India / Uttaranchal /Uttarkashi /Gangotri
Gangotri is one of the main religious places among the four Char Dham pilgrimage areas, situated in Uttarkashi, is closely related to Goddess Ganga, the river that we know as Ganges. The history of Gangotri dates back to centuries when 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. Just the perfect destination to breath 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.
Gangotri Temple, Gangotri.
Quick Facts-Edit
Category : Pilgrim
Time Zone: UTC + 5:30 Hours
Pincode: 249137
STD Code: 1381
Info Website:
Best Time to Visit: April-June, September-November
HistoryEdit
The Gangotri Temple was built by a Gorkha Commander in the early years of the 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 Arti ceremony performed by the pujaris of the Semwal family. The river Ganga originates from the Gangotri glacier and is known as Bhagirathi. The name Ganga picks up later on after the river passes Devaprayag and merges into the river Alaknanda.
Places to VisitAdd
Gangotri Sightseeing
How to ReachEdit
By Air : Nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is a domestic airport located at about 260 km away from city center. Taxi cabs are available from airport to Gangotri city, which cost about Rs 4000.
By Train : Rishikesh is the nearest railway station, which is about 250 km away. The station is well connected to many major cities in India. The taxi charge between Rishikesh and Gangotri is about Rs 4,500 for a round trip.
By BUS : Gangotri is well connected by state owned bus services. Many buses are available from Gangotri to Uttarakashi (97 km), Yamunotri (232 km), Mussoorie (250 km) and Tehri (167 km). Private deluxe buses charge about Rs 3 per kilometer while state buses charge less than Re 1 per kilometer.
By Taxi : Taxies and Auto rickshaws are easily available for moving about in the city.
By Other : N.A.
Top HotelsAdd
Budget – Up to Rs. 800
- Bhagirathi Guest House ; Munikireti,Gangotri Uttarakhand – 249137, India. ; Ph – N.A. ; Facilities – Air conditioning, Laundry, Parking, Doctor on call
Economy – Up to Rs. 801 to Rs. 1200
- Ganga Niwas Hotel ; Munikireti, Gangotri Uttarakhand – 249137. ; Ph – N.A. ; Facilities – Travel Desk, Air conditioning, Conference facilities, Laundry,24-Hour Security,Catering Services, Concierge, Wedding Services, Banquet facilities,Doctor on call.
Deluxe – Up to Rs. 801 to Rs. 1200
- Vijay Raj Hotel Residency ; Gangotri Highway,Gangotri,Uttarakhand – 249137. ; Ph – N.A. ; Facilities – Travel Desk, 24-hour front desk, 24-hour room service, Air conditioning, Laundry, Parking.
Luxury – Rs. 2501 and above
- Sheli Katej Hotel ; Munikireti, Gangotri Uttarakhand – 249137. ; Ph – N.A. ; Facilities – Travel Desk, 24-hour front desk,24-hour room service, Air conditioning, Conference facilities, Laundry, Parking, Beauty salon, 24-Hour Security, Body Treatments, Catering Services, Game Room, Health Club, Massage Services, Wedding Services, Banquet facilities, Doctor on call.
Top RestaurantsAdd
- Himalaya Restaurant ; Gangotri,Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand 249135 ; M – N.A. ; Food Serve : N.A.
Must Eat FoodAdd
Must Do ActivitiesAdd
Must ShopAdd
Nightlife (Pub / Disc / BAR)Add
SpaAd
FestivalAdd
Akshaya Tritiya ; Venue: N.A. ; Period : May ; Details: Special pooja is done on the auspicious days such as Janamshtami, Vijaydashmi and Diwali. Akshaya Tritiya is also known as Akha Teej. It is a Hindu and Jain holy day that falls on the third Tithi (Lunar day). This day is considered as the birthday of Lord Parasurama who is the sixth manifestation of Lord Vishnu. This day is celebrated here in Gangotri with lots of pleasure and prosperity.
Safety / WarningEdit
- Beware of pickpockets as Gangotri is a major tourist city in India.
- Beware of fake items. Better to buy from reputable shops even though you have to pay more.
HelplineEdit
- Ambulance : 102
- Fire Brigade : 101
- Police : 100