Gangotri Tour Packages

The sacred shrine of Gangotri is one of the holiest pilgrimage destinations of Hindus and forms a part of the famous "Chardham". Situated at an altitude of 3,400metres above sea-level amidst scenic natural settings, the source of Holy River Ganga known as Gaumukh originates from here.

Gangotri is located at Uttarakhand state in north India. According to mythology, King Bhagirath performed severe penance for redemption of sins of his clan, as a result of which Goddess Ganga manifested herself in the form of a river and descended from heaven. To minimize the great force of the fall, Lord Shiva received her into his matted locks from where the river reemerged into several streams, with the one starting from Gangotri came to be called as Bhagirathi. In the 18th century, the Gorkha General Amar Singh Thapa constructed a temple at the same spot, which is now visited by millions of devotees every year. On the right bank of the River Bhagirathi is situated another holy temple believed to be built by the Pandavas- the Hindu mythological gods who performed the 'Deva Yajna' here to obtain atonement for the death of their kinsmen in the epic battle of Mahabharat.

Located near two other pilgrimage destinations- 105 km from Uttarkashi and 250 km from Rishikesh, Gangotri is home to several sacred shrines and Ashrams and is located amidst scenic natural surroundings. The Bhagirathi temple is open for the devotees only in the months of May to October, as by Novermber the shrine gets covered by snow. Legends have it that during this period the Goddess Ganga retreats into her winter abode-Mukhba, situated 12 kms. downstream.

• Gaumukh glaciers: This snout of gangotri glaciers is the present source of Bhagirathi River, situated at a distance of 18 km from Gangotri. Devotees trek the steep distance to take a holy dip in its bone chilling water. Ponies and porters are also available to reach to the spot, from where one may trek to other pilgrimage destinations of Nandanvan and Kedartal.

• Submerging Shivling: Visible only in winter months when the water level is down, this is believed to be the place where Lord Shiva sat to receive the Ganga River in his matted locks.

• Kedartal: Suitable only for those who are good at trekking on rough terrain, the Kedartal is a spectacular lake situated at a distance of 8 km from Gangotri.

• Nandanvan Tapovan: Situated at a distance of 6 km. from Gaumukh, these two spots are famous for the scenic view of the Shivling peak that visitors get to see.

The summer's season is cool during the day and colder in the nights. Winter season is mostly snowbound with the temperature falling below zero degree. The monsoon season extending from late June To August witnesses heavy rainfall. The best time to visit Gangotri is from May-June and September-Novermber.

• By Air : Jolly grant is the nearest airport located 26 km from Rishikesh.

• By Rail : The Rishikesh railway station located 249 km. away is the nearest railhead.

• By Road : A well laid out network of roads connects Gangotri to all nearby cities like Uttarakashi(96 km), Yamnotri(232km) and Tehri( 167 km.).