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Char Dham #2

Gangotri

Gangotri Temple marks the origin of the holy River Ganga and is one of the holiest Hindu pilgrimage sites.

Gangotri
Location

Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand

Altitude

3100 m

Deity

Goddess Ganga

Best Time

May to October

About Gangotri

Gangotri Dham is one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites of Uttarakhand and one of the most revered Hindu pilgrimage destinations in India. Situated in the scenic Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, the temple is dedicated to Goddess Ganga, who is worshipped here as the sacred river Ganga. Surrounded by the magnificent Himalayan mountains, Gangotri offers devotees a unique combination of spiritual significance and natural beauty.

According to Hindu tradition, Goddess Ganga descended to Earth to purify the souls of King Bhagiratha's ancestors. Lord Shiva received the powerful river in his matted hair before allowing her to flow toward the earth. The Bhagirathi River, which originates from the Gangotri Glacier, is regarded as the earthly manifestation of the sacred Ganga.

The beautiful Gangotri Temple, situated at an altitude of approximately 3,100 metres, attracts thousands of pilgrims during the Char Dham Yatra season. Nearby attractions such as Gaumukh, Gangotri Glacier, Pandava Gufa and Surya Kund make Gangotri an important destination for both pilgrims and nature lovers.

Gangotri is especially significant for devotees seeking spiritual blessings, sacred bathing experiences and a connection with the Himalayan origins of the River Ganga.

Visitor Information

Temple Timings

6:15 AM - 9:30 PM

Entry Fee

Free

Best Time

May to October

Best Time to Visit

The Char Dham temples generally remain open from May to October / November, depending upon weather conditions. The ideal months for pilgrimage are:

  • ✅ May
  • ✅ June
  • ✅ September
  • ✅ October

Avoid travelling during heavy monsoon because landslides and road closures are common in the Himalayan region.

Weather

☀ Summer

Pleasant weather with temperatures between 10°C and 20°C.

🌧 Monsoon

Heavy rainfall and possible landslides. Travel only after checking weather updates.

❄ Winter

Heavy snowfall. The temple usually remains closed during winter.

Other Char Dham Destinations

Frequently Asked Questions

May to October

Free

6:15 AM - 9:30 PM