GANGOTRI

The compact size of Gangotri doesn’t take away from the holy grandeur of this place that’s revered by Hindus the world over and is one of the 4 pillars of the ‘Chaar Dhaam’ yatra. According to mythology, Lord Shiva released the River Ganges from the Gangotri glacier, which is one of the largest glaciers in the Himalayas.

Majestic peaks, glaciers, forests of fir, spruce, rhododendron, crashing rivers, miles of snow fields, and ancient temples make the place a serene mountainside getaway. Gangotri, one of the most unique places to go in Uttarakhand,is also the gateway to some of the most challenging treks and adventure sports like paragliding, rafting, and skiing.

Highlight of the place: Gomukh trek to see the originating glacier of the River Ganges and Auden’s Col trek that goes through high mountain passes and Khatling and Jogin I glaciers. The stunning Dayara Bugyal and Gangotri National Park to see snow leopards, ibex, doves, etc. The 18th-century Gangotri Temple and the elusive natural Jalmagna Shivalinga that is visible only during winters.

Best time to visit: Summers (April-June) and autumn (September-October) are the best time to enjoy the place. Gangotri receives heavy rainfall during monsoons (July-August) making it difficult to venture outdoors and shuts down during winters (October-February) and is off-limits for tourists.