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About Gangotri
Gangotri ji is one of the four Char Dham shrines of Uttarakhand, located at an altitude of approximately 3,200 metres above sea level. Mythologically, it is said that Gangotri is where Goddess Ganga descended to earth in response to King Bhagirath's penance, and it is also believed that Lord Shiva first received the river in his matted locks before releasing her in gentler streams. A visit to the Gangotri Temple is considered essential for Hindu pilgrims undertaking the Char Dham Yatra.
The shrine at Gangotri is dedicated to Goddess Bhagirathi, alongside deities including Yamuna Ji, Saraswati Ji, Lakshmi Ji, Annapurna Ji and Parvati Ji, with the ritual items used in worship traditionally made of gold. The temple itself was constructed by the Gorkha General Amar Singh Thapa in the 18th century and stands on the banks of the Bhagirathi River, surrounded by a number of ashrams.
The Pandavas are also believed to have performed the "Deva Yajna" here to free themselves from the sin of killing their kinsmen in the Mahabharata war.
Gangotri Quick Facts
| Altitude | Approx. 3,200 metres |
| District | Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand |
| Located on | Banks of the Bhagirathi River |
| Deity | Goddess Ganga (as Bhagirathi) |
| Built by | Gorkha General Amar Singh Thapa (18th century) |
| Nearby glacier | Gaumukh, approx. 18 km trek from Gangotri, altitude ~4,200 m |
Gangotri Temple Guide
The Gangotri temple is among the most elevated and significant shrines of Goddess Ganga, set within a small town that grows busy with pilgrims through the yatra season. A natural Shivling submerged in the Gangotri waters becomes visible during winter, when the water level drops, and holds deep religious significance for visiting devotees.
Gaumukh
Gaumukh Glacier, situated at an altitude of approximately 4,200 metres, is considered the true glacial source of the Bhagirathi (upper Ganga) and lies about 18 km from Gangotri. Its shape, resembling a cow's mouth, gives the glacier its name. Taking a holy dip at Gangotri remains a must for pilgrims and devotees, while reaching Gaumukh itself requires a trek and an Inner Line Permit, since the route lies close to the India-China border.
About Gaurikund and Devghat
Devghat, the confluence of the Kedar Ganga and Bhagirathi rivers, is regarded as a holy site by pilgrims in the area. Nearby, Gaurikund - devoted to Goddess Parvati, also known as Gauri - sits in the Garhwal Himalayas at around 6,000 ft, and is associated in local legend with the site where Gauri won Lord Shiva's hand in marriage.
Best Time to Visit Gangotri
Gangotri Temple typically opens around Akshaya Tritiya (late April or early May) and closes around Diwali in late October or early November, following the Hindu lunar calendar. May-June and September-October offer the most comfortable weather for pilgrims.
How to Reach Gangotri
Pilgrims typically travel via Haridwar - Rishikesh - Uttarkashi - Gangotri by road. The nearest railway station is Rishikesh, and the nearest airport is Jolly Grant, Dehradun.
Frequently Asked Questions - Gangotri
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The above package cost includes
- Including Accommodation, Transportation & Meals.
- Accommodation on family basis Rooms with attached Bathroom.
- All places are double sharing Deluxe Room.
- The above hotels are subject to availability, in case of non availability similar hotels will provide.
- Transport: By 2*1 12 Seater push back tempo traveller (Incl Toll Tax & Parking) with Good Driver.
- (Break Fast,lunch, Dinner) pure, Gujarati, Rajsathani, Marwadi,Jain, South Indian food.
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The above package cost does not includes
- Any Expenses of personal Telephone calls, camera charges, Laundry, Entrance fees, Rope way, Porter and Pony.
- Guide charges
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Travel Tips:-
- Advance hotel booking are must.
- Carry snacks with you in case of long traffic jams/ land slides.
- Carry drinking Water, and medicines with you.
- Respect customs of local.
- Carry Rain Coat/ Umbrella, Torch, minimum luggage with you.
- Carry enough of winter clothing as it gets cold in Badrinath & Kedarnath.
- In case of any serious Medical Emergency, CALL 108 (The mobile emergency service from GOVERNMENT OF UTTARAKHAND), don't make fake calls, as it is punishable offence
