Gangotri Temple is a revered Hindu shrine dedicated to Goddess Ganga, the sacred river that holds immense significance in Hinduism. Situated in the picturesque town of Gangotri in Uttarakhand, India, the temple is perched at an elevation of about 3,100 meters (10,200 feet) above sea level in the Garhwal Himalayan range. The temple is not only a spiritual destination but also offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, making it a sought-after pilgrimage site and tourist attraction.
Brief History: The history of Gangotri Temple dates back to the 18th century when it was built by the Gorkha General Amar Singh Thapa. However, the current structure was renovated in the 20th century by the Maharaja of Jaipur. The temple is an essential part of the Chota Char Dham Yatra, which includes Yamunotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath.
Architecture: The temple architecture reflects traditional Garhwali style with a small square-shaped structure made of white granite. The main sanctum sanctorum houses the sacred idol of Goddess Ganga. The surrounding area features several smaller shrines dedicated to various deities, contributing to the spiritual ambiance of the site.
Things to Do:
- Darshan of Goddess Ganga: Seek the blessings of Goddess Ganga by attending the prayer ceremonies and performing rituals at the temple.
- Bhagirath Shila: Visit the Bhagirath Shila, a rock slab near the temple believed to be the spot where King Bhagirath meditated to bring the river Ganga to the earth.
- Submerged Shivling: Witness the submerged Shivling, a natural rock formation in the river that becomes visible during the winter months when the water level decreases.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, approximately 250 km away. From the airport, one can hire taxis or use public transport to reach Gangotri.
- By Rail: The nearest railway station is Rishikesh, about 234 km away. From Rishikesh, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to Gangotri.
- By Road: Gangotri is well-connected by road. Regular buses and taxis ply from major cities in Uttarakhand to Gangotri.
Location: Gangotri is located in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, India. The precise geographical coordinates are approximately 30.98° N latitude and 78.93° E longitude.
Best Time to Visit: The temple is open to visitors from May to November, with the best time to visit being during the summer months (May to June) when the weather is pleasant. The monsoon season (July to September) should be avoided due to heavy rainfall, and the winter season (November to April) sees the temple closed due to extreme weather conditions. Pilgrims and tourists often plan their visit during the months of May or June to coincide with the opening of the temple after winter closure.