Eastern Garhwal This part of Garhwal consists of the mountain region around the Saraswati-Alaknanda river system and the Dhauli Valley. The Alaknanda River originates from the Satopanth glaciers on the eastern flanks of the Chaukhamba peak. It is one of the two main source rivers of the holy Ganga (Ganges) river, the other one being Bhagirathi.

The strenous pilgrimage to Badrinath in the olden days. (Download Realplayer)

Credit: Discover India

The Saraswati River, originating at a place near the Mana Pass on the international border, drains the northeastern and northwestern flanks of the Badrinath and Kamet group of mountains, respectively. The Dhauli joins up with the mighty Rishi Ganga river emerging from the Nanda Devi Sanctuary. It later merges with the Alaknanda near Joshimath.

Route to Badrinath
In the olden days, the route from Rishikesh in the foothills to Badrinath was a long, tough and dangerous trek. The entire journey of around 300 km was undertaken by foot and the pilgrimage took over a month to complete. The lucky ones managed to get horses to cover the distance. Still the journey was dangerous and many never made it back home. Often, travelers bade final farewell to their near and dear ones before embarking on this adventure.

Today, it is a different story. Thanks to modern transportation, one can reach Badrinath without walking a single mile. The route starts from Haridwar-Rishikesh.

Arti at Har-Ki-Pauri Haridwar, on the banks of the Ganga Credit: Govt of India

Haridwar
Haridwar is the place where the Ganga enters the plains after a turbulent journey in the Himalayas. Here, the river broadens and slows down considerably. Haridwar is a town of temples, dharamsalas, ashrams and saints and sages from all parts of India. The Ganga is worshipped in ghats, with colorful ceremonies being performed at the Har-ki-Pauri. Different roads from northern India reach Haridwar en route to Rishikesh and destinations higher up in the mountains.