Gangotri is an Himalayan glacier situated in the Uttarkashi district in the Indian state of Uttaranchal. If you want to visit this glacier the suitable time to visit is between Mid April to May – June, and between September to November. The glacier has been attracting tourists in large numbers every year and from around the globe. A scenic paraides amidst the lofty mountains!
Gangotri
is the largest glacier in the Garhwal Himalayas, with the length of 30.20 km
and width of 0.20 – 2.35 km and is the primary source of water feeding
the Ganga River. It is the combination of
large number of glaciers that forms the huge mass of ice. Gangotri glacier
originates from the northern slope of Chaukhambha range of peak and
terminates at Gaumukh (4,000m). The glacier is surrounded by the Bhrigupanth
(6772m), Kirti Stambh (6285), Sumeru Parvat (6380) respectively and Ratavana
Bamak, Chaturangi Bamak and Swachand Bamak that lie on the northeast slope
of Srikailash, Man parvat, Satopanth and an unnamed group of peaks. News of Importance :
According to the study conducted by the Geological department of India, Global warming has been seriously affecting the Gangotri Glacier. It has been receding by 83 feet every year. The rate at which it shrinked in the last three decades is more than the rate at which it shrinked in the earlier decades. Commercialization in the area is the main cause of pollution in the river that is causing the glacier to melt.
Religious Significance of the Glacier :
Gangotri Glacier holds the special significance in the history of India. It is considered as extremely sacred among the Hindus. You may find thousand of pilgrims coming to this place to pay homage at the temple, dedicated to the Goddess Ganga.
Trekking at Gangotri Glacier :
If you posses sound good health then you can try trekking in the area. The region is considered as the trekkers paradise. It will be the thrilling experience for the adventure lovers who love to climb mountains as well as rock climbing. The trek passes through the orchard of the coniferous pine trees making your trekking experience a memorable one. The prominent destinations covered by the trekking route includes Bhojbasa, Lanka, Gaumukh, Nandavan, and Tapovan. The trekking route provides you the excellent views of the several peaks such as Shivling, Bhagirathi, Sudarshana, Thel and Kedar. Apart from trekking tourits can also indulge in camping. Some of the excellent camping spots in the area includes Bhagirathi, Shivling, Meru, Kedardom and many other peaks.
Exploration of the Gaumukh Glacier : Gaumukh glacier lies at the distance of 18 kms from Gangotri. It has been given the name Gaumukh by the sage because it appears like the mouth of the cow. It is the point where the sacred water of Ganga tickle down from the glacier. The place is considered as holy where thousands of pilgrims are seen taking bath in its icy cold water. It is believed that by taking a dip in the water of Gaumukh, one can be free from all sins of life.
