Top 10 Forts in India : The Living Legends

Top 10 Forts in India : The Living Legends

“I am the mirror… Standing like a meditative Yogi, I am making you witness the royalty, valor, love, struggle and grandness of the ancient and medieval era of India…”.

India is dotted with numerous forts which can be aptly referred to as the living legends. Each of these forts are replete with saga of romance, chivalry, valor and inevitable deceit and intrigues of court politics.

Some of the forts are brilliant specimen of architecture designed and constructed by the humans. In the forts built during the medieval period, the influence of various art forms from around the world can be well witnessed.

If you have an inclination towards these grand structures, you can go through our list below where we have meticulously chosen top 10 forts in India from a long list:

Red Fort, Delhi

Red Fort in Delhi

A red sandstone structure which presents India before the world, Red Fort in Delhi is rightly been called the pride of the city and of India too.

Inscribed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, this magnificent red citadel is but just a ghost of its former glory days. Red Fort in Delhi was built by the Mughal Emperor Shahjahan in the 17th century AD.

It took around 10 years to complete and is originally referred to as ‘Quila-e-Mubarak’ as royal family used to live there. Inside the fort, there are public and private halls, mosques, gardens and alongside this runs the river Yamuna.

[ Read more about Red Fort, Delhi]

Amber Fort, Jaipur

Amber Fort in Jaipur

A beautiful gemstone in the royal crown of Rajasthan, Jaipur charms the guests with its fleet of palaces and forts. One of the most visited and beguiling of Jaipur forts is the Amber Fort, situated in a serene backdrop of the Aravali Hill.

When you reach the fort, you will get a warm welcome by the silent wavelets of the Maota Lake. The blend of Hindu, Rajput and Mughal architectural style adorn the fort and make the guests let them loose to its grandeur of presentation.

The intricate marble, glass, metal and wood carvings can be well witnessed in this beautiful fort built by Raja Man Singh I.

[Read more about Amber Fort]

Agra Fort, Agra 

Red Fort In Agra, Uttar Pradesh

Though the city of Agra is most famous for its iconic Taj Mahal, but there are several other architectural wonders that still make it one of the best destination for a cultural tour to India.

The red giant structure of Agra fort speaks volumes about the Mughal dynasty, their rise and fall in the country of India. While you enter inside this fort, a beautifully manicured lawn gives you a green carpet welcome.

There are different palaces inside this red citadel most of which were built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. This chivalric king also had spent his last years in a high towering palace of Red Fort from where Taj Mahal can be seen clearly.

[Read more about the Agra Fort]

Jaisalmer Fort, Rajasthan

Jaisalmer Fort, Rajasthan

Each corner of the state of Rajasthan speaks of the royal lifestyle of the Rajput rulers and Jaisalmer is certainly not an exception to that.

In this city of Rajasthan which seems to be an embodiment of the Arabian Night fables, the Jaisalmer Fort is standing in a cliff top that becomes visible from a distance.

This yellow sandstone fort glitters like a golden crown when the sun rays hits its outer wall. Simplicity in grandness is seen in its décor and architecture and it is also crowned as one of the largest forts in the world.

[Read more about Jaisalmer Fort]

 Daulatabad Fort, Aurangabad

Daulatabad Fort, Aurangabad

Though the sand of time has left its imprints behind the Daulatabad Fort, it is still can be called one of the best documents containing the history of the city.

The fort overlooks the green views of the vegetation around and is certainly a photographer’s paradise. With its vintage look, it never ceases to amaze the visitors.

 It’s been ruled by many dynasties and their remains can be still seen in this almost forgotten fort of Aurangabad.

[Read more about Daulatabad Fort]

Golkonda Fort, Hyderabad

Golkonda Fort, Hyderabad

Situated just 11 kilometers away from the city of Hyderabad, Golkonda Fort is not that famous among the tourists as the Red Fort in Delhi or the Agra fort. But still, it is one of the best places to visit which will mounts up to your expectations while you are in a cultural tour to India.

It was originally built by Kakatiya Dynasty which was later ruled by Ibrahim Quli Qutub Shah Wali. During Qutub Shah’s reign, the fort went through a number of reconstructions. Away from the hustle-bustle of city life, this fort is standing silently in a cliff top and singing the saga of its royal days.

[Read more about Golkonda Fort]

Junagarh Fort, Bikaner

Junagarh Fort, Bikaner

It is a well preserved forts situated at the center of the city of Bikaner in Rajasthan. It is a massive structure with a fleet of art galleries, corridors and courtyards which beautifully display the history, culture and traditions of the city.

A scattering of color can be well witnessed in the halls and rooms of this fortress. Built in the year 1589 AD, this fort was being rules by as many as 20 rulers of Bikaner till 1920 AD.

Gwalior Fort, Madhya Pradesh

Gwalior Fort in  Madhya Pradesh

It is another well preserved and maintained fort in India which has colorful artworks inscribed in its inner and outer walls and pillars. It is so massive and alluring, that India Postal Service has issued a postal stamp with the photo of this fort.

The Mughal Emperor Babur once described is as “the pearl in the necklace of the forts of Hind”. From the fort, you can also savor the panoramic view of the old Gwalior. Gwalior Fort also occupies a unique place in the human civilization as the place which has the first ever recorded the use of zero.

[Read more about Gwalior Fort]

Jhansi Fort, Jhansi

Jhansi Fort, Jhansi

Built by Bir Singh Ju Deo, the king of Orcha in the year 1613, this Indian fort is situated in a rocky hill called Bangra in Jhansi.

The fort has ten gates including the Khandero Gate, Datia Darwaza, Unnao Gate, Jharna Gate, Laxmi Gate, Sagar Gate, Orcha Gate, Sainyar Gate, and Chand Gate.

The fort still speaks about the life of the courageous queen of Jhansi, Rani Laxmi Bai.

[ Read More About Jhansi Fort ]

Chittorgarh Fort, Chittorgarh

Chittorgarh Fort in Chittorgarh

If Chittorgarh is the pride of Rajasthan, then Chittorgarh Fort must be its icon. Stretches in a huge area, the fort bears witness to a time when royal people preferred to die before submitting themselves to the enemies.

The folklore about the gallantry of Rani Padmini can be still heard when you visit this fort. There are several palaces, temples and public and private halls inside the fort which grab the attention of millions of travelers every year.

[Read more about Chittorgarh Fort]

Interested in forts and palaces tours, check out these packages at Indianholiday.com

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Contributed by Nikhil Chandra

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Bewitching Summer Holiday Destinations in India

The Sun God is in full rage in India making the summer season a boiling and scorching time for the people. For people in the west, this is the best time to visit India as they can enjoy a host of activities during this time. The hill stations, golden sandy beaches and the valleys of Kashmir offer the global travelers suitable reasons to plan their summer holiday in India. Scattered through the length and breadth of the country, these hotspots are frequented by the renowned luxury hotels that turn the days of summer in a merriment time to play, enjoy, relax and unwind. According to the taste of the traveler, the destinations can be selected as some are popular for offering best of yoga, spa and meditation retreats, where as others offer a perfect adventure break to the globetrotters. Collected from the vast array of summer destinations in India, we have prepared the following list in no particular order so that the travelers can chose their preferred destination and enjoy a peerless holiday in this country of color, culture, myths and mysteries.

Kashmir 

Dal Lake, Kashmir

The Kashmir valley, which is also called the ‘Heaven on Earth’ become all the more alluring in the summer season. The greenery of woodland all around this majestic place sets the tune for a perfect summer hideaway in India. The sparkling rivers, regal Chinar trees, flowering meadows and cloud kissing mountain peaks create a celestial charm that reaches the soul of the travelers. The art, culture and handicraft items of Kashmir are world famous; thus during your trip to Kashmir, don’t forget to take a roam to the local markets that are well studded with unique decorative items. Moreover, a shikara ride in the famous Dal Lake is a must to do thing while travelling in Kashmir.

Leh & Ladakh

Nun Mountain  in Ladakh

Give your tired soul a breath of the diving by planning a summer tour to Leh & Ladakh, one of the most beautiful valleys on the face of earth. A roadway journey to this enchanting place gives you a feeling as if you are journeying to the celestial path of self-enlightenment. The interplay of mountain peaks, clouds, green forests and sparkling rivers elevate the charm to its zenith where everything is seductive and beautiful. The Buddhist Stupas and Monasteries can be seen in a short distance, many of which have hundreds of years old history.

Darjeeling

Darjeeling Hill

Most popular for its tea production, the name of Darjeeling suddenly created a picture before our eyes where greenery is all bestowed. A Himalayan city situated in the India state of West Bengal, Darjeeling is considered to be one of the best summer destinations in India. Hidden in the thick cloak of fog, the city is all surrounded by the green vegetation. Though the monsoon can appear at any point of time in this hilly region, but you will love to enjoy the splashes of rain water in your face during your stay here. You can either choose to stay in a bungalow or in a luxury hotel while exploring the charming valley of Darjeeling.

Ooty

Nilgiri Hill, Ooty

Situated amid the smoky bluish hue of the Nilgiri Hills popularly known as the Blue Mountains, the city of Ooty attracts thousands of travelers every year from around the world. The temperature of Ooty remains around 20 C in summer which tempts the vacationers to plan their trip to Ooty. The lake, forestry and hills, all are present there to welcome you in the serene kaleidoscope of this south Indian hill station. The flower gardens scattered all around this enchanting city colors the streets and bungalows in varied hues. The tea estates are also there around it which adds on more serenity to the city life.

Shimla 

Trekking In Shimla

No matter whether you are looking for a trekking holiday, a family vacation or a romantic trip, Shimla is the answer to all your vacation needs. Situated in the foothills of the mighty Himalayas, the lofty mountains and flower strewn valleys have made Shimla one of the most sought after summer holiday destinations in India. Summer days in Shimla become more exciting with various adventure sports that challenge the travelers to be little more fearless.

Apart from the above mentioned places, the country offers host of other destinations that can be best suited for planning an exclusive summer holiday in India.

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Water Sports in India in 5 Most Fascinating Destinations

“Don’t wait for your sip to come in- swim out to it”

It is rightly said that if you truly want to go for a self-explorative walk, set out to discover the shades of nature and you will find life in a new form. In this scorching summer season, when the sun god is in full rage, setting out for an adventurous water sports vacation in India could probably be the best idea. With its distinctive topography, India offers a plethora of destinations where some of the spine thrilling water sports can be enjoyed. With its large lakes, gushing white streams and blue ocean waters, India offers the adventure enthusiasts a scope to splash and dive in with captivating beaches and valleys surrounding these.

Uttaranchal, Kerala, Goa, Andaman-Nicobar and Lakshadweep are the top 5 India destinations for water sports like white water rafting, water skiing, canoeing & kayaking, scuba diving, snorkeling, angling and fishing. The 2,525 stretch of the Ganges rising from the western Himalayas creates great opportunities for diverse water sports.

But every adventure excavation demands strength of the body and the mind. Mother Nature has diverse faces; sometime it is gentle and at other times it is wild. Preparing the self for mental and physical challenges and you will enjoy the best adventure holiday in India. The following are the top 5 best destinations in India for experiencing diverse water sports in an adventurous way-

Uttaranchal

Kaudiyala White Water Rafting in Rishikesh,Uttaranchal

Cuddled in the Himalayan rages, Uttaranchal is a feast for the senses. Trees, forest lands, flora & fauna, and the untamable white water of the Ganges elevate the charm of this place where it can rightly be compared to the heaven’s garden as described in ancient scriptures. Rishikesh in Uttaranchal is best known for white water rafting. In a holiday vacation to Rishikesh you can enjoy camping, trekking, rock climbing or mountaineering along with taming the white water in a rafting excavation. Those who love to face the challenges of nature, kayaking in Rishikesh is the best bet for them. Whitewater river rafting stretch of the Ganges from Kaudiyala to Rishikesh has 12 major rapids over 36 kilometers.

River rafting

Highly gut wrenching, River rafting is amongst the favorite water adventure sports in India and to witness the best of it, travel to the Ganges river beds in Rishikesh. The mighty river flows through steep curves generating rapids of great instability and adrenalin pumping nature.

Kayaking

Given the status of rapids in the streams of Rishikesh, how can one neglect the adventure of Kayaking. Interesting part is the variance in the levels of rapids erupting in Ganges River, which give Kayakers to select the course as per their endurance and physical stamina.

Cliff Jumping

A free fall jump in the depths of Ganges from a height of 35 ft defines the water sport of Cliff Jumping in Rishikesh. Enthusiasts usually go for it after they are done with river rafting as the site is at the latter’s ending point.  

Kerala

Kovalam Beach in  Kerala

When you are into Kerala, you might not want to miss an adventurous water sports session. Kerala water sports include canoeing, catamaran sailing, Para sailing, scuba diving, snorkeling and wind surfing. With its 44 rivers, numerous lakes and lagoons, Kerala has placed itself among the best holiday destinations in India. Tourists can also enjoy the famous Snake Boat Race and Nehru Trophy Boat Race in Kerala in the summer season. Vacationing in an adventurous way can rightly be enjoyed along with spending some relaxed, leisurely moments in some of the best luxury resorts in Kerala. A perfect summer destination with numerous scopes for relaxation and enjoyment, Kerala is ideal for leisure as well as family vacationing in India.

Kayaking

Home of the enchanting backwaters in Kerala, Alappuzha is also known for its love for kayaking. The palm fringed waterways of this inland channel offers suitable conditions to Kayak. Besides, it is a nice alternative to explore the scenic beauty of Alappuzha.  

Surfing

Kerala’s best known beach Kovalam is the hub of surfers. The sea front at Kovalam has a behavior that ranges from mild to challenging and sometimes very rough. Thus, there is always a good opportunity for surfers; beginner or advanced to try their moves in the sea.

Rafting

If river rafting entices you, then head to the region of Ernakulam in Kerala. One of the best white water rafting expeditions are carried out here, which goes through the lakes surrounding Periyar. One can expect rapids ranging from medium to mild during the rafting course.
 

Goa

Arabian Ocean in Goa

Vastly popular for its sunbathed beaches aside Arabian Ocean and its vibrant lifestyle, Goa is an ideal destination to try some of the best water sports in the country. Attracting as much as 20 million visitors every year, the enchanting scenic beauty of the place makes an adventure vacation in Goa complete with its offering of water sports like fishing, jet skiing, parasailing, scuba diving, water skiing, wind surfing and dinghy sailing. The world under the cerulean water of the Arabian Ocean can be best enjoyed in a scuba diving session in Goa. Along with all these water sports, Goa also serves in its platter lucrative sightseeing destinations and dazzling night life which really mounts to the expectation of every global nomad.

Wind Surfing

Combining the principles of sailing and surfing, wind surfing is a fascinating water sport on the beaches of Goa. Beginners can try their hands in this sport at the Dona Paula bay during the first half of the day, as by afternoon the waves tend to get stronger.

Dinghy Sailing

Also known as ‘beer and sandwich’ sailing; probably because of the easy alternative it offers than wind surfing, Dinghy sailing involves sailing on 15 feet long craft that can easily accommodate three to four people. This water sport is also to be enjoyed the best at the Dona Paula region of Goa.

Scuba Diving

Lovers of marine life can take a deep breather as scuba diving is fast gaining popularity in Goa. Although the beach state is not credited with magnificent coral reefs, one can still fancy a lot of brightly colored fishes, lobsters and coral heads.

Water Skiing

If you seek for speed, then water skiing is surely the best water sport for you in the beach state of Goa. High class speed boats, which are known to touch the high speeds of around 30-40 miles an hour are available at the Taj Hotels, Bogmallo beach resort and Cidade de Goa.

Angling

Angling requires tranquil waters and a great amount of patience that must go undisturbed. Fitting such a condition is the serene Agonda beach, where you can catch Salmon, Mullet and Soormai.

Parasailing

Another one for the lovers of speed, parasailing is one of the most popular water sports in Goa. The sport involves harnessing the parasailor with a 300 feet long rope at one end and the other one with a speed boat. Bogmallo beach resort and Taj hotel provides the necessary equipment for this thrilling water sport.

Water Scooter

It’s exactly like riding a speeding motor bike. However, this motor bike runs on splashing waves rather than metaled roads. Water scooter can accommodate two people at a time. Cidade de Goa, Majorda, Dona Paula jetty and Candolim beach are the prime spots for this water sport. 

Swimming

Enjoyed by people of all ages and breeds of traveling; young, old, affluent and budgetary, swimming is a water sport that can be done at all the beaches of Goa. These beaches also have lifeguards appointed. Thus, you can always check on the status of the sea from them before heading to the waters. 

Andaman & Nicobar

Andaman & Nicobar Islands

When you are planning for a holiday trip to India do not miss to visit Andaman & Nicobar Islands which has special surprises of nature, culture and colors for its visitors. Bestowed with some of the most delectable and gorgeous islands on the face of earth, this place holds a promise of enthralling holiday per excellence. A holiday in India gets an adventurous pinch with water sports activities in Andaman & Nicobar that includes snorkeling, scuba diving, glass bottom boating, water skiing and many more. The luxury resorts in Andaman & Nicobar are famous for their rejuvenating therapies and massages. Thus while you are into this emerald place, don’t miss to savor a rejuvenating spa therapy in these luxury resorts.

Snorkeling

One of the best snorkeling opportunities in the world is offered at the islands of Andaman and Nicobar. The island group is known for its large population of coral reefs and exotic marine life in its surrounding waters. Your favorite spot for Snorkeling in Andaman must be Havelock islands for they are incredibly dense in terms of marine creatures. 

Scuba diving

Highly adventurous and fun, scuba diving is another major water sport activity that one must not miss at any cost on the tour of the Andamans. Popular diving sites at the island group are Corruption Rock, Bala Reef, Cinque Island, Fish Rock newar Passage Island, Rutland Island, Havelock Island and Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park. 

Lakshadweep

Fun with water scooter in Lakshadweep

If you are enthusiastic about the marine world where the fishes and other under water plants create a colorful world, Lakshadweep in India is one of the best options for you. Blessed by the Mother Nature, Lakshadweep is best known for snorkeling. A deep plunge into the blue ocean water and you can become a part of the rainbow colored world beneath. Perfect for honeymoon, adventure and group tours, Lakshadweep is also rich with its historical heritage. After an adventurous day on the blue water of the ocean, you can also experience a dazzling night in this Indian island only.Thus, the major water adventure activities in Lakshadweep go on like this: 


 Pondicherry

Surfing in Puducherry

Commonly known as Pondy, this union territory has its abode on the eastern shore of India. In the colonial times of the country, Pondicherry remained the favorite of the French; traces of them still lingers within its urban lines. Owing to this, the French settlements which actually form the quiet, cobbled part of Pondicherry has become one of its major tourist attractions. Now if you are a beach lover, Pondy has still a lot to offer to you. Within a coast line of around 32 km, the tropical attractions of Pondicherry constitute palm fringed beaches, fishing villages, backwaters and beach resorts. These spots are highly fit for leisure travelers as well as adventure crazies. Thus, the major water adventure activities in Pondicherry go on like this: 

Scuba diving

Unlike the quaint Arabian sea coast on the west of India, the country’s eastern side of Pondicherry is for adventure lovers. Thus, scuba diving is one of the best activities to enjoy the thrill of the thrilling nature of the sea here.

Surfing 

Given the nature of Pondicherry’s sea fronts, one can enjoy some of the best surfing experiences here as well. The village of Tandryankuppam, nearby Auroville is highly suitable for this adventure sport as the location has two long rocky piers built in front of the beach in the name of safety. 

An adventure holiday in India gives you a scope to feel the thrill alongside enriching your casket of memories with beautiful post card perfect moments. This summer explore the adventurous part of your personality in a luxury adventure vacation in India.

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Rath Yatra begins in Puri

Every year lakhs of pilgrims thronged Puri to have the glimpse of Lord Jagannath riding on his chariot with elder brother Balabhadra and sister Subhadra. The similar enthusiasm for Ratha Yatra could be witnessed today with the arrival of over 3 lakh devotes to the temple town of Puri in Orrisa.

Jagannath Puri Rath Yatra

The Ratha Yatra festival marks the annual procession of three deities from the Jagannath temple in three colorful wooden chariots by the devotees to the Gundicha temple. The pulling of the Ratha cart by devotees epitomizes the endeavors of the local residents of Vrindavan to bring Krishna, Balram and Subhadra back to their home town from Kurukshetra. Read more here.

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Char Dham Yatra: Pilgrimage Tours in India

Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand is a major pilgrimage in India. It is undertaken every year by thousands of devotees of almighty. Devotees trek to these char dhams (or nowadays even the holy circuit of Char Dham by helicopter is easily available to devotees who don't have the time to undertake the long perilous journey) to pay reverence to the almighty and attain salvation every year.

Char Dham Yatra is a journey to the small circuit of four holy seats of baba bholenath. Located in the Garhwal region of the State of Uttaranchal, the circuit consists of four important Hindu pilgrimage sites: Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath.

As per the tradition, the Chardham yatra is undertaken from the west to the east (and also from left to right). The Yatra begins from Yamunotri and then the pilgrims travel to Gangotri followed by Kedarnath. They then finally concluded at Badrinath which is considered the holiest Hindu pilgrimage site our of this quartet.

Yamunotri: Chardham Yatra Destination

Yamunotri  Temple

Yamunotri is the abode seat of the river goddess Yamuna. The shrine of Yamunotri is situated at an altitude of about 3,235 meters and located approximately 30 kilometers away from Uttarakshi.

It is a critical pilgrimage center in Garhwal Himalayas. The original temple was constructed by Maharaja Pratap Shah of Tehri Garhwal in the 19th century. The journey to Yamunotri temple takes 1 day from Haridwar and Rishikesh.

The actual temple is situated at a distance of 6 kilometers from the town of Hanumanchatti and is easily accessible by a walk. There are 2 thermal springs named Surya Kund and Gauri Kund just outside the temple at Janki Chatti. These holy kunds are believed to have healing powers.

Surya Kund is a hot boiling water reservoir whereas the Gauri Kund is a moderately warm water reservoir suitable for bathing. The Temple opens on Akshaya Tritiya in the month of May and closes on Yama Dwitiya on the second day of Diwali.

Gangotri: Chardham Yatra Destination

Gangotri Temple in Uttarakshi

Gangotri is the abode seat of the river goddess Ganga. The shrine of Gangotri is situated at an elevation of about 3048 meters and located at a distance of 99 kilometers.

It is an important Hindu pilgrimage situated on the banks of the river Ganga.  The temple was constructed by the Gorkha General Amar Singh Thapa in the 18th century. It’s a one day journey from the towns of Rishikesh and Haridwar to reach Gangotri and two days journey from Yamunotri temple.

The temple is opened from May till the Diwali day. For Adventurous pilgrims, Gangotri serves as a starting point for an 18 kilometer trekking route to Gaumukh. It is easily accessible by bus and car which means an opportunity to explore many more pilgrims.

Want more information? Read more on Gangotri.

Kedarnath: Chardham Yatra Destination

Kedarnath Temple

Kedarnath is a holy Hindu pilgrimage site situated in Rudra Prayag district in the state of Uttarakhand. In the midst of Himalayas, Kedarnath stands out as one of the twelve jyotirlinga of Lord Shiva. The shrine of Kedarnath is situated at an elevation of 3584 meters on the head of river Mandakini and is flanked by spectacular snow capped mountain peaks.

According to the popular legend, Pandavas after winning the battle over Kauravas in the war of kurukshetra felt guilty of having killed their own brothers and move to Himalayas to seek blessings of Lord Shiva.

While searching for Lord Shiva, they found a buffalo that was quite unique in looks. Bhima engaged in a tug-of-war with the buffalo and started pulling his tail due to which his face went straight to Nepal forming Pashupatinath Temple, leaving its hind part in Kedar out of which a Shiva linga formed.

In between Rudraprayag and Kedarnath, there are several pilgrimages sites which includes Agastyamuni, Ukhimath, Phauli- Pasalat Devi Maa, Bamsu (Lamgoundi) Vanasur, Kalimath, Trijugi Narayan and Kashi Vishwanath at Guptakashi.

The route to Kedarnath requires a 14 kilometer steep foot trekking from Gauri Kund. The journey to Gauri Kund is easily accessible by road from Haridwar, Rishikesh and Dehradun.

Helicopter services are also available these days to reach Kedarnath Dham. The temple opens on Akshaya Tritiya in the month of May and closes on Bhai Duj in the November.

Interested in information on Kedarnath? Read more...

Badrinath: Chardham Yatra Destination

Badrinath Temple

Badrinath is the one of famous and most visited pilgrim spot in the Char Dham yatra. It is situated on the bank of Alaknanda River in the hill town of Badrinath. The town lies between the Nar and Narayan mountain ranges and the Neelkanth peak provides a fabulous setting to Badrinath.

It is considered to be the holiest Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu. A hot water spring is just below the temple, where many visitors take bath before visiting the temple.

The legend says that Lord Vishnu came to this place earlier known as Badri Van and meditated for a very long time after Narada scolded him for being immersed into worldly pleasures. The temple is open only for six months from April to November due to severe weather and climatic conditions.

The Badrinath is one of the five shrines that are dedicated to Lord Vishnu and are referred to as ‘Panch Badri’:

• Vishal Badri: is the original Badrinath temple in Badrinath.

• Yogadhyan Badri situated in Pandukeshwar depicting the meditating image of Lord Vishnu installed by King Pandu.

• Bhavishya Badri located at subain near Tapovan. The Legend says that when evil will reach at its peak and the route to Badrinath will be inaccessible, the lord Badrinath will worshipped here in future.

• Vridh Badri situated 7 kilometers away from the jyotirmath in Animath. The legend says that Lord Badrinath used to be worshiped here before moving to the current temple.

• Adi Badri situated 17 kilometers away from karnaprayag consisting of 16 small temples with elaborate carved houses and a three stone black statue of Lord Vishnu.

Why undertake Chardham Yatra?

This pilgrimage is undertaken with objective of the attainment of salvation by the blessings of the almighty. It is believed that after undertaking this arduous spiritual reckoning and paying obeisance, the lord washes away the sins of the pilgrims which ensures their release from the cycle of birth and death.

Chardham Yatra 2014 Update: After last year's  natural disaster that struck Uttarakhand, the authorities have decided to regulate the number of pilgrims to Kedarnath. This year only 100 pilgrim will be allowed to travel to Kedarnath each day to avoid any unfortunate or large scale tragedy.

Are you ready for your spiritual reckoning? Check some travel ideas and packages for Chardham Yatra HERE!

Contributed by Nikhil Chandra

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