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Read MoreGangotri Dham
State
Uttarakhand
Season
May to October
Famous for
Pilgrimage
Yatra Starting Date
10 May 2024
About Gangotri Dham
Gangotri Dham, situated in the picturesque Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, India, holds profound significance in Hindu mythology as the origin of the sacred Ganges River. Here’s an overview of Gangotri Dham:
Spiritual Significance: Gangotri is revered as the source of the Ganges, one of the most sacred rivers in Hinduism. According to legend, Goddess Ganga descended to Earth at Gangotri to cleanse the sins of King Bhagirath’s ancestors.
Gangotri Temple: The Gangotri Temple, dedicated to Goddess Ganga, is the main attraction at Gangotri Dham. Constructed in the 18th century by a Gorkha commander, the temple is made of white granite and exudes an aura of serenity amidst the rugged Himalayan terrain.
Pilgrimage Journey: The journey to Gangotri involves traveling through breathtaking landscapes and picturesque valleys. Pilgrims often embark on a trek from the town of Gangotri to reach the temple, immersing themselves in the natural beauty and spiritual ambiance of the surroundings.
Rituals and Offerings: Devotees visit the Gangotri Temple to offer prayers and seek blessings from Goddess Ganga. The sound of bells, chanting of hymns, and the aroma of incense create a tranquil atmosphere conducive to spiritual introspection.
Natural Beauty: Besides its religious significance, Gangotri is renowned for its stunning natural beauty. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, lush forests, and gushing streams, the region offers a mesmerizing backdrop for spiritual seekers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Gangotri Glacier: The Gangotri Glacier, located at an altitude of over 4,000 meters above sea level, is the primary source of the Ganges. It is one of the largest glaciers in the Himalayas and is considered sacred by Hindus.
Opening and Closing Dates: The Gangotri Temple remains open to devotees from May to November, during which pilgrims flock to the shrine to pay homage to Goddess Ganga. However, the temple closes during the winter months due to heavy snowfall and harsh weather conditions.
Conservation Efforts: Efforts are underway to preserve the ecological balance of Gangotri and its surrounding areas. Conservation initiatives aim to protect the fragile ecosystem of the region while promoting sustainable pilgrimage practices.
In essence, Gangotri Dham offers not only a spiritual sanctuary but also an opportunity to reconnect with nature and experience the divine presence amidst the majestic Himalayan landscapes.
Gangotri Dham Mandir Timings
- Opens its doors from 6:30 AM to 9:30 PM.
- There’s a short break for bhog from 9:00 AM to 9:10 AM.
- In the afternoon, the temple closes for Shayan between 2:00 PM and 3:00 PM.
- Evening aarti takes place from 6:30 PM to 7:45 PM.
- The darshan time varies with the season – from May to June, it’s four hours, and from July to October, it’s one hour.
Gangotri Dham Location
Situated in the Uttarkashi district, Gangotri is the source of the holy Ganges River. The town of Gangotri is nestled amidst the Garhwal Himalayas, offering panoramic views of snow-clad peaks. Pilgrims visit the Gangotri temple, located at an altitude of 3,100 meters (10,200 feet), to pay homage to Goddess Ganga and seek blessings. The temple is accessible via a trek or road journey from the town.
Chardham Yatra Packages
1% Off
₹21,500
₹18,200
Gangotri Dham Temperature
Situated at an altitude of approximately 3,100 meters, Gangotri experiences similar temperature patterns to Yamunotri. During the summer months, daytime temperatures range from 10°C to 25°C, while nighttime temperatures range from 5°C to 15°C. In the early and late yatra season, temperatures can drop significantly, with daytime temperatures ranging from 5°C to 20°C and nighttime temperatures often falling below freezing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Gangotri Dham is situated in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, India. It is nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas and serves as the origin of the sacred Ganges River.
Gangotri is revered as the source of the Ganges River, one of the holiest rivers in Hinduism. It holds immense religious significance as the place where Goddess Ganga descended to Earth.
The best time to visit Gangotri Dham is during the summer months from May to June and then from September to October. The temple remains closed during the winter due to heavy snowfall.
Yes, the Gangotri Glacier, which is the source of the Ganges River, is located near Gangotri Dham. Visitors can undertake treks or hire guides to explore the glacier, but it is advisable to take necessary precautions due to the high altitude and rugged terrain.
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