Char Dharm - Gangotri
The Gangotri is the source of river Ganga, which is called as Bhagirathi at this place. The origin river Ganga is at a place called Gaumukh, which is a 19 kilometers trek from Gangotri. This small town is situated in Uttaranchal state, centered on a temple of the goddess Ganga. The temple was built by the Gurkha General Amar Singh Thapa in the late 18th century. Due to its unique location Gangotri serves multi purpose as a pilgrimage spot, trekker’s delight and a place for nature lovers. Submerged in the river there is a natural Lingam where, according to Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva sat when he received the Goddess Ganga in his matted locks.
This is an ideal place for trekking, which is the major tourist attraction. The Gangotri-Gaumukh-Tapovan and Gangotri-Kedartal trekking routes are known a famous place for trekking. May - June and Aug – Oct is the ideal time to visit this place.
General Information about Gangotri
Best Time To Visit : The best time to visit Yamunotri is between May-June and September to October.
Climate : Summer-Cool during the dayy and cold at night. Winter - Snow bound. Touching sub-zero.
Language : Hindi, Garhwali & English
Clothing : Summer - Light woolens. Winter - Very heavy woolens.
Eating Out : Only local eating houses (dhabas) are available. Non-vegetarian food and alcoholic drinks are prohibited in Yamunotri.
Aaccommodation in Gangotri
There is good number of hotels located near Gangotri temple. State government approved tourist bungalows are also available. Unlike other tourist attractions, Gangotri doesn’t have many attractive places to stay. Travelers can also check out other accommodation options like Ashrams and Dharmashalas located there.
How To Reach Gangotri
Gnagotri By Air : Nearest airport is Jolly Grant (26 km from Rishikesh).
Gnagotri By Train : Nearest railhead is at Rishikesh, 249 km.
Gnagotri By Bus : Gangotri is connected by road to Uttarkashi, Tehri Garhwal and Rishikesh and from there to other parts of the country. Important road distances are Uttarkashi 97 km, Tehri 167 km, Dharasu 125 km, Yamunotri 232 km, Mussoorie 250 km
Important road distances : Hanumanchatti 13 km; Dharasu 107 km; Tehri 149 km. Rishikesh to Yamunotri 222 km via Narendranagar 16 km, Chamba 46 km, Brahmkhal 15 km, Barkot 40 km, Sayanachatti 27 km, Hanumanchatti 6km, Phoolchatti 5 km, Jankichatti 3 km and Yamunotri 6 km.
See Also
Dodi Taal Lake : Dodi Tal, the dazzling expanse of water is situated at an elevation of 3024m above sea level. Surrounded by an extremely dense forest of oak, pine, deodar and rhododendron, the forest sports a primeval look.
Gangotri- Kedarnath Trek : This trek is along the old pilgrim route from Gangotri to Kedarnath.
Gangotri- Nandavan-Tapovan Trek : This trek is for adventure lovers, who can experience mountain climbing, rock climbing, boulder-hopping and glacier traversing on this trek.