BADRINATH TEMPLE - Badrinath
Badrinath temple is the main attraction of Badrinath. The present temple here was built by Adiguru Sri Shankaracharya in the 8th century. But, according to local belief, the temple stands on the site of an earlier temple which was later rebuilt by the Garhwal kings. The temple is divided into three parts—the Garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum), the darshan mandap (the place where the prayers are held) and the sabha mandapam (the place where devotees assemble).
TAPT KUND - Badrinath
Tapt Kund is a natural spring believed to possess curative properties. It is believed to be the abode of Agni (the Hindu God of fire). The temperature of the water is around 45°C. Pilgrims take a holy dip in the Tapt Kund before entering the Badrinath temple.
SURYA KUND - Badrinath
Besides the Tapt Kund, there are other hot water springs in Badrinath. Surya Kund is one of them. A good number of tourists and pilgrims visit Surya Kund every year. Another spring is Narad Kund, which is a recess in the river near the Tapt Kund. It is said that the idol of Badrinath was found here.
NEELKANTH - Badrinath
The towering Neelkanth peak forms the backdrop of Badrinath. The main temple is encompassed on either side by Nar and Narayan, the two mountain ranges just by the bank of the river Alaknanda. The ice-capped Neelkanth peak attracts hordes of tourists during season.
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