Neelkanth Peak

Neelkanth Peak soars to 6,597 metres directly behind Badrinath town, giving the temple its dramatic snow-capped backdrop. Known as the Queen of Garhwal, the peak is sacred to Shaivites as a manifestation of Lord Shiva, whose name Neelkantha refers to the blue throat. At sunrise the snow-covered summit turns golden, creating one of the most photographed dawn views in the Char Dham belt. For trekkers, Charan Paduka serves as the first checkpoint toward the Neelkanth base camp. The peak is visible from across the Badrinath valley throughout the day.