Gangotri

Gangotri Dham is the origin of the holy River Ganga, located in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand. It is one of the most revered pilgrimages in India, part of the famous Chhota Char Dham yatra (including Yamunotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath).

Gangotri is the easiest to reach (by direct bus or taxi) out of the char dhams. It is located 300 km from Rishikesh and 100 from Uttarkashi. The main attraction of Gangotri is the Gangotri Temple, dedicated to Ma Ganga. The temple remains open for 6 months each year, from May to November. On Akshya Tritiya, the idol of Ma Ganga is shifted to the Gangotri Temple from Mukhbas (Mukhimath). On Bhai Dooj, the idol is returned to Mukhimath for the next 6 months. The temple remains open from 4 AM -9 PM. Aarti Timing is 6 AM and 7:45 PM.

The original source of River Ganga is at Gaumukh, located 19 km away. It is accessible through trekking from Gangotri. River Ganga is known as Bhagirathi as it originates from Gaumukh. It acquires the name Ganga from Devprayag, where it meets Alaknanda River. 

Gangotri is visited by millions of devotees each year due to its religious significance. It is believed to be the place where Goddess Ganga descended on earth after Lord Shiva released her from the locks of his hair.