Gangotri is a town with immense mythological significance and is situated on the banks of River Bhagirathi on the foothills of the Himalayas. The town is named after the holy River Ganga. The place is located at an altitude of approximately 3,100 m. above sea-level in Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand in Northern India. Due to its mountainous terrain and closeness to the Himalayas, it is slowly gaining popularity as one of the blooming tourist places. With snow-topped peaks and green woods, tourists love to spend time in the lap of Mother Nature’s serenity and piety.
There is an interesting legend about the origin of River Ganga in Gangotri. According to the Hindu mythology, King Bhagirath did several years of ‘Tapasya’ (penance under harsh conditions) to please Lord Brahma requesting him to send Goddess Ganga to Earth for removal of sins and liberating the souls of his predecessors. He was blessed with the request being accepted and Ganga originated at this place. The source of the holy river is the Gaumukh, meaning ‘cow’s mouth’, at the tip of the Gangotri Glacier. At the source, the name of the River is attributed to King Bhagirath and is called Bhagirathi. The river is called Ganga after it confluences with River Alakananda, 244 km. away in another holy town named Devprayag.
With so much religious significance in the Hindu Scripture, Gangotri town is an important pilgrimage and is one of the Char Dhams (four abodes). Devout Hindus feel blessed when they are able to visit Char Dhams in their lifetime for worship. Apart from this, the mou
Thinking about non-vegetarian food here is considered like a ‘sin’. There are a string of small stalls where you are served pure vegetarian food rich in carbohydrates. The eating joint at Ganga Niketan lodge is a nice place to experience dining.
There are statues of Gods and Goddesses made of metals like brass or copper and even silver, or carved out of stone and wood. They come in different sizes and are ideal as souvenirs. You can also purchase local-made woollens which stand out among fashionable winter clothes. Some stores even serve adventure-gear, if you have come here for this purpose.
There are many other important places near Gangotri where you may like to visit.
- Uttarkashi: Located at a distance of 95 km., the place is known for the Vishwanath temple.
- Harsil: At 23 km. from Gangotri, this place has a splendid locale.
- Gaumukh and Gangotri Glacier: Pilgrims and tourists have to trek about 19 km. to reach Gaumukh. This is among the must visit places of Gangotri town.
- Kedar Tal: This ‘Tal’ or lake is a beautiful water body among best places on high mountain peaks. It is 18 km. away and serves as a base camp for adventure lovers who go trekking to the peaks around it.
- Nandanvan and Tapovan: They are situated on either side of the glacier and are known for their breath-taking views.