Chamoli
The enchanting land in the lap of the majestic Himalayas seems to be especially blessed by the mother nature. The district is studded with major pilgrim centres, snow-clad peaks and exceptional natural beauty.
If Mother Nature has ever smiled on earth, it must have been in Chamoli – that enchanting land in the arms of the Himalayas. During the monsoons, a thousand blooms burst forth in all brilliance in the fascinating “Valley of Flowers”. With an amazing wealth of flora set aglow with the golden rays of the sun, Chamoli is one place that reverberates with spirituality and has a strong association with a number of Hindu religious myths and legends.
While the stress and pressures of the Jet-Age catch up with every city-dweller, Chamoli calls you to a wonderful re-discovery of your roots. Untouched by the pollution and rigmarole of urban life, Chamoli waits to open vistas of Nature in their pristine glory. A visit to this place will leave an unforgettable imprint on the visitor’s mind.
Places To Visit In Chamoli
1. Badrinath Badrinath, one of the most important pilgrim centre of the country 
is a part of sacred 'Char Dhams' of the State. It is flanked by Nar and Narayan mountains, while the Neelkanth Peak forms a splendid backdrop.
The Shri Badrinathji temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu was established by Adi Shankaracharya and later built by the rulers of Garhwal about two centuries ago. It can be divided into three partsthe Garbha, the Darshan Mandap and Sabha Mandap. The principal idol carved out of black stone represents meditating Lord Vishnu.
"Tapt Kund", the holy hot water spring is located in front of the temple at the bank of Alaknanda River. A dip in the hot waters is a must before entering the shrine. The temple opens every year in the month of Apr. - May and closes for winters in the third week of Nov. Besides Badrinath there are four subsidiary badris, which cbmprise the sacred 'Panch Badri'. The other four badris are - Yog Dhyan Badri, Bhavishya Badri, Adi Badri and Vriddha Badri.
2. Hemkund Sahib
Hemkund or the 'Snow Lake' nestles at a height of 4329 m. amidst seven snow-covered mountains, which are collectively called Hemkund Parvat. The sacred star shaped gurudwara near the lake is one of the most important Sikh pilgrim centre and is visited by large number of Sikhs and Hindus from all over the world.It is believed that Guru Govind Singh ji, the tenth Guru of the Sikhs meditated over here. Saints like Rishi Medhasa of the Markandeya Purana and legendary Lakshman, the brother of Lord Ram also performed penance here. A temple dedicated to Lord Lakshman is located near the gurudwara. The 15 kms trek from Govindghat to Hemkund is very popular, with breathtaking views. The best time to come here is from July - Oct.
Around Hemkund Sahib
1. Gopeshwar
The picturesque town of Gopehswar has some good temples in and around the city. The main attractions are the ancient temple of Lord Shiva, Vaitarni Kund, a group of temples without idols and Oak View etc.
2. The Panch Prayag 
'Panch prayag'or the five most sacred river confluences of the GarhwalHimalayas are of immense religious importance. The five prayags are Vishnu Prayag, Nand Prayag, Karna Prayag, Rudra Prayag and Dev Prayag, of which three are in Chamoli district.
3. Dev Prayag
It is the confluence of river Alaknanda and Bhagirathi and is famous for temples and river GHATS. It is believed that it was at DevPrayag where lord Vishnu begged for 3 steps of land from King Bali. Fairs are held on the occasion of Ramnavmi, Dussherra and Basant Panchami.
4. Vishnu Prayag
It is the confluence of Alaknanda and Dhauli Ganga Rivers at 6000 feet above sea level. Joshimath is just 12 kms from Vishnuprayag.
5. Nanda Prayag
It is the confluence of Alaknanda and Mandakini rivers, about 21 kms from Karnaprayag, on the main route to Badrinath. The famous Gopalji temple is situated here. NandaPrayag hosts fair on the occasion of Baisakhi and Janmasthami.
6. Karna Prayag
It is situated on the sacred confluence of Alaknanda and Pindari rivers and is known for the Karna Temple and the Uma Devi Temple. It is believed that Lord Surya gifted Kavatch, Kundal and Tuneer to Karna at KarnaPrayag. KarnaPrayag hosts several temples groups- KaalBhairov temple dedicated to Kaleshwar in the North, Jaleshwar temple in the South and Chandika temple & Narayan temple in the East.
7. Rudra Pragay
It is the confluence of Alaknanda and Mandakini rivers and is well known for LaxmiNarayan and Durga temples. In the north of RudraPrayag is Koteshwar where millions of Shivlings are believed to exist. Huge fair is hosted every year on the day on Mahashivratri. RudraPrayag is 32 kms from KarnaPrayag.
8. Joshimath 
This important temple town is an important halt enroute toBadrinath and base for trekkers to the famous Valley of Flowers. It is said that Adi Shankaracharya gained enlightment here. Main attractions are - Narsingh and Garuda temple, the Shankracharya Math and amar kalp tree. During winters the head priest of Badrinath reside and carry on their pujas here.
Ghangharia (5 kms):
It serves as the base for visiting Hemkund Sahib and is the last inhabited part of the valley. Govind Ghat (15 kms) : It is set on the confluence of the Alaknanda and Bhyundar or Lakshman Ganga. There is a big gurudwara here.
How To Reach Chamoli
By Air
Nearest airport for Chamoli is Jolly Grant (221 kms)
By Rail
Nearest rail head: Rishikesh (202 kms)
By Road
Well connected by road, with important towns of the State.
