Vishnuprayag

Overview

The Alaknanda River originates from Satopanth glacier. It is joined by the Dhauli Ganga River near Joshimath (on Joshimath to Badrinath route). Alaknanda flows in front of the Badrinath temple which is one of the most revered Hindu shrines. Dhauli Ganga originates from Niti Pass, and flows a distance of 25 kms (15.5 miles) from its source to the Vishnu Prayag. This stretch is called the Vishnu Ganges. Mythology narrates the worship offered by sage Narad to god Vishnu at this convergence. Located near the confluence is an octagonal shaped temple dating to 1889, and is credited to Ahalyabai, Maharani of Indore. Originally built to install a Shiva linga, though, it now enshrines a Vishnu image. A stairway from this temple leads to the Vishnu kund (kund means pool of water or lake) at the convergence, which is seen in a serene state.

Visitors find the Kagbusandi Lake bewitching with its emerald green depths giving it a still surface. On the banks, blossoms evoke the colours of nature in all her glory. The lake can be approached from either Vishnu Prayag or from Bhundar village near Ghangaria.

Accessibility

Airport

Nearest airport is Jolly Grant, Dehradun, 239 km.

Railways

Nearest railway station is Rishikesh.

Road

Vishnuprayag is at a distance of 272 kms from Rishikesh from where buses and taxies are available. All five Prayag are well connected by road with Rishikesh, Kotdwar, Dehradun, Haridwar and other important hill stations of Garhwal and Kumaon hills.