Gangotri Temple in Uttaranchal

The Temple at Gangotri, a shrine dedicated to Goddess Ganga stands on the banks of River Bhagirathi. The three century old temple was made by Gorkhas here, their Commander Amar Singh Thapa, got it constructed here in the 18th century. The temple is open for pilgrims from October to May. In the months of winter when the area goes under a cover of snow, it is believed that the goddess retreats to Mukhba, 12 kilometres down.

The main temple complex was renovated in early twentieth century. Made of white granite, the twenty feet tall temple stands beautifully reflecting in the sunshine and snow peaks in the backdrop. Close to the temple is a stone, or it is said that the temple was built close to this stone purposely. This is known as 'Bhaigirath shila', shila meaning rock. This is believed to be the place where Bhagiratha meditated for penance and Ganga first touched earth here.

Tourism :

Gangotri is one of the Chardhams of the country or one amongst the four pilgrimages which every Hindu must take once in his lifetime. At a height of 3048 mts, Gangotri holds a mystic charm. Anyone who comes up till here can not remain untouched by the holy aura that hangs in the air of the place. Gangotri is of immense importance to Hindus since it is the source of the holiest of the Hindu rivers, river Ganga.

99 kilometres form Uttarkashi, blessed by mother nature, this picturesque pilgrimage is bound to be a lifetime experience for you. This is the place where the sacred water of Ganga touches earth for the first time. From here it begins its long journey of approximately 2500 kms, stretching across the Indian subcontinent, blessing people with its sacred water and fertile minerals in two countries, India and Bangladesh. It finally forms world's largest and most fertile delta, Sunderban delta in Bangladesh.