Joshimath
If you are on a pilgrimage journey of Chardham destinations in Uttarakhand, you can easily make a visit to Joshimath, a much known pilgrimage destination in northern India. The holy site occupies a location at just 42 km from Badrinath, one of the four pilgrimage shrines of the Chardham destinations. When Badrinath shrine remains inaccessible during winter months, pilgrims keep flocking to Joshimath to visit the Narsimha Temple. During your tour to Joshimath, do remember to explore the religious sites located around. Some scenic treks also await you around Joshimath. The holy site remains perched at an elevation of 1,875 m above sea level.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to make a visit to Joshimath would between the months of April and May. Or you can also plan to take the tour between September and the November, the winter months.
Mythological Background
According to the Hindu mythology, Lord Vishnu is believed to abide at Joshimath during winters. Therefore, as soon as the temple in Badrinath closes it doors, pilgrims head towards Joshimath to seek the blessings of the lord. The word 'Joshimath' is derived from a similar word 'Jyotirmath', which translates into 'the place of Shiva's jyotirlinga.
Places to See
There are numerous religious sites and temples located around Joshimath. Spend some time exploring the holy spots and getting blessed by the deities.
Narsimha Temple
The main attraction at Joshimath, Narsimha Temple stands in dedication to Lord Vishnu. Besides the idol of Lord Vishnu, brass idols of Lord Rama and Sita are also placed in a roofed building inside the temple. It is said that an arm of Lord Vishnu's idol at the temple seems to reduce in mass each day.
Vasudeva Temple
Just at a distance of thirty yards from Narsimha Temple lies the Vasudeva Temple, dedicated to Vasudeva, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The temple is considered to be one of the most sacred in northern India.
Rudraprayag
Featuring the Rudranath Temple, Rudraparayag occupies a position at the junction point of two rivers - Mandakini and Alaknanda. The temple is dedicated to Hindu god Shiva. It is also the place where the ancient sage Narada is said to have spent time meditating.
Reaching the pilgrimage Site
Closest domestic airport from Joshimath is Jolly Grant, at 221 km whereas the nearest railway station is positioned at Rishikesh. Joshimath is easily accessible by road from key places like Dehradun, Haridwar, Nainital, Almora and Rishikesh.
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