Gangotri is a pilgrimage destination and tourists often come here to find peace in the laps of nature. The place is one of the parts of Chardham Yatra and thousands of people come here to worship. Apart from being a religious place, there are many beautiful hills and lakes that make Gangotri full of adventure. Some of the adventure activities here are seasonal like skiing. Gangotri is a holy destination that is surrounded by many sights, temples, and lakes. This is not only famous for tourist destinations but there are many things to do in Gangotri for travelers. 

Religious Activities for Travellers in Gangotri

1. Take blessing at Gangotri temple

The Gangotri temple is a part of the Chardham route and is considered a sacred place in Hinduism. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Ganga and it is believed that Goddess Ganga transformed herself into the river and since then River Ganga is a holy river. People take a dip to rinse off their sins. The place attracts tourists from all around the world and you should visit too, to admire the stunning architecture of the temple also the majestic beauty of snow-covered hills. 

Note: As the whole town is a sacred place so it is advised that you don’t carry any non-veg staff also make sure you maintain the cleanliness of the town and do not litter the temple area or rivers.       

Location: Gangotri temple, Gangotri town

Timings: 9:00AM – 7:00PM

Charges: Free

2. Gangnani

This is a small town a few distances away from Gangotri and can be easily reached by taxi. The place is famous for its thermal springs and trekking spots. In chilling winter people come here for hot springs and to enjoy the splendid view of Himalayan peaks. 

Location: Gangnani town

Timings: 9:00AM – 7:00PM

Charges: Free

3. Terk to Gaumukh 

Gaumukh means Mouth of a Cow, this place is situated near Gangotri Glacier and nearby the Bhagirathi river originates. The place is a pilgrimage site and is also famous for trekking. You must visit the place of beauty and the splendid view of the surrounding. Gaumukh is a unique experience, you won’t see such a structure anywhere else. The place is at a height of 13,200 feet and that may cause a problem if you already have breathing problems.   

Location: Near Uttarkashi district

Timings: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Charges: Free, Charges may apply for trekking

4. A Visit to Gangotri National Park

Gangotri National park is a perfect place for people who like to explore nature and wild animals. Within the sanctuary, you can see many rare species of wild animals and around 150 species of birds. To explore the sanctuary in a better way you can go for a jeep safari and other activities like hang gliding and paragliding. The most famous thing to do in Gangotri National Park is trekking for which you need to take a permit from officers. 

The best time to visit the place is during the summer season because in winter and monsoon season the weather becomes harsh to travel.       

Timings: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Charges: INR 150 onwards

5. Beautiful Harsil village

The place is perfect for those who want to enjoy solitude and for those to seek peace. The whole village is surrounded by trees of deodar and pine, and the view of the village is scenic and famous among photographers. The place is ideal for couples as the weather remains pleasant the whole year and do not forget to walk or ride in apple orchards.  

Location : Harsil village

Timings: 24*7

Charges: Free

Best Adventure Activities at Gangotri Dham

6. Skiing

There are many snow-covered hills in Gangotri and some of them offer skiing for tourists. One such place is Gangotri National Park which is a stunning place to hang out and enjoy skiing. There are training schools where you can learn the basics of skiing and if you hire a guide or instructor that person will make sure of your safety while skiing, and also will arrange everything required to enjoy skiing.         

Location: Gangotri National Park

Timings: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM

Charges: Charges vary with the packages

7. River Rafting 

Ganges Glacier is the only place where you can go for river rafting. River Ganga is a sacred river and people often take a dip in the water to rinse their sins away. But this beautiful river is also famous for adventure activity and tourists do not have to worry about their safety because a professional will be with them for safety purposes also you will be provided a safety jacket.         

Location: Ganges Glacier 

Timings: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM

Charges: INR 500 onwards

8. Mountain Trekking

Trekking is one of the best activities to explore the mountains and walking in nature is something that everyone wants to do. There are many places in Gangotri that offers challenging treks for tourists. The peaks are covered with snow and remain chilling for the most part of the year, so you need to pack bags according to it also, trekkers need permission for trekking that can be obtained from department officers. If you don’t know how to do it then you can simply hire a guide and he will take of everything.         

Location: Kedar Tal, Gaumukh, Gangotri National park

Charges: INR 1000 onwards

9. Mountaineering

The activity is famous among thrill-seekers. Those who don’t know what this activity is, then let us tell you that in a mountaineering activity you will be climbing a mountain with the help of a rope. The activity is fun but does not think it’s easy because the climbing mountain will exhaust you. The charges vary from place to place so for better deals hire a guide to arrange everything for you.              

Location: Kedar Tal, Jogin ABC 

Timings: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Charges: Vary with the packages you choose. 

10. Picnic Spots in Gangotri

There are many places in Gangotri that are just perfect spots for a picnic with your loved ones. Kedar Tal is popularly known for its cool water and snowy peaks. If you want to spend some time with your family or want to go on a romantic walk, then you must go to Harsil village which is famous for its natural beauty. Another famous place is Dodi Tal which is surrounded by lakes and you may find some people fishing here.    

The most popular place for a picnic is Dayara Bugyal because the place is far away from the modern world and you can experience the real natural beauty of Earth. The place is surrounded by lush green landscapes and high-altitude peaks.          Location: Kedar Tal, Harsil, Dodi Tal, Auden’s col, Dayara Bugyal

Timings: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM  

Charges: Free*

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