Joshimath:-
Joshimath, also known as Jyotirmath, is a small yet historically and spiritually significant town in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, India. It is situated at an altitude of about 6,000 feet (1,800 meters) in the Garhwal Himalayas. The town serves as a major stopover for pilgrims heading to Badrinath, one of the four Char Dham pilgrimage sites, and for adventurers visiting Auli, a popular ski resort.
Main Attraction:-
1. Narsingh Temple: This is an important temple dedicated to Lord Narsimha, an avatar of Lord Vishnu. It is especially significant during the winter months when the idol from the Badrinath temple is brought here. Many pilgrims visit this temple.
2. Jyotirmath Monastery: This is a famous monastery set up by the ancient saint Adi Shankaracharya. It’s one of the four most important centers for learning Hindu philosophy. Many people visit it for spiritual guidance and meditation.
3. Auli: Auli is a famous hill station located near Joshimath. It’s popular for skiing in the winter and offers beautiful views of the Himalayan mountains. You can take a ropeway from Joshimath to Auli, which gives you a great view of the snow-capped peaks.
4. Vishnuprayag: Vishnuprayag is a holy place where two rivers, the Alaknanda and Dhauliganga, meet. It’s one of the five sacred confluences in Uttarakhand, and people come here to pray and enjoy the natural beauty.
5. Kalpavriksha: This is an ancient, sacred tree over 1,200 years old. According to legend, Adi Shankaracharya meditated under this tree. It’s an important religious spot in Joshimath.
6. Trekking: Joshimath is a great starting point for many popular trekking routes like the Valley of Flowers and Kuari Pass. People who love nature and adventure come here for trekking through scenic mountains and valleys.
7. Badrinath: Approximately 46 km away, Badrinath is one of the four sacred shrines in the Char Dham pilgrimage circuit. It is famous for the Badrinath Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu
8. Valley of Flowers National Park: Around 50 km from Joshimath, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its stunning meadows filled with a variety of endemic flowers. The park is also home to diverse wildlife.
9. Hemkund Sahib: About 40 km from Joshimath, Hemkund Sahib is a revered Sikh pilgrimage site set at a high altitude, surrounded by snow-capped mountains. The serene lake and the Gurudwara (Sikh temple)
10. Vishnuprayag: Located around 30 km from Joshimath, Vishnuprayag is the confluence of the Alaknanda and Dhauliganga rivers. It is a significant pilgrimage site and offers beautiful scenic views​
6. Dhak Village: Situated about 20 km from Joshimath, Dhak is a small village that serves as a starting point for several treks, including the route to Auli and the Valley of Flowers.
By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, about 270 kilometers away from Joshimath. From the airport, you can take a taxi or bus to reach Joshimath. There are regular flights from major cities like Delhi to Dehradun.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Rishikesh, around 250 kilometers from Joshimath. Another nearby station is Haridwar, about 277 kilometers away. Both stations are well-connected to major cities like Delhi and are common starting points for travelers heading to Joshimath. From these stations, buses and taxis are available to take you to Joshimath.
By Road: