Location
• State: Uttarakhand, India
• District: Uttarkashi
• Altitude: ~3,100 meters (10,170 ft)
• Situated on: Banks of the Bhagirathi River in the Garhwal Himalayas
Gangotri is the origin point of the sacred River Ganga, making it one of the most important pilgrimage sites in India.
Religious Significance
• Dedicated to Ganga Mata (Goddess Ganga).
• Legend: King Bhagiratha performed penance here to bring the Ganga down from heaven to Earth to purify the souls of his ancestors.
• The Gangotri Temple marks the spot where Ganga descended.
• The Ganga River originates from the Gomukh Glacier, 18 km from the temple.
• Gangotri is one of the Chota Char Dham and is especially revered by Hindus seeking spiritual purification.
Gangotri Temple Architecture
• Built in 1814 by Sarkar of Tehri Garhwal.
• Style: Traditional North Indian style, with a silver facade and wooden interiors.
• Temple houses the black stone idol of Goddess Ganga seated in a lotus.
• Temple opens in April/May (Akshaya Tritiya) and closes in November (Kartik Purnima).
• Winter worship is shifted to Mukhba village.
Bhagirathi River & Gomukh
• Gomukh Glacier: Source of Bhagirathi, about 18 km trek from Gangotri.
• Pilgrims can visit Gomukh for trekking and spiritual significance.
• River is pristine, cold, and highly revered for rituals and holy dips.
Nearby Attractions
• Surya Kund: Hot spring near the temple for ritual bathing.
• Vasudhara Falls: High-altitude waterfall, accessible via short trek.
• Bhagirathi Valley: Trekking and scenic photography.
• Tapovan: Meadows near the glacier for trekking and camping.
• Gaumukh Glacier: End of the Bhagirathi River trek.
Packing Checklist for Gangotri
• Warm clothing (heavy woolens, thermal wear)
• Trekking shoes, gloves, and socks
• Raincoat / poncho
• Medicines for altitude, cold, and basic first aid
• Snacks & water bottle (especially for Gomukh trek)
• Sunglasses & sunscreen (high-altitude UV exposure)
Travel Tips
• Best Time to Visit: May–June and September–October.
• Altitude Awareness: ~3,100 m, minimal risk, but acclimatization is helpful.
• Accommodation: GMVN guest houses, dharamshalas, and private hotels in Gangotri and Uttarkashi.
• Cash & Connectivity: Limited ATMs; BSNL/Jio have better coverage.
• Trek Preparation: Carry light backpack, trekking poles, and layered clothing.
