Why is the Gangotri so famous?
This state has two parts, Garhwal and Kumaon which are fully equipped with religious places, wildlife, adventure, tourism and sightseeing.
This is a famous pilgrim because the Hindu God Lord Shiva locked the River Ganga in his hair to save the earth and mankind from the heavy fall of the Ganga which was not possible for the earth to tolerate.
This is a very cold place with heavy snowfall in the winter season and has an elevation of about 3420 meters in the Greater Himalayan peaks. Gangotri is one of the holy Char Dham of Hindus.
This place is supposed to observe the architect of the Nagara pattern which is constructed with marble stone of white colour.
The look of this temple is not on the inherent sculpt of Hindu temples. The Garbha Griha is given due importance and is installed at a proper height in the temple. The devotees do puja (prayer) on the seat placed in front of this Garbha Griha.
The holy holies have an idol of the Hindus Goddess Ma Durga. The idols of the Goddess Annapurna, Yamuna, Lakshmi and Saraswati are also placed at this location.
The holy holies were completed by the idol of the saga Adi Sankara and Bhagirath. This temple is also equipped with the Hindu’s most worshipped gods Ganesha, Bhagrith, Hanuman and Lord Shiva.
Dedicated to Goddess Ganga, this temple is at the highest level in Uttarakhand. The main origin point of Ma Ganga is Gaumukh which is located at the downside of the Gangotri show side where Ma Ganga is famous as Bhagirathi. This temple is constructed near the Bhagrith filly.
It is supposed that Bhagirath Shila is one of the holy rocks of the worship of King Bhagirath to the God Lord Shiva. The Gangotri temple is closed to the public w.e.f Diwali each year and opened again on Akshaya Tritiya and in this time the idol of the goddess is placed in Mukhba village.
The main three basins of pilgrims bathe is located near the river the water of which is supposed to be very sacred and taken by the pilgrims for their use in spiritual rituals and distribute to their loved ones.
These Basins were dedicated to the main Gods of Hindus Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva. Gangotri overflows with Hindu devotees during the yatra who visit to worship in the temple and visit other holy places in Gangotri and near it.
Places of Attraction in Gangotri
1. Visit Gangotri Temple
The most iconic attraction, Gangotri Temple is dedicated to Goddess Ganga. Attend the evening aarti for a serene spiritual ambiance.
2. Take a Holy Dip at Bhagirathi River
The crystal-clear water flowing right next to the temple is considered sacred. Pilgrims take a dip before offering prayers.
3. Meditate at Surya Kund
This peaceful spot near the river has natural rock formations and cascading waters—ideal for sitting quietly and soaking in the divine energy.
4. Explore Pandava Gufa
A short trek leads to a cave believed to be used by the Pandavas during their journey to Kailash. It’s historic and scenic.
5. Trek to Gaumukh (Source of River Ganga)
One of the most popular treks:
- Approx. 18 km from Gangotri
- Offers glacier views and divine surroundings
This is where the river originates.
6. Continue Trek to Tapovan
If you want an extended adventure, trek ahead to Tapovan:
- Famous for meadows
- Stunning views of Shivling Peak
- Ideal for camping
7. Visit Bhagirathi Shila
This sacred rock near the temple is believed to be where King Bhagirath prayed for Ganga to descend to Earth.
8. Enjoy Nature Walks Around Harsil (Near Gangotri)
Only 25 km away—Harsil offers:
- Pine forests
- Apple orchards
- River views
- Peaceful village life
9. Trek to Kedartal
A moderate-to-difficult trek for adventure lovers:
- Emerald-colored glacier lake
- Majestic Thalaysagar backdrop
Ideal for photographers and nature enthusiasts.
10. Try Herbal Tea and Local Mountain Food
Don’t miss: ✔ Red rice
✔ Local rajma
✔ Herbal teas made from mountain shrubs
✔ Simple temple-style prasad meals
Best Time to Visit
May–June & September–October
(Avoid peak monsoon due to landslides)
Ideal Duration:
1–3 days for temple & nearby areas
4–7 days for trekking experiences
Places of Attraction near Gangotri:
- Bhojbara
- Bhaironghati
- Gangotri Temple
- Gangnani
- Jalmagna Shivlinga
- Bhaironghati
- Dharali
- Harsil
- Surya Kund
- Gangotri Glacier
- Kedar Tal
- Gaumukh Tapovan Trek
- Gangotri National Park
- Vishwanath Temple
How to reach Gangotri Temple:
FAQ on Gangotri
1. Where is Gangotri located?
Gangotri is located in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, in the Garhwal Himalayan range.
2. Why is Gangotri famous?
Gangotri is famous as the sacred origin place of River Ganga and for the Gangotri Temple dedicated to Goddess Ganga.
3. What is the height of Gangotri?
Gangotri is situated at an altitude of around 3,100 metres (10,200 ft) above sea level.
4. When does Gangotri Temple open and close?
- Opens: Akshaya Tritiya (April/May)
- Closes: Diwali (October/November)
After closure, the idol is moved to Mukhba village for winter worship.
5. How can one reach Gangotri?
- Nearest airport: Dehradun (Jolly Grant Airport)
- Nearest railway station: Rishikesh or Dehradun
- By road: Accessible via Rishikesh–Uttarkashi–Gangotri route
Regular buses and taxis operate during the yatra season.
6. What are the main attractions near Gangotri?
Key attractions include:
- Gangotri Temple
- Gaumukh (source of Ganga)
- Bhojbasa
- Tapovan
- Surya Kund waterfalls
- Pandava Gufa
7. Is trekking required to reach Gaumukh?
Yes. Gaumukh is approximately 18 km trek from Gangotri, ending near the Gangotri Glacier.
8. What is the best time to visit Gangotri?
Best months:
- May to June (Spring/Summer)
- September to October (Autumn)
Monsoon months should be avoided due to landslides.
9. How cold does Gangotri get?
Temperatures may fall below 0°C, especially at night.
In winter, temperatures often drop to –15°C to –20°C.
10. Is accommodation available near Gangotri?
Yes. Options include:
- GMVN guesthouses
- Dharamshalas
- Budget and mid-range hotels
However, advance booking is advised during peak yatra season.
11. Can senior citizens visit Gangotri easily?
Yes. Unlike Kedarnath, Gangotri does not require major trekking. Vehicles reach up to the temple.
12. Is photography allowed inside the temple?
Photography is generally allowed outside the temple premises, but restricted inside sanctum areas.
13. Is Gangotri part of Char Dham Yatra?
Yes. Gangotri is one of the four sacred dhams, along with:
- Yamunotri
- Kedarnath
- Badrinath
14. What food options are available?
You will find:
- North Indian meals
- Pure vegetarian food
- Simple thali, tea, snacks
During offseason, options reduce due to fewer pilgrims.
15. What precautions should visitors take?
- Carry warm clothes
- Stay hydrated
- Avoid strenuous activity initially
- Be careful of high altitude sickness
- Follow environmental guidelines
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