Auli: As you travel from Joshimath to Auli, you’ll feel the continuous ascent, gaining over 1,000 metres in elevation within just 10 kilometres. From Auli, you can begin to see a range of tall, steep mountains, which are actually dry rock formations.

Auli, located at an altitude of 2,900 metres, is also surrounded by dense forests of deodar trees. If you visit Auli in winter, fresh snow will greet you. When the forests and resorts in Auli are covered with soft snow, the view is truly breathtaking.

Auli to Gorson Bugyal Trek: The 6-kilometre trek from Auli to Gorson Bugyal is a special attraction. It’s an easy trek, making it less tiring for the body while offering plenty of tranquillity. The 270-degree panoramic view of India’s highest mountain range that Auli offers is unmatched. This easy trek can be completed in 3–4 hours.

Vridha Badri: One of the most ancient temples of Uttarakhand’s Panch Badri temples, Vriddha Badri is located just 9 kilometres from Joshimath on the Chamoli route. You can visit this temple while arriving at or departing from Joshimath.

The idol of Lord Vishnu is made from Shaligram stone and considered to be very powerful. According to Hindu mythology, this was the original abode of Lord Vishnu in the Treta, Dwapara, and Satya Yugas, before the establishment of Badrinath.

Joshimath: This ancient town, nestled between rugged mountains, is the main stop on the route to Badrinath, offering clear views of Hathi Parvat, Nilgiri, and other peaks. Joshimath is a picturesque town, though incidents of land subsidence have been observed in recent years. The roads to Mana and Niti also branch out from Joshimath.

Jyotirmath: In the 8th century, Jagadguru Adi Shankaracharya established a monastery here, which continues to operate with vitality and spiritual power. The Kalpavriksha, a mulberry tree located in the monastery, is believed to be over 2,500 years old. To explore the monastery, you need to get permission from the administration.

Narasimha Temple: This ancient temple in Joshimath has been renovated but retains its original architectural style. Lord Vishnu is enshrined here in his Narasimha avatar. In the winter, when the Badrinath shrine is closed, the deity is ceremoniously shifted to this Narasimha Temple. The temple is not only a fine example of architecture but also a significant spiritual site, with the powerful presence of Lord Narasimha.

Bhavishya Badri: Located around 18 kilometres from Joshimath, the path to Bhavishya Badri begins from Ringi village. The 5-kilometre trek from Ringi is a scenic journey that can be easily completed. Passing through dense forests, with the sound of birds and sunlight filtering through the trees, it’s a captivating experience.

Bhavishya Badri is a highly revered site, believed to be the future abode of Lord Badrinath when, according to legend, the Nar and Narayan mountains will merge, and the original Badrinath shrine will no longer exist.

Vishnuprayag: In Uttarakhand’s Garhwal region, five confluences (Prayags) are considered sacred: Vishnuprayag, Nandprayag, Karnprayag, Rudraprayag, and Devprayag. Vishnuprayag is the first of these, where the Dhauli Ganga and Alaknanda rivers merge. The holy confluence of Alaknanda, which flows from Mana, and Dhauli Ganga, which flows from Niti, is a deeply spiritual sight.

Pangarchulla Peak: If you enjoy trekking, the Pangarchulla Peak trek near Auli is a fantastic option. This 7-day trek covers around 45 kilometres, passing through the Kuari Pass and leading to Pangarchulla Peak.

The trek takes you through lush meadows, forests, and snowfields, making it a perfect choice for refreshing your mind and spirit. The Pangarchulla Peak trek should be undertaken with a professional trekking agency.