Gangotri Origin Pilgrimage

Kathmandu → Uttarakhand

Highlights

• Journey to the origin of the River Ganga at 3,100m in the Garhwal Himalayas where the goddess descended to earth.
• Pilgrimage · 4 days / 3 nights
• Small group, guide-led

Day-by-day itinerary

1. D1

   Haridwar to Uttarkashi

   Depart Haridwar and drive to Uttarkashi (1,158m) along the Bhagirathi River valley. Visit the Vishwanath Temple of Uttarkashi — a smaller replica of Kashi Vishwanath. Evening stroll along the riverbank where sadhus perform evening prayers. Cultural learning: Understand how the Ganga is not just a river but a living goddess in Hindu tradition.

   Uttarakhand As per plan

2. D2

   Uttarkashi to Gangotri & Darshan

   Drive 100km through dramatic Himalayan scenery to Gangotri (3,100m). En route, see the Bhagirath peaks and Harsil valley — famous for its apple orchards and sliver-birch forests. At Gangotri, take a purifying dip in the icy Bhagirathi River at the sacred bathing ghat. Darshan at the 18th-century white marble temple built by Gorkha general Amar Singh Thapa. Visit the submerged Bhagirath Shila where King Bhagiratha meditated. Fill copper vessels with Gangajal from the river source. Evening Aarti by the riverside.

   Uttarakhand As per plan

3. D3

   Gaumukh Trek (Optional)

   For fit pilgrims, trek 18km to Gaumukh — the actual snout of the Gangotri Glacier where the Bhagirathi emerges from the ice (4,023m). The trail passes through stunning alpine meadows with views of the Shivling Peak (6,543m). Permission from the Forest Department is required. Return to Gangotri by evening. Preparation: This is a strenuous trek — carry adequate water, energy food, and warm clothing.

   Uttarakhand As per plan

4. D4

   Return to Haridwar

   Drive back via Uttarkashi and Rishikesh. Stop at Devprayag to witness the confluence of Bhagirathi and Alaknanda forming the Ganga. Dip in the sangam (confluence) and offer prayers. Arrive in Haridwar for evening Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri. Carry home sealed Gangajal — believed to retain its purity for years.

   Uttarakhand As per plan

Price includes

• Local storyteller guide
• Stays as per itinerary
• Daily breakfast
• All ground transfers

Make it yours (upsells)

Everything apart from the trip itself is an upsell — tick what you want.