In the Uttarkashi district, at an altitude of 3,048 metres, on the banks of the holy river Bhagirathi, neighbouring the Indo-Tibetan border, nestles the holy and pious city of Gangotri. It is one of the char dhams (four holy pilgrims) and a significant destination for every devout Hindu pilgrim. Everything here has a touch of the divine, from the ancient song of Ma Ganga to the ritual chants of the priests.
Mornings and evenings as the drumbeats of the local worshippers encapsulate the spirit of the place, it’s almost like Gangotri vibrates a happy hymn. The magic of the destination is amplified by the joys of the journey. A ride over rugged terrains on roads with total lack of tarmac amongst raw, primitive nature, untamed as yet by machine or materialism leaves the traveler awe-struck.
The journey begins at Rishikesh; a 145 kms ride takes the traveller to the town of Uttarkashi, which has emerged as an important night stop on the way to Gangotri. At an elevation of 1,158 metres, situated on the banks of river Bhagirathi, it is known for its ancient temples, most prominent amongst them being the Vishwanath temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Here stands the unique Mahadev-ka-Vishal Trishul or Shiva’s Trident. 13 kms further is Maneri, where a dam has been constructed across the Bhagirathi. The view of the lake here is breathtakingly beautiful, the splendour of calm green waters, the surrounding mountains resplendent with vegetation in varied hues, the prevalent tranquil aura are sensory and visual delights.
Around 55 kms away from Gangotri is Gangnani, known for its thermal springs and dosa and noodle dhabas. A temple dedicated to Parasher, father of Vyas Muni, is situated close by. Further up is Harsil known for its apples and adventurous treks to Sat Tal.
At Gangotri, the Kedar Ganga river comes together with Bhagirathi river at Dev Ghat. The waters rush by resounding and echoing far into the mountains and the skies merging with the divine.
As per popular legend Lord Shiva absolved King Bhagirath following his strict penance and Ma Ganga manifested herself in the form of a river. There is a natural rock Shivling, submerged in water, the most sacred spot, for it is here that Lord Shiva received Ma Ganga in his matted locks.
The Gangotri temple is the holy abode of Ma Ganga, built in the early 18th century by Commander Amar Singh Thapa, it was later renovated by the Jaipur royalty. The Pandavas are said to have performed the great Deva Yagna here. Besides being a favorite pilgrim spot, Gangotri is popular with overseas tourists for trekking and adventure sports. Under starry skies, with snow capped peaks glistening in the moonlight, partaking joys in the simple things every traveller experiences an inner serenity and carries back the highest divine vibrational experience one can hope for.
The writer is a travel enthusiast