Overview of Kedarnath & Badrinath 

Kedarnath: The Kedarnath shrine, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, is a scenic spot situated against the majestic Kedarnath range. Kedar is another name given to Lord Shiva, the protector and the destroyer. According to legend, the Pandavas, after having won over the Kauravas in the Kurukshetra war, felt guilty for having killed their own brothers and sought the blessings of Lord Shiva for redemption. He eluded them repeatedly, and while fleeing, took refuge at Kedarnath in the form of a bull. When the Pandavas followed, he dived into the ground, leaving his hump on the surface. The remaining portions of Lord Shiva appeared at four other places and are worshiped there as his manifestations: the arms at Tungnath, the face at Rudranath, the belly at Madmaheshwar, and his locks (hair) with head at Kalpeshwar. Kedarnath and these four shrines are collectively known as the Panch Kedar.

Badrinath: One of the ‘Four Dhams’, Badrinath is one of the most celebrated pilgrimage spots in India. It is situated at an elevation of 3,133 meters, guarded on both sides by the Nar and Narayan mountain ranges, with the towering Neelkanth Peak providing a splendid backdrop. This revered spot was once carpeted with wild berries, which led to the name “Badri van”, meaning “forest of berries”.

Devprayag: The small town of Devprayag is famous for the confluence of the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers, which meet to form the Holy River Ganges. The place holds high religious importance, as it is where the river Ganges takes its real form. The town is named after Sage Dev Sharma, who dedicated his life to meditation and was once blessed with a glimpse of the divine.