Badrinath Temple, also known as Badrinarayan Temple, stands as an eminent Chardham Temple, nestled in the picturesque town of Badrinath. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, this sacred site attracts pilgrims and devotees from far and wide. It is also considered one of the holiest temples of Hindus. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the temple’s timings, rituals, and the convenience of online booking, providing a thorough understanding of the spiritual experience that awaits visitors.
- Entry Fee: There is no entry fee for general Darshan.
Timings of Badrinath Temple
The temple is open for pilgrims for six months each year, from April-May to October-November. The exact day of opening is determined on the auspicious occasion of Basant Panchami, usually falling in February-March, guided by astrological configurations.
Morning Timings:
- 4:30 am – 8:30 am: Maha Abhishek and Abhishek Puja
- 7:00 am – 8:00 am: Temple open for general public Darshan
- 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm: Afternoon recess (temple closed)
Evening Timings:
- 4:00 pm – 9:00 pm: Temple open for general public Darshan
- 8:30 pm – 9:00 pm: Shayan Aarti
- 9:00 pm: Temple closes
Note: The daily rituals commence with the divine Maha Abhishek and Abhishek Puja at 4:30 am, and the temple doors close after the enchanting Geet Govind song at 9:00 pm.
- Suggested to Read: Badrinath Opening and Closing Dates for 2024
Rituals Inside Badrinath Temple
- Sanctum Sanctorum (Garbhagriha)
The temple is divided into three significant parts. The sanctum sanctorum, or Garbhagriha, houses Lord Badari Narayan, along with Kuber (God of wealth), Narad Rishi, Udhava, Nar, and Narayan. The intricately carved black stone image of Lord Badrinath, discovered by Adi Shankara, is a major highlight.
- Darshan Mandap
Lord Badari Narayan is beautifully depicted armed with a conch and chakra in a lifted posture, surrounded by divine entities such as Kuber, Garuda, Narad, Narayan, and others. Devotees can witness these sacred rituals in the Darshan Mandap.
- Sabha Mandap
The Sabha Mandap serves as a congregational space within the temple complex, providing a serene environment for devotees to assemble and participate in collective prayers.
- Pujas and Rituals
The daily pujas are an integral part of the spiritual ambiance at Badrinath Temple. Special pujas, including Mahabhishek, Adhishek, Gitapath, Bhagwat Path, Geet Govind, and Aarti, are performed. Unlike many Hindu temples, all pujas, including the decoration of idols, are conducted in the presence of devotees.
Online Booking for Badrinath Temple
Pilgrims can ensure their participation in the sacred ceremonies held in Badrinath Temple with the convenience of online booking by following a straightforward process:
- Holy Dip in Tapta Kund
Before booking any puja online, Devotees must take a holy dip in Tapt Kund This purifying ritual is a prerequisite for engaging in the spiritual offerings of the temple.
- Selection of Pujas
Pilgrims can choose from a variety of pujas available for online booking. These include Maha Abhishek, Abhishek Puja, Geeta Path, Ved Path, Shrimad Bhagwat Saptah Path, Swarna Aarti, Vishnu Sahasranamam Path, Kapoor Aarti, and Shayan Aarti.
- Rates and Payment
Each puja has its specified rates for a single devotee. Pilgrims can view the rates and make secure online payments, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
- Booking Confirmation
Pilgrims will receive a confirmation of their chosen puja after successful booking and payment. The confirmation serves as an entry pass for the devotee to participate in the selected ritual at the designated time.
Pujas and Rates at Badrinath Temple: (Rates for a Single Devotee)
Time | Pujas | Rates |
4:30 PM to 6:30 AM | Maha Abhishek Abhishek Puja | INR 4300 INR 4101 |
6:30 AM to 12:00 PM & 3:00 PM | Geeta Path Ved Path | INR 2500 INR 2100 |
Badrinath Special Puja and Rates
Special pujas | Rates |
Shrimad Bhagwat Saptah Path | Â INR 35101 |
Entire Pujas of a Day | INR 11700 |
Swaran Aarti | INR 376 |
Vishnu Sahasranamam Path | INR 456 |
Kapoor Aarti | INR 151 |
Shayan Aarti | INR 3100 |
Daily or Periodical Puja/Bhog & Akhand Jyoti
Daily or Periodical Puja/Bhog & Akhand Jyoti | Rates |
Akhand Jyoti Annual | INR 4951 |
Ghrit Kambal Ghee on closing day | INR 4951 |
Ghee for Deepak on closing day | INR 3511 |
Akhand Jyoti One day | INR 1451 |
Puja on Special Occasions and Rates
Special Occasions Puja | Rates |
Bhagwan Nar-Narayan Janmotsav (Shravan Month) | INR 4951 |
Shivani Abhishek (Shravan Month) | INR 11701 |
Shri Krishna Janmashtami Utsav | INR 10551 |
Management and Administration
- Administrators – Rawal Ji
The administration of Badrinath Temple is overseen by the Pujari, known as Rawal Ji. Rawal Ji is well-versed in puja ceremonials and Sanskrit language and belongs to a Kerala Brahmin family. The Rawal is an essential figure in ensuring the smooth conduct of rituals and administration within the temple premises.
- Photography Restrictions
While the temple welcomes devotees to witness the sacred rituals, photography is strictly prohibited inside the temple. This restriction aims to preserve the sanctity of the spiritual atmosphere.
Festivals Celebrated at Badrinath Temple
- Mata Murti ka Mela
Mata Murti ka Mela is celebrated in September at Badrinath Temple premises on the eve of Shravan Dwadasi or Vaman Dwadashi. This festival signifies the arrival of the Ganga on Earth from heaven, with Mata Murti, the mother of Badrinath, dividing the river into 12 sections for the welfare of humans.
- Badri-Kedar Festival
Badri Kedar Festival is celebrated in June by the Uttarakhand government lasting for 8 days. Artists from across India gather to showcase their talents, adding a cultural dimension to the spiritual celebration.
Conclusion
Whether participating in the daily pujas, witnessing the enchanting Aarti, or immersing in the grand festivals, every moment at Badrinath Temple is an opportunity for spiritual elevation and connection with the divine. Badrinath Temple, with its rich rituals, spiritual significance, and online booking options, offers a profound experience for pilgrims seeking divine blessings.