Gangotri Yatra is a sacred pilgrimage dedicated to Goddess Ganga, the divine river worshipped across India. Gangotri Temple is located at an altitude of about 3,100 meters in Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand.
Gangotri is the second dham in the Char Dham Yatra sequence.
Spiritual Significance of Gangotri Temple
According to Hindu mythology, Goddess Ganga descended to earth at the request of King Bhagirath to cleanse the souls of his ancestors. The temple stands close to the origin of the holy river Bhagirathi, a major tributary of the Ganga.
Gangotri Yatra Opening & Closing Dates
Opening: April–May (Akshaya Tritiya)
Closing: October–November (Bhai Dooj)
Dates are announced every year by temple authorities.
How to Reach Gangotri
By Road
Haridwar / Rishikesh → Uttarkashi → Gangotri
Road connectivity is available till the temple.
By Air
Nearest airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun
By Rail
Nearest railway station: Rishikesh
Best Time to Visit Gangotri
May–June: Pleasant and ideal weather
September–October: Clear skies and fewer crowds
Avoid peak monsoon months due to landslides.
Weather Conditions at Gangotri
Cold climate throughout the year
Night temperatures can drop sharply
Warm clothing is essential even in summer
Suggested Gangotri Yatra Itinerary (Brief)
Day 1: Arrival at Haridwar / Rishikesh
Day 2: Travel to Uttarkashi
Day 3: Drive to Gangotri & Darshan
Day 4: Return journey
Registration for Gangotri Yatra
Registration is mandatory and must be completed online through official Uttarakhand government portals before beginning the yatra.
Important Travel Tips for Gangotri Yatra
Carry sufficient warm clothes
Start travel early in the day
Follow local weather updates
Keep valid ID for registration
Respect temple rules and customs
Gangotri & Char Dham Yatra
Gangotri is an essential part of the Char Dham Yatra, which also includes Yamunotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. Most pilgrims visit Gangotri after Yamunotri.
