Pandukeshwar is a small and peaceful village located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, around 17 km before Badrinath on the way from Joshimath. Surrounded by beautiful mountain views, it is an important stop for pilgrims visiting Badrinath Dham. The village is known for the ancient Yog Dhyan Badri Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu in a meditative form, and is one of the sacred Panch Badri temples. Pandukeshwar also reflects the traditional lifestyle of Himalayan people, where local customs, festivals, and religious practices continue to be a part of daily life, offering visitors a glimpse into its spiritual and cultural heritage.
Pandukeshwar holds great religious and mythological importance in Hinduism, as it is closely associated with King Pandu, the father of the Pandavas from the Indian epic, the Mahabharata. According to legend, King Pandu accidentally killed a sage in the forest who had taken the form of a deer with his wife. As the sage was dying, he cursed Pandu, saying that he would die if he ever tried to be intimate with anyone. To atone for this sin, King Pandu came to Pandukeshwar, where he meditated deeply and installed a bronze idol of Lord Vishnu, now worshipped at the Yog Dhyan Badri Temple.
During this time, his wives Kunti and Madri gave birth to the Pandavas. Later, when King Pandu saw Madri bathing in the nearby Alaknanda River, he was overcome with desire and embraced her, which led to his death due to the curse. This story gives Pandukeshwar its sacred identity and makes it an important spiritual stop for pilgrims visiting Badrinath.
According to Hindu mythology, the Pandavas—heroes of the Indian epic Mahabharata—are also believed to have performed penance at Pandukeshwar after the Kurukshetra War to atone for the sins of war.
Pandukeshwar is also known as the winter seat of the Badrinath Temple. In winter, due to heavy snowfall and bad weather, the Badrinath Temple remains closed. During this time, the idol of Lord Badrinarayan, along with Uddhav and Kuber, is brought down to the Yog Dhyan Badri Temple in Pandukeshwar. This allows devotees to continue their prayers and take blessings during the winter season.
A special festival called Devwar is celebrated when the idols are moved. The village is beautifully decorated, and grand celebrations take place. Devotees from nearby areas visit Pandukeshwar to witness the rituals and enjoy the spiritual and festive atmosphere.
Pandukeshwar is surrounded by many beautiful and spiritual places worth exploring. From ancient temples to scenic spots, these nearby destinations add more charm to your visit. Here are some of the best places to see around Pandukeshwar.
Shri Yogdhyan Badri Temple
Shri Yog Dhyan Badri Temple is the main attraction in Pandukeshwar and one of the five Panch Badri temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is believed to be as ancient as the Badrinath Temple. The temple houses a unique idol of Lord Vishnu in a meditative posture, symbolizing peace and spiritual focus.
The name “Yog Dhyan” means yoga and meditation, as it is said that Lord Vishnu meditated here. Surrounded by calm Himalayan beauty, this temple offers a peaceful and spiritual experience for all pilgrims.
Kuber Temple
Kuber Temple, located near Pandukeshwar, is dedicated to Lord Kuber, the god of wealth. As per local beliefs, Lord Vishnu once took a loan from Kuber and couldn’t repay it. Since then, Kuber is believed to visit Badrinath every year during the summer pilgrimage to collect his dues. This is why the idols of Kuber Ji and Uddhav Ji are brought to Badrinath and worshipped during the six-month yatra season.
It is also said that near Hemkund Sahib, there is a palace of Lord Kuber with a hidden treasure. Nearby, the Diwar Mundi tree is believed to help gods who take human birth gain the power of speech. These stories make the temple a spiritually rich place to visit.
Sri Hemkund Sahib
Sri Hemkund Sahib, located around 20 km from Pandukeshwar, is one of the most revered pilgrimage sites near the region. Situated at an altitude of 4,329 meters, it is known as the highest Gurudwara in the world and holds immense significance for the Sikh community. Every year, thousands of devotees undertake the spiritual journey to this sacred site.
Hemkund, meaning “Lake of Snow,” is named after the glacial lake beside the Gurudwara. The crystal-clear waters of the lake remain icy cold throughout the year, adding to the peaceful and divine atmosphere that surrounds the area. Its scenic beauty and spiritual charm make it one of the best places to visit near Pandukeshwar.
Badrinath Temple
Badrinath Temple is located around 22 km from Pandukeshwar and is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in India. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, this sacred temple is a part of both the Char Dham Yatra and the Chhota Char Dham circuit of Uttarakhand. Every year, lakhs of devotees visit Badrinath Dham to seek blessings and experience its divine atmosphere.
Surrounded by the majestic Himalayas and nestled along the banks of the Alaknanda River, Badrinath is not only a religious destination but also a place of great natural beauty. Pilgrims staying in Pandukeshwar often make it a point to visit this holy shrine during the Char Dham season.
Auli Hill Station
Auli, located just 25 km from Pandukeshwar, is one of Uttarakhand’s most popular hill stations and a must-visit destination nearby. Famous for its snow-covered slopes and adventure activities, Auli attracts nature lovers, honeymooners, and thrill-seekers alike. The hill station offers breathtaking views of the mighty Nanda Devi, India’s second-highest peak, and features scenic cable car rides, skiing, and peaceful landscapes.
During winter, Auli transforms into a snow-covered wonderland, earning it the nickname “Mini Switzerland of India.” It’s a perfect getaway for those visiting Pandukeshwar and looking to explore the beauty of the Himalayas.
Pandukeshwar, being a spiritually significant destination, welcomes pilgrims and travelers throughout the year. The town offers a range of accommodation options including Hotel Yog Badri & Restaurant, Hotel Mansarovar, Hotel Rameshwaram Inn and many others. Guesthouses and hotels in Pandukeshwar provide comfortable rooms along with basic amenities to ensure a pleasant stay. Their convenient location allows easy access to nearby temples and sightseeing spots, making them ideal for devotees and tourists looking to explore the sacred surroundings of Pandukeshwar.
Pandukeshwar is located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. Here’s a simple guide on how to reach Pandukeshwar by different modes of transportation:
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