Gangotri — Travel Guide
One of the main religious places among the four Char Dham pilgrimage areas, Gangotri, situated in Uttarkashi, is closely related to Goddess Ganga, the river that we know as Ganges. The history of Gangotri dates back to centuries when Goddess Ganga transformed herself into a river to dissolve the sins of King Bhagirath’s forefathers, following his penance. In order to reduce the impact of her fall, Lord Shiva gathered Ganga into his matted locks and has ever since been associated with Goddess Ganga. Gangotri is a popular pilgrim place in India and tourists.
Gangotri, the origin of River Ganga and the seat of goddess Ganga, is situated in Uttarakhand, it is 300 km from Dehradun and very close to the Indo-Tibetan border. The Gangotri Temple was built by a Gorkha commander in the 18th century. Apart from its religious significance, Gangotri is also a miracle of nature. River Ganga originates from the Gangotri glacier and is known as Bhagirathi till it merges with Alaknanda at Devaprayag. From Devprayag, it is known as Ganga.
The Gangotri Temple was built by a Gorkha Commander in the early years of the 18th century. This temple stands at an altitude of 3042m and emits a highly pious aura. Religious rituals are in full swing in the Gangotri temple with the Arti ceremony performed by the pujaris of the Semwal family. The river Ganga originates from the Gangotri glacier and is known as Bhagirathi. The name Ganga picks up later on after the river passes Devaprayag and merges into the river Alaknanda.
The best time to visit the holy city of Gangotri is from April to June and September to November. The temple is open from last week of April to second week of November.
By Air
Jolly Grant Airport is the nearest Airport to Gangotri situated at a distance of 250kms.
By Train
The nearest railway station to Gangotri is Rishikesh. Rishikesh railway station is situated 234kms before Gangotri on NH58.
Though Gangotri is not an ultimate shopping destination for the shopaholics but still a tour to this religious place would not disappoint you in terms of shopping. There are several small shops and stalls near the temple from where you can buy various religious items such as beautiful idols of various Gods and Goddesses, puja thali, handicraft items etc. But if you really want to shop for some exquisite gifts for your loved ones while on the return way to Gangotri, Dehradu
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