On the bank of which of the following rivers is Sri Badrinath situateḍ?

The correct answer is Alakananda.

Key Points

• Sri Badrinath is located on the banks of the Alakananda River in the Indian state of Uttarakhand.
• The Alakananda is one of the two headstreams of the Ganges, the other being the Bhagirathi.
• Badrinath is part of the Char Dham pilgrimage, which also includes Kedarnath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri.
• The Badrinath temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is one of the most significant temples in Hinduism.
• The town of Badrinath is situated at an elevation of approximately 3,300 meters (10,827 feet) above sea level.

Additional Information

• Alakananda River
  • The Alakananda River is one of the main tributaries of the Ganges River.
  • It originates in the Satopanth Glacier near the Nanda Devi peak.
  • The confluence of Alakananda and Bhagirathi at Devprayag is considered the point where the Ganges River officially begins.
  • The river flows through the districts of Chamoli, Rudraprayag, and Pauri Garhwal.
  • It has significant religious importance and is a part of many pilgrimage routes.
• Badrinath Temple
  • The Badrinath Temple is one of the 108 Divya Desams dedicated to Vishnu.
  • It is believed to be established by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century.
  • The temple remains closed for six months each year due to harsh weather conditions.
  • The main deity worshipped in the temple is Lord Badrinarayan, depicted in a meditative posture.
  • The temple’s architecture is typical of North Indian style with a tall, conical shape.
• Char Dham
  • The Char Dham refers to four sacred sites: Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri.
  • These sites are located in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand.
  • The pilgrimage is considered highly sacred by Hindus and is believed to wash away sins.
  • The journey to these sites is challenging due to their high altitudes and remote locations.
  • The Char Dham Yatra typically starts from Yamunotri, proceeding to Gangotri, Kedarnath, and finally Badrinath.