Uttarakhand
The name Uttarakhand means "Dev Bhoomi." & is known for numerous temples there that date back thousands of years. Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath are four holy places that are located in Uttarakhand and are visited as part of the Char Dham Yatra. Any of the two renowned Char Dhams may be the destination of the Do Dham Yatra. However, most visitors define the Do dham as going to Kedarnath and Badrinath, respectively. Every year, thousands of devotees travel here to pay homage and seek blessings at these sanctuaries.
Kedarnath
The term "Kedarnath" refers to "the Lord of Kedar Khand," a territory called for its former ruler, King Kedar. The Kedarnath Temple is not just a revered site, but also a representation of the will and fortitude of people. It continues to be one of the most significant Hindu pilgrimage sites and a tribute to the everlasting power of faith despite the difficulties presented by its remote location and severe climate. The months of May to June are the ideal time to visit Kedarnath. These are the best months for hiking and sightseeing because of the excellent weather and clear skies. The region is vulnerable to landslides and heavy rain during the monsoon season, making travel challenging. The trip to the temple might be difficult during the winter because it can get quite cold and snowy. It is advised that you prepare for your trip in advance and check the weather before going. The main temple, which must be reached after a 14-kilometer climb from Gaurikund and cannot be reached directly by road, hence some people choose to tarvel via helicopter services.
The tourist generally start their journey by gauri kund – hot springs that are well-liked rest station for pilgrims travelling to Kedarnath Temple and a well-liked trekking location. The hot springs are said to have healing qualities and to be helpful for people with skin issues. Along with the Kedarnath temple there are several other nearby tourist destinations like – Vasuki Tal, a high-altitude mountain lake located near the temple. It is situated at an altitude of 4,135 meters above sea level and is surrounded by snow-capped peaks. The lake is named after the serpent king Vasuki and is considered to be one of the sacred lakes in Hindu mythology. It is a popular destination for trekkers and nature lovers and can be reached by trekking from Kedarnath. The trek to Vasuki Tal offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers and is considered to be challenging due to the high altitude and rugged terrain. Visitors should be well-prepared and equipped with appropriate clothing and gear, including warm jackets and trekking shoes, to safely complete the trek.
Shankaracharya Samadhi is a memorial shrine dedicated to the Hindu philosopher and saint Adi Shankaracharya located near the Kedarnath Temple. Adi Shankaracharya is credited with spreading Hinduism and establishing the philosophical school of Advaita Vedanta. The memorial shrine is situated at an altitude of 4,000 meters above sea level and is surrounded by scenic mountains and glaciers. It is believed that Adi Shankaracharya attained enlightenment at this site and that his samadhi (memorial shrine) was built there. The site is sacred and is visited by pilgrims and trekkers who are seeking spiritual fulfilment.
Badrinath
At a height of 3,133 metres above sea level, the temple is positioned alongside the Alaknanda River and encircled by the Nar and Narayana mountain ranges. Adi Shankaracharya is thought to have founded the temple in the ninth century. The inner sanctum of this two-story stone building contains a black stone idol of Lord Vishnu as Badrinarayan. Numerous worshippers come to the temple to offer prayers and get Lord Vishnu's blessings.Basant Panchmi and Dussehra Eve (Vijaya Dashami), respectively, decide the opening and closing dates of the Badrinath Temple. The Tapt Kund hot springs, the Charanpaduka Temple, and the Neer Garh Waterfall are just a few of the sacred sites and temples in and surrounding Badrinath, in addition to the main temple. Brahma Kapal is a flat platform located near the Badrinath Temple. Brahma Kapal is a flat platform located near the Badrinath Temple. Hindus believe that Lord Brahma, the creator god, made a significant sacrifice here that sparked the universe's creation. The platform is therefore regarded as a holy location for carrying out funeral and afterlife ceremonies. Brahma Kapal is a place where pilgrims can offer prayers and carry out rituals, and it is regarded as an important stop on their journey to Badrinath.
Besides this the tourists can also discover the Charan Paduka Temple, which is close to the Badrinath Temple and is thought to be the location of Lord Vishnu's footprints. Visit Tapt Kund Hot Springs; these hot springs are well-known for their swimming opportunities and are thought to have therapeutic qualities. Discover the Neer Garh Waterfall: This beautiful waterfall is close to the Badrinath Temple and is a well-liked location for hiking and picnics.
It is thought that participating in a Do Dham Yatra can atone for all of your sins and put you on the road to salvation.
