Gangotri

Gangotri_(ganga_river)

Gangotri is a town and a Hindu pilgrimage site located in the Uttarkashi district of the Indian state of Uttarakhand. It is situated on the banks of the Bhagirathi River, which is one of the primary headstreams of the Ganges River. Gangotri is one of the four sites in the Chota Char Dham pilgrimage circuit.

Geography[edit | edit source]

Gangotri is located at an altitude of 3,100 meters (10,200 feet) in the Garhwal Himalayas. The town is surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Himalayas, including the Gangotri Glacier, which is the source of the Bhagirathi River. The glacier is situated about 19 kilometers from the town and is accessible via a trek.

Religious Significance[edit | edit source]

Gangotri holds immense religious significance for Hindus. According to Hindu mythology, it is the place where the river Ganga descended from heaven to earth. The Gangotri Temple, dedicated to the goddess Ganga, is a major attraction for pilgrims. The temple was built by the Gorkha commander Amar Singh Thapa in the early 18th century.

Gangotri Temple[edit | edit source]

The Gangotri Temple is an important shrine in the Chota Char Dham pilgrimage. The temple is constructed of white granite and is open to pilgrims from May to October. During the winter months, the idol of Goddess Ganga is moved to the village of Mukhba.

Trekking and Adventure[edit | edit source]

Gangotri is also a popular destination for trekkers and adventure enthusiasts. The trek to the Gangotri Glacier and further to Gaumukh, the actual source of the Bhagirathi River, is a major attraction. Other popular treks include the Tapovan and Nandanvan treks, which offer stunning views of the surrounding peaks.

Climate[edit | edit source]

The climate in Gangotri is cold throughout the year. Summers are mild, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 15°C, while winters are severe, with temperatures dropping below freezing. The best time to visit Gangotri is from May to October.

Access[edit | edit source]

Gangotri is accessible by road from major towns in Uttarakhand. The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, and the nearest railway station is in Rishikesh. From these points, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Gangotri.