Are you someone, who has been dreaming of visiting Badrinath for many years? Reaching this holiest pilgrimage site in India is no less than a blessing, especially for the disciple of Lord Vishnu. Badrinath trip is a dream for many not only in India but also in foreign. The overall experience of your journey depends on the timing you choose for your visit.
Always remember that there is a difference between a soul-stirring journey and a stressful trip that lies in the time you choose to visit. Badrinath is not only a sacred shrine located in the Garhwal hills of Uttarakhand but it is a destination that attracts people on an emotional level. If you are planning your journey to this shrine, it is important to be smart about the time you choose as the temple is located at a high altitude where weather is quite unpredictable.
Let’s dive into the guide to pick the best time for your visit and make your pilgrimage truly unforgettable.
Why Timing Matters?
When you journey to high altitudes, keep in mind that good planning is equal to a blissful journey and poor planning leads to battling nature. Immediately pause if you think that you can visit this shrine at any time of the year.
The temple remains accessible for a few months only due to harsh weather and heavy rainfalls. If you still think you can go anytime when it opens, you are wrong because you may experience the following:
- Roadblocks due to heavy rain or snowfalls
- Extremely cold weather
- Difficulty finding transportation and accommodations
- Risk of altitude sickness
Understand the Climate Before You Visit
Badrinath has unique weather patterns that change due to its high altitude. Winter is harsh when the temperature goes down to minus while summer offers some respite with pleasant cool days. Monsoon brings heavy rainfalls and challenges for the visitors.
Here’s the breakdown of what temperature range you can expect across different weathers:
Summer Season:
These months mark the arrival of pleasant weather after months of snow when the surroundings are lush and the vibes are spiritually high.
- Months: March to June
- Temperature: Ranges between 7°C and 18°C.
Monsoon Season:
Monsoon arrives with heavy rainfalls and the risk of landslides. However, you can see the nature at its best during this time.
- Months: July to September
- Temperature: Ranges between 5°C and 15°C.
Winter Season:
Winter experiences heavy snowfall when the temperature plunges below zero. However, you can visit during the month of October or mid-November.
- Months: Visit from October to Early November. Remains closed from mid-November to late March.
- Temperature: Temperature ranges between 5°C and 15°C during October and November but drops below zero during December to February.
Quick Weather Snapshot
| Month | Temperature Range | Travel Advisory |
| April – June | 7°C to 18°C | Ideal, Festive |
| July – August | 10°C to 20°C | Risky (Monsoon) |
| September – October | 5°C to 15°C | Calm, serene |
| November – March | -10°C to 10°C | Inaccessible |
Best Time to Visit
If you want to know the ideal window to visit the shrine, then below mentioned information can help you:
The Ideal Windows:
- April to June
- September to October
Have a look at the breakdown of the ideal time:
Summer Months from April to June:
- Why visit: The temple reopens in April with a grand ceremony and the surroundings are lush and vibrant.
- Temperature: Ranges from 7°C to 18°C
- Pros: You’ll be part of the opening ceremony.
- Cons: Peak season, Crowded, and expensive accommodations.
Winter Months from September to October:
- Why visit: The monsoon is over and the skies are clear. The surroundings look freshly washed.
- Temperature: Ranges from 5°C to 15°C
- Pros: Fewer crowds, calm, serene, and more pleasant spiritual experience.
- Cons: The temple closes by late October/early November (Don’t plan too late).
When You Should Avoid Visiting
Everyone wants to have a peaceful and blissful travel experience. If you want to have a once-in-a-lifetime experience, ensure you avoid visiting during the time as mentioned below:
Monsoon Season: July to August
Reasons Why Not to Visit
- Heavy rainfall
- Landslides
- Mudslides, and overflowing rivers
- Roadblocks
Winter Season : November to March
Reasons Why Not to Visit:
- Temple remains closed
- Heavy snowfall
- Routes are blocked
- Temperatures can fall below -10°C.
Travel Tips for Smooth Experience
Need a few tips to get the most out of your experience at Badrinath? Consider the following travel tips:
- Plan your trip early and book accommodations in advance to avoid last minute rush.
- Even if you are visiting in April, don’t forget to carry warm clothes.
- Keep yourself hydrated during your journey.
- Check road conditions online before you go.
- If you have heart disease, get a medical checkup before your journey.
- Bring extra medicines.
- Carry essentials like ID proof, medicines, comfortable trekking shoes, snacks, raincoats, a torch, sunscreen, and a power bank.
Planning a trip to Badrinath is not only about ticking off the destination on your bucket list. It is a transformational trip that leaves you with blissful experiences. So, it is crucial to pick the right time for your journey. What are you waiting for? Reservations are now open. Plan your journey to Badrinath and carry its blessings with you forever in life.
Frequently asked questions that help you plan your journey better:
Q-1: When does Badrinath Temple open and close every year?
Ans: Badrinath Temple usually opens in late April or early May and closes around late October or early November, depending on the Hindu calendar dates.
Q-2: Is it safe to visit Badrinath during the monsoon season?
Ans: Visiting during the monsoon (July-August) is generally not recommended. Heavy rains can cause landslides, slippery roads, and travel delays.
Q-3: What should I pack for a trip to Badrinath?
Ans: Carry warm clothes (even in summer), comfortable trekking shoes, rain gear (if traveling around monsoon), essential medicines, sunscreen, ID proof, and energy snacks.
Q-4: Can elderly people and children visit Badrinath easily?
Ans: Yes, but they should visit during May-June or September-October when the weather is moderate. It’s important to consult a doctor beforehand, especially for seniors or people with respiratory or heart issues, due to the high altitude. Also, don’t forget to book your accommodations in advance for a smoother experience.
Q-5: How to reach Badrinath from Haridwar or Dehradun?
Ans: Road conditions are generally good during the summer and early autumn months. You can take a private cab or public transport to reach Badrinath from Haridwar or Dehradun.
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