Pandukeshwar Yogadhyan Badri, Uttarakhand

Address

Pandukeshwar Yogadhyan Badri – Uttarakhand

Pandukeshwar,

Uttarakhand 246443

Moolavar

Lord Vishnu

Introduction

Yogadhyan Badri, also known as Yoga Badri, is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Located in Pandukeshwar, at an elevation of 1,829 meters (6,001 feet) in the state of Uttarakhand, India, this temple is a significant part of the sacred pilgrimage circuit in the region. Yogadhyan Badri is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and enshrines an idol of Lord Vishnu in a meditative posture. The name “Yogadhyan” refers to this meditative state.

The temple is situated in Pandukeshwar, near Govind Ghat, and is en route to the revered Badrinath Temple from Joshimath.
Pandukeshwar is in close proximity to the town of Hanuman Chatti

Puranic Significance

Ancient Heritage:

Yogadhyan Badri is believed to be approximately 1,500 years old and holds historical significance in the region.
Copper plate inscriptions found in the area suggest that it was ruled by early Katyuri Kings and was known as Panchal Desh. It is now officially designated as Uttarakhand.
One of the inscriptions commemorates a land grant by King Nimbarana in the region.

Idol and Worship:

The sanctum of Yogadhyan Badri houses a life-sized idol of Lord Vishnu, carved from Shaligram stone. The idol is depicted in a meditative posture, signifying “Yoga Dhyan” or meditation.
In addition to the main idol of Lord Vishnu, images of Udhava, Kuber, and Lord Vishnu are also worshipped in the temple.

Suryakund and Kunti’s Birthplace:

Suryakund, a hot water spring located on top of the Milam Glacier, is another historic site in the vicinity.
It is believed to be the place where Kunti, the mother of the Pandavas, gave birth to her son Karna, who was fathered by the sun-god Surya.

Winter Abode for Badrinath Utsava-Murti:

Yogadhyan Badri is considered the winter abode for the Utsava-Murti (festival-image) of Badrinath. When the main Badrinath Temple is closed for the winter season, the Utsava-Murti is brought to Yogadhyan Badri.
This practice is an integral part of the temple’s tradition, ensuring that the sacred worship continues throughout the year.