Gangotri and Yamunotri Temples are sacred pilgrimage destinations in Uttarakhand, combining spiritual devotion with majestic Himalayan landscapes. Pilgrims experience faith, trekking, and nature in one journey, making these temples unforgettable stops on the Char Dham Yatra.

Gangotri & Yamunotri - Uttarkhand,

Gangotri Temple is one of the sacred shrines of Goddess Ganga, located in Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand. Situated at an altitude of 3,048 meters (10,010 ft) in the Himalayas, it is the origin point of the holy Bhagirathi River, a primary source of the Ganges. The temple is part of the Char Dham Yatra, attracting thousands of pilgrims every year. The temple was built in 18th century by Gorkha commander Amar Singh Thapa, and its stone and wooden architecture blends harmoniously with the surrounding snow-capped peaks. Pilgrims visit not only for spiritual devotion but also to witness the breathtaking Himalayan landscapes and the source of the mighty Ganga.

Yamunotri Temple, located in the Uttarkashi district as well, is the source of the sacred Yamuna River and is dedicated to Goddess Yamuna. The temple sits at an altitude of 3,293 meters (10,804 ft), surrounded by snow-covered peaks and hot springs. Constructed with traditional Himalayan stone architecture, Yamunotri Temple draws pilgrims seeking blessings and spiritual purification. Like Gangotri, it is part of the Char Dham Yatra and holds immense religious significance in Hinduism. Legends tell that Yamuna descended to Earth to bless humanity, and the temple commemorates her divine presence.

Both temples are surrounded by serene valleys, alpine meadows, and glacial streams, making the journey spiritually uplifting and visually stunning. Pilgrims often trek from the base camps - Gangotri town for Gangotri and Hanuman Chatti for Yamunotri - to reach the temples, experiencing the natural beauty and peaceful environment of the Himalayas along the way.

Best Time to Visit:

  • Peak Season (May – June & September): Pleasant weather, temple open, ideal for pilgrimage.
  • Moderate Season (July – August): Monsoon season; some paths slippery, fewer crowds.
  • Low Season (November – April): Heavy snowfall; temples closed, only trekkers may visit nearby areas.

Distance from Key Points :

Gangotri:

  • Rishikesh to Gangotri: 254 km.
  • Haridwar to Gangotri: 290 km.
  • Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (approx. 260 km).

Yamunotri:

  • Rishikesh to Yamunotri: 165 km.
  • Haridwar to Yamunotri: 170 km.
  • Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (approx. 170 km).

Things to Do : 

Gangotri:

  • Darshan of Goddess Ganga.
  • Take a holy dip in the Bhagirathi River.
  • Trek to Gaumukh Glacier, the origin of Ganga.
  • Explore nearby meadows and snow-capped peaks.

Yamunotri:

  • Darshan of Goddess Yamuna.
  • Dip in Surya Kund and Gauri Kund, hot water springs believed to have medicinal properties.
  • Trek from Hanuman Chatti (6 km uphill).
  • Explore the surrounding Himalayan valleys and flora.

Top 5 Places to Visit Near Gangotri & Yamunotri (within 50 km):

1- Gaumukh Glacier (Gangotri) - Source of Ganga, 19 km trek from Gangotri.

2- Bhagirathi River Viewpoints (Gangotri) - Scenic Himalayan river valleys.

3- Hanuman Chatti (Yamunotri) - Base for temple trek and hot springs.

4- Markandeya Tirth (Yamunotri) - Religious site nearby.

5- Har Ki Doon Valley - Serene trekking valley near Gangotri.