Gangotri, the origin of the River Ganges, is one of the four sites in the Chota Char Dham pilgrimage circuit along with Badrinath, Kedarnath, and Yamunotri. River Ganges originates at Gaumukh in Gangotri Glacier, which is located about 19 km away from Gangotri town. As per legends, Goddess Ganges took the form of a river in order to absolve the sins of King Bhagiratha’s ancestors, after his severe penance. Lord Shiva received River Ganges in his thick hair locks, to reduce the impact of her fierce flow.
Gangotri is famous for its ancient temples and religious significance. The present Ganga Temple at Gangotri was built by a Gorkha General Amar Singh Thapa in the early 18th century. It is one of the most important temples of River Ganga. The river is called Bhagirathi at the source and acquires the name Ganga from Devprayag onwards where it meets the Alaknanda. Near the temple is located a sacred stone where King Bhagiratha is said to have worshipped Lord Shiva. Jalamagna Shivalinga, Bhavishya Badri Temple, Bhairavnath Temple, and Gaumukh are the other religious attractions in Gangotri.
Ganges Glacier
Gangotri Temple
Kedar Tal
Harsil
Dodi Tal
Auden’s Col
Dayara Bugyal
Dharali
Gomukh Tapovan Trek
Kedartal Patangini Pass Trek
Tapovan
Jogin Advanced Base Camp
Uttarkashi
Maneri
Kalindi Khal Trek
Vishwanath Temple
Others
Gangotri National Park
