Nestled in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, Badrinath is a town with an indelible connection to Hinduism and its mythology. Badrinath is one of the important pilgrimage sites of the Char Dham and is particularly significant for Lord Vishnu’s devotees. Located at a height of 3,133m (10,279 feet) above sea level, on the banks of the Alaknanda River, this town offers not only the landscape of religious sites but also towering mountains of the Garhwal Himalayas. Visiting Badrinath in December gives the visitors an unique opportunity to enjoy the snowy setting of the town surrounded by picturesque and serene snow-capped mountains, away from the busy urban life.
Badrinath Temperature And Climate In December
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The temperatures in Badrinath in the month of December are extremely low. The average daily temperature is about 30 degrees Fahrenheit (-1 degrees Celsius), while the night temperature is 8 degrees Fahrenheit (-13 degrees Celsius). The cold at times can be severe and thus it is advisable for anyone planning to visit this region to carry along warm clothing such as coats, gloves, thermal clothing among others as well as good boots. The climate is cool, fresh and dry and one can clearly see beautiful snow-covered mountains from here. Surrounded by snow covered mountains and cold climate, Badrinath offers a quiet and serene atmosphere for those who can withstand the chill.
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Major Attractions In Badrinath
Even though the main temple is closed, there are several other attractions in and around Badrinath that visitors can explore during December.
1. Tapt Kund
Tapt Kund is a hot water spring situated on the bank of the Alaknanda River which is near the Badrinath Temple. Despite the freezing winters in Badrinath, the Kund water is found to be warm, and it is claimed that the water has medicinal properties. It is a custom to take a dip in Tapt Kund before offering prayers in the temple.
Best Time To Visit: September to November and April to June
Location: PFVR+VJ3, Badrinath, Uttarakhand 246422
2. Neelkanth Peak
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Coupled with spectacular beauty, Neelkanth Peak extends at an altitude of 6507m and displays spectacular views. Tourism is at peak during the month of December since the peak is covered with snow that gives a beautiful view to behold. Climbers and trekkers who want to go up to the Neelkanth base camp can trek along the Neelkanth hills where they are offered with spectacular views of the pristine snowy hills.
Best Time To Visit: June to September
Location: Garhwal division of the Himalayas, Uttarakhand
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3.Vasudhara Falls
Situated near Mana Village, Vasudhara Falls is a fascinating waterfall that plunges 400 feet. While the waterfalls may be partially frozen in December, the trek to Vasundhara is a stunning experience, with picturesque snow-capped mountain ranges and a tranquil location. The trek starts from Mana Village, known for its mythological significance and breathtaking beauty.
Best Time To Visit: June to September
Location: Badrinath, Uttarakhand
4.Bheem Pul
Among those interesting sites, Bheem Pul is a natural stone bridge arching over the Saraswati River near Mana Village. It is said that Bheema ripped a huge boulder where he threw it across the river to make the bridge for the Pandavas to cross the river. By using the bridge, one can marvel at the strength of the river and the hard terrain that complements its course.
Best Time To Visit: June to September
Location: QFFV+P59, Mana, Uttarakhand 246422
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5.Yoga Dhyan Badri Temple
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Yoga Dhyan Badri Temple is one of the seven Badris that have religious importance. According to tradition, King Pandu placed a bronze image of Lord Vishnu and meditated at the site. The temple is central to the belief that Lord Kuber and Lord Udhava stay in the building; hence, people visit the temple all year round.
Best Time To Visit: April to September
Location: Pandukeshwar near Govind Ghat, Uttarakhand
6.Vyas Gufa (Vyas Cave)
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Vyas Gufa, or Vyas Cave, is believed to be the place where the sage Ved Vyas first penned down the Mahabharata with Lord Ganesha by his side. The place is actually a natural cave with paintings and text on the walls dating back to the mythological period of India’s history.
Best Time To Visit: September to December
Location: QFFV+PXM, NH 58, Mana, Uttarakhand 246422
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7.Satopanth Tal – Glacial Lake of Divinity
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Satopanth Tal is a triangular-shaped green water lake, sitting at the height of 4600 meters above sea level, surrounded by snow-covered mountains. Satopanth Tal is in the Chamoli district of the Uttarakhand state of India and in close proximity to the famous temple town of Badrinath. In addition to religious importance, the Satopanth trek also gained its place among some of the most-visited treks in Uttarakhand. This glacier trek offers stunning views of The Himalayas.
Best Time To Visit: June to September
Location: Uttarakhand, India
8.Alkapuri Glacier
This glacier produces the river Alaknanda which is one of the major rivers of the Himalayan region. Access to the glacier can be by a 12 km trek from Mana village. It is assumed to be the dwelling place of Gandharva, Yaksha and Kuber.
Best Time To Visit: June to September and December to March
Location: Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, India
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9.Auli
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Auli is at a distance of around 14 Km from Joshimath and Auli is among the most renowned skiing spots in India. The facility is accessible by a thrilling ropeway ride or by car. Skiing on the snow-covered hills is an exciting activity, especially with splendid views of the snow-clad peaks around to gaze at. Man-made Auli Lake for winter skiing also provides a fascinating experience.
Best Time To Visit: June to September
Location: Chamoli district in Uttarakhand’s northern region
Badrinath Temple Timing
One important factor that must be taken into consideration when planning to visit Badrinath in December is that the Badrinath Temple remains shut during the winter season. Located in the hills, the temple to Lord Vishnu closes in November due to snow and harsh climate. The final ritual, ‘Bada Pooja’, is essentially a religious ceremony that heralds the end of pilgrimage season. Akhanda Jyothi , a ghee filled lamp is lit on the day of closure , to last for six months. In winter, the idol of Badrinath is shifted to the Narsimha temple in Joshimath and rituals are performed there too. While the main temple remains shut, Badrinath is still a deeply religious place, and the peaceful setting of the town itself makes it possible to connect with the divine.
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How To Reach Badrinath
These are many ways to reach Badrinath. Here are some of the most used pathways to choose from:
By Air:
The Jolly Grant airport in Dehradun is the nearest airport and it is 320 kilometers from Badrinath. Taxis can be hired from the airport to reach Badrinath or else a bus facility is also available from there. This airport is quite popular and easily accessible from all other major cities in India which makes it easier for you to acquire your preferred starting point for the journey.
By Rail:
The nearest railway station is situated in Rishikesh, which is almost 295 kilometers away from Badrinath. Rishikesh is also easily accessible from Delhi, Haridwar, and Dehradun. Everybody who reaches Rishikesh has to hire a taxi or take a bus to travel the remaining distance to Badrinath.
By Road:
Badrinath is well connected with other parts by roads and has a good network of roads well maintained for ease of transportation. The road trip involves a lot of sightseeing since it passes through the Himalayan ranges. The temple is closed during winters because of the snow while the roads to Joshimath and Auli are open during winter season.
Further Read: Places To Visit In Uttarakhand
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Plan a trip to Uttarakhand and specifically to Badrinath in December will be a perfect spiritual tour with a peek into mother nature and serenity. Exploring this divine town, located in the Garhwal Himalayas of the state of Uttarakhand is one of the best experiences one can have, as the location offers breathtaking scenic and spiritual experiences.
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Cover Image Credit : Anubha khare for wikimedia commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Badrinath In December
Can I visit the Badrinath Temple in December?
No, The Badrinath Temple remains closed during the winter months for a span of six months. The temple closes in November due to extreme cold and reopens during April or May, depending on the weather conditions.
What is the weather in Badrinath during December?
The weather is extremely cold in Badrinath during December with temperatures ranging from -1°C to -13°C. The entire area remains covered in snow and you can enjoy stunning views of the snow-clad mountains.
What are some tourist attractions in Badrinath?
As the Badrinath Temple remains closed during winters, you can enjoy other tourist attractions around the area. You can visit the Mana village, Auli, Vasudhara Falls, Satopanth Tal, Bheem Pul and Yoga Dhyan Badri Temple.
What should I pack for Badrinath in December?
It is very important to pack heavy woollens, including thermal wear, thick jackets, gloves, caps, warm footwear and hiking boots. Moreover you should always carry necessary medications, a first-aid kit, and essentials like a flashlight and extra batteries.
Which is the nearest railway station to Badrinath?
The nearest railway station to Badrinath is the Rishikesh Railway station, which is 295 kilometers from Badrinath on NH58. You can easily hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Badrinath.
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As a Travel Content Writer, I live to conquer the world of globetrotting with words. With my unquenchable thirst for storytelling, I believe that my words will inspire you to travel around the world’s breathtaking landscapes. As for me, I am an unapologetic selenophile, who loves to wander around in a starry night!
