JOSHIMATH

It is also known as Jyotirmath which is a city, located at 6150 ft above sea level which is a hill town in Chamoli District of Gharwal region of the Indian state of Uttarakhand. This is also one of the starting points of a scenic beautiful place in Uttarakhand, considered as Valley of the flower. It is close to Auli (about 7km ) which is also a famous destination for skiing. Joshimath is a very beautiful spot surrounded by Oaks and scenic views of the Himalayas peak with rich floral and fauna. One can also go for a religious tour or go for activities like skiing and trekking. This destination is best for chill and calms as well as thrilling views as well as it is the winter seat of Lord Badri which is a Hindu God that the idol is shifted from Badrinath to Joshimath during winters. There are more several temples and the best part is, it is less crowded and one can enjoy solace moments. Thus, temples are the key places to visit in Joshimath and visiting Chenab Lake, Chenab Valley, Vishnuprayag, etc. are some of the things to do in Joshimath.

About Camping

Camping is an ultra opportunity to interact or become intimate with beautiful nature and experience the best feelings along with the best memories. There are several points in and around the city of Joshimath where one can experience camping along with providing amazing views of sprawling majestic Himalayas and lovely streams of the river. And Joshimath is a hub of adventure camps and also there’s a pilgrims camp near Joshimath during Chardham Yatra on the way to Badrinath.  The Camps here are found in a variety of choices along with different facilities and amenities according to the choice of the tourist. The adventure and magic camp can be experienced at any time of the year but is best suited during summer. Accommodating at the tent with nature along with a small trek, birdwatching and 360 views of the surroundings makes one soak into the realm of nature.

Best time to Visit Joshimath

The best time to visit Joshimath is between April to November, during winter i.e December and January, is very cold and snowfall is there. The monsoon season is also not recommended to visit Joshimath which will be suspected of having heavy rainfall and landslides. The summer season is perfect for outdoor activities like camping, trekking, and exploring the surrounding temples.

Summer in Joshimath (April – June)

The temperature in summer is between 12°C- 33°C consider to be the best time to visit here. Outdoor activities like camping, trekking, paragliding, and river rafting can be done in summer and are perfect timing as well as enjoy the natural beauty of this town. This is also the period when the Mahashivratri Festival is celebrated, which is exciting for visitors to explore.

Monsoon in Joshimath (July – September)

The temperature during monsoon season is between 13-22°C with an average rainfall of over 1200 mm that affects outdoor activities but the surrounding area is in full bloom with lush mesmerizing also considered as poetry season and peak time to visit. The monsoon season is a perfect mix of showers that create the mood with its clouds, trickling rains, colors, and scents. Tourists are highly recommended to travel here after checking the weather conditions.

Winter in Joshimath (December – February)

The temperature during winter is between 0°C-7°C which is again an exciting time for visitors. The outdoor treks during this season offer stunning views surrounding the valley as well as the snow-capped Himalayas. And the most enjoyable moment is warming up in the surrounding hot springs. December to January is peak winter time witnessing snowfall. The town also receives heavy rainfall during this month. Winter and summer are the best times to visit Joshimath.

How to Reach Joshimath

Joshimath by Air

The nearest Airport to reach Joshimath is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun which is 270 km from Joshimath. There is no direct flight to reach Joshimath. Also, no direct flights from Delhi to Joshimath, to reach one can take a flight to Dehradun from Delhi. From the airport, one can take a taxi/ cab which is six hours to get to Joshimath.

Joshimath by Train

The nearest railway station from Joshimath is Rishikesh that is connected to most of the major cities in India by train which is around 250 km on NH-58 from Joshimath. For tourists coming from Delhi the fastest route to reach Joshimath is to take a train that drops you off at the Ambala Cant Jn. One can hire a taxi/ cab or even a bus from the town of Rishikesh to Joshimath.

Joshimath by Road

To reach Joshimath there are many ways, from Dehradun it is well connected by road and takes 9hours, (267km), from Delhi 484km i.e 12 hours drive via NH334. There are also direct cabs/ taxis and both government and private buses that run from Delhi as well as traveling from Delhi, it's advisable to reach Rishikesh first and from Rishikesh, one can hire a taxi to reach Joshimath which is 254km i.e 7.30 hours.

Things to Carry

​ID Proof: Valid ID card issued by the Government.

Clothing: Warm clothing (Down jacket/fleece jacket, woolen cap/scarf, hat,  woolen & cotton socks, thermal wears), cotton towels, trekking/hiking shoes & other comfortable regular wears.

Toiletries: Lip balm, wet wipes, skin moisturizer, sunscreen.

Medical Related: Personal medicines (if any), mosquito repellent, prescribed medicines for high altitude sickness, dehydration salt.

Other Optional: Sunglasses, rubber slippers, power bank, candy, dust mask, etc.

Do's & Don'ts In Joshimath

Do’s                                                                  

• Do carry essential things during travel.                    
• Do carry a medical kit as per your health condition.                                                           
• Do carry mosquito and insects repellents.
• Wear a mask during the trip and use a sanitizer.
• Do carry a torch.
• Do carry packed food for emergencies.

Don’t’s

• Do not litter here and there in public places.
• Do not forget to check essential equipment during hiking.
• Do not plug any flower or plant.
• Do not carry any expensive belongings.