Panch Badri refers to a group of five sacred temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu, located in the picturesque state of Uttarakhand, India. Each of these temples holds immense religious significance and is part of the Char Dham pilgrimage circuit. Here is a brief description of each of the Panch Badri temples:
Badrinath Temple:
- Situated in the town of Badrinath, it is the most famous and revered of the Panch Badri temples.
- Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, it is one of the 108 Divya Desams, considered one of the holiest abodes of Vishnu.
- The temple's idol is in a meditative pose, made of black stone and adorned with intricate ornaments.
Yogadhyan Badri:
- Located in Pandukeshwar, this temple is associated with the Pandavas of the Mahabharata.
- The idol of Vishnu in a meditative posture is believed to have been worshipped by King Pandu, the father of the Pandavas.
Bhavishya Badri:
- Situated in Subain village, this temple is associated with a prophecy about the future.
- It is believed that when conditions worsen in the world, worship at this temple will be the only way to attain salvation.
Vridha Badri:
- Located in Animath village, this temple is associated with the age-old belief of the divine power of Vishnu.
- It is believed that when the main Badrinath Temple is closed during winter, the idol of Badrinath is brought here for worship.
Adi Badri:
- A complex of 16 temples located near Karnaprayag, this site is considered the earliest known Vishnu temples in the region.
- The temples date back to the Gupta Empire and have beautifully carved idols of Lord Vishnu.
The Panch Badri temples collectively form an important part of the Char Dham pilgrimage, offering devotees a journey of faith, spirituality, and a deep connection to Lord Vishnu and Hindu mythology. Each temple holds its unique legend and architectural beauty, attracting pilgrims and tourists alike to this sacred land of Uttarakhand.