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Travel Guide >> Gangotri Tourism
Gangotri Tourism
The revered shrine of Gangotri, situated at an altitude of 3,200 mts. about
sea-level amidst sylvan surroundings, constitutes one of the most important
pilgrimages for the devout Hindu.
Visited by hundreds of thousands pilgrims every year, this 18th century
temple constructed by Gorkha General Amar Singh Thapa , is near the spot
where the goddess Ganga is said to have first descended on earth from heaven,
in answer to the prayers of King Bhagriath.
Lord shiva received her into his matted locks to break the great force of
her fall. From there it emerged into many streams and the one which started
from Gangotri was called Bhagirathi.
The Pandavas, it is said, came here to perform the great 'Deva Yajna' to
atone for the death of their kinsmen in the epic battle of Mahabharat. The
temple itself is situated on the right bank of the Bhagtathi . There are
a number of ashrams locked on the other side of the ashrams locked on the
other side of the Bhagirathi, many of which provide accommodation facilities
to the travellers.
Places to Visit
Gangotri Temple
The shrine of Gangotri is situated at an elevation of 3048 mtrs. above sea
level. It is said that Raja Bhagirath used to worship Lord Shiva at the
sacred stone nearby. This temple is credited to have been built by Gorkha
General Amar Singh Thapa,
Modho Singh, the ruler of Jaipur renovated the temple in the early 20th
century. The 20 ft high temple is made of white granite.
Submerged Shivling
A natural rock Shivling, which according to legends, is where Lord Shiva
sat to receive the Ganga in his matted locks. It normally becomes visible
during the winter months when the waters are clearer.
Gaumukh
Situated at a height of 12,960 ft, Gaumukh is the source of the river Ganga.
The Gangotri Glacier, which lies at a height of 13,662 ft. beyond Chaukhamba,
extends as far as Gaumukh. The Ganga gushes out of the glacier, here. En
route accommodation is available only at Chirbasa (11,830 ft, 10 km before
Gaumukh).
Nandan-Van/Tapovan
Nandanvan is 6 km. of difficult trekking along the glacier on the same side
as Gaumukh. Base camp for the Bhagirathi peaks, it affords a stunning view
of the Shivling peak. Tapovan is across the snout of the Gangotri Glacier
and requires trekking experience to reach. It is known for its exquisite
meadows which encircle the base of the Shivling peak.
Bhairon Ghati
It is situated a a distance of 9 km from Gangotri towards Uttarkashi. The
temple of Bhairav Nath in thick forests, is an added attraction.
Uttarkashi
This pilgrimage centre is at a distance of 97 km from Gangotri. Its main
attract- ions are the Vishwanath and Kuteti Devi temples. It is accessible
by road.
Gangnani
53 km. from Gangotri. Famous for its thermal springs and a close up view
of the Himalayan peaks. Situated at 1,855 mtrs.
Kedartal
This enchanting lake lies 18 km fromGangotri, and is about 15,000 feet above
sea level. It is a base camp for trekking to the surrounding peaks.
TERRI
Former capital of Tehri Garhwal principality. The town lies at the confluence
of the Bhagirathi and Bhilagana rivers. It is also the site of a giant hydel
project that will eventually submerge the township. It is the focus of the
environmental protest action undertaken by the leader of the famous Chipko
movement, Sunderlal Bahuguna.
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Harsil
Situated amidst the incredible beauty of mountain peaks, 2620 mts. high
is the quiet resort of Harsil. Sight seeing here includes the Wilson Cottage
built in 1864 and Sat Tal or Seven lakes.
One also has a choice to set off on various treks that introduce one to
meadows, waterfalls and valleys.
BHAIRON MANDIR
After travelling by road from Lanka to Bhaironghati, one has to cross the
Jahanvi river on foot. After crossing the Jahanvi river and moving uphill,
the Bhairon temple can be seen.
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NACHIKETA TAL
A drive through the terraced fields takes one to Chaurangi-khal, a place
29 kms., from Uttarkashi. From there a 3 kms. trek through lush green forests
takes one to Nachiketa Tal, a tranquil spot.
There is greenery all around and a small temple at the bank of the lake
gives a serene look to the otherwise beautiful surroundings. Nachiketa,
the devout son of Saint Uddalak, is said to have created this lake, hence
the name. There is no accommodation facility and visitors have either to
come back to Uttarkashi or stay at the PWD Inspection House at Chaurangi-Khal.
NARENDRANAGAR
This new capital of the erstwhile Tehri State, commands a panaromic view
of the Ganga valley of Rishikesh and the plains of Haridwar. There is a
Tourist Office at Narendranagar.
DAYARA BUGYAL
Bugyal, in the local language means high altitude meadow. Theroad to Dayara
Bugyal branches off near Bhatwari, a place on the Uttarkashi-Gangotri road
about 32 kms. fromUttarkashi.
Vehicles can go upto the village of Barsu. From here one has to trek a distance
of about 8 kms., to reach Dayara. Situated at an elevation of about 10,000
feet above sea-level, this vast meadow is second to none in natural beauty.
During winter it provides excellent ski slopes over an area of 28 sq. kms.
The panoramic view of the Himalayas from here is breathtaking. There is
a small lake also in the area, and to camp by its side would be a memorable
event. Besides, situated at a height of about 7,000 feet, Raithal village
is accessed after a trek of 8 kms., from Varsu, and has a Temple (9,000
ft.), which finds its place in old epics. From this spot one can trek down
30 kms., away through dense forests. ....
DODITAL
The road from Uttarkashi to Gangotri bifurcates at 4 kms., from Uttarkashi
and vehicles can go upto Kalyani, 7 kms., further up. Agoda is a 5 kms.,
trek at an altitude of 3,307 mts.
The trek from there ascends gradually through thick forests and beautiful
mountainous scenery. Dodital, a sparkling and crystal clear lake surrounded
by forests is 16 kms away. Further, at an elevation of 3,307 mts. the famous
Himalayan trouts are found in abundance in this lake. Permits for fishing
can be obtained from the Divisional Forest Office, Uttarkashi.
Places of Religious interest
These include a trip to theGaumukh glaciers(18 km.) - the sourse of the
Bhagrithi for a dip in its icy waters is dip in almost a must for pilgrims;
and to the temple of Bhairavanth at Bhaironghati, (10 km.). GMVN Tourilst
Bungalow is located at Bhojbasa, about 14 km., from Gangotrli, on the road
to Uttarkashi, at thle confluence of the Jat Ganga and Bhagirathi rivers.
Pilgrlims also trek to Nandanvan (6km) and Kedartal (18km) from Gangotri.
FACILITIES
Gangotri is well connected to other parts of the country through air, rail
and road. The nearest airport is Jolly Grant, 26 km. From Rishikesh, 249
km. The local and State Transport bus services also connect Gangotril with
many centres in the region while porters and ponies are available for excursions
to Gaumukh and other places from Gangotril during the yatra season.
The temple remains closed from Nov. to May due to severe winter conditions.
Gangotri Tourism
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