Badrinath and Kedarnath are two of the most important pilgrimage sites in India that attract pilgrims, devotees as well as adventure seekers from across the globe. Owing to its impeccable natural Himalayan beauty and serene peace it has been attracting visitors and tourists from near and far for ages now. From being a major ancient trading route to the hotspot for saints to meditate in peace, this part of Devbhoomi Uttarakhand has always been a point of interest.
Owing to its rich geographical features, it has increasingly turned into an adventure-packed spot. Adventurers, mountaineers, hikers, trekkers, and outdoor lovers have been flocking to the Badri Kedar region for years now to explore the untouched and undisturbed wilderness. Previously known only for its spiritual and religious value, the Badri Kedar region has now turned into a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure lovers as well.
Here are some of the must-visit adventure spots in the Badri Kedar regions:
Adventure Activities in Kedarnath
Trek to Deoria Tal
Perched on an elevation of about 2,400 meters above sea level, Deoria Tal is an emerald-colored lake. It is one of those rare treks that can be explored during both the summer and winter seasons. The most iconic part of the trek is the stunning reflection of the Chaukhamba Peak ranges you get to witness in the lake.
If you are in Kedarnath and are looking to explore the adventure side of this spiritually active destination, then a trek up to Deoria Tal will be just the thing for you. It is a rather easy trek that can be taken up by beginners, solo travelers as well a group of friends. On reaching the scenic lake you will be treated with unbelievably captivating sights of the mountain ranges, colorful birds collections, and a deep sense of peace.
Trek Route: Ukhimath – Dungar – Sari – Deoria Tal
Visit Triyuginarayan Temple
The holy and ancient temple of Triyuginarayan is an extremely important place of shiva and Gauri worship. The temple is built on the exact place where lord shiva and goddess Parvati were bound forever in the celestial bond of marriage. The temple kind of replicates the temple of Kedarnath and is surrounded by the rich green natural beauty of the Himalayas.
The overall trekking distance of Triyuginarayan from Kedarnath temple is just 25 km and can easily be included during your Kedarnath Dham Yatra. It can add a hint of adventure to an otherwise deeply spiritual journey on the hills of Kedarnath. The trek takes about 17 days to cover and every step of the way is truly worth it
Trek Route: Mussoorie – Tehri – Mala – Belak – Panwali Kantha – Triyuginarayan
Hike Up To Tungnath Mahadev Temple
Famous for being the highest Shiva temple in the world, a visit to Tungnath Mahadev can be a life-changing experience. The temple is peacefully adorned on the peak of Chandrashila, which is also replete with numerous historical and mythological accounts. Located on an elevation of over 3,600 meters above sea level the temple is said to be over 1,000 years old.
By road, Kedarnath is 30 km away from Tungnath but to reach the temple a simple and very safe hike up to the temple should be completed. Reaching the top of the temple will open up expansive views of the scenic surrounding snow-clad mountain peaks. The hike is just 3.5 km long, starting from Chopta, and is preferred by summer as well as winter hikers.
Hike Route: Rishikesh – Devprayag – Rudraprayag – Chopta – Tungnath – Chandrashila
Panwali Kantha Trek
Highlighting different colors of nature in different seasons, Panwali Kantha is a very nice and simple trekking route from Kedarnath Dham. From the flowery views of winter to extraordinarily surreal views of the panoramic snowy mountain peaks, the trek is a memorable one. As the altitude of this trek is not much, it can easily be explored by people who love to go out and feel closer to nature.
There are not many essential preparations to take and the snow layer is average making it a must-visit for winter trekkers. A part of this trek can also be covered during the trek from Gangotri to Kedarnath. During the monsoon season the region springs to life with colorful and lush green Bugyals.
Trek Route: Delhi – Rishikesh – Ghuttu – Panwali Kantha – Maggu Chatti – Triyuginarayan – Sonprayag
Adventure Activities in Badrinath
Trek Up To Satopanth Lake
Satopanth Lake is a crystal clear, greenish-blue lake that is triangular in shape and sits on an elevation of over 4,600 meters above sea level. The extreme nature of the trek through loose mountain rocks and uneven landscape makes it very difficult for trekkers to complete the trek. This high-altitude lake in the Chamoli district offers an extreme sense of peace and magnificent views of the Himalayan ranges.
Shrouded in mysticism and spiritual charm, the Satopanth Lake trek should be opted for by anyone looking for an adventurous kick during their Badrinath Trip. The lake is situated 25 km away from Badri Vishal and is placed on the pristine Neelkanth Peak where trekkers can relish views of other glorious peaks as well like – Balakun Peak, Kuber top, and mount Neelkanth.
Trek Route: Rishikesh – Badrinath – Laxmi Van – Chakratirth – Satopanth
Hiking Up To The Last Village Of India
Located on the Indo-Tibetan border, village Mana is a must-visit for people visiting Badrinath. Located just a couple of minutes away, visiting Mana Village can be a way of adding some adventure vibes to an otherwise spiritual trip. Popularly dubbed as the tourism village by the Uttarakhand government, it is undoubtedly one of the most interesting and scenic locations around Badrinath.
The village is located right on the banks of the holy Saraswati River and is just 3 km away. Surrounded by the lush and scenic Himalayan hills, Mana is famous for offering interesting souvenirs like shawls, caps, Woollen clothing, mufflers, etc. sitting back and having a cup of chai in the last Indian tea stall here could be your next favorite thing to do.
Visit to Valley Of Flowers
Valley of flowers is rightfully dubbed as a heaven on earth and a bouquet of lavish and exotic flora and fauna that is strictly restricted to this area. Snuggled comfortably in the western Himalayan region of Devbhoomi Uttarakhand, the trek to this UNESCO world heritage site will take you through dense forests, several bridges, numerous glaciers, and gushing waterfalls.
Exhibiting a range of exotic Himalayan flowers, a valley of flowers trek will definitely be one of the most mind-boggling journeys you take. Rolling green meadows, a diverse selection of Himalayan flowers that cannot be found elsewhere, and a feeling of utmost peace and wonderment. The trek is kind of challenging for anyone who doesn’t trek or is into physical activities much. You will have to do a little bit of prep work before setting out on this trek.
Trek Route: Rishikesh – Joshimath – Govindghat – Ghangaria – Valley of Flowers
There are many places for travelers and tourists to explore around the Kedar Badri region if you are a curious traveler. These places will definitely incite a sense of peaceful spirituality in you.