Gangotri Temple | Temples in Uttarakhand

Introducing Gangotri Temple:-

There is no doubt that the Gangotri Temple is one of the holiest Hindu temples in Uttarakhand. It is located in the Uttarakashi district. At 3,038 meters above sea level, Gangotri is the highest point in the world. In today’s article, we will share the history of Gangotri Temple and the legends surrounding the creation of the sacred temple.

Due to its location near the river Gangotri, Gangotri is named after the goddess Ganga. There is something special about that place, not only the temple but also its beautiful natural scenery.

One of the four pilgrimage sites in the Chota Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand is Gangotri, the source of the Ganga River. At the source, the river is called Bhagirathi; from Devprayag it is given the name Ganga.

History and Mythology of Gangotri Temple:-

It is impossible to describe the Ganges from a religious perspective. Great importance is attached to Ganga as described in “Narad Purana”. The Ganga is a pilgrimage in itself.

Most scriptures describe the Ganges with reverence and respect. The Rigveda, Vedic literature and the Puranas describe how the Ganga is glorious. The Puranas are the most detailed accounts of the glories of the Ganges.

You can find detailed descriptions of Maa Ganga in all Puranas such as Vishnu and Vayu Purana, Shiva Purana, Brahma Purana, Matsya Purana, Narada Purana, Markandeja Purana, Skanda Purana, Agni Purana, and Vamana Purana.

Gangotri Temple was rebuilt in 1807 by Gorkha Raja Amar Singh Thapa after it was destroyed by an earthquake in 1803. The Mukhwa priests follow the Khas Rajputs of Taknor as Gangotri priests. Amar Singh Thapa appointed Mukhwa priests to worship at Gangotri and gifted the forest from Mukhwa to Gangotri to the temple.

Gangotri Temple Location:-

It is located at the highest point of Chota Char Dham Yatra, 3100 meters above sea level. The Gangotri Temple is one of the four pilgrimage sites in Uttarakhand dedicated to the goddess Ganga. Goddess Ganga represents the revered river Ganges. The White Temple is surrounded by Deodar and Pine trees and the Great Himalayas. The Bhagirathi, the mainstream of the Ganges, flows alongside the Gangotri temple.

Why is this temple famous? :-

Underwater Shivling:-

One can see the Shivling built from natural rock which is submerged in water in winter whenever the water freezes. It is believed to have been the seat used by Lord Shiva to bind Ganga in his matted hair. Shiva protected the earth from the mighty power of Devi Ganga by dividing it into seven streams.

Gaumukh and Tapovan:-

You can take a beautiful and exciting trek through the peaks and towering peaks to see the holy birth of the river Ganges at Gaumukh. Another trek can be taken to Tapovan which is 4 km from Gaumukh. In Tapovan you will find meadows, beautiful flowers, streams, and breathtaking views of the nearby Himalayan peaks like Shivling and Bhagirathi. In addition, Tapovan serves as a base camp for several mountaineering expeditions.

Bhairon Nath Temple:-

The Bhairon Nath Temple is located about 10 km downstream from Gangotri, near the confluence of the Jadh Ganga (also known as the Jhanvi River) and the Bhagirathi. According to the myth Lord Shiva appointed Bhairon Nath as the guardian of the area. And after every trip to Gangotri temple, one should go to Bhairon temple.

From Bhairon Ghati, it is about 3 kilometers to Lanka Chatti where one of the highest river bridges in the area can be seen. The Jhanvi River Bridge is quite a sight in itself.

Best time to visit:-

The summer months in Gangotri start at the beginning of April and last till May. Summer is one of the ideal seasons for Gangotri and it is really pleasant here. The highest daily temperature in this season is never above 30°C and the nights are freezing. The ideal time for a pilgrimage or an exciting sightseeing trip is this season.

How to Reach:-

BY AIR:- The nearest airport to Gangotri is Jolly Grant Airport on Rishikesh Road in Dehradun. From there, take a bus or taxi.

BY TRAIN: Consistent trains are available throughout the year to Haridwar and Dehradun. From there, take a bus or taxi.

BY ROAD: – Motorable roads connect Gangotri and buses and taxis are easily available from popular places like Rishikesh, Dehradun, Uttarkashi, and Tehri Garhwal.

TRAVEL TIP:-

A day pack.
A pair of suitable walking shoes.
Trekking trousers.
Woolen clothing.
Windproof jacket.
Sunglasses, a sun hat, sun cream.
Lip balm.
A walking stick.
Personal items.
A flashlight or a flashlight should be taken with you to another battery.
To stay hydrated, pack some dried fruit in your pocket along with an energy bar and energy drinks like Gatorade or electoral (ORS).