One of the main religious places among the four Char Dham pilgrimage areas, Gangotri, situated in Uttarkashi, is closely related to Ganga, the river that we know as Ganges. The history of Gangotri dates back to centuries when according to mythology, Goddess Ganga transformed herself into a river to dissolve the sins of King Bhagirath’s forefathers, following his penance. In order to reduce the impact of her fall, Lord Shiva gathered Ganga into his matted locks and has ever since been associated with Goddess Ganga.
Ganga originates from the Gangotri glacier and is known as Bhagirathi. The name Ganga picks up later after the river passes Devaprayag and merges into the river Alaknanda.
Just the perfect destination to breathe in a serene and pious atmosphere, Gangotri has the charm to attract people from all over. The striking presence of the snow-clad mountains in the vicinity and the pure crystal clear water of the Ganges flowing around add to the sanctity of the place. One feels close to God in the high altitude of Gangotri. Vegan food dominates the culture and is available in the local food joints or dhabas. Non-vegetarian food and alcoholic drinks are a strict no-no.
Attractions
Dodi Tal
At an altitude of 3307 meters, Dodi Tal is a clear lake nestled amidst thick dense forests. The lakeside has accommodation in the form of a wonderful rest house, a camp site and a log cabin. Dodi Tal is a very famous trekking site and any holiday package is incomplete without a trek to this area. Fishing may be allowed following permission from the Divisional Forest Officer.
Those planning to trek to Dodi Tal can take the route which passes Agoda via Kalyani, and advances into thick forests for a distance of about 16 kms. Every step that takes you higher and higher also exposes you to the beauty of Mother Nature!
Ganges Glacier
The Gangotri Glacier, situated at a height of 4238 mts, moves along the Gangotri track starting from Chaukhamba and finally merging into the Gaumukh. It is a known fact that the water of the Ganges is 100% pure in nature and contains absolutely no impurities. Even when kept for years, the water displays no change in properties; the various reasons that can be attributed to this fact are its holiness, secretion of herbs or the mineral content of water!
The Ganges or Gangotri glacier is an ideal trekker’s path that leads to various other spots such as Nandanvan, Tapovan, and Gaumukh.
Kedar Tal
A crystal clear and transparent lake giving a feel of the chill waters, Kedar Tal is a spectacular creation that lies at an altitude of 4425 mts above sea level. This is the best place for a long trek.
The trek to Kedar Tal needs to be directed through a local guide, and is not for the weaklings. To trek across and cover the entire patch of 18 kms from Gangotri to Kedar Tal without any modern facilities on the way is task for a dare devil. Ensure that you make the necessary arrangements well in advance before you begin your trek.
Gangotri Temple
The Gangotri temple, dedicated to Goddess Ganga, was constructed on the banks of Bhagirathi by a Gorkha Commander Amar Singh Thapa, in early 18th century. This temple stands at an altitude of 3042m and emits a highly pious aura. Religious rituals are in full swing in the Gangotri temple with the Aarti ceremony performed by pujaris of the Semwal family.
Vishwanath Temple
One of the most famous temples in Uttarkashi, Lord Vishwanath temple bears a description in the Kedar Khanda or Skanda Puran. The temple is 300 meters away from the local bus stand at Uttarkashi. This holy shrine has a Shivling which is 60 cms tall and is 90 cms in circumference.
The history of this temple dates back to centuries and it is believed to have been constructed by Parashuram. The temple was renovated much later in 1857 by the wife of Sudarshan Shah, Maharani Khaneti. Lord Vishwanath temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and people from all over the world make it a point to visit this ancient temple.
Harsil
Situated two kms away from Dharali, on the highway towards Uttarkashi, Harsil is another picturesque village of scenic importance. Elevated at 2623 mts and stretched at a distance of 72 kms from Uttarkashi, this hamlet is a splendid attraction for nature lovers. The specialty of Harsil lies in the vast number of apple orchards spread across the village.
This place can prove to be a source of inspiration for all artists, be it poets, painters or writers. You never know, Harsil may also instill creativity in ordinary individuals! A memorable holiday is guaranteed for those visiting Harsil.
Maneri
Situated about 13 kms close to Uttarkashi en route to Gangotri, Maneri is the latest entrant in the list of tourist attractions around Gangotri. The main attraction here is the dam built across river Bhagirathi where the water is channeled to turbines through an 8 km long tunnel built at Tiloth at Uttarkashi.
If you plan to approach Maneri from Gangotri, you have to travel a short distance of 92 kms. A wiser idea would be to plan a trip to Maneri after covering places in and around Uttarkashi, on your way back to Gangotri. The added attraction to Maneri is the beautiful lake developed as a result of the dam.
Tapovan
Tapovan is a camping base for those wishing to visit the Shivling peaks. Located at an altitude of above 4460 mts above sea level, Tapovan is a beautiful meadow that surrounds the peaks. Enriched with lovely flowers, a climb to this meadow sharpens the images of the surroundings peaks and ranges. As you ascend towards Tapovan, the view of the Shivling peaks gets even better.
An ideal trekking route, the Tapovan is visited by tourists from all over the globe to enjoy the experience of mountain climbing and trekking. A combination of peace and enthusiasm, spiced up with lots of adventure makes this place special!
Uttarkashi
Travel a distance of 155 kms from Rishikesh and you reach Uttarkashi, one of the important pilgrimage destinations of India. Â Uttarkashi is situated on the banks of river Bhagirathi at an altitude of 1150 meters above sea level. Uttarkashi is a home to various famous temples including Lord Vishwanath temple, Ekadash Rudra temple, Bhairav temple, Kuteti Devi temple and Gyaneshwar temple. Also situated close by is the Nehru Institute of Mountaineering. Uttarkashi is known to host the Magh Mela when people and pilgrims from all over the country bring along their village deity to take a dip in the holy Bhagirathi.
How to Reach
By Air: Jolly Grant at Dehradun, 226 km away, is the nearest airport. Taxis, private cars, state road transport buses are available from the airport to Gangotri via Rishikesh.
By Rail: The nearest railway station is Rishikesh, which is well connected to Dehradun and Delhi.
By Road: There are daily bus services from Gangotri to Rishikesh, Haridwar and Dehradun. Jeeps and tempos are available from Rishikesh to Gangotri.
