Destination
Gangotri and Surroundings - Destination
Discover the Rich Heritage and Natural Wonders of Gangotri and Nearby Destination
Gangotri Glacier
The Gangotri Glacier, situated in Uttarakhand's Garhwal Himalayas, is a crucial source of the Ganges River. Spanning approximately 30 kilometers, it attracts trekking and mountaineering enthusiasts while also holding immense religious significance for Hindus.
- Location: Gangotri, Uttarakhand, India.
- Visiting Hours: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Best Time to Visit: May to October
- Entry Fees: No entry fee; charges may apply for guided treks and local permits.
- How to Reach: Nearest railway station - Rishikesh (250 km); Nearest airport - Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (290 km).
Kedar Tal
Kedar Tal is a stunning glacial lake near Gangotri, situated at an altitude of 4,760 meters. Surrounded by majestic peaks, it offers breathtaking views and is a popular trekking destination for adventure enthusiasts seeking tranquility and natural beauty.
- Location: Kedar Tal, Uttarakhand, India.
- Visiting Hours: Accessible during daylight hours; trekking usually starts early in the morning.
- Best Time to Visit: May to October
- Entry Fees: No entry fee; charges may apply for trekking permits and guided services.
- How to Reach: Nearest railway station - Dehradun (250 km); Nearest airport - Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (270 km). Trekking to Kedar Tal starts from Gangotri (18 km trek from Gangotri).
Gangotri National Park
Gangotri National Park is a protected area in Uttarakhand, surrounding the sacred Gangotri region. Renowned for its diverse flora and fauna, the park offers stunning landscapes, trekking opportunities, and serves as a vital sanctuary for wildlife.
- Location: Gangotri, Uttarakhand, India.
- Visiting Hours: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Best Time to Visit: May to October
- Entry Fees: ₹150 for Indian tourists; ₹600 for foreign tourists. Additional charges may apply for special permits and guided tours.
- How to Reach: Nearest railway station - Rishikesh (250 km); Nearest airport - Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (290 km). Access to the park typically starts from Gangotri, which is the base for treks.
Gangotri Temple
Gangotri Temple, located in Uttarakhand, is a revered Hindu shrine dedicated to Goddess Ganga. Situated at 3,100 meters near the Bhagirathi River, it is believed to be where the Ganges descended from heaven, fulfilling King Bhagirath's penance.
- Location: Gangotri, Uttarakhand, India.
- Visiting Hours: 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM
- Best Time to Visit: May to October
- Entry Fees: No entry fee; donations can be made at the temple.
- How to Reach: Nearest railway station - Rishikesh (250 km); Nearest airport - Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (290 km).
Surya Kund
Surya Kund in Uttarakhand is a notable pilgrimage site near Gangotri, one of the Char Dham destinations. This sacred pond holds significant importance in Hindu mythology, attracting devotees seeking spiritual solace and connection to the divine.
- Location: Gangotri, Uttarakhand, India.
- Visiting Hours: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Best Time to Visit: May to October
- Entry Fees: No entry fee; charges may apply for guided treks and local services.
- How to Reach: Nearest railway station - Rishikesh (250 km); Nearest airport - Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (290 km). Surya Kund is accessible via a trek from Gangotri Temple.
Gaumukh
Gaumukh, located in Gangotri, is the glacier from which the Ganges River originates. It's a sacred and stunning trek destination in the Himalayas, offering breathtaking views and a serene environment.
- Location: Gaumukh, Gangotri, Uttarakhand, India.
- Visiting Hours: 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Best Time to Visit: May to October
- Entry Fees: No entry fee; charges may apply for permits and guided services.
- How to Reach: Nearest railway station - Rishikesh (250 km); Nearest airport - Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (290 km). Trek to Gaumukh starts from Gangotri (about 18 km trek). Prior permits from the Uttarakhand Forest Department are required.