Joshimath

Joshimath is a quaint hill town nestled amid the lap of snow-capped Himalayas in the state of Uttarakhand. This valley is mesmerizingly beautiful surrounded on all sides by picturesque views. If a good trekking trail is your calling, the Valley of Flowers Trek is close to Joshimath.

Perched at an altitude of 6000 ft, this enchanting town also exhibits the spiritual vibes that can be felt at several ancient temples. In fact, Joshimath serves as a significant religious center for Hindu pilgrims and lies in the close proximity to one of the four 'maths' founded by Adi Guru Shri Shankaracharya in 8th century namely Badrinath. This 'math' dedicated to the holy text of Hindus called Atharva Veda. Joshimath also boasts of salubrious weather throughout the year oozing tranquility away from the hustle bustle of cities. The clouds flirting with the hilltop, a verdant cover of lush green, winding rivers and streams and the mystique of several ancient temple dotted in the area will make sure of a luring you back again and again.

How to reach Joshimath

Joshimath by Air The nearest airbase to Joshimath is Jolly Grant Airport at Dehradun which is located around 270 km away from the town. The airport is well connected to Delhi via regular flights. Taxis are easily available outside the airport till Joshimath. Nearest Airport: Dehradun - 149 kms from Joshimath

Joshimath by railways
Rishikesh serves as the nearest railway station to Joshimath about 250 km away on NH-58. This railways station connects the city to several major cities of India via regular train services. You can hire a taxi or even a bus from the town of Rishikesh.

Joshimath by Road
Situated on the NH58, Joshimath is connected to its several neighbouring cities as well as other major cities in the country via a well-maintained network of roads. There are several private as well as state owned buses that ply to and fro to Joshimath from cities like Pauri, Karnaprayag, Srinagar, Chamoli, Rishikesh, Rudraprayag, Ukhimath, etc. To travel till Rishikesh, there are buses that run from ISBT Kashmiri Gate on a regular basis.

Commuting Within Joshimath
Joshimath is a small town where one can feel its spirit and feel its aura by best travelling on foot. However, for travelling in and around the town, taxi or private cars are the best option. They are very convenient and comfortable considering the rocky terrain of the area. But before visiting make sure you check the weather condition prevailing in the region and avoid travelling during monsoon and winters owing to heavy rainfall and snowfall respectively.

Best Time to Visit Joshimath
Summer (April - June) This is the most advisable time for a trip to Joshimath. The area is pleasant for a visit at this time, with temperatures rarely going beyond 25 degrees Celcius. This is the only time when the site is open for travelling, whether to Joshimath or the wonders connected to the same.

Monsoon (July - September) The monsoon season ushers the possibility of heavy downpour in Joshimath. The night gets chilly, and the climate conditions sometimes make it difficult to travel.

Winter (December - February) This is the least ideal time for a visit to the site, owing to the harsh and freezing winters, which can drop to as low as -15°C, regarding temperature, due to which the roads are closed for most of the time in this season.

Local Food and Cuisine of Joshimath
Joshimath serves predominantly North Indian cuisine at several dhabas and restaurants. You will also find few places offering South Indian delicacies as well. However, there are very few restaurants that serve Chinese and Continental food.

Places to visit in Joshimath
Ghangaria
Perched high in the mountains of Himalayas, Ghangaria is a place of dreams and breathtaking scenery. It serves as the starting point for the trek to Valley of Flowers for many trekkers as well for pilgrims to Hemkund Sahib. Situated at an altitude of 3000 meters in the middle of the Western Himalayas, Ghangaria is a stunning village with amazing natural landscape and aura.
The village is peaceful settlement of people who have been living here for centuries in harmony with their surroundings braving the harsh weather conditions with aplomb. Being at Ghangaria you can totally cut yourself from the hectic lifestyle of the city and rejuvenate your senses and soul. Ghangaria is a place for adventure junkies and those who seek to explore the uncharted beauty of the Himalayan landscape.

Ropeway
This ropeway is another prime attraction of the town which is regarded as the longest ropeway in Asia towards Auli. The services are open only during summers offering a captivating view of snow clad Himalayas and cost more that Rs. 500.

Nanda Devi National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Nanda Devi National Park is one of the most bio-diverse regions in the world. The national park is a place for trekking and exploring and finding yourself closer to the natural treasures of the state. The national park was set up to protect and conserve the exotic flora and fauna of the Nanda Devi region, and is considered to be one of the most important ecological hotspots of the world.
The national park whose altitude ranges from 2000 meters to 6500 meters is a blessing of nature and is the most stunning place in all of Western Himalayas. Established in 1982 to protect the rich biodiversity of the place, the national park was conferred with the honor of being the UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988. The national park is an adventure enthusiasts' dream with exciting and challenging trekking and hiking opportunities. Nanda Devi National Park is a great place to be at and see for oneself the wonder that is nature.

Tapovan
Located in the picturesque state of Uttaranchal, Tapovan is a destination most famous for its hot springs. It is believed that these springs have medicinal properties and are believed to cure skin diseases. This destination also offers fabulous views of peaks such as Nanda Devi and Dronagiri Chaukumbha and is also a gateway to many other popular tourist destinations such as Badrinath and Valley of Flowers. The spring is located at a proper height and is also suitable for bathing purposes.
Perhaps what makes this destination a favorite among tourists is its hot springs. Trickling down from the crevices of the yellow rocks, the temperature of the water here can reach up to 100-degrees Celcius.
What adds another aspect to the beauty of this destination is the presence of scenic landscapes all around. Ranging from plunging valleys to lush mountains and hills, this destination is a beautiful landscape. This place is also surrounded by a few villages and farmlands, where you can have a first-hand experience of the rural life here.

Kalpavriksha
Kalpavriksha is a holy tree located in Joshimath, Uttarakhand. Believed to be around 1200 years old, this mulberry tree is a site of pilgrimage owing to the rich history associated with it. According to Hindu scriptures, Lord Shankaracharya worshiped Lord Shiva under this tree. The Jyoteshwar Mahadev Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is built under this tree itself.
The Kalpavriksha is perhaps one of the oldest trees in the history of the nation, and it is believed that this tree grants the wishes of all its devotees. A temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is built right under the tree, within the perimeter of a 21.5-meter circumference. The temple is quite simple and charming in its construction. Devotees can also pay a visit to the cave where Shankaracharya resided during the ancient times.

Narsingh Temple
Beloved to be home to Lord Badrinath, the presiding deity of Narsingh Temple is Lord Narsingh. Lord Narsingh is regarded as an incarnation of Lord Vishnu and the idol is said to be installed in the premises by Shankaracharya.

Govindghat
Govindghat is a religious hub for Sikh devotees lying nestled on the banks of the River Alaknanada around 19 km from Joshimath. The prime attraction of the place is the Hemkund Sahib, the name being a combination of two words meaning 'lake of snow' and the water in the lake is actually quite chilling.
This shrine is believed to be the place of meditation of Guru Gobind Singh. One will find a gurudwara and a temple situated here. The presiding deity of the temple is Lord Lakshman, younger brother of Lord Rama. The place also offers some beautiful trekking trails as well.

Vishnuprayag
The first of the famous Panch Prayags, Vishnuprayag is a wonderful place where River Alaknanda meets River Dhauliganga. The place is also home to many ashrams and the Vishnuprayag Temple while also being a great place for river rafting. The place is riveting with ferocious rivers, greenery, mountains and wildlife making it a perfect place for some soul searching and relaxation.
One of the Panch Prayags located at an altitude of 1400 meters Vishnuprayag is a natural marvel of the highest order. The temple town is famous for being the meeting point of River Alaknanda and Dhauliganga one of the five tributaries of River Ganga. Named after Lord Vishnu who according one legend appeared on this very spot to bless Rishimuni Narad, Vishnuprayag is heavenly in its appearance. The beautiful town is tucked between the mighty Himalayan Mountains and is a perfect place for the adventure seekers out there to have fun. The place is great for trekking and White Water River rafting which is a popular adventure sport in the state.

Bagini Glacier
Ascending in between in the thick rows of rare species of alpine flowers, the serene atmosphere of the trail, the unpolluted fresh and crisp air and crystal clear water of the rivers, is everything a trekker usually dreams of and desires in his trail.
Bagini Glacier trek is situated in the Garhwal Himalayas. Located at the altitude of 14816 feet from sea level, it provides the glorious views of lovely snow capped Dunagiri peak, Changa Banga peak and Kalanka peak.

Food Availability
Dhaba food is available up along the way. You can pack essential food for the rest of the climb.

Camping/Shelter
Guest houses are available at all destinations. Camping can also be adopted by trekkers on the trek because of the natural beauty that it boasts of.

Water Availability
Water is available in the guest houses along the way. It is advisable to stock up in reasonable quantities whenever a refilling option is available.

Kagbhusandi Tal - Kankul Pass Trek
Nestled in the lap of Hathi Parvat (6730 m) of Gharwal Himalayas in Chamoli District, the Kagbhusandi Tal is a beautiful oblong lake adorned with emerald green waters. Perched at an altitude of 5,230 m near Kankul Pass, the lake is about one kilometer long decorated by plethora of wildflowers in their full bloom during the season.
The trail of this amazing trek initiates along the famous Valley of Flowers, veering off to east of Bhyunder Village. It veers through several terrains from dense and colourful forest of pine and maple to pristine glaciers and gushing streams making this trek a fascinating experience. Apart from the splendid lake, the other attraction of the trek are two huge rocks on a projection of Hathi Parvat often described as crow (Kaga) and an Eagle (Garuda). Several folk tales are attached to the rocks, one of them believed by the locals is an animated conversation is carried between crow and Garuda on the affairs of the universe. There are few more myths, according to one of it a learned Brahmin of Ayodhya after incurring the wrath of the sage Lomas was transformed into a crow by the sage. Several such mystic stories make this trek all the more fascinating. Blessed with beauty in full bounty, these yet to explored trails are perfect for those seeking peace and isolation from the city's hustle bustle.

Water Availability
Carry your own water as well during the trek.

Camping/Shelter
Since you are on a trekking trip, you will be carrying your own camping tents.

Food Availability
You will not find any place to eat while on the trek. So make sure to carry your own food with you.

Gari Bhavani Temple
A temple known for its admiring architecture, Gari Bhavani Temple is situated around 6 km from the town en route Rishikesh Highway.