Badrinath vs Kedarnath: Where is Badrinath and Kedarnath

Badrinath vs Kedarnath, these two super divine places in India, and they’re both part of a big pilgrimage called the Char Dham Yatra. These temples are way up high in the Himalayas, in a place called Uttarakhand.

Kedarnath is a temple where people go to pray to Lord Shiva. It’s surrounded by tall, snowy mountains, and it looks really cool! But it gets so cold in the winter that the temple has to close for 6 months because of all the snow. The temple only opens again when the head priest says it’s the right time.

Badrinath is a temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, and it’s also up in the mountains, just like Kedarnath. People come from all over to pray here too. But guess what? Badrinath also closes during the winter because of all the snow. Just like Kedarnath, it only opens when it’s safe, and the head priest decides it’s a good day.

Kedarnath Uttarakhand India
Kedarnath Uttarakhand India

Overview: Badrinath vs Kedarnath

So, both Badrinath and Kedarnath are super special and important, and even though they close for a while every year, visiting them is a really big deal! You can learn all about these amazing places Badrinath vs Kedarnath and how to get there when you’re ready for a big adventure!

Badrinath vs Kedarnath: Which One First ?

So, which place should you visit first ” Badrinath vs Kedarnath ” ? If you love the idea of a peaceful journey surrounded by rivers and greenery, Badrinath might be the perfect start. But if you’re up for an adventurous trek and want to feel the mighty presence of Lord Shiva, then Kedarnath could be your first stop. Either way, you’re in for a spiritual journey filled with wonder and awe!

The Last Stop : Badrinath vs Kedarnath

Badrinath is the final destination for pilgrims on the Char Dham Yatra, sitting high up in the Himalayas at 3,100 meters. This sacred temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is surrounded by the beautiful Neelkanth Peak. Right at the entrance of the temple, you’ll find the hot water springs of Tapt Kund.

These hot springs are special because they contain sulfur, and it’s believed that taking a dip in them washes away your sins before you enter the Badrinath temple. The temple itself has a rich history. It’s said that Adi Shankara, a great spiritual leader, built the Badrinath temple in the 8th century.

Interestingly, the temple was originally a Buddhist shrine, which is why its architecture looks similar to a Buddhist vihara. Adi Shankara discovered the idol of Lord Vishnu in the Alaknanda River and placed it where the Badrinath temple stands today.

Suggested Read: Places to visit near Badrinath Temple Uttarakhand
Bramha Kapal Badrinath Temple
Bramha Kapal Badrinath Temple

Kedarnath Temple:

Kedarnath is a very special town in Uttarakhand, India, way up high in the Himalayas at 3,580 meters above sea level. It’s home to the famous Kedarnath temple, where people go to pray to Lord Shiva.

A long time ago, after a big battle in the Mahabharata, the Pandavas felt really bad about all the people who died, so they wanted Lord Shiva’s blessings. But Lord Shiva played a trick on them and hid in Kedarnath as a bull. He dived into the ground, leaving just his hump on the surface, and that’s where the Kedarnath temple stands today!

Kedarnath is one of five special places called the Panch Kedar, along with Tungnath, Rudranath, Madmaheshwar, and Kapleshwar. All these places are super important for Hindus, and lots of people visit them every year.

Best time to  Visit the Kedarnath Temple

The Kedarnath Temple, nestled in the beautiful town of Kedarnath in Uttarakhand, is a sacred place that stays closed for 6 months each year. This is because, during the winter months of December and January, the area gets a lot of snow, making it hard to visit.

The best time to visit Kedarnath is in May or October when the temple is open, and the weather is just right. During these months, you can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the temple, meditate in its quiet courtyard, and be amazed by the stunning views of the Garhwal mountains.

Before you go, make sure to register at the official pilgrimage site of Uttarakhand Tourism. They provide all the details you need about the Char Dham Yatra, including the opening and closing dates of the temple. Visiting Kedarnath during this time will give you a chance to experience its divine beauty and serene surroundings.

Suggested Read: Tapt Kund, Badrinath: Spiritual Benefits 
Tapt Kund Badrinath
Tapt Kund Badrinath

Badrinath Temple: 

The Badrinath Temple is a very important place for Hindus, dedicated to one of the 108 incarnations of Lord Vishnu. The temple is located in the town of Badrinath, which is also part of the Panch Badri temples. These include Yog Dhyan Badri, Bhavishya Badri, Adi Badri, and Vridha Badri.

When you visit Badrinath Temple, you’ll see a bright and colorful entrance called the Singhdwar. The temple itself is divided into three main parts:

  1. Garbha Griha: This is the most sacred part of the temple, where the idol of Lord Badrinath is kept in a meditative pose.
  2. Darshan Mandap: This is where all the temple rituals are performed.
  3. Sabha Mandap: Here, pilgrims gather together to worship.

At the entrance, there’s a statue of Garud, a divine bird, placed directly opposite the idol of Badrinath. The temple gates are beautifully decorated with intricate carvings, adding to the sacred atmosphere.

Kedarnath Shivling Uttarakhand
Kedarnath Shivling Uttarakhand

Best time to visit Badrinath Temple

The best time to visit Badrinath Temple is between May and November, as the temple is closed for six months during winter due to heavy snowfall. Visiting during these months allows you to experience the temple’s divine energy and the stunning beauty of the surrounding Himalayas

Badrinath vs Kedarnath: Choosing First 

Following Tradition:  Badrinath vs Kedarnath

  • When embarking on a spiritual journey to the sacred temples of Kedarnath and Badrinath, it’s important to follow the age-old tradition. According to this tradition, devotees first visit Kedarnath Temple and then proceed to Badrinath Temple.
  • This sequence is deeply rooted in the customs of the Char Dham Yatra, and it’s believed that visiting Kedarnath before Badrinath honors the spiritual journey and the blessings of both Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu.
  • So, when planning your pilgrimage, make sure to visit Kedarnath first, followed by Badrinath, to align with the sacred traditions that have been followed for generations.
Personal Beliefs: Badrinath vs Kedarnath
  • Your spiritual journey is deeply personal, so consider your devotion and connection to either Lord Vishnu or Lord Shiva. If you feel a strong bond with one deity, it may guide you to start your pilgrimage at the site that resonates most with your faith, whether it’s Badrinath or Kedarnath.
Accessibility and Ease: Badrinath vs Kedarnath
  • Practicality plays a key role in planning your journey. Look into the travel routes, the difficulty of the treks, and the weather conditions at each destination.
  • For example, Badrinath is more accessible by road, while Kedarnath requires a challenging trek. Your choice may depend on how comfortable you are with these logistical aspects.
Weather Considerations: Badrinath vs Kedarnath
  • The Himalayan weather can be unpredictable, so it’s crucial to plan your pilgrimage during a season when the weather is favorable. This will not only ensure a more comfortable journey but also enhance your overall experience at these sacred sites.

Conclusion

Badrinath vs Kedarnath, both destinations offer a profound spiritual experience. Your decision may be guided by traditional belief of personal beliefs, accessibility, or weather considerations, but rest assured that either choice will bring you closer to the divine.

FAQ

  • Where is Badrinath and Kedarnath? They are located in the Uttarakhand state of the Himalayas in India.
  • Is Badrinath and Kedarnath same? These are two difference temple at difference place in the Himalayas of Uttarakhand India
  • Difference between Kedarnath and Badrinath? Kedarnath temple is dedicated to Shiva and Badrinath Temple dedicated to Vishnu.
  • Which is more difficult Kedarnath or Badrinath? Kedarnath is more difficult then Badrinath temple in order to reach.
  • Which is higher Kedarnath or Badrinath? Kedarnath is higher then Badrinath, in the term of altitude.
  • Which comes first Badrinath or Kedarnath? Kedarnath comes first while following traditional route to visit Char Dham in Uttarakhand.
  • Where Badrinath is located? Badrinath is located in the Chamoli district of the Uttarakhand state of India.
  • Where is Badrinath and Kedarnath situated? These tow temples are located in the Himalayas of Uttarakhand state of India.

 

Author

Namaste! I am Om. I am a licensed Tourist Guide ( Approved by Ministry of Tourism, Government of India), I’m originally from Varanasi. Now, I am living in Rishikesh. I set up this blog to share my tips and experiences for traveling to inspire and help you to travel more. Hari Om

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