Vridha Badri Temple
Vridha Badri is an ancient temple situated in Animath village of Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. Animath is 7 km from the Joshimath on Rishikesh Joshimath road. The temple is situated at an altitude of 1380m. This holy site holds immense importance in Hindu mythology and is a part of the Panch Badri tour, one of the five sacred temples of Lord Vishnu.
According to history, at this place when the great sage Narada decided to perform penance to please Lord Vishnu, pleased by the penance. Lord Vishnu appeared before Narada in the form of an old man. That is how this temple gets its name Vridh means old and Badri is the name of Lord Vishnu.
| Diety | Lord Vishu |
| Location | Animath Village in Chamoli district, |
| Best Time To Visit | May to June and September to October |
| Darshan Timing | 5 AM to 12 PM 2 PM to 9 PM |
| Entry Fees | Free |
| Dress Code | Traditional Wear |
| Festivals | Krishna Janmashtmi, Makar Sankranti |
History Of Vridha Badri Temple
- It is said that when mankind entered Kali Yuga, Lord Vishnu decided to remove himself from the temple.
- It is believed that the original idol of Lord Vishnu is craved by Vishwakarma and is now placed in the main Badrinath temple.
- Later the partially damaged image was found by Adi Guru Shankaracharya at Narad Kund and the temple was restored, though some part of it was damaged.
- Legends say, Lord Vishnu disguised as a bridh(old man) and played with Ganesha during his childhood period.
Click Here To Read About Yogdhyan Badri
Significance Of Badri Vridha Temple
- Vridha Badri Temple is named after when lord Vishnu appeared in front of Narada in the form of an old man, so the idol of lord Vishnu in the temple is in the form of an old man.
- The architecture of this temple is in the North Indian style and has a shrine that has a representation of Lord Vishnu.
- The brahmins from the south India are the chief priest in this temple.
Festivals Celebrated In Vridha Badri Temple
Krishna Janmashtami: It is the most popular Hindu festival celebrated, which celebrates the eighth incarnation of Lord Vishnu as Lord Krishna.
Makar Sankranti: It is also called Uttarayan. which is celebrated on the date of 15 January every year. It is celebrated on the first day when the Sun enters Capricorn and prolongs the day in the coming days
Best Time To Visit Vridha Badri Temple
The best time to visit this temple is between the months of May to October. Although the temple is open throughout the year, it is advised not to visit during monsoon. At that time the chances of land sliding increased. In winter you can enjoy the snowfall, and the mounting will be covered with snow. The surrounding will be pleasant and you will enjoy the scenery.
How To Reach Vridha Badri Temple
BY AIR: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun, which is 269.2 km from Joshimath. From the airport, you can take a taxi and bus to Rishikesh, and then from Rishikesh, you can get the bus to Joshimath.
By TRAIN: The nearest train station is Rishikesh and Haridwar.
BY ROAD: State transport buses operate regularly between Joshimath and Rishikesh.
