Last Updated on January 15, 2025
A natural hot water spring, mostly reckoned as the home of Lord Agni, is situated along the river banks of the pious Alaknanda River, where visitors flock in large numbers to take a therapeutic bath. The water of the Kund holds medicinal values that treat skin diseases and other ailments of the tourists. Devotees coming to pay their homage and prayers to Lord Badri at the Badrinath Temple take a dip in this hot water spring before entering the temple.
Taking a dip in this natural hot water spring, fed by a sulfur spring, is believed to provide a spiritually rejuvenating experience. It is one of the pious hot water springs located on the Alaknanda River bank, and the temperature of the water tank is 45°C. The temperature of the water tank is a wonder among tourists and devotees, irrespective of the outer temperature, which sometimes goes below freezing point.
Legend
According to Hindu mythology, Lord Agni pleased Lord Vishnu with his deep penance, and in this way, Lord Vishnu granted a boon to Agni Dev and took his residence in this Kund near Badrinath Temple. Hindu mythology states that if a devotee performs rituals for their ancestors at Tapt Kund, the departed souls of the ancestors go to heaven, and the soul rests in peace.
There is another Kund underneath Tapt Kund called Narad Kund. It is believed that the famous saint Adi Shankaracharya discovered the present image of Badri Narayan, and it holds great religious significance and a high place in Hinduism. Devotees are not permitted to bathe in this Kund, as it is considered highly consecrated. There are five big stones surrounding the Kund area, called Panch Shila, which are also thought to be consecrated among devotees and travelers. So, if you are in Badrinath, do not forget to perform ‘Agni Teerth,’ which is known to cleanse all the sins you have committed.
Places to Visit Around Tapt Kund
Despite being known for its spiritual hot water spring, the Kund also attracts tourists with its panoramic scenic views. There are many religious places as well as scenic splendors to explore around Tapt Kund. Some of them are listed below:
Badrinath Temple
One of the holiest abodes of Lord Vishnu, which is heavily crowded with devotees throughout the year. This holy shrine of Uttarakhand is a part of Char Dham as well as Chota Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand. Apart from the main idol of Lord Vishnu, the temple houses several other idols of different gods and goddesses. The beautifully designed main sanctum of the shrine and its walls adorned with beautiful inscriptions leave the devotees fascinated and spellbound.
Charan Paduka
Nestled at an elevation of 3,380 feet above sea level, Charan Paduka is considered one of the most heavily crowded pilgrim spot in Badrinath, famous for the footprints of Lord Vishnu imprinted on a holy rock. Hindu mythology states that this is the same place on earth where Lord Vishnu set his foot. You can view two imposing mountain peaks facing each other, namely Neelkanth Peak and Nar Parvat. You can also witness some caves and boulders en route to Charan Paduka.
Neelkanth
One of the major peaks located in the Garhwal Himalayan ranges, Neelkanth is considered one of the most religious and important mountain peaks of the area due to its close proximity to the holy shrine of Lord Vishnu (Badrinath). The peak is perched at a great elevation of 6,507 meters above sea level, and below it flows the enchanting Alaknanda River, which enhances the charm of the region and fills the air with a cool, salubrious breeze.
A legendary natural stone bridge with great religious significance, it is believed to have been constructed by one of the mighty Pandava brothers, Bheem. This natural stone bridge was built over the Saraswati River. Hindu mythology states that while moving to heaven, Draupadi (wife of the Pandavas) couldn’t cross the river. Bheem then threw a large stone on which she walked and crossed the river. The fierce and gushing Saraswati River flowing underneath this stone bridge makes it a breathtaking sight.
Best Time to Visit
March to June is the most ideal time to visit Tapt Kund, as the climatic conditions are quite favorable and pleasing for the journey. The region receives heavy rainfall during the monsoon and massive snowfall during the winter season, resulting in the blockage of roads. So, winter and monsoon are not the most recommended seasons for planning your Tapt Kund visit.
How to Reach Tapt Kund
This natural hot water spring is located between Badrinath Temple and the Alaknanda River, and can be easily accessed due to its well-connected and motorable roads with other major cities of Uttarakhand.
- By Air: Jolly Grant Airport is the nearest airport to Badrinath, located around 310 km away. From the airport, you can easily get conveyance to Badrinath, as the place is well connected by motorable roads.
- By Road: Frequent buses ply from nearby cities, and regular buses run from ISBT Kashmiri Gate, New Delhi, to Haridwar, Rishikesh, and other towns of Uttarakhand. From Haridwar, you can get a bus or hire a private taxi.
- By Rail: Rishikesh Railway Station is the nearest station to this religious destination, located at a distance of 295 km from Badrinath.