Treks by
The ideal months to visit are March to June and September to November. The temple remains accessible in winters too, even when Badrinath closes for the season.
By Road: Located about 7 km from Joshimath, the temple is accessible by shared jeep or taxi up to Animath village. A short uphill trek leads to the temple. By Train: The nearest railway station is Rishikesh (around 250 km away). By Air: The closest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun, approximately 270 km from Joshimath.
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1,380 meters
Vridha Badri (also spelled Vriddha Badri), located in the serene village of Animath near Joshimath in Chamoli district, is one of the Sapt Badri temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu in Uttarakhand. Perched at an altitude of 1,380 meters, this sacred shrine is enveloped by dense forests and a spiritual aura, making it a peaceful retreat for pilgrims and seekers.
Detailed information about Vridha Badri, Joshimath
Vridha Badri is steeped in spiritual legend. It is believed to be the original seat of Lord Badrinath, long before the present-day Badrinath temple was established. As per scriptures, Lord Vishnu appeared here in the form of an old man (Vridha) before sage Narad, who was performing penance. The sage installed the idol of Lord Vishnu here, which became the first worshipped form of Badri Vishal. Later, Adi Shankaracharya reinstalled the divine idol at the present Badrinath Dham, but Vridha Badri continues to hold immense religious significance as one of the sacred Sapt Badri temples in Uttarakhand.