About Neelkanth Badrinath: ” Discover the distance & peak “
Neelkanth Badrinath is in the heart of the majestic Himalayas lies a divine abode that attracts millions of devotees every year – Badrinath. It is one of the four sacred shrines of the Chota Char Dham Yatra and is located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand.
The town is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and lush green forests, making it an ideal destination for those seeking peace and spirituality.
One of the most prominent mountains that can be seen from Badrinath is Neelkanth. It is a majestic peak that stands tall at 6,597 meters and is considered to be the abode of Lord Shiva.
The trek to Neelkanth from Badrinath is a spiritual journey that takes you through some of the most breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
Neelkantha Peak in Badrinath
Neelkantha Peak is a magnificent mountain located in the beautiful region of Badrinath, which is a significant pilgrimage site in India. The name “Neelkantha” comes from the words “Neel,” meaning blue, and “Kanth,” meaning throat. This name is associated with Lord Shiva, one of the most revered deities in Hinduism.
History Related to Neelkantha Peak
According to legend, there was no Neelkantha Mountain in the past. Instead, there was a direct route connecting the temples of Kedarnath and Badrinath. However, because of the sins committed by the priests in the region, Lord Shiva became displeased. To teach them a lesson, he created a towering mountain between these two sacred places. This mountain is what we now know as Neelkantha Peak.
The peak is not just a striking sight but also a challenging one for climbers. Its steep ridges and faces have made it a formidable challenge, resisting seven climbing attempts since the first recorded effort by Frank Smythe in 1937.
The first successful ascent of Neelkantha Peak was made in 1974 by a team consisting of Sonam Pulzor, Kanhiya Lal, Dilip Singh, and Nima Dorje from the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP). They successfully reached the summit via the north face of the mountain.
Climbing Routes
For those interested in climbing Neelkantha Peak, there are several routes to consider:
- North Face: The route taken by the first successful climbing team.
- West Ridge: Another challenging approach to the summit.
- Northeast Ridge: Offers a different climbing experience with its unique challenges.
Neelkantha Peak stands not only as a stunning natural landmark but also as a symbol of the rich mythology and history associated with Lord Shiva and the sacred sites of Badrinath and Kedarnath.
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Way to Neelkanth Base camp from behind the Badrinath Temple
The Trekking ( Neelkanth Badrinath )
Location & How to Reach Neelkantha Peak
The trek to Neelkantha Peak begins in the holy town of Badrinath, located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. This scenic trek takes you through picturesque landscapes and is a spiritual journey for many devotees and adventure seekers alike. The trekking route to Neelkantha Peak is as follows:
- Badrinath
- Mana
- Hanuman Chatti
- Laxmi Van
- Neelkantha Peak Base Camp
The trek to Neelkanth starts from Badrinath and takes around two days to complete. The first day involves a 6-kilometer trek to the village of Mana, which is the last village on the Indian side of the Indo-Tibetan border. Mana is a picturesque village that is home to the famous Vyas Gufa, where it is believed that Ved Vyas wrote the Mahabharata.
From Mana, the trek continues towards Vasudhara Falls, which is a 5-kilometer trek from Mana. The trek is relatively easy and takes you through lush green forests, meadows, and streams.
The Vasudhara Falls is a magnificent waterfall that drops from a height of 122 meters, and it is said that the water of the waterfall is so pure that it can cure all ailments.
The second day of the trek starts early in the morning and takes you towards Neelkanth. The trek is challenging, and it takes around 7-8 hours to reach the peak. The trek takes you through steep ascents, rocky terrains, and snow-capped mountains. The view from the top is awe-inspiring, and it is believed that Lord Shiva meditated here for several years.
Suggested Read – Pandukeshwar- A Seren Detour En-Route Badrinath
The Neelkanth trek
The Neelkanth Badrinath trek is a perfect blend of spirituality and adventure. It is a journey that takes you closer to the divine, and the views along the way make it an experience of a lifetime. The trek is open from May to October, and it is advisable to take a local guide for the trek. It is a challenging trek, and it is essential to be physically fit and mentally prepared for the journey.
Neelkanth Mountain Base Camp
Getting There
By Road
Badrinath is well-connected by road, being a revered Hindu pilgrimage site. You can easily reach Badrinath from several cities, including Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Dehradun. Here’s how to do it:
- From Delhi: Take a bus or shared taxi to Haridwar or Rishikesh. Buses usually leave early in the morning from these places.
- From Rishikesh/Haridwar: Buses or shared taxis frequently travel to Badrinath, making it a convenient option.
By Rail
Badrinath does not have a railway station. The nearest railway station is located in Haridwar, which is well-connected to major cities such as Delhi, Ahmedabad, and Dehradun. From Haridwar, you can take a bus or shared taxi to reach Badrinath.
By Air
The closest airport to Badrinath is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun. Here’s how you can reach Badrinath from the airport:
- From Dehradun: You can opt for a bus or a taxi to travel to Badrinath. The drive from Dehradun to Badrinath offers stunning views and takes you through the scenic landscapes of Uttarakhand.
Final Note
Whether you choose to arrive by road, rail, or air, the journey to Neelkantha Peak promises breathtaking views and a spiritual experience, making it a must-visit destination for trekkers and pilgrims alike.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Neelkanth Badrinath is a spiritual journey that takes you through some of the most beautiful landscapes of the Himalayas. It is an experience that stays with you for a lifetime and leaves you with a sense of peace and tranquility.
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