Gangotri Tour with Uttarkashi

The Char Dham pilgrimage tour is already the most sought after by millions of Indians. Out of the four places, the Gangotri, situated in Uttarkashi, is given the status of divinity because it is the origin of our sacred river, the Ganga. You will certainly not want to miss an opportunity to visit this blissful region because it has a lot to offer in terms of spirituality and scenic beauty.

The History
The history of Gangotri is nothing short of awe-inspiring. It is believed that centuries ago Goddess Ganga took the form of a river to diffuse the sins and wrongdoings of King Bhagirath’s forefathers. During her transition, Lord Shiva gathered her into his locks to save her from the fall.

Gangotri Temple
The Gangotri Temple was built centuries ago by a Gorkha Commander in the 18th century. Standing at an altitude of 3042m, the Gangotri temple is a vision. It exudes divinity and purity. The Aarti ceremony is performed by the pundits and pujaris of the Semwal family and religious rituals here are worth witnessing and being a part of. You will feel like you have been transported to the very home of the creator and have been invited to witness the indelible beauty and aura of the divine region.

One River, 3 Names
The Gangotri glacier is the where the Ganga originates from and it is known as Bhagirathi. The name Ganga comes in only after the river passes Devaprayag merging into the river Alaknanda. Starting as Gangotri, flowing down the path as Bhagirathi and eventually becoming the Ganga is the beautiful journey of India’s most sacred river.

The Blissful Experience
The serenity of Gangotri not only attracts people from all over the country but also from all over the world. The exquisite view of the snow-capped mountains and the crystal clear water of the Ganga look and feel so surreal that once there, you will not want to go back home. The food in this region is largely vegetarian which can be found in local restaurants and joints. Non-vegetarian food and alcoholic drinks are strictly prohibited and should not be consumed or carried.

The serenity of Gangotri Temple
The Gangotri temple is worth visiting since it is the highest temple of Goddess Ganga and is one of the char dhams of Uttarakhand. Being at a high altitude of 3,048 metres above sea level, the temple is mesmerizing to say the least. The terrains, the Bhagirathi River’s picturesque gushing water and the snow-clad mountains will make for a stunning capture which years later will remind you of the heaven you once visited. The Gangotri opens in May and closes on the day of Diwali.

Tapovan, Nandanvan and Bhairon Ghati
Besides Gangotri temple, Tapovan and Nandanvan will take your breath away. The magnificent view of the mount Shivling and other gorgeous peaks of the Garhwal Himalayas are clearly visible from Tapovan.

10 Kilometres from Gangotri is the Bhairon Ghati. The Bhairon Temple is also one of those places that will give you immense peace, calm and spirituality. There is also a natural rock Shivling which is submerged under the water and is a famous tourist spot. It is more prominent in winters owing to lowering of the water level. If myths are to be believed, this was the place where Lord Shiva was sitting when he embraced Gangotri in his locks.

Gangotri is a must visit for everyone since it gives you an unparalleled spiritual experience. Your inward journey will soothe your senses and will enlighten you to the vast world that lies within you. This region can do magic on your soul and has the power to heal your inner consciousness.