Explanation: Uttarakhand, a state in northern India, is renowned for its natural beauty and religious significance. It is home to several important pilgrimage sites, including the Char Dham (four abodes) of Badrinath and Kedarnath. These sites are integral to Hindu religious practices and attract thousands of pilgrims annually.
Badrinath, one of the four Char Dham sites, is located in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is one of the holiest sites in Hinduism. The temple is situated at an altitude of 3,133 meters and is accessible via a challenging trek. The temple is believed to have been established by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century and is a significant site for devotees seeking spiritual enlightenment and blessings.
Kedarnath, another of the four Char Dham sites, is also located in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, which are considered the most sacred abodes of Lord Shiva. The temple is situated at an altitude of 3,584 meters and is accessible via a strenuous trek. The temple is believed to have been built by the Pandavas, the heroes of the epic Mahabharata, and is a significant site for devotees seeking the blessings of Lord Shiva.
Jagannath, on the other hand, is a significant pilgrimage site located in Puri, Odisha, and not in Uttarakhand. It is dedicated to Lord Jagannath, a form of Lord Vishnu, and is famous for the Rath Yatra festival. The misconception might arise from the fact that both Badrinath and Jagannath are important pilgrimage sites in India, leading some to incorrectly assume they are both located in Uttarakhand.
In conclusion, the correct answer is (D) Only (A) & (B), as Badrinath and Kedarnath are the pilgrimage sites located in Uttarakhand, while Jagannath is located in Odisha. Understanding the geographical locations of these sites is crucial for accurate knowledge of the religious and cultural heritage of India.