Altitude: 1,890 meters (6,200 feet)
Best Time to Visit: April to November for pilgrimages and trekking; December to February for snow and Auli access
Festivals: Narsingh Temple Winter Festival, Badri-Kedar Utsav, various local religious events
Famous For: Gateway to Badrinath, base for Auli and Valley of Flowers, Adi Shankaracharya Math, Narsingh Temple, Kalpavriksha (ancient tree)
Entry Fee: Most temples and spiritual sites are free; Auli ropeway or guided treks may have charges
Overview:
Joshimath, perched in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, is a sacred town and a vital base for pilgrims heading to Badrinath, Auli, and the Valley of Flowers. It holds deep spiritual significance as the winter seat of Lord Badrinath and the site of the ancient Adi Shankaracharya Math. Surrounded by majestic Himalayan peaks, Joshimath offers a serene atmosphere, ancient temples, and access to thrilling mountain adventures. Whether you’re on a pilgrimage or a trekker exploring the highlands, Joshimath promises a blend of divinity and raw natural beauty.