Gangotri Dham is a highly-revered pilgrimage in India and the birthplace of the holy River Ganga, located in Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand. This sacred site forms one-fourth part of Chhota Char Dham yatra that consists of Yamunotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath.
Visit Gangotri and explore this destination, easily accessible via direct bus or taxi from Rishikesh (300 km) and Uttarkashi (100km). Admire the majestic Gangotri Temple, dedicated to Ma Ganga. It is open for 6 months- May to November; during Akshya Tritiya, an idol of Ma Ganga is moved from Mukhbas(Mukhimath) and returned on Bhai Dooj after a period of six months. Visit between 4 AM – 9 PM for best experience with two daily Aartis at 6 AM & 7:45 PM!
River Ganga, also known as Bhagirathi, is sourced from Gaumukh- a 19km trek away from Gangotri. It only acquires its name of ‘Ganga’ once it reaches Devprayag where it merges with the Alaknanda River.
By the millions, Gangotri is visited by devoted pilgrims annually because of its holy importance. It has been said to be where Goddess Ganga descended on earth after Lord Shiva graciously liberated her from his hair.
Hindu mythology tells the story of Gangotri and its spiritual significance. King Sagar’s grandson Anshuman and his son Dilip tried and failed to bring Ganga down from heaven. But Bhagirath, the third generation king had enough power to achieve this feat after meditating at Gangotri for many years. His brave act has been celebrated by Hindus ever since as a symbol of strength and perseverance.
After years of meditation, Ganga descended from heaven to coexist in Lord Shiva’s hair. Inspired by her presence and dedication, King Bhagirath followed suit with his own meditation to win over the god. As a result of his meditative concentration and persistence, three streams were released – one being the revered ‘Bhagirathi’. This rock where it is believed that King Bhagirath dedicated himself sits close to the illustrious shrine of Ganga; now widely known as ‘Bhagirath Shila.’
By flight
The closest international airport to Gangotri is the Jolly Grant International Airport in Dehradun, which lies approximately 225km away. From there, you can easily find a taxi or bus service that will take you straight to Gangotri.
By road
Gangotri is the only holy site of the Char Dham Yatra that can be directly accessed by road. Taxis and buses are readily available to Gangotri from Delhi, Haridwar, Rishikesh, Dehradun, and Uttarkashi; thus making it a convenient pilgrimage for travelers with limited time or mobility issues.
By train
Situated 250 km away, the closest train station to Gangotri is in Rishikesh. Taxis and buses are available from Rishikesh that will safely transport you there in 12 hours or less.
