Gangotri (Sources of Ganges)     

    According to mythology, Goddess Ganga - the daughter of heaven, manifested herself in the form of a river to absolve the sins of King Bhagirath's predecessors, following his severe penance of several centuries. Lord Shiva received into his matted locks to minimize the immense impact of her fall. She came to be called Bhagirathi at her legendary source.

Along the right back of Bhagirathi stands the shrine of Gangotri dedicated to the Goddess. Perched at a height of 3042 mts., it was constructed in the early 18th century by a Gorkha Commander, Amar Singh Thapa. Every year, lakhs of pilgrims throng the sacred temple between May and October. By November, Gangotri is covered by snow. It is believed that the Goddess retreats to Mukhba, her winter abode (12 kms downstream).

The physical source of the holy river is at Gaumukh, 18 kms. furthur uphill, along the Gangotri Glacier. Several pilgrims trek upto the source to offer prayers either on foot or on ponies.

Geographical Information:
  
Area 3 sq.km
Altitude 3,581 mtrs above sea level
Ideal time to visit May- October (The temple & township remains closed between November & May)
Clothing Woolens to Heavy woolens
Local Transport Horses / Dandies
Population 301 (1991 census)
Clothing Summer - Woollen; Winters - Heavy Woollen
Language Hindi, Garhwali Local
STD Code 01372-86
Sub Post Office, Kedarnath.
Ph.: (01372-86)6208.
Govt. Dispensary, Kedarnath.
Tourist Offices, Gopeshwar.
Ph.: (01372-86)52468 (PP)
Bank :State Bank of India, Kedarnath

Distances from Major Cities: