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Gangotri Temple, the highest temple devoted to the Goddess Ganga, at 3,100 meters above sea level and is one of Uttarakhand’s four Chota Char Dham Yatra pilgrimage sites. The Greater Himalayan Range, deodar, and pines encircle this serene white temple. Gangotri Temple is accompanied by the sacred river Bhagirathi, one of the two Ganga headstreams. A naturally occurring rock Shivling is immersed in water close to the Gangotri Temple. The shivling is plainly seen when winter approaches since the water level drops during that period.
Location
Photo: Arpit Rawat / Wikimedia Commons
The Gangotri Temple is located 3140 meters above sea level, on the right bank of the Bhagirathi, in the center of the little village of Gangotri. The sun creates a captivating show of light and shade as it passes through the branches of enormous deodars and conifers. We learn about King Sagar’s 60,000 ashes-reduced sons and King Bhagirath’s tapasya to Lord Shiva, who placated and revived them in the Ganga mythology. The Bhagirath Shila, a stone slab where Bhagirath meditated, lies close to the Temple of Ganga, which was constructed by Amar Singh Thapa, a Gorkha general. At 3200 meters above sea level, the sacred sanctuary of Gangotri is located.
About Gangotri Temple
Photo: Atarax42 / Wikimedia Commons
The highest temple devoted to the goddess Ganga is Gangotri Temple. Gaumukh is the starting point of the Ganga river. At the base of the Gangotri glacier is Gaumukh. Here, the Ganga River is referred to as Bhagirathi. At Devprayag, where the Bhagirathi and Alaknanda rivers converge, it is given the name “Ganga.” Near “Bhagirath Shila” is the Gangotri Temple. The temple, built in the 18th century, features stunning architectural designs and captivating surroundings, including the majestic Bhagirathi Glacier.
Legend has it that Goddess Ganga descended to Earth at this site in response to King Bhagirath’s unwavering penance. The temple opens from late April to November, as heavy snowfall makes the region inaccessible in winter. Pilgrims often combine their visit with treks to Gaumukh, the source of the Ganges River. The serene beauty of the Himalayas and the divine atmosphere make Gangotri Temple a significant spiritual and scenic destination for travelers seeking solace and devotion.
How To Reach
Photo: Pranav Kumar / Wikimedia Commons
By Air: Jolly Grant Airport, which is only 26 kilometers from Rishikesh, is the closest airport from Gangotri. To get to Gangotri from the airport, passengers must take a luxury bus or a cab.
By Train: To get to Gangotri, one must take a bus or hire a taxi from Rishikesh, the closest train station, which is almost 249 kilometers away.
By Road: The majority of the important cities in Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, and the National Capital Region can be reached by road from Gangotri. It is situated 229 kilometers from Rishikesh and 452 kilometers from Delhi.
Places To Visit In And Around Gangotri Temple
1. Jalmagna Shivling
Photo: Prashanth.286 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The submerged Shivling is one of the most fascinating and well-liked tourist destinations close to Gangotri Temple. It is a naturally occurring rock shivling that is only visible during the winter months when the water level drops. Legend has it that Lord Shiva sat there to receive the goddess Ganga in his hair. For the devout, the most captivating view of God will be this submerged Shivling.
Distance: 3 km (from Gangotri)
Ideal Seasons: September-November and April-June
Entry Fee: Free
2. Bhairon Nath Temple In Bhairon Ghati
Photo: DipankarSen68 / Wikimedia Commons
The picturesque area of Bhairon Ghati is located close to where the Jat Ganga and Bhagirathi Rivers join near Gangotri Temple. The distance between it and Gangotri is ten kilometers. The path that leads from Lanka to Bhairon Ghati leads to the lush, wooded Bhairon Nath Temple. The traveler must traverse the Jahnavi River en route. The Ghati is located in a stunning location where you may witness breathtaking views of the Shivalik mountains blending with picturesque lowlands. This Ghati is claimed to be protected by Lord Bhairon. His holy blessings are sought after by devotees from all over India.
Distance: 10 km (from Gangotri)
Ideal Seasons: September-November and April-June
3. Gaumukh And Tapovan
Photo: Pranab basak / Wikimedia Commons
One of the most visited tourist destinations close to the Gangotri Temple is Gomukh in Uttarkashi. Because it looks like a cow’s mouth, this location is called Gomukh. Tucked up close to the Shivling Peak is this enthralling location. It’s a popular destination for religious tourists as well as hikers and natural lovers. You might undertake the Gaumukh-Tapovan-Nandanvan circuit, which is the most well-known and traditional trek. The hike to Tapovan, which is roughly 4 kilometers from Gaumukh, is an option.
Gomukh Distance: 18 km (from Gangotri Temple)
Visible Peaks: Kedar Dome and Bhagirathi group of Peaks
4. Nelong Valley And Gangotri National Park
Photo: Gauravkaintura1234 / Wikimedia Commons
Nelong Valley, a fantastic wildlife location, located 9 miles from Gangotri Temple. Apart from temple excursions, you should embark on an amazing wildlife safari in the Nelong Valley, which is close to Gangotri, if you’re searching for something different. The weather is similar to that of Ladakh, Spiti, and Lahaul. Numerous wildlife species can be found in the Nelong Valley’s abandoned mountain region. Gangotri National Park is where this valley is located. You will see Himalayan Blue sheep, bharal, snow leopards, musk deer, and more. It is among the top tourist destinations close to the revered Gangotri Temple.
Established: 1989
Activities: Trekking, Safari
Where To Stay
Photo: Erik Mclean / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Good low-cost hotels are scattered across the Gangotri and Harsil regions, providing all the necessities for pilgrims visiting Gangotri Temple. In Gangotri and Harsil, there are barely enough motels to house pilgrims in groups. Expect well-kept, reasonably comfortable rooms with stunning window views. Here are some of the hotels near Gangotri Temple including Hotel Mandakini, Hotel Prakriti Retreat, Hotel Manisha, Hotel Shantikunj, Hotel Gangaputra, Hotel the Great Ganga, Hotel Bhagirathi Sadan, GMVN Travelers Lodge, GMVN Gangotri Tourist and Ganga Niketan Hotel.
Where To Eat
Photo: Thamizhpparithi Maari / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Since Gangotri is a small religious town, there aren’t many lodging options or dining options. Nonetheless, the town’s best dining options are found in dhabas and outdoor dining areas, particularly those close to the Gangotri Temple. Dhabas and restaurants are only permitted to provide vegetarian food. Shirsh, Panchpuri Sadan, Hotel Gopi Krishna, Ganga Niketan, Saket Restaurant, and Chakal Punga are a few of the excellent dining establishments. The cuisine of Gangotri is straightforward and made with regional ingredients, including herbs and spices, which increase its nutritional value and energy content. Charcoal is frequently used for cooking, and a lot of “Ghee” is used to finish the food.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Anoushka Trivedi / Wikimedia Commons
Winter weather is bitterly cold and snowy. During this time, the Gangotri temple is closed. Only experienced hikers and mountaineers travel to the region for several trekking trips close to Gangotri. Winters are quite cold, and summers are cool. At the beginning of the summer, the Gangotri temple’s gates open. With a high temperature of about 25 degrees Celsius, the weather is comfortable, though it can get extremely cold at night. For pilgrimages and sightseeing excursions, this is the ideal time of year. The shrine is difficult to get to during the monsoon because of numerous landslides.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: DipankarSen68 / Wikimedia Commons
Average Cost Of The Trip
The average cost of a trip to Gangotri Temple in Uttarakhand typically ranges from ₹5,000 to ₹20,000 per person. Budget travelers can manage within ₹5,000 for a 2-3 day visit, including transportation, accommodation, and meals. Mid-range travelers may spend ₹10,000 to ₹20,000, depending on their choice of comfort and activities during the pilgrimage.
Tips For Travellers
- Since the temperature in Gangotri ranges from mild to cold, it is best to always have woolen clothing with you.
- The Gaumukh Glacier, the source of the Ganga River, is not far from Gangotri, it is essential to have sturdy hiking shoes if you wish to visit this revered location.
- Even though Gangotri is about 3000 meters above sea level, there is a potential that you could get mountain sickness, so bring some medication.
- It is definitely forbidden to consume alcohol or non-vegetarian foods.
- Keep at least one form of identification with you at all times so that you may prove your identity when needed.
One of the most significant Hindu pilgrimage sites is the Gangotri Temple in the state of Uttarakhand. Beginning in Yamunotri, this revered journey of Char Dham continues on to Gangotri Dham. Tourists can visit numerous attractions during the Gangotri Yamunotri Yatra, which can make their trip very memorable. These sights close to the Gangotri Shrine are the ideal fusion of the abundance of nature and spirituality. Use TripleXL to plan your trip to Gangotri Temple and learn more about the area around it.
Cover Photo: Arupamdas / Wikimedia Commons
