Sacred Shrines of Chardham
Badrinath Temple
Deity
Lord Vishnu
Altitude
3,133m
"The Vaikuntha of the Kaliyuga"
Badrinath Temple, also known as the Badrinarayan Temple, is a sacred shrine dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Standing at 3,133 meters, it is the most prominent of the four Dhams, where the divine presence of the Lord is felt in the serenity of the Alaknanda river.
Section 01
Architecture & Design
The Badrinath Temple features a distinct North Indian (Nagara) style of architecture. The most striking feature is the **Singhdwar**, a colorful and imposing entrance gate. The temple is approximately 50 feet tall, topped with a small cupola and covered with a gold gilt roof. Inside, it is divided into the Garbha Griha (sanctum), Darshan Mandap (ritual hall), and Sabha Mandap (assembly hall).
Section 02
The Sacred Idol
The central deity is a 1-meter tall image of Lord Badrinarayan, finely sculpted in black **Shaligram** stone. The idol depicts Vishnu in a meditative Padmasana posture. Legend has it that Adi Shankaracharya discovered this idol in the Alaknanda River and originally enshrined it in a cave near the Tapt Kund hot springs before it was moved to the current structure.
Section 03
History and Reconstruction
While the original temple date is prehistoric, the current structure was significantly expanded by the Garhwal kings in the 16th century. Despite numerous natural calamities and avalanches, the temple has been restored multiple times, showing the enduring faith of the people. The colorful facade and arched windows are a testimony to the architectural finesse of the medieval Himalayan era.
Temple Puja & Aarti Timings
A Spiritual Schedule for Pilgrims
Ritual
Timing
Nirmalaya Darshan
4:30 AM
Maha Abhishek
5:00 AM
Morning Puja
6:30 AM
Public Darshan
7:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Evening Aarti
8:15 PM
Shayan Aarti
9:00 PM
* Timings are subject to change based on the Temple Committee's seasonal adjustments.