Gangotri
Gangotri is a town and a Nagar Panchayat in Uttarkashi district in the state of Uttarakhand, India. It is a Hindu pilgrim town on the banks of the river Bhagirathi and origin of River Ganges. It is on the Greater Himalayan Range, at a height of 3,100 metres. According to popular Hindu legend, it was here that Goddess Ganga descended when Lord Shiva released the mighty river from the locks of his hair.
The Ganges is the sacred river of India believed to have descended to earth to absolve the sins of human beings and this is the reason why the Gangotri basin bears so much of importance, especially for Hindu devotees. Being the place of origin of this sacred river, Gangotri in Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand is recognized as a holy place for the Hindu pilgrims and is given the name of Shri Gangotri Dham where the shrine of Goddess Ganga is worshipped by thousands.
Gangotri, the origin of the River Ganges and seat of the goddess Ganga, is one of the four sites in the Chota Char Dham pilgrimage circuit. The original Gangotri Temple was built by the Nepalese general Amar Singh Thapa. The river is called Bhagirathi at the source and acquires the name Ganga (the Ganges) from Devprayag onwards where it meets the Alaknanda. The origin of the holy river is at Gaumukh, set in the Gangotri Glacier, and is a 19 km trek from Gangotri
Nearest Attractive Places
Gaumukh
The source of river Bhagirathi is also considered the true source of river Ganga. The area is peaceful and surreal, and offers stunning views of Mt. Shivling and the Bhagirathi group of mountains, and can be reached after an 18 km trek from Gangotri.
Tapovan
The most famous tapovan in India is the are above Gangotri Glacier at the one of primary sources of the Ganges in Uttrakhand, India. (4300m) is an area beyond Gaumukh consisting of a beautiful meadow, at the feet of Mt. Shivling for those in need of peace and adventure, a further 5 Kms from Gaumukh.
Nandanvan
4337m) Located on the far side of the Gangotri glacier opposite to Tapovan this small high altitude meadow is by no means lesser than Tapovan, offering stunning views of surrounding peaks.
Pandav Gufa or Pandava Cave
At a distance of 1.5 km from Gangotri, Pandava Gufa is an ancient natural cave situated on Uttarkashi – Gangotri Road. It is said to be the site where the five Pandavas during the period of Mahabharata mediated while they were going to Kailash. One has to trek 1.5 km from Gangotri to reach this place. The way to reach the Pandava Gufa is quite scenic and captivating and is enveloped with lush greenery, hilly terrains and endless natural bounties.
Bhairo Ghati
Bhairon Ghati is situated close to the confluence of Jadh Ganga and Bhagirathi River. The colorful Bhagirathi (Ganga) is seen at the Bhairon Ghati where it is joined by a blue river Jahnavi or Jadh Ganga coming from Neelong range. There is a Bhairav Nath Temple surrounded by dense forests at Bhairon Ghati which is worth visiting. This place is easily accessible by road.
According to mythology, Ganga left the matted hair of Lord Shiva and followed King Bhagiratha. On the way to Gangotri, it disturbed the sage Jahnu who was at the middle of the penance. Due to this, the sage was annoyed and took in the water flow with his thighs. On request of King Bhagiratha, he allowed to leave Ganga through his ears. It is also believed that Lord Shiva appointed Bhairon to safeguard this place and hence Bhairon temple exists nearby and the place is known as Bhairon Ghati. It is said that visiting this temple is a must after visiting the Gangotri Temple.
Harsil
Harsil is an unspoilet and hidden jewel of Uttrakhand state offering ample scope for people ample scope for people seeking peace and serenity in the lap of Himalayas.it is situated on the banks of Bhagirathi River at an elevation of 2620 mts above sea level. The quaint hamlet has become popular in recent years among travel enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Dense Deodar forest, gushing water of Bhagirathi River, chirping birds, salubrious environment and serene environs are the highlight of this little secluded destination. A holiday at Harsil is a rejuvenating experiences where you can do meditation and yoga
Gangotri National Park
Gangotri National Park is a national park located in Uttarkashi District Garhwal range
Uttarakhand, India. The size of this national park is about 2,390 square km. It was third largest National park of India. The park provides majestic beauty of coniferous forests and grandeur of glacial world combined with lush green meadows.
Fauna- This park is home to the snow leopard, ibex, tahr, Himalayan barbet, serow, pheasants, partridges, doves, pigeons, etc.