Badrinath is a holy town in the mountains of Uttarakhand. It is part of the Char Dham Yatra and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Every year, many people reach Badrinath to pray and enjoy the beautiful mountain views. The town is high up at 3,133 meters (10,279 feet), so the trip is peaceful and full of natural beauty.
Getting to Badrinath needs a little planning, but it’s not too hard. It’s far into the mountains, so you need to choose the best way to travel. You can go by air, train, or road, depending on what’s easiest for you. Whether you want a quick trip or a fun road journey, you have options.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to reach to Badrinath. Then, we’ll give you easy tips to help you get ready. Also, we’ll tell you what to keep in mind during the trip. So, whether you’re going for prayers or just to see the mountains, this guide will help you have a great trip.
1. Travel to Badrinath by Air
Flying is the fastest way to get close to Badrinath, although the town itself does not have an airport. The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is well connected to major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore.
- Distance from Badrinath: Approximately 310 km
- Travel time by road from airport: 10–12 hours
After landing in Dehradun, you can hire a private taxi or take a bus to reach Badrinath. For a quicker and more scenic journey, helicopter services are available from Dehradun and other nearby locations like Phata and Guptkashi during the pilgrimage season. These services, however, need to be booked well in advance due to high demand.
2.Travel to Badrinath by Road
Travelling by road is the most popular and so scenic way to reach Badrinath. The journey takes you through the charming towns and river valleys of Uttarakhand, offering breathtaking views at every turn.
Common Route from Delhi:
Delhi → Haridwar → Rishikesh → Devprayag → Rudraprayag → Joshimath → Badrinath
- Total Distance: Around 540 km
- Time Required: 12–14 hours (excluding halts)
Road conditions are generally good during the summer season, but weather can affect travel, especially during monsoons when landslides are common. From Rishikesh, regular bus services operated by Uttarakhand Transport Corporation (UTC) and private tour operators are available. Taxis and rental cars can also be arranged from Rishikesh, Haridwar, or Dehradun.
3. Travel to Badrinath by Train
There is no direct train service to Badrinath. However, you can take a train to one of the nearby stations and continue your journey by road.
Nearest Railway Stations:
- Rishikesh Railway Station – Approx. 295 km from Badrinath
- Haridwar Railway Station – Approx. 320 km from Badrinath
Both stations well connected to cities across India. From there, buses and taxis are easily available to complete the journey to Badrinath.
Ways to Travel Around Badrinath
By Car
Most travelers hire a rental vehicle for their entire journey, including local sightseeing. You can rent cars, minibuses, or even luxury coaches from cities like Haridwar, Rishikesh, or Dehradun. Within Badrinath, taxis are available at the main bus stop and also can be hired per ride or for the entire day.
By Bus
Public buses do not operate within Badrinath town itself. Buses are limited to long-distance travel only.
Walking
The trek to Badrinath itself is not long, as the town is reachable by road. However, a popular trek from Badrinath is to Mana Village, which is about 3 km away. This is a short, scenic trek to the last village on the Indian border. There are also other treks in the area, but they are longer and require more planning. It gives you the freedom to explore every lane, the serene ghats, and local shops, while enjoying the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
Useful Travel Tips for Visiting Badrinath
- Best Time to Visit: May to June and September to October
- Altitude: 3,133 meters – Acclimatize properly to avoid altitude sickness
- Weather: Carry warm clothes, even in summer; nights are cold
- Health: Take it slow if you’re not used to high altitudes. Drink water, rest, and avoid heavy exertion.
- Luggage: Pack light but include essentials like medicines, comfortable walking shoes, and rain protection
- Permissions: Indian tourists don’t need special permits, but foreigners may be required to register
Badrinath Travel Package Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival at Dehradun/Haridwar/Rishikesh
- Arrive at your destination (Dehradun/Haridwar/Rishikesh).
- Check-in at the hotel and relax.
- Explore local attractions.
- Stay overnight.
Day 2: Dehradun/Haridwar/Rishikesh to Badrinath
- Depart for Badrinath by road.
- Enjoy the scenic drive through Uttarakhand.
- Arrive in Badrinath, so check-in at the hotel.
- Visit Badrinath Temple for evening aarti.
- Stay overnight in Badrinath.
3: Explore Badrinath
- Visit Badrinath Temple and Tapt Kund.
- Explore nearby attractions like Mana Village and Vyas Gufa.
- Enjoy free time to shop or relax.
- Stay overnight in Badrinath.
Day 4: Return to Dehradun/Haridwar/Rishikesh
- Head back to Dehradun/Haridwar/Rishikesh.
- Arrive and transfer to the station/airport.
- End of trip.
Conclusion
Whether you choose to reach Badrinath by air, road, or rail, the journey to this sacred town is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. With snow-capped mountains, serene rivers, and a spiritual aura in every breath, Badrinath is more than just a destination—it’s a divine calling.
Plan your route according to your preferences, keep weather conditions in mind, and give yourself time to adjust to the altitude. The road may be long and winding, but every turn brings you closer to tranquility, devotion, and the unforgettable charm of the Himalayas.