Gangotri

According to the Ramayana and the Puranas, King Bhagirath of the Ikshvaku dynasty performed intense tapas (austerities) for thousands of years to persuade the Ganga to descend to earth. Brahma granted the boon, but the force of the Ganga's descent threatened to destroy the earth. Bhagirath then prayed to Shiva, who agreed to receive the river in his matted locks, breaking its fall. The Ganga thus descended to earth safely — an event commemorated at Gangotri.

The Gangotri Temple, dedicated to Goddess Ganga, was built by Gorkha General Amar Singh Thapa in the early 18th century. The temple is constructed of white granite and sits directly on the bank of the Bhagirathi at a spot called Bhagirath Shila — the rock where Bhagirath is said to have performed his final meditation. The temple is open from Akshaya Tritiya (May) to Diwali (October–November).

The Gangotri Glacier, which feeds the Bhagirathi river, is one of the largest glaciers in the Himalayas, stretching approximately 30 km in length. However, like most Himalayan glaciers, it has been retreating significantly — studies show it has receded several kilometres over the past century. This environmental concern adds urgency to the pilgrimage as an act of gratitude and stewardship of the sacred river.