Joshimath also known as Jyotirmath is the winter seat of Lord Badri, and thus is reckoned to be a sacred place in Uttarakhand. Situated in the Chamoli District, Joshimath is where one of the four Maths were established by the Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th-century. It is here in Joshimath that one also has the opportunity to witness the sacred Kalpvriksha, which is said to be 1200 years old. The city is also dotted with a number of temples like Narsimha and Gaurishankar that witness arrival of a lot of devotees. Therefore, inarguably, this city in Uttarakhand is amongst the most important destinations for Hindu pilgrimage tour.
Joshimath is well connected to the rest of India only by roadways. Regular bus services ply to and fro the city of Joshimath. There is no direct flight or rail connectivity, however, to Joshimath. Some 268 km away is the Jolly Grant airport in Dehradun (code: DED), the capital of Uttarakhand, which is the nearest airport that connects Joshimath to the rest of India. The nearest commercial railway station accessible to Joshimath is in Rishikesh which is 251 km away from Joshimath.
April to November is the best time to visit Joshimath. Winter season in Joshimath experiences nail-biting cold waves accompanied by heavy snowfall. Monsoon season also receives heavy rainfall and thus is not a good time to visit the town which may result in landslides. However, summers in the city are delightful being mildly cold. Therefore April to November is recommended as an ideal time to explore the natural beauty and spiritual essence of the town.
Joshimath, also known as Jyotirmath, is a hill town perched at the height of 6150 feet in Chamoli district of Gharwal region of Uttarakhand. Joshimath serves as an important religious centre for Hindu pilgrims and lies in the proximity to one of the four 'maths' founded by Adi Guru Shri Shankaracharya in the 8th century. This 'math' dedicated to the holy text of Hindus called Atharva Veda.
Overlooking the confluence of rivers Alaknanda and Dhauliganga at Vishnu Prayag, Joshimath is also the winter home of Lord Badri as the idol is shifted from Badrinath to Joshimath during winters. Joshimath is also famed as the gateway for mountain climbing expeditions, trekking, and several other thrilling activities for those who want to live life on the edge. It is from here one has to traverse to the famous trekking destination in Uttarakhand, Valley of Flowers. Also, those visiting the sacred site of Hemkund Sahib need to cross Joshimath. The city is also a base/relaxing spot for those heading to famed ski destination in India, Auli and a gate to Malari and Niti Valley that are known for their landscape similar to Ladakh. The city boasts enchanting views of the Himalayan Range and an opportunity to sight rich flora and fauna.