GANGOTRI TOUR

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Best time to visit: May - October

An eternal gift of Bhagirath’s penance, the picturesque Gangotri up in the Himalayas is one of the most sacred spots for Hindus because this is where Ganga, the stream of life, touched earth for the first time.

According to myth, Ganga, heaven's daughter, manifested herself in the form of a river to wash away the sins of King Bhagirath’s predecessors, following his penance of several centuries. Lord Shiva's matted locks served to lessen the impact of her fall. She is called Bhagirathi at this legendary source.

Along the right of Bhagirathi stands the shrine of Gangotri dedicated to the Goddess. It was constructed in early 18th century by a Gorkha Commander, Amar Singh Thapa. Every year, lakhs of pilgrims throng the sacred spot between May and October.

By November, Gangotri gets covered with snow. Legend has it that at this time the Goddess retreats to Mukhba, her winter abode 12 kms downstream.

By Air: Nearest domestic airport: Jolly Grant which is 26 kms from Rishikesh.

By Road: Gangotri is connected by road to Uttar Kashi, Tehri Garhwal, Rishikesh and other parts of the country.

By Rail: The nearest railway station is at Rishikesh.

Lucknow, Ramnagar, Dhikala, Kashipur, Rudrapur, Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath , Badrinath