Gangotri

With the religious sentiments associated with this place, the scenic beauty only adds to the importance of Gangotri as a popular tourist destination. Every year thousands throng to this place for the experience.

History

There is something for everyone in the beautiful region of Gangotri. While the spiritual and religious tourist seeks solace in the beautiful temples and the holy region, the nature lovers are mesmerized by the spectacular show that is put forth by the beautiful terrain.

As far as mythology is concerned, the Goddess Ganga transformed her into the river for the penance of King Bhagirath and that makes the place so holy. It is known for being the source of the river Ganga and the famous Gangotri Temple in this region was built by Amar Singh Thapa who was a Nepalese general.

Overview of things to do and major attractions

One of the most important attractions in Gangotri is the famous Gangotri Temple which is dedicated to Goddess Ganga and is more than 300 years old.

The Dharali Hamlet has some of the most picturesque views that one could ask for and is nestled beside the banks of the river Ganga and is dotted by Pine and Deodar trees.

The tourists also take a liking to the Maneri Dam and the Kalindi Khal Trek which goes past some of the most breathtaking landscapes. You could trek to the Badrinath valley as well for the sighting of the holy temple there.

For the nature lover, Gangotri awaits with a rich bounty such as the Gangotri National Park and the Gaumukh glacier which is reached after a trek for three days from Gangotri.

Other popular tourist destinations include the Jalamanga Shivling, Harsil, and the Kedar Lake which is known for its beautiful ambience. For the adventure lovers, Auden’s Col is an important destination where they can go trekking. They can also trek past the beautiful green meadows called the Dayara Bugyal. The Tapovan hot springs in Gangotri are not to be missed during the tour.

People and Culture

Although Sanskrit is the official language, people speak Hindi in this part of India.

The festivals such as Diwali and Ganga Dussehra are celebrated with great valor in Gangotri.

Local food and popular shopping stuff

The shopping enthusiasts can pick some beautiful souvenirs from Dehradun and popular items include the handicrafts, paintings, ornaments and other such items.

The local cuisine consists of vegetarian food but some local restaurants such as Saket restaurant and Ganga Niketan offer a delicious array of food which you ought to try.

Best Time to Visit

The temperatures here are cold all through the year and it is advised to visit Gangotri during the months of April to June and from September to October. It is best to avoid the rains as the roads become dangerous due to landslides.

Availability of Accommodation Type

There is a government run GMVN in Gangotri and it has a lot of rooms on offer for the tourists. There are several small hotels around the region where you can find accommodation.

Some of the best hotels of Gangotri include the likes of Ganga Niketan, Hotel Mandakini, and Hotel Bhagiathi Sadan.