About Gangotri Temple
Gangotri Temple is a Hindu pilgrimage located in the Uttarkashi District of Uttarakhand State, India. It is located on the Greater Himalayan Range at a height of 3100 metres. It is located on the bank of Bhagirathi River which is the origin of River Ganges. It is one of the four temples of Chardham yatra including Badrinath, Kedarnath and Yamunotri.
According to Hindu legends, Ganges or Ganga the most sacred of all rivers was descended from heaven to earth at Gangotri, when Lord Shiva released the mighty river from his locks. The actual origin of the river is at Gaumukh in the Gangotri glacier which is 19 km away from Gangotri and is accessible by trekking. After it originates from Gaumukh, the river is known as Bhagirathi and it acquires the name ‘Ganga’ after the river Alaknanda merges into it near the town of Devaprayag. It is said that Goddess Ganga came to earth in order to wash away the sins of King Bhagirathi’s ancestors. From the folds of mythology till the present time, Ganga River has always been a sacred source of purity for the mankind.
During the winter season Goddess Ganga is shifted to Mukhyamath temple in Mukhba village, 20 km downstream. The transfer takes place on the auspicious day of Diwali (Oct/Nov). The Goddess is brought back to the Gangotri temple on the occasion of Akshaya Tritiya (April/May).
Best Time To Visit Gangotri Temple
May to June and September, October
Temple Timings
- Morning: 6:15 am to 2:00 pm
- Evening: 3:00 pm to 9:30 pm
Pujas Performed In Gangotri Temple
Mangala aarti- 6AM
Sandhya aarti-7PM
How To Reach
Jolly Grant airport is the nearest airport which is 250 kms away from Gangotri. From their one should hire a cab or get a bus.
Rishikesh is the nearest station which is approximately 240 kms away from Gangotri. Regular trains to Haridwar and Dehradun are also available at all times of the year.from their one should Hire a cab or get a bus.
Gangotri is connected with motorable roads, and buses and taxis are easily available from important destinations like Rishikesh, Dehradun, Uttarkashi and Tehri Garhwal.
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