Gangotri, the birthplace of the sacred Hindu River Ganga, is a renowned Hindu pilgrimage site situated in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand. Perched beautifully at an altitude of 3100 meters above sea level in the Garhwal Himalayan Ranges, Gangotri is one of the four sacred Dhams in the Char Dham pilgrimage circuit. Pilgrims from around the world flock to this divine destination to seek the blessings of Goddess Ganga. The pilgrimage is widely famous for its ancient temples, their religious significances, and also the interesting stories behind them.
Reckoned as a religious destination, tourists come to this pilgrimage to seek the blessings of Goddess Ganga but visitors can also explore some of the most popular sightseeing destinations in the region which gives it a touristic appeal along with the religious significance. It requires a minimum of 2 days to explore the beauties of Gangotri and yes do check the list of hotels in Gangotri to spend your days comfortably at this spiritual place. Some of the nearby places where a tourist can spend his/ her leisure time in and around Gangotri are enlisted below:
Gangotri Temple
- Highest temple dedicated to Goddess Ganga.
- Situated at 3,100 meters altitude.
- Part of Uttarakhand’s Chota Char Dham Yatra.
- Constructed around 18th century by Nepalese General Amar Singh Thapa.
Believed to be constructed around 300 years ago, this ancient marbled structure is dedicated to Goddess Ganga. This 20 feet high temple is said to be constructed by General Amar Singh Thapa who was a commander of Gorkha regiment. It is estimated that the pilgrimage welcomes 2.5 lakh devotees every year and from every corner of the world. According to the historical tales and the locals the temple was rebuilt and renovated by the mighty Maharaja of Jaipur in the 20th century. Do not miss to partake the enchanting Ganga Aarti (a way to thank River Ganga).
Bhojbasa
- Located at 3,775 meters altitude.
- Halt point on the way to Gaumukh Glacier.
- Offers enchanting views of Bhagirathi peaks.
- Accessible via 14 km trek from Gangotri.
Situated at a trekking distance of 14 km from Gangotri, Bhojbasa is a scenic splendour nestled at an altitude of 3775 meters above the sea level. It is considered as the last accommodation point en-route Gaumukh glacier (the main source of the River Ganges). Tourists coming to this place get the eye-catching view of the majestic Bhagirathi Peaks. Do cover some of the adventurous treks in the region and also visit the nearby quaint hamlet Harsil.
Dharali
- Picturesque hamlet near river Ganges.
- Altitude of 2,680 meters above sea level.
- Known for apple orchards and Rajma cultivation.
- Close to Mukhba village and foot bridge over Bhagirathi river.
If you are done with the Darshan at Gangotri Temple then set out to explore the panoramic town of Dharali which is situated on the river bank of Ganges and is a perfect place to enjoy the tranquillity and the serenity in the environment. This picturesque hamlet near Gangotri is nestled at an elevation of 648 meters above the sea level and is adorned with the dense trees of Deodar and Pine. A walk through the narrow lanes of this hamlet soothes your soul with the cool gentle breeze and its scenic vista. Also, you can pay homage to the Shiva Temple which is opened every day.
Kalindi Khal Trek
- High altitude pass connecting Gangotri and Badrinath.
- Elevation of 5,950 meters.
- Challenging trek through meadows, glaciers, and rocky terrains.
- Offers views of Bhagirathi peaks and Shivling peak.
Situated amidst the scenic splendour and the surreal landscape in the Himalayas, Kalindi Khal Trek is considered to be the toughest trekking trail and the adventurous trekking trail which is hard to be accessed by the experienced and the brave hearted trekkers also. However, the trekking is quite arduous but the mesmerizing views of the valley and the mountains keep the tourists engaged with its beauty which makes the tiredness negligible.
Tapovan
- High-altitude grasslands near Gangotri shrine.
- Elevation of 4,460 meters.
- Seasonal home for sadhus.
- Base camp for mountaineering expeditions.
Situated around 23 km away from the originating place of River Ganges and 4460 meters above the sea level, Tapovan is a splendid area adorned with beautiful meadows in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand. The name itself depicts and clarifies the significance of the region i.e. a perfect place for performing a deep penance. The entire region is studded with beautiful, colorful, and scented meadows, flowers, and cascading streams. It takes almost 4 days to complete this challenging trek from Gangotri.
Kedar Tal Trek
- Glacial lake at 4,900 meters altitude.
- Fed by snowfall over surrounding peaks.
- Popular trekking destination, 17 km from Gangotri.
- Scenic route through birch forests.
A splendid glacial lake named after the mighty Lord Shiva and is located in the Uttarkashi district in Uttarakhand. This high-altitude lake is considered to be one of the most astonishing and moderate-level trekking trails in Uttarakhand. The view of the reflection of Thalay Sagar Peak in this crystal clear lake is quite enchanting and captivating to the visitors visiting this sacred lake. It also offers a wide variety of fauna which includes Himalayan Black Bear, Ghoral, Fox, and Bharal to animal lovers.
Nelong Valley
- Resembles Ladakh in geography.
- Cold desert area with striking landscape.
- Former Indo-China trade route.
- Entry restricted, permit required.
Located 34 km away from Gangotri and around 25 km from the majestic Bhaironghati, this astonishing valley is located in the Uttarkashi district in Uttarakhand and in the Gangotri National Park. Its pictorial landscape is similar to the mountainous desert landscape of Leh – Ladakh and Lahaul- Spiti and also offers the beautiful sight of the Tibetan Plateau. Besides being popular for its beautiful landscape the valley is also famous for providing shelter to many wild animals like Himalayan Blue Sheep, Snow Leopard, and Musk Deer.
Gangotri National Park
- High-altitude sanctuary in Uttarakhand.
- Spans an area of 920 sq mi.
- Houses Gaumukh glacier, source of River Ganges.
- Best visited from April to October.
This huge national park is established in the Uttarkashi district in Uttarakhand and has been after the sacred Gangotri Glacier. The whistling woods, crushed snow, beaten trails, challenging treks, and the ruffled leaves make the beauty of the park more inviting and appealing to the tourists. On your visit to Gangotri National Park, you will be able to explore some of the ancient temples and other sacred places situated nearby or within the vicinity of this huge park. Gangotri National Park is reckoned as the most wonderful and high altitude wildlife sanctuary in the country.
Vishwanath Temple
- Ancient temple in Uttarkashi.
- Dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Constructed in 1857 by Maharani Khaneti Devi.
- Known for its traditional Himalayan architecture.
Nestled on the riverbanks of the holy river Bhagirathi and is enlisted among some of the oldest and the sacred temples located in Uttarkashi. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is said to be constructed by the popular sage Parshuram While covering the divine journey of Char Dham Yatra devotees do pay homage at this sacred ancient temple also. The best thing about this temple is you don’t need to worry about carrying the puja items along with you as you can get it easily at the temple only and that too at a very nominal price.
