About Gangotri Temple
Opening time- 4:00 AM to 2:00 PM | 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Prime days and hours- Weekends, Morning, and Evening
Suggested Duration- 2-3 hours
Tickets- Free Entry
Nearest Railway Station- Rishikesh Railway Station, about 260 km
Nearest Bus Stand- Uttarkashi Bus Stand, about 95 km
Nearest Airport- Jolly Grant Airport, about 265 km
Gangotri Temple is a revered pilgrimage site located in the picturesque town of Gangotri in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand. Situated at an altitude of 11,204 feet above sea level, this sacred temple is dedicated to the Goddess Ganga. Surrounded by the snow-covered peaks of the Garhwal Himalayas and the flowing Bhagirathi River, the temple creates a deeply spiritual and tranquil setting. According to the Hindu mythology, it is here that the Ganga descended to Earth after the intense penance of King Bhagirath. A visit to this temple not only offers spiritual cleansing but also provides breathtaking views of nature, making it a must-visit destination in many Uttarakhand tour packages.
The temple complex includes other sacred sites like Bhagirath Shila, Surya Kund, and Gauri Kund, enriching the overall spiritual journey. Rituals like Mangala Aarti in the morning and Sandhya Aarti in the evening further enhance the divine atmosphere. From soul-searchers to nature lovers, Gangotri Temple welcomes everyone with its pure mountain air, spiritual energy, and rich mythological heritage.
Gangotri Temple Highlights
• Experience spiritual serenity at Gangotri Temple, one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites, nestled in the lap of the majestic Himalayas at an elevation of 11,204 ft.
• Witness the divine origin of the holy Ganga River, believed to have descended from heaven at this very site after King Bhagiratha’s penance.
• Attend soul-soothing Mangala Aarti at dawn and Sandhya Aarti at dusk, accompanied by spiritual chants and sacred offerings of Bhog Prasad.
• Visit holy sites within the temple complex like Bhagirath Shila, Gauri Kund, and Surya Kund, each holding deep mythological significance.
• Join the temple during festivals like Ganga Dussehra and Diwali, celebrated here with great devotion and enthusiasm.
How To Reach Gangotri Temple
By Foot- You can reach the Gangotri Temple from Gangotri town via the Gangotri-Gaumukh Pedestrian Way, which is a 300 metres walk taking approximately 5 mins to reach. The last motorable point is Gangotri town itself.
By Trek- You can also take several scenic treks that start from nearby towns like Harsil or Bhojwasa via the NH 34, which is a 25 km long trail, taking about 2 hours to reach. These trails offer immersive views of the Himalayas and the Bhagirathi River.
Best Time To Visit Gangotri Temple
Peak Season (March-May)
Weather Insight- Clear skies with pleasant temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C.
Things to do- Participate in peaceful aartis, admire the majestic Himalayas, and explore the nearby sacred sites.
Moderate Season (June- September)
Weather Insight- Warmer days and peak summer season with temperatures between 15°C and 30°C.
Things to do- Enjoy the lush green views and quieter paths.
Low Season (October-February)
Weather Insight- Cold and sometimes snowy peaks, with temperatures dipping between 0°C and to 8°C.
Things to do- Enjoy a peaceful darshan in a quiet atmosphere and witness the Himalayas in their winter charm. Due to heavy snowfall, the temple premises might be closed to visitors in winter.
Gangotri Temple Other Essential Information
Why Visit the Gangotri Temple?
- The temple is built with white granite in the traditional Himalayan style, housing the idol of Goddess Ganga in its sanctum.
- Near the temple is the revered rock, Bhagirath Shila, where King Bhagirath is said to have meditated to bring the holy Ganga to Earth.
- Every morning, the sacred Mangala Aarti and every evening, the Sandhya Aarti with rhythmic chanting are held with the afternoon Bhog Prasad for the devotees.
- Located in the temple complex is the Gauri Kund, where Goddess Parvati is said to have meditated for Lord Shiva’s face.
Know Before You Go!
- Wear modest clothes like long pants and full sleeves to respect the temple culture.
- Keep checking the opening of the temple before planning your visit, as the temple is open from May to November and closes during the winter months due to heavy snowfall.
- It is advised to pack some warm clothing even in summer, as temperatures can drop significantly, especially in the evening.
- Carry water bottles and snacks as there are very limited facilities available near the temple premises.
- Be mindful of not capturing any photos as photography is not allowed inside the temple.
- Consider pre-booking your accommodation as the facilities are limited, especially during peak pilgrimage months.
Attend the Divine Aartis
Experience the sacred Mangala Aarti at dawn and the Sandhya Aarti at dusk, each creating a deeply spiritual vibe. The rhythmic chanting, ringing bells, and flickering lamps fill the temple courtyard with energy that feels both calming and powerful. You can also enjoy the afternoon Bhog Prasad after the aarti. These daily rituals help devotees connect to their faith most intimately.
Trek through Spiritual Trails
Gangotri Temple is also a starting point for some of the best treks in Uttarakhand, like the Gangotri-Gaumukh trail, Tapovan trek, and Bhojbasa route. These trails offer scenic landscapes, glacier views, and peaceful Himalayan surroundings and are among the best things to do in Uttarakhand. Whether you are a devotee or a nature lover, these routes offer a spiritual connection with every step you take.
Spend a Peaceful Moment at Gauri Kund
Tucked in the temple complex, Gauri Kund is where Goddess Parvati is believed to have meditated for Lord Shiva’s face. The small water body is surrounded by silence and mountain air, offering a lovely space to take a pause, reflect, and breathe in the stillness of the divine.
Witness Nature’s Wonder at Surya Kund
Just a short walk away, Surya Kund is a natural hot water spring believed to hold healing properties. Pilgrims often come here before visiting the temple, washing their hands and faces in its warm waters. The surrounding rocks and flowing spring make this a perfect mix of nature and spirituality.
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Gangotri Temple FAQs
Why is the Gangotri Temple famous?
The Gangotri Temple is famous as it is one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites and is located at the origin of the holy river Ganges. It is dedicated to Goddess Ganga and is believed to be the place where the river descended from heaven to earth when Lord Shiva released it. The temple is also significant because it is believed to be the spot where King Bhagirath performed penance to bring the river to Earth.
Which god is worshipped in the Gangotri Temple?
The temple is primarily dedicated to Goddess Ganga, who is revered as a divine mother figure and the embodiment of the holy river. While the temple is primarily for Ganga, it also houses idols of other deities like Yamuna, Annapurna, and Lakshmi. According to Hindu mythology, Goddess Ganga descended to earth to purify the ashes of King Bhagirath's ancestors after he performed severe penance. It is also believed that Lord Shiva received the river Ganga in his matted hair to break its fall and prevent it from flooding the earth.
How to reach the Gangotri Temple?
The Gangotri temple is easily accessible by road from Rishikesh or Dehradun. The most common route is via Rishikesh/Haridwar to Uttarkashi, and then to Gangotri, which takes about 7-8 hours by bus or taxi. Alternatively, you can fly from the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, then take a bus or taxi to Uttarkashi and finally to Gangotri.
