Chamoli: Where Nature Paints A Perfect Picture | 16 Places To Visit In Chamoli | How To Reach

Chamoli is a district renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Nestled in the picturesque state of Uttarakhand, Home to some of the most revered pilgrimage sites in India, including Badrinath, Hemkund Sahib, and the Valley of Flowers, Chamoli is a spiritual haven for many. The district’s diverse geography, ranging from lush green valleys to snow-capped peaks, offers a paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike. Chamoli is also famous as the birthplace of the Chipko movement, a landmark environmental movement that originated in the 1970s. With its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and spiritual significance, Chamoli is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking tranquility and awe-inspiring beauty.

Best Places To Visit In Chamoli:

Chamoli also offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Garhwal region, with vibrant festivals and warm hospitality. Whether you’re seeking adventure, spiritual solace, or simply a retreat into nature, Chamoli has something to offer everyone.

Here are some places to visit in Chamoli:

1. Badrinath Temple

The Badrinath Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu as Badrinarayan, stands in the town of Badrinath in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district, India. It’s one of Char Dham’s four pilgrimage sites and among the 108 Divya Desams. Open from April to November due to harsh Himalayan winters, the temple sits by the Alaknanda River, embraced by the Nar and Narayana mountain ranges and the Neelkanth peak. Established by Adi Shankara in the 8th century CE, it houses a black granite Vishnu idol. Drawing millions of devotees yearly, it holds immense sacred significance in Hinduism.

Timings: Open from 6 AM to 9 PM, with a break between 1 PM and 4 PM.

2. Valley of Flowers National Park

Valley of Flowers National Park, located in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district, is a stunning and ecologically diverse destination. 20 km from Govindghat,  This UNESCO World Heritage Site is nestled within the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve. The park is renowned for its meadows adorned with alpine flowers that bloom during the monsoon season, attracting numerous tourists and trekkers. It also serves as a habitat for several rare and endangered animals, including the snow leopard, Asiatic black bear, and Himalayan monal. Accessible only from June to October due to heavy snowfall, the park offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan ranges, waterfalls, and streams, best explored through trekking. Nearby, the village of Ghangaria provides accommodation and food for visitors.

Timings: Open from 7 AM to 5 PM, with the last entry at 2 PM.

Entry fees: is 150 rupees for Indians and 600 rupees for foreigners for three days.

3. Hemkund Sahib

Hemkund Sahib, situated in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, India, is a revered Sikh pilgrimage site dedicated to Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh Guru, who is believed to have meditated here in a past life. Located at an altitude of 4,572 meters (15,000 feet), Hemkund Sahib is nestled near a glacial lake encircled by seven majestic mountain peaks. It is a place of profound beauty and tranquility, where pilgrims can witness the rare Brahma Kamal flower and the Nishan Sahib flags adorning each peak. Accessible only from May to October due to heavy snowfall, the journey to Hemkund Sahib begins from Govindghat, a town approximately 275 kilometers (171 miles) from Rishikesh. From Govindghat, pilgrims embark on a 9-kilometer (5.6-mile) trek to Ghangaria, where accommodations are available at a gurdwara or a hotel. The following day, a 6-kilometer (3.7-mile) stone-paved path leads to the revered Hemkund Sahib.

4. Auli

Auli, situated in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district, is a renowned hill station and ski resort celebrated for its snow-clad slopes, mesmerizing views of the Himalayan peaks, and the elusive Brahma Kamal flower. Referred to as Auli Bugyal, translating to “meadow” in Garhwali, the region is accessible by road or ropeway from Joshimath, a mere 16 kilometers away. This destination is a hub for skiing enthusiasts, trekkers, campers, and nature enthusiasts alike, offering a plethora of activities and sights to explore. Nearby attractions include Gorson Bugyal, Chenab Lake, Vridh Badri Temple, and Hemkund Sahib. Auli plays host to various skiing festivals and championships, including the prestigious National Winter Games of India. Auli is the perfect blend of natural beauty and adventure, offering visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the splendor of nature while indulging in thrilling adventures.

5. Joshimath

Joshimath, known as Jyotirmath, is a town and municipal board nestled in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district, India. It holds significance as one of the four cardinal pīthas established by Adi Shankara, the revered founder of the Advaita Vedanta school of Hindu philosophy. Situated at an altitude of 6,150 feet (1,875 m), Joshimath is the gateway to numerous Himalayan mountain climbing expeditions, trekking trails, and pilgrimage centers such as Badrinath. Perched at the confluence of the Alaknanda and Dhauliganga rivers at Vishnuprayag, Joshimath boasts an array of temples and shrines dedicated to various Hindu deities including Narasimha, Ganesha, Hanuman, Gaurishankar, and Surya. It serves as the winter abode of Lord Badri. oshimath is not only a place of spiritual importance but also a popular hill station and ski resort. Its proximity to Auli, renowned for hosting several skiing festivals and championships, adds to its charm, attracting visitors seeking both adventure and serenity.

6. Bhavishya Badri

special place among pilgrims. Situated in Subhain village in Chamoli district, this sacred shrine sits at an altitude of 2,744 meters (9,003 feet) above sea level. Legend has it that Bhavishya Badri will become the future abode of Badrinath when the current shrine becomes inaccessible due to a predicted landslide at the end of Kalyug. The temple houses a quadrangular idol of Lord Vishnu, believed to grow year by year. To reach Bhavishya Badri, pilgrims embark on a 6-kilometer (3.7 miles) trek from Saldhar, which is 17 kilometers (10.6 miles) from Joshimath. The trek meanders through dense forests and along the picturesque Dhauliganga river, offering mesmerizing views of the Himalayas. Bhavishya Badri is not only a place of spiritual significance but also a site of natural beauty, enchanting devotees of Lord Vishnu with its serene surroundings.

7. Gopeshwar

Gopeshwar, nestled in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district, serves as a tranquil town and the administrative hub of the region. Resting at an elevation of 1,550 meters (5,090 feet), Gopeshwar is embraced by majestic mountains, terraced farms, and serene lakes. The town is renowned for its ancient Lord Shiva temple, drawing numerous devotees each year. Gopeshwar also serves as a gateway to various tourist and religious destinations like Auli, Hemkund Sahib, Badrinath, and Bhavishya Badri. Despite its pleasant climate for most of the year, Gopeshwar experiences chilly winters. Nonetheless, it remains a serene retreat where visitors can bask in the natural splendor and spiritual ambiance of the Garhwal hills.

8. Adi Badri

Adi Badri, situated in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district, is a cluster of ancient temples steeped in history and spirituality. As one of the five revered shrines dedicated to Lord Vishnu, known as the Panch Badri, Adi Badri holds immense significance. Legend has it that Adi Badri was the original abode of Lord Vishnu in ancient times before he relocated to Badrinath in the present age. Constructed between the 8th and 12th centuries by Adi Shankara, the temples boast intricate architecture and historical significance. The primary temple houses a black stone idol of Lord Vishnu, believed to undergo annual growth. Adi Badri’s allure extends beyond its spiritual ambiance, as it is nestled amidst natural beauty, offering a serene retreat for devotees and visitors alike.

9. Gurudwara Hemkund Sahib

Gurudwara Hemkund Sahib, located in Chamoli district, Uttarakhand, India, is a revered Sikh shrine dedicated to Guru Gobind Singh. Situated at an altitude of 4,572 meters (15,000 feet), near a glacial lake surrounded by seven mountain peaks, it offers a serene and spiritual ambiance. The lake, also known as Lokpal Lake or Hemkund Lake, is named “a bowl of snow” in Sanskrit. The gurudwara is accessible only from May to October due to snow covering the path for the rest of the year. Pilgrims trek approximately 15 kilometers (9.3 miles) from Govindghat to reach the gurudwara, passing through breathtaking scenery. En route, they can also explore the Valley of Flowers, a national park renowned for its diverse flora and fauna.

10. Vasudhara Falls

Vasudhara Falls, a picturesque waterfall near Badrinath in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district, India, is a captivating sight to behold. Located approximately 9 kilometers from Badrinath, the journey involves a 3-kilometer drive followed by a 6-kilometer trek. Cascading from a height of 400 feet (122 meters), the waterfall creates a mesmerizing spectacle against the backdrop of snowy peaks and glaciers. This enchanting waterfall is a favorite among pilgrims and nature enthusiasts alike, offering stunning views and a rejuvenating mist of water.

11. Tapt Kund

Tapt Kund, a natural hot water spring near the Badrinath temple in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district, India, holds profound significance for Hindus. Believed to possess healing properties, it is revered as sacred. Pilgrims traditionally bathe in the spring before entering the temple to pay homage to Lord Vishnu. The water in Tapt Kund maintains a temperature of around 45 degrees Celsius, even when the surroundings are freezing. Legend has it that the spring is the dwelling place of Agni, the god of fire, and is intertwined with the epic tale of the Pandavas from the Mahabharata. To reach Tapt Kund, travelers can take the road from Rishikesh to Badrinath via NH-58. The spring is situated just before the entrance to the Badrinath temple, on the right bank of the Alaknanda river.

12. Nanda Devi National Park

Nanda Devi National Park, UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, nestled in the Himalayas, is a captivating wilderness area where nature and culture harmoniously coexist. The park boasts a glacial basin encircled by snow-capped peaks, including the iconic Nanda Devi, India’s highest mountain entirely within its borders. This sanctuary is a sanctuary for wildlife, housing numerous rare and endangered species such as the elusive snow leopard, the Himalayan black bear, the Himalayan tahr, and the vibrant Himalayan monal. The park is also renowned for its floral diversity, showcasing over 300 species of alpine plants, many of which are exclusive to the region. Beyond its natural allure, the park holds immense cultural significance, revered by locals who worship Nanda Devi as the goddess of bliss and prosperity.

Timings: Open from 7 AM to 5 PM, with the last entry at 2 PM.

Entry fees: is 150 rupees for Indians and 600 rupees for foreigners for three days.

13. Bheem Pul

Bheem Pul is a natural stone bridge across the Saraswati River in Mana Village, near Badrinath in Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, India. remarkable and historically rich site in the Himalayan region, where a massive boulder acts as a natural bridge over the tumultuous Saraswati River. Legend has it that Bheem, the mighty Pandava brother, lifted the rock and placed it over the river to aid his wife Draupadi in crossing. She was unable to jump across the river, thus, Bheem created a passage for her. This natural bridge is located in Mana Village, the final Indian settlement on the Indo-Tibetan border, and is a short walk from the Badrinath temple. Adjacent to the bridge lies the Vyas Cave, where the revered sage Vyas is said to have recited the Mahabharata, the epic that chronicles the Pandavas’ saga and their journey to heaven. Bheem Pul is not only a place of scenic allure but also holds immense cultural significance, offering visitors the chance to marvel at nature’s wonders and delve into the realms of mythology.

14. Ropeway from Joshimath to Auli

The Joshimath to Auli ropeway is an impressive cable car system that links these two towns in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district, India. Among the longest and highest in Asia, it spans 4.15 kilometers and ascends 1110 meters. Passengers are treated to breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks, including Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Kamet, during the journey. Operated by Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam Ltd. (GMVN), a government entity, the ropeway is presently closed due to land subsidence in the Auli-Joshimath region, resulting in damage to some of the towers. Reconstruction efforts, including the realignment and construction of all towers, are expected to be time-consuming. Consequently, the ropeway will remain non-operational until these restoration works are completed. Alternatively, visitors can reach Auli from Joshimath, approximately 16 kilometers away, by road. Auli is renowned for its skiing and paragliding opportunities, as well as its picturesque artificial lake.

Timings: Open from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm (with an extension to 6:30 pm during peak periods).

Entry fees: Rs. 1000 per person for a round trip.

15. Brahma Kapal

Brahma Kapal, a revered site in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district, India, holds immense spiritual significance. Located on the banks of the Alaknanda river near the Badrinath temple, it is believed to be the spot where Lord Brahma conducted penance using his skull. Legend has it that Lord Shiva severed Brahma’s fifth head, and it fell at this very location. Devotees flock to Brahma Kapal to perform rituals and offerings for their ancestors, including Pind Daan and Tarpan. It is believed that conducting these ceremonies at Brahma Kapal can liberate the souls of the departed from the cycle of rebirth, granting them salvation.

16. Kedarnath Temple

The Kedarnath Temple, a revered Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, stands in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district, India. It holds a significant place among the twelve Jyotirlingas of Shiva and is one of the prominent sites in the Chota Char Dham pilgrimage circuit. Perched on the Garhwal Himalayan range near the Mandakini river, the temple sits at an altitude of 3,583 meters. It is not directly accessible by road; pilgrims must undertake a challenging 22-kilometer uphill trek from Gaurikund to reach it. The temple opens to the public between April and November, with the idol being relocated to Ukhimath for winter worship due to extreme weather conditions. According to legend, the Pandavas constructed the temple to seek Shiva’s blessings for redemption after the Kurukshetra war. Featuring exquisite architecture constructed from large grey stone slabs, the temple houses a conical rock formation worshipped as Shiva in his Sadashiva form.

Timings: The temple closes 3 PM and opens again at 4 PM.

These are some places to visit in Chamoli. Hope you liked it. Have a safe journey!

How To Reach Chamoli

1. By Air:
   • The nearest airport to Chamoli is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, approximately 222 kilometers away. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Chamoli.
2. By Road:
   • Chamoli is well-connected by roads to major cities like Delhi, Dehradun, and Rishikesh. State-run buses and private taxis are available from these cities to Chamoli.
   • Book A Cab: you can book a cab from our website along with a customized itinerary or can hire just a cab for your next trip. So just do hurry. Call Us On:- +911223577273
3. By Train:
   • The nearest railway station to Chamoli is Rishikesh Railway Station, about 202 kilometers away. From Rishikesh, you can take a taxi or bus to Chamoli.

Chamoli Weather & Temperature

Chamoli experiences varying weather throughout the year. Summers (March to June) are pleasant with temperatures between 15°C to 30°C, ideal for outdoor activities. Monsoons (July to September) bring moderate to heavy rainfall, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. Autumn (October to November) offers cool weather, perfect for trekking. Winters (December to February) are cold with temperatures from -5°C to 15°C, ideal for snow activities. It’s advisable to check the weather forecast before visiting.

Nearby Places To Visit In Chamoli

Certainly! Here’s a table of major tourist attractions near Chamoli, Uttarakhand, along with their distance from Chamoli:

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