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Recollect the Legends of Ganges with Gangotri Tour

Written by Sanjog Kumar

Topic: TravelPublished May 2, 2012
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Situated in Uttarkashi, Gangotri is among the few places where you can seek peace and enjoy adventure. It is one of the main religious spots among the 'Char Dham Yatra'. It is located at an elevation of 3,048 m above sea level. Along with natural beauty, the place is also a famed pilgrimage spot of India where devotees come from far and wide.

Some popular attractions of Gangotri include:

Gangotri Temple

Dedicated to Goddess Ganga, the temple was built on the banks of Bhagirathi. In the 18th century, Gorkha Commander Amar Singh Thapa built the temple. Gangotri is the spot where Ganga originated as a river. Then it was named as 'Bhagirathi'. In the pious aura of the temple, religious rituals are performed with the Aarti ceremony. This 300 year old temple also served as the venue where Pandavas performed the 'Deva Yagna' for atonement. A natural rock Shivalinga, known as Jalamagna Shivalinga also appears here during winters.

Nandanvan Tapovan

It is a 6 km rigorous trekking route along the glacier. Offering visitors an opportunity to see the sprinkled charm of Himalayan beauty and Gangotri glacier, it is a must visit place. Known for its natural beauty and scenic vistas, lies the Sylvan Tapovan across the glacier. From here, visitors can also go to other fascinating destinations such as Vasuki Tal and Kalindikhal.

Kedar Tal

Located at an elevation of 4425 m above sea level, Kedar Tal is an enchanting lake. Situated against the beautiful backdrop of majestic Thalaiyasagar peak, this spot is accessible through a rough mountain trail. It is also a base camp for trekking to adjoining peaks.

Gangotri Glacier

Situated at a height of 4238 m, the glacier runs along the Gangotri track beginning from Chaukhamba and at last merges into the Gaumukh. The glacier is a perfect trekker's path, leading to different other spots like Tapovan, Nadanvan and Gaumukh. The water of Ganges is absolutely pure and contains no impurities. The glacier is the original source of the holy river Ganges.

Adventure

If you are an adventure lover, you will surely love to visit Gangotri. Trekking is a rewarding experience here. While trekking, you can also enjoy a salubrious climate, flora and fauna and scenic beauty. The beautiful views of blue mountain goat is a common spectacle here. You can also enjoy taking a walk through the beautiful town of Gangotri.

Visitors can easily reach this pilgrimage site in single day from Rishikesh, Haridwar or Dehradun.

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About the Author

Gangotri is a religious spot that calls on large number of pilgrims from all across the world. Being an important destination of Char Dham Yatra, it holds great significance among Hindus.