Gangotri

Gangotri is a sacred Hindu pilgrimage site located in Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, India. It is the origin of the holy River Ganga, which is believed to have descended from heaven to cleanse the sins of humanity. The Gangotri Temple, dedicated to Goddess Ganga, stands at an altitude of 3,100 meters amidst the majestic Garhwal Himalayas. The river here is called Bhagirathi, named after King Bhagirath, whose penance brought Ganga to Earth. The temple is open from April/May to October/November, closing during winter due to heavy snowfall. Pilgrims often trek further to Gaumukh, the actual source of the river from the Gangotri Glacier.