BADRINATH
This celebrated Hindu pilgrimage site is situated in a valley dominated by two lofty peaks, Nar Parbet and Narayana Parbet. The temple of Badrinath is said to have been founded by Shankaracharya, the 9th-century philosopher; but the present stone building is a recent structure. Above the sanctuary rises an unadorned curved tower with shallow projections; at the summit is an overhanging wooden roof. The mandapa also has a gabled roof, but a recent extension is provided with a dome. The gateway is built in a revivalist Mughal style. A short distance below the temple are pools supplied by water from thermal springs. Along with Kedarnath, it is famous among the Hindus as one of the four prime pilgrimage centers of the Hindus.