Gangotri Temple

Overview

Gangotri Temple is a sacred Hindu temple located in Gangotri, Uttarakhand. It marks the origin of the Ganga.

The temple is dedicated to Goddess Ganga and attracts thousands of pilgrims each year. It lies on the banks of the Bhagirathi River at an altitude of around 3,100 meters.

The surroundings include snow-covered mountains, pine forests, and flowing rivers. The temple area is serene and strictly maintained.

Open Hours

  • Open Season: April - May to October - November
  • Visiting Time: 5:00 AM – 8:00 PM

The temple closes in winter due to heavy snowfall.

Entry Fee - Indians vs Foreigners

Category Ticket Price (INR)
Entry Fee Free

What To Expect

Main Temple

The structure is built in traditional stone architecture. Devotees offer prayers and take holy dips nearby.

Bhagirathi River

The river flows close to the temple, and pilgrims perform rituals on its banks.

Surrounding Views

Snow-capped peaks and pine forests frame the temple area.

Pilgrim Activity

The site can get crowded during festivals like Ganga Dussehra and summer pilgrimage season.

Tips

  • Visit early morning to avoid the crowd.
  • Carry warm clothing, as temperatures can be low.
  • Follow temple rules and maintain silence.
  • Footwear may need to be removed before entering the temple.
  • Stay hydrated and carry snacks for long treks.
Gangotri Hill in Uttarakhand

About Gangotri Temple

Gangotri Temple was originally built in the 18th century. It marks the sacred source of the Ganga, which begins as the Bhagirathi River.

Pilgrims visit to perform rituals and take holy dips in the river. The temple is surrounded by mountains, glacial streams, and alpine meadows.

The temple area includes smaller shrines and resting spots. During winter, the idol of Goddess Ganga is moved to Mukhba village for safety.

Located in Uttarakhand, the temple is a central point in the Char Dham pilgrimage circuit.

Detail Information
Location Gangotri, Uttarakhand, India
Type Hindu temple
Altitude Around 3,100 meters
Famous For Origin of the Ganga River
Activities Pilgrimage, rituals, holy river dip
Best Time to Visit May to October
Entry Fee No entry fee
Ideal Duration 1–2 hours

Near by Places

Gangotri Glacier

Gangotri Glacier

Kedar Tal

Kedar Tal

Tapovan

Tapovan

Gangotri Surya Kund

Gangotri Surya Kund

Pandav Gufa

Pandav Gufa

Similar Places to Visit

Divya Shila

Divya Shila

Yamunotri Temple

Yamunotri Temple

Hanuman Chatti

Hanuman Chatti

Adi Shankaracharya Samadhi

Adi Shankaracharya Samadhi

Varanasi

Varanasi

Mukteshwar Dham Temple

Mukteshwar Dham Temple

Discover by Interest

Beaches in India

Beach

Beaches Destinations

Red Fort Lal Qila historic Mughal fort in Old Delhi

Heritage

Heritage Destinations

Coolest hill stations in India to escape summer heat

Hill Stations

Hill Stations

Boats and ghats along River Ganga in Varanasi

Spiritual

Spiritual Destinations

Snow covered mountains in Auli Uttarakhand

Trekking

Trekking Hotspots

Tiger in Dudhwa National Park Uttar Pradesh

Wildlife

Wildlife Destinations

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Gangotri Temple located?

Gangotri Temple is in Gangotri, Uttarakhand.

What is its religious significance?

It marks the source of the Ganga and is dedicated to Goddess Ganga.

Is there an entry fee?

No, entry is free.

Can visitors take a holy dip in the river?

Yes, pilgrims perform ritual baths in the Bhagirathi River.

When is the best time to visit?

May to October, before the winter snowfall closes the temple.