Nestled amidst the majestic Himalayas, Badrinath Dham is one of the most revered shrines in India. Known for its breathtaking mountain views, tranquil rivers, and spiritual significance, this sacred destination is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is part of the Char Dham Yatra. Located in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district, the Badrinath temple is a symbol of spiritual devotion and attracts pilgrims and travelers from across the world each year. This serene Himalayan town, set at an altitude of 3,300 meters, is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, glaciers, and hot springs, making the journey to Badrinath both spiritually and visually rewarding. Starting your journey from Dehradun, this guide covers everything you need to know about reaching Badrinath, from transportation options and essential stops along the way to accommodation recommendations.
Route Overview from Dehradun to Badrinath
For travellers setting off from Dehradun, Badrinath lies approximately 323 km away. This scenic route takes you through Rishikesh, Pipalkoti, Rudraprayag, Devprayag, Srinagar, and Joshimath, offering stunning views, and historic and religious sites. The journey can take 10-12 hours by car, depending on weather and road conditions, with options to make scenic stops along the way. Breaking the journey up with a stop in Joshimath is common, allowing travellers to rest and adjust to the altitude before the final leg to Badrinath.
Reaching Dehradun by Train or Flight - To begin your journey to Badrinath, arrive first in Dehradun, which is well-connected to major Indian cities. The Dehradun Railway Station serves regular trains from Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata, making it accessible by rail. Alternatively, travellers can fly into Jolly Grant Airport, located just outside Dehradun, with daily flights from New Delhi and other major cities. From Dehradun, there are several travel options to reach Badrinath.
Route to Reach Badrinath from Dehradun - From Dehradun, travelers can follow this route to reach Badrinath - Dehradun > Rishikesh > Devprayag > Srinagar > Rudraprayag > Karnaprayag > Nandaprayag > Chamoli > Joshimath > Badrinath
Key Stops
Rishikesh: Known as the Yoga Capital of the World, Rishikesh is famous for its Ganga Aarti, river rafting, and spiritual ashrams.
Devprayag: Witness the stunning confluence of the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers, forming the holy river Ganga.
Joshimath: A picturesque hill town and a major pit stop for pilgrims, with connections to Auli’s popular ski slopes and chair lifts.
How to Reach Badrinath from Dehradun
There are two main ways to reach Badrinath from Dehradun:
By Private or Rental Cab: Most travelers opt for a car or cab, as it offers the flexibility to explore the scenic stops and enjoy the mountain vistas along the way. Car rentals and private taxis are readily available in Dehradun, and the route is well-marked, making it easy to navigate. Private vehicles also allow for a comfortable journey with options to break the trip into multiple days.
By Helicopter: For those who want a quicker, more luxurious travel experience, helicopter services are available between Dehradun and Badrinath, especially during the Char Dham pilgrimage season. This short flight provides a stunning aerial view of the Himalayan landscape and reduces travel time significantly, making it ideal for elderly pilgrims or those with limited time.
Accommodation Options in Badrinath
Badrinath offers various accommodation options to suit different budgets, including government-run guesthouses, private hotels, and budget lodges. You can get several Hotels in Badrinath or Joshimath that provide basic facilities at affordable rates. Besides the budget stays, private hotels in Badrinath, offer comfortable stays close to the temple. If you’re planning an overnight stop, Joshimath also offers accommodations and is a popular resting point. Pilgrims should book accommodations in advance, especially during the peak pilgrimage season from May to October.
The route to Badrinath is more like a journey through India’s rich spiritual heritage. The Badrinath temple, believed to have been established by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century, has served as a place of devotion for centuries. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, this shrine is not only part of the Char Dham but also the Panch Badri pilgrimage and the larger Char Dham circuit of India. Visiting Badrinath is an opportunity to experience the serenity of the Himalayas, witness incredible natural beauty, and connect with centuries-old traditions.