Tapt Kund is a natural thermal hot water spring located in the town of Badrinath in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, India. It holds significant religious and mythological importance for Hindu pilgrims visiting the Badrinath Temple. The word “Tapt” means hot, and “Kund” refers to a pool or reservoir.

History and Significance:

According to Hindu mythology, Tapt Kund is believed to be the abode of Lord Agni (the fire god) and is regarded as a sacred place for ritual ablutions before entering the Badrinath Temple. Pilgrims take a dip in the Tapt Kund to purify themselves before seeking blessings at the temple.

How to Reach:

Tapt Kund is located in Badrinath, a prominent pilgrimage town in Uttarakhand. Here are the ways to reach Badrinath and subsequently reach Tapt Kund:

• By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, approximately 318 kilometers away. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Badrinath.
• By Train: The nearest railway station is Rishikesh, around 295 kilometers away. From Rishikesh, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Badrinath.
• By Road: Badrinath is well-connected by roads. You can reach Badrinath by driving from major cities like Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Dehradun. Once in Badrinath, Tapt Kund is easily accessible.

Best Time to Visit:

The best time to visit Tapt Kund and Badrinath is during the summer months, from May to June, and then from September to October. During these periods, the weather is relatively mild and suitable for travel and pilgrimage. It’s important to note that Tapt Kund is open throughout the year.

Nearby Places to Visit:

1. Badrinath Temple: The holiest shrine of Lord Vishnu, located very close to Tapt Kund, is a must-visit. Pilgrims believe that taking a dip in Tapt Kund purifies them before entering the temple.
2. Narad Kund: Narad Kund is another hot water spring located in Badrinath, which is named after the sage Narada.
3. Neelkanth Peak: Neelkanth Peak, also known as the ‘Queen of Garhwal’, is a snow-clad mountain and a prominent trekking destination near Badrinath.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions):

1. Is there a fee to use Tapt Kund? No, there is no fee to take a dip in Tapt Kund. It is considered a holy and purifying experience for pilgrims.
2. Is the water in Tapt Kund really hot? Yes, the water in Tapt Kund is naturally hot due to geothermal heating. The temperature varies, and it can be quite hot, so visitors should exercise caution.
3. Are there separate timings to visit Tapt Kund? Tapt Kund is generally open throughout the day and night, allowing pilgrims to take a dip at any time. However, it’s advisable to visit during the day for safety reasons.
4. Can non-Hindus visit Tapt Kund? Yes, Tapt Kund is open to people of all religions. It’s a place of religious and cultural significance and is open to visitors from any background.

Ensure to respect the cultural and religious practices while visiting Tapt Kund and the surrounding area. Taking a dip in the holy water is a personal choice, and visitors should be mindful of the local customs and traditions.