Badrinath Dham needs no prior introduction to those acquainted with Devbhoomi of Uttarakhand. That Badrinath forms part of two coveted Char Dham pilgrimages is well known. But did you know that Badrinath also forms part of a group of Vishnu temples called Panch Badri? In Vaishnavite traditions, a pilgrimage to the Panch Badri temples is considered supremely beneficial. Each of the temples of Panch Badri is not just a revered Vaishnavite shrine but is also colored with its rich history and mythology. A visit to the temples is incomplete without our delving into their intricately linked mythological association with each other, and the sacred land. Let us know further about Vishal Badri (popularly referred to as just ‘Badrinath’), Bhavishya Badri, Yogadhyan Badri, Vridha Badri, and Adi Badri.

Legend Behind Panch Badri

The land nourished by River Alaknanda between her origins at Satopanth and her confluence with River Nandakini at Nandaprayag is celebrated as the abode of Lord Vishnu upon the earthly realms. This ‘Badari Kshetra’ is dotted with many Vishnu shrines, of which the five iterated above form Panch Badri. The story behind their forming a single pilgrimage trail can be traced back to the legend of Nar-Narayan. The human incarnate pair of Lord Vishnu is said to have meditated and practiced spiritual austerities at each of these places in their search for their ideal ‘tapovan’. Their search ended at Badrinath, a region that was then replete with Badri trees. In the holy land of Badrinath, the twin avatar of Vishnu engaged in spiritual austerities that sought the greater good of all living beings for thousands of years. The land thus rendered holier by supreme selfless spiritual practice became a pilgrimage destination. Although the Badri trees in the region withered away, its name retained the memories of the once abundantly found trees.