Sacred Dham
Gangotri
Where the sacred Ganga descended for the first time.
About Gangotri
Gangotri is dedicated to Goddess Ganga and represents the purity of the soul. According to Hindu mythology, this is the sacred spot where the river Ganga touched the earth for the first time after penance by King Bhagiratha. The 18th-century temple, built of white granite by Amar Singh Thapa, sits amidst breathtaking cedar and pine forests at an altitude of 3,100 meters. Devotees take a ritual dip in the glacial waters of the Bhagirathi river to wash away sins and begin their spiritual rebirth.
☀️ Best Time to Visit
May to June and September to October. The temple typically opens on Akshaya Tritiya and closes on the day of Diwali.
Spiritual Highlights
- ✤Bhagirath Shila: The sacred slab of stone where King Bhagiratha is said to have meditated.
- ✤Submerged Shiva Lingam: A natural rock lingam submerged in the river, visible only during winters.
- ✤Gauri Kund & Surya Kund: Sacred waterfalls and thermal points near the temple.
- ✤Pandav Gufa: A naturally formed cave where the Pandavas are believed to have meditated.
How to Reach
Gangotri is well-connected by road. The journey usually starts from Uttarkashi (100 km). The nearest airport is Jolly Grant, Dehradun (250 km) and the closest railway station is Rishikesh (240 km). Unlike Yamunotri, the Gangotri shrine is directly accessible by car.
Plan Your Yatra
Join our premium guided tours for a seamless spiritual experience covering Gangotri.
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