One of the Char Dhams of Uttarakhand at 3100 Metres on the Bhagirathi River
Gangotri Temple is one of the four sacred Char Dhams of Uttarakhand, dedicated to Goddess Ganga. Situated at 3100 metres on the banks of the Bhagirathi River, the temple marks the spot where the river descended from the heavens according to Hindu mythology. The current temple was built by Gorkha General Amar Singh Thapa in the 18th century and later renovated.
The temple opens every year on Akshaya Tritiya (April/May) and closes on Diwali (October/November) when the idol of Goddess Ganga is taken to Mukhwa village (Harsil) for the winter. The Gangotri town and surrounding area is a natural wonderland — the roaring Bhagirathi River, the towering Shivling peak (6543m), and the lush valley create a breathtaking pilgrimage setting.
May to June and September to mid-October when the temple is open. The pilgrimage season sees heavy footfall; early morning visits are serene.
Nearest railway: Rishikesh (250 km). Taxi from Rishikesh to Gangotri.
GMOU/private buses from Rishikesh/Haridwar to Gangotri during pilgrimage season.
250 km from Rishikesh (8–9 hrs). 100 km from Uttarkashi. Road via Bhatwari and Harsil.