Gangotri Dham, Uttarakhand

Situated in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, this Hindu pilgrimage site is nestled comfortably on the banks of Bhagirathi River. Located at a height of 3,100 metres, in the greater Himalayan Range, the whole town and temple is surrounded by pure white snowcapped hills for a majority part of the year and amongst a thick covering of lush green trees.

The temple remains closed from November to April during peak winter season and opens up for Darshan to the pilgrims during the remaining months. Gangotri temple is one of the most crucial sites for the Chota char Dham Yatra but is only visited after a pilgrimage to Yamunotri.

This temple marks the origin of River Ganga and the seat of Goddess Ganga. As per legend and Hindu mythology, Goddess Ganga achieved the form of a river to exonerate the sins caused by the predecessors of King Bhagirath after he performed intense and severe penance which spanned for several centuries. The main temple of pilgrimage is set against the backdrop of the mighty mountains and is nestled amidst the tall lush greenery giving its visitors one of the most splendid view of the valley and the surroundings.