Joshimath

Joshimath is a hill station located in Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. It is significant for Hindus as it is among the four ‘peeth’ (centres) established by Adi Shankaracharya.

Situated in the Himalayan ranges above the rivers Alaknanda and Dhauliganga, Joshimath is the base for travelers visiting Hemkund Sahib and Valley of flowers. Joshimath is connected to Auli by  4 km cable car, making it the longest and highest trolley of Asia.

Joshimath offers scenic views of the Himalayas, greenery and pleasant weather conditions. There are several ancient temples for tourists to visit. Joshimath is also the winter home of Lord Badrinarayn when the temple at Badrinath closes.

HISTORY

Adi Shankracharya founded one of the four peeths “Centres’ here. The four peeths were established in four cardinal directions. Joshimath, Sringeri (Karnataka), Dwarka (Gujarat) and Puri (Orissa).

It is a halting place for the pilgrims bound for Badrinath. It is considered to be one of the most sacred places by Hindus who believes that Badrinath (The God Vishnu) resides here in winter.

In ancient scriptures Joshimath is described as Kartikeyapura as it has been named after Kartikeya.

There are several temples here, each dedicated to Hanuman, Ganesh, Surya, Gaurishankar and Naudevi respectively. The temple also has idols of 10 avatars of Vishnu.

WHERE TO STAY

There are many hotels and dharamshalas in Joshimath. GMVNL Tourist Bungalows, situated near the bus stand, offers good services. Average room rent would vary from Rs 600-800. Besides there are other luxury hotels where stay might cost anywhere around Rs 800 – Rs. 4000.