed souls known as Pithrus, for the next 14 generations people are said to go to heaven and Moksha.
Another legend has that the demon Sahasrakavacha who was having 1000 armors started harassing sages and deities. He continued his atrocities for several years and arrived at Badri, he found Nara Narayana undergoing severe penance. Sahasrakavacha created innumerable impediments to the penance of Nara Narayana. It enraged Lord Nara Narayana entered in a fierce battle with the demon Sahasrakavacha and beheaded him. The 1000 armors of the demon transformed into two hills and remained on both the sides where Lord Nara Narayana underwent austerities. The Nara Narayana peaks positioned here is also known as Kuber Bhandar, the treasure chest of Lord Kubera. Alakapuri was the capital of Kingdom of Lord Kubera, the place where river Alakananda originates.
Describing the spiritual glories of Badarikashram to Arundathi, Sage Vasishtha says that only those who have worshipped Him for hundreds of births get to see Lord Badarinarayana. Whoever, with a pure heart filled with devotion, performs darshana of the Lord starting from his crown (kirita) and finishing at his feet (charana) attains moksha in a single birth with no other Japa or Tapa whatsoever. The very mention of His name under any circumstance is enough to wipe out all sins. The sins of great sinners that do not get cleansed anywhere, vanish in a second at Badarikashram. Whoever offers mahaabhishekham (with pancha dravyas) along with vastras and aabhushanas to the Lord attains Vaikuntha forever. Even a naivedya offered with a single fist guarantees good fortune. The parikrama of the Lord is equivalent to a bhoodaana. Even the Devas respect the spiritual accomplishment of bathing in the Tapta Kund and having darshana of the Lord while situated in Dhyaana. Each step taken in this state gives the fruit of an Ashvamedha yagna. He who takes the charanamruta of the Lord becomes worthy of worship by the Devas themselves.
There are pancha shilas near Tapta Kunda. Sri Narada Shila is there just opposite to the Tapta Kunda. Below this (in Alakananda waters at the time we went), there is Narada Kunda where Sage Narada had done deep penance. Sri Markandeya Shila is near Tapta Kunda in the Alakananda dhaara. Here Sage Markandeya had done aaradhana of Lord BadriNarayan. Above Narada kund, in waters, there is a shila in the shape of Lion, which is Sri Narasimha Shila. After killing Hiranyakashipu Lord Narasimha bhagwan had come here. One can clearly see Sri Varaha Shila in Alakananda waters. After killing demon Hiranyaksha, and having saved Prithvi, Lord Varaha Bhagwan stayed at Badrikashram in shila roop here. In the Alakananda there is Prahlada kund, Karmadhara and Lakshmidhaara tirth. After following small stairs towards the temple, one finds Kedareshwar temple near Sri Garuda Shila. The water flows into Tapta Kunda from below Garuda Shila. After paying worship we went to AdiGuru Shakaracharya sannidhi. One can purchase flower garlands, vana Tulsi maala and prasad items before entering the temple.
Thiruppirudhi(Joshi mutt) is just on the foot hills of Badrinath. Its from here, the actual altitude of the hills rises steeply and the temperature drops drastically. Until this point there is not need for sweaters or warm clothing during summer season, but from this point until Badri which is approx 2 hours journey gets a bit colder around 5 to 6 degrees during evenings in summer and around 0 degrees to minus 3 to 4 degrees during nights.
Thiruppirudhi which is otherwise called as Joshi mutt explains that it has a close relation between the Lord Emperumaan and His devotees. In winter season, when Badrikashramam sthalam is closed, the Badrinath utsavar is took from Badrinath and kept in here and gives his seva as Badri Narayanan for his bhaktas for six months. Only, Thirumangai alwar has done the Mangalasasanam on his perumal. Among his 10 Paasurams, in 3 Paasurams he compares the perumal as 3 avathaars (ie) as Rama, Krishna and Narasimha avathaar of Sri Vishnu. Sri Aadhi Sankarar has constructed a temple here for Sri Narasimha and standing posture Sri Vasudeva.
Moolavar: The Moolavar of this sthalam is Paramapurushan. He is in sleeping posture (Kidantha kolam) in Bujangha sayanam facing east. Prathyaksham for Parvathi devi.
Thaayar: The Thaayar of Thiruppirudhi sthalam is Parimalavalli Naachiyaar.
Lord Badrinarayan, the presiding deity of the temple is armed with Shankh(Coch) and Chakra in two arms in the lifted posture and two arms rested on the lap in Yogamudra. The principal image is of made up of Black Salagram and it represents Lord Vishu seated in meditative pose. On the left side of the main deity Goddess Lakshmi, Nara and Narayan are situated and on the right side of the Badrinarayan, Kubera, are seated.
The idol of Narada Maharshi is located opposite to the main deity and beside it the silver idol of Garuda is situated here.
The temple was built on "SUDHARSHAN CHAKRAM" and therefore the temple always glows with spiritual power. Holy Deepam is enlighten in the Garbha Griha through out the year. In the temple the daily puja's, naivedyam and rituals are being offered to the lord by the priests belong to the caste of Nambrudri of Kerala State.
Tapt Kund or Surya Kund
The famous hot springs are located just below the temple
Neelkanth:
A majestic peak of the Himalayas, towering to a height of 6,600 m. Other places of interest are the Mata Murti, Sesh Netra and Urvashi temples & Charanapaduka
Mana Village (4 km):
Considered as the last village on the Indo-Tibet border. Further 4 km from Mana village are the Vasundhara waterfalls, one of the biggest in India.
Satopanth Lake (18 km):
A natural lake situated amidst high mountains. On Route Rishikesh-Badrinath
Kaudiyala:
At an altitude of 480 m, the mighty waters of the River Ganga here are ideal for white water rafting. Rock climbing can also be arranged. GMVN conducts river-rafting courses at Kaudiyala. Accom: Rest Tent Colony (GMVN) Kaudiyala, Dist Tehri, Tel 01378 262911.
Deoprayag:
Situated at the confluence of the rivers Alakananda and Bhagirathi, it is an important pilgrim centre with its Shiva and Ragunath temples. Accom: Tourist Rest House (GMVN), Deoprayag, Tehri Dist., Tel: (01378) 266013
Srinagar (Garhwal):
The old capital of Garhwal. Places of interest here are the Kamleshwar and Kalpaveshwar temples and the Shankar Math. Accom: Tourist Rest House (GMVN), Srinagar, Dist. Pauri, Tel: 01346 252199, 257109
Rudraprayag:
Situated at the confluence of the Alaknanda and Mandakini. The temples that dot this region are those of Rudranath and Chamunda Devi. Accom: Tourist Rest House (GMVN), Rudraprayag, Dist. Pauri, Tel: 01364 233347.
Gauchar:
A beautiful valley. Accom:Tourist Rest House (GMVN), Gauchar, Dist. Chamoli, Tel: 01363 240611.
Karnaprayag:
The base for treks to Roopkund and Bedni Bugyal. Accom: Tourist Rest House (GMVN) , Dist. Chamoli, Tel: 01363 244210.
Nandaprayag: An important pilgrim centre with a temple of Gopalji. Accom: Tourist Rest House (GMVN), Nandprayag. Tel: 01372 261215
Pipalkoti:
Known for its scenic beauty. Accom: Tourist Rest House (GMVN), Chamoli Dist. Tel: 01372 266237.
Joshimath:
It is believed that Adi Shankaracharya performed penance here. After enlightenment, he established a religious centre (Math) here, which he called ‘Jyotirmath’. Joshimath has temples dedicated to Goddess Durga and Ugra Narsimha, the lion incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Accom: (1) New Tourist Rest House (GMVN), Dist. Chamoli, Tel: 01389 222226 : (2) Old Tourist Rest House (GMVN), Joshimath, Dist. Chamoli, Tel: 01389 222118; (3) Badri-Kedar Temple Trust Dharamshala.(4) Birla Guest House. (5) Forest Rest House. (6) The Camp Chardham. www.theleisurehotels.com.
Govindghat:
Govindghat is the starting point of the trek to the Valley of Flowers and Hemkund. Accommodation is available at the Gurudwara in Govindghat.
Pandukeshwar:
Famous for the temple of Yogdhyan Badri, one of the Panch Badris. The other four are Vishal Badri (Badrinath), Adi Badri (17 km from Karnaprayag), Bhavishya or future Badri and Vridha or old Badri (Joshimath). Pandukeshwar houses the idol of the Badrinath temple during the winter months.
Hemkund Sahib:
(20 km from Govind Ghat by foot). This sacred Sikh shrine is situated on the shores of the Hemkund Lake (4,320 m). It marks the place where Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth and the last Guru unified with God after meditation.
Valley of Flowers:
(19 km trekking from Govind Ghat:): A beautiful scenic valley in the Himalayas, flowers blooms from July till end of August. (Trekking route: Govindghat-Pulna-Bhyunder-Ghangaria-Valley of Flowers-Hemkund).
Vishnuprayag:
It is believed that this is the place where Pandu King did strong tapas towards the Emperumaan Sri Vishnu and it is believed to be the birth place of Panja Pandavas.
Next to Vishnu Prayag is a place called Hanuman Ghat where Lord Hanuman and Bheema met each other. Once, Bheema thought he was the strong person in the world and was traveling along this side. At that time, Hanuman laid there as an old monkey. Bheema say an old monkey lying before him in the path and shouted at the monkey to give way for him. But, the old monkey (Hanuman) told that since he is so weak, he unable to move and requested that if Bheema could move the tail, he can move it and go along with his way. Bheema, not knowing that the Monkey is none other than the so powerful Hanuman, thought he can move the tail with his one hand, but he could not do so. Using his full strength, he tried, but he could not even move the tail for an inch. Finally, he thought, the old monkey might be some Demon known as Arakkan (or) Magician. But finally, Anjaneya revealed his original posture (Roopam) and explains him that they are brothers (since both them are sons of Lord Air known as Vaayu). Bheema fell to the feet of Sri Anjaneya and asked that he should be along with them during the war against the Gauravas (Duriyodhanan and his troop). Sri Anjaneya told that he will be along with them in the flag which is on top of the Chariot of Arjuna.
Since, Naran and Narayanan came to this sthalam, two mountains on the names of them are found. The Nara Parvatham (mountain) is on the Eastern bank of Alknanda river and Narayana parvatham on the west bank of Alknanda river. These two mountains are almost covered by snow, in all times.
Nara Parvatham is also called as Kubera Bhandar since lots of precious gems and diamonds are found on its glaciers. Once, there lived an arakkan (demon) by name "Sahasrakavacha", who gave lots of trouble for the Rishis and yogis. All of them prayed towards the perumal to save them out from the Demon. At that time, both Naran and Narayanan did tapas towards the perumal. On hearing that these two persons were doing severe tapas towards the Emperumaan, Sahasrakavachan rushed towards them to kill them. Both, Naran and Narayanan fought strongly with the demon and finally killed him. Thus, they permanently stayed in Badrinath to save all the Rishis and Yogis from all the demons.
About 5 miles away from Badrinath, is a place known as "Dharma Shila". It is believed that in this place, Dharma Rajan and his wife Kala did tapas towards the Lord Sri MahaVishnu. As a boon from the Lord, Dharma Raja and his wife asked that the Lord should also be along with them and that's the reason why Dharma shila is found near Badrinath.
How to Reach Badrinath:
By Air
1) The nearest Domestic Airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun, nearly five hours journey from Badrinath by road. 2) The second nearest International Airport is Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi which is located at a distance 540 Kms away from Badrinath.
By Road
Badrinath is 1)21 Kms from Nanda Devi, 2)45 Kms from Joshimath, 3)100 Kms from Gopeshwar, 4)104 Kms from Nandaprayag, 5)152 Kms from Rudraprayag, 6)187 Kms from Srinagar, 7)293 Kms from Rishikesh, 8)313 Kms from Haridwar and 9)521 Kms from New Delhi. Being located on National Highway 58, it is well connected with Delhi and also with Mana Pass in the state.
By Rail
The nearest railway stations are 1)Rishikesh (at 297 km), 2) Kotdwara (at 327 km) and 3) Haridwar railway junction, 24 km farther from Rishikesh, has train connections to most of the major cities in India
Shri Badrinath Temple Office Address at Various Locations
I)Chief Executive Officer,
Shri Badrinath Kedarnath Mandir Samithi,
Joshimath,
Uttranchal-246443, India.
Contact Numbers: 01389-222124/222083
II)Chief Executive Officer,
Shri Badrinath Kedarnath Mandir Samithi,
Joshimath-II(Badrinath),
Uttranchal-246422, India.
Phone Numbers: 01381-222204/5/6
Shri Badarinath Kedarnath Temple Committee Address
Shri Badrinath Kedarnath Temples Committee,
Kargi Grant, Haridwar By-pass road,
Dehradun,
Uttaranchal(Uttarakhand)-248001, India.
Office Phone Number: 0135-2430261
Very well written article.
ReplyDeleteIt helps one to learn about Lord Badrivishal
Thanks,
Yours,
Devashish Dimmrree