Joshimath is a small but exquisite hill station in the Himalayas, an independent tourist attraction, and access to some of the most enchanting sites in Uttarakhand. The options surrounding Joshimath include everything from the daring to the pious and from natural beauty. From the best skiing destination of Auli to the natural Pawan wilderness of Nanda Devi National Park, this guide will take you through Seven offbeat places to visit near Joshimath that should be on your bucket list.
Best Places To Visit Near Joshimath
Joshimath is a house of natural and anthropological beauty. Every place is exclusive, thus giving the best to the visitors it receives. This Travel Guide describes the seven most recommended places to visit near Joshimath: Auli, Nanda Devi National Park, Vishnuprayag, and the rest. The destinations offer memorable experiences, whether thrilling and unforgettable or quiet and tender nature experiences.
1. Auli: The Skiing Paradise
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Dubbed India’s skiing destination, Auli is located a few kilometres away from Joshimath. Known for its neat and groomed ski slopes, dotted by some of the most panoramic views of the Himalayas, Auli is a heaven for adventure seekers. In winter, the snow-covered slopes attract visitors for skiing, and in summer, it serves as an excellent trekking route and offers lush green meadows. This Auli ski resort is fully equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and an added attraction, such as a cable car that shows breathtaking mountain views. Even if you’re not into skiing, the scenic beauty and tranquil environment make Auli a must-visit place near Joshimath.
Tip: The best time to visit Auli to ski is January or February.
Major Attraction: Auli Ropeway is one of the longest cable cars in Asia, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas and lush valleys.
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2. Nanda Devi National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site
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Nanda Devi National Park has been self-proclaimed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of India’s most pristine wilderness areas. Located close to Joshimath, this national park has varied ranges of flora and fauna, along with several endangered species. The whole park views the glittering Nanda Devi Peak—the second-highest mountain in the subcontinent of India. This trip to Nanda Devi National Park is quite rewarding for everyone in the nature lovers and trekkers community. Renowned for being rare, it offers the opportunity to watch the Himalayas’ unspoiled beauty, its rugged landscapes, alpine meadows, and dense forests. Breathtaking views from all trek routes provide the chance to witness rare wildlife.
Tip: Get the appropriate permits in advance for trekking in the park.
Major Attraction: One of the most diverse floral spots and engaging scenarios is the Valley of Flowers inside the park.
3. Vishnuprayag: The Confluence of Rivers
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One of the five confluences of the Alaknanda River, Vishnuprayag, is just near Joshimath. It is a sacred place where the Alaknanda and Dhauliganga Rivers meet. This view is simply amazing—serene surroundings and spiritual significance. This is what attracts pilgrims and tourists alike to Vishnuprayag. This area around Vishnuprayag contains some temples and shrines, providing a tranquil setting for meditation and introspection. The meeting point is thoroughly pictorial, and the transparent waters present an exciting sight amidst the confluence of the rivers in this picture ambience. This forms a perfect locale for nature photography or just basking in the calm atmosphere.
Tip: Visit during the monsoon season to see the rivers at their best.
Major Attraction: One of the ancient shrines dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the Vishnu Temple, is located at the confluence and is a must-visit by every tourist visiting for its spiritual and historical significance.
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4. Tapovan: The Hot Springs
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Tapovan is a few hours from Joshimath, proclaimed for its natural springs and landscapes. It primarily draws people seeking relaxation and disease remedies since the hot springs are believed to have healing properties. The snow-capped peaks all around and the green fetching surroundings make Tapovan a perfect retreat from the din of cities. It is also a land of trekking trails from where one can glimpse the surrounding mountains and valleys. Tapovan is perfect for those pursuing solitude and relaxation amidst the lap of nature. The tranquil ambience and medicinal hot springs put this place on the hotspot list of every tourist visiting Joshimath.
Tip: Remember to carry swimwear if you want to dip in the hot springs.
Major Attraction: Some of the natural hot springs at Tapovan are amidst fantastic scenery and thus provide relaxation and rejuvenation.
5. Kalpeshwar: The Hidden Gem
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One of the most hidden gems near Joshimath is Kalpeshwar, named after an ancient temple of Lord Shiva. The temple is one of the Panch Kedar Temples and is unique in that it is accessible throughout the year. Placed in a picturesque valley, Kalpeshwar offers a very peaceful and spiritual experience. It lies amidst thick forests and lofty mountains, creating a serene and mystic environment. The road to this destination is one of the most exciting scenic treks, highly recommended for trekkers and pilgrims. The tranquillity and spiritual vibe of Kalpeshwar make it a must-visited place near Joshimath.
Tip: Hire a local guide to learn more about the history and significance of the temple.
Major Attraction: Ancient architecture and the spiritual atmosphere of the Kalpeshwar Temple have much to offer if one is visiting the place in search of peace and devotion.
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6. Bhavishya Badri: The Future Abode
Among the five temples of Panch Badri, Bhavishya Badri, located near Joshimath, is considered the future location of this deity. Sitting in the middle of a forest represents calmness and shining. The temple is on a hill; from there, one gets a nice view of the valleys and mountains. Bhavishya Badri can be reached through extremely picturesque countryside and thickly wooded areas. This temple is where people come as pilgrims or trekkers for blessing and a trouble-free environment. Loneliness and religious importance make this a unique location among those fascinating places near Joshimath.
Tip: Avoid noon heat and enjoy the beauty by starting the trek early in the morning.
Major Attraction: Bhavishya Badri Temple is believed to offer a different, serene pilgrimage experience amidst tranquil surroundings and spiritual significance.
7. Hemkund Sahib: The Sacred Lake
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Joshimath is held in equally high esteem by the followers of the Sikh Faith, as Hemkund Sahib, one of the sect’s holiest shrines, is just thirty-five kilometres away. This spiritual lake presents a stunning picture that rises to 4,632 meters from sea level and is embraced by seven mountains, their tops blanketed by snow. The lake reflects surrounding peaks in a very calm and religious environment. Hemkund Sahib is quite tiresome, but the beautiful scenery and blessed feeling are worth it. This Gurudwara is highly esteemed, and people worldwide come to pay their obeisance. The calmness and the natural blessings make it a must-visit place near Joshimath—Hemkund Sahib.
Tip: Acclimatize in Joshimath before attempting the trek to Hemkund Sahib to avoid altitude sickness.
Main Attraction: The holy lake of Hemkund Sahib has charming surroundings and spiritual additive value, making it an eye-catcher for pilgrims and nature lovers.
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Thus, the places near Joshimath provide different themes, ranging from adventure and spiritual themes to natural themes and rejuvenation. While skiing in Auli, trekking to the wild world of Nanda Devi National Park or meditating at Vishnuprayag- every place promises an unforgettable tour. Here, we have listed some must-visit places near Joshimath; prepare to make excellent travel plans to these marvellous places. Plan your trip to Uttarakhand and enjoy the natural sceneries and cultural heritage of the areas near Joshimath.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit Near Joshimath
What is the best time to visit places near Joshimath?
A place near Joshimath is best visited during the summer months, from April to June, and during autumn months, from September to November, as the weather remains pleasant and is very well suited for sightseeing and trekking.
How do you reach Auli from Joshimath?
Auli is easily connected with Joshimath by ropeway or road. The one-hour ropeway ride is good, picturesque, and breathtaking as it passes through all the central Himalayan peaks.
Is a permit required to visit Nanda Devi National Park?
Yes, Nanda Devi National Park is a protected area and a permit from the Forest Department Office located in Joshimath is required to enter the park.
Can Vishnuprayag be visited on a day trip from Joshimath?
Yes, the place is near Joshimath and can be covered in a day. The peaceful ambience with the confluence of rivers is perfect for a day out to relax and unwind.
What type of accommodation is available near Hemkund Sahib?
Accommodation options include guesthouses and campsites at Ghangaria, the base camp of the trek to Hemkund Sahib. Basic lodging facilities exist at the Gurudwara for pilgrims also.
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