Located in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, Gangotri Dham is one of the four Chota Dham sites in India. The temple holds immense significance for Hindu devotees. The Gangotri Yatra, a sacred pilgrimage to the Gangotri temple, is a journey of self-introspection. Being an integral part of the Chardham Yatra in Hinduism, devotees from all over India visit Gangotri Dham to get the divine blessings of the river goddess Ganga, the soul purifier and the giver of life.
Typically, the sacred portal of Gangotri Dham opens on the auspicious occasion of Akshay Tritiya, which is celebrated on 22nd April 2024. The closure of the portal of Gangotri Dham takes place on the day following Diwali, which is November 2nd, 2024. The temple portal opening ceremony is a special pooja for goddess Ganga which is conducted in the temple premises and along the river banks. Due to heavy snowfall, the temple of Gangotri remains closed throughout winter. The deity of Ma Ganga is transferred to Mukhba Village which is located near Harsil.
| Temple | Opening Date | Closing Date |
| Gangotri Temple | 22 April 2024 at 12:35 PM | 2nd Nov 2024 (the next day of Diwali) |
Rituals and Celebrations
The temple priests perform the closing ceremony of Gangotri Temple on Diwali. Oil lamps ceremonial closure of the Gangotri temple on Diwali, accompanied by a line of oil lamps. The shrine remains inaccessible during the harsh winter season from November to April. Special pujas are conducted on Janmashtami, Vijayadashami, and Diwali.
During the opening day, various rituals and ceremonies are conducted to honor Goddess Ganga. Priests perform ‘aarti,’ and the atmosphere is filled with divine vibes. Pilgrims take a holy dip in the icy waters of the Bhagirathi River, which is believed to purify the soul.
Gangotri in Winter
Due to heavy snowfall and extreme weather conditions, the sacred temple of Gangotri remains closed throughout the winter season. The temple idols are ceremoniously moved on the day following Deepawali, accompanied by vedic chants. Apart from Gangotri Dham, the other sacred Chota Dhams such as Badrinath Dham, Yamunotri Dham, and Kedarnath Dhams are also closed for the entire winter season.
The idol of Goddess Ganga is transported to the nearby village of Mukhba, where she is worshipped throughout the winter months until the main shrine reopens. After remaining covered with snow for the entire winter at an altitude of 10,000 feet above sea level, the shrine opens to the public in April-May of the following year.
Permits and Travel Guidelines
Before visiting Gangotri, ensure that you have the necessary permits, especially if you plan to travel beyond the temple town. Also carry necessary equipment such as proper gear, warm clothing, waterproof boots, crampons, ice axes, and other mountaineering types of equipment. Familiarize yourself with travel guidelines and safety precautions, as the region can be challenging for inexperienced trekkers.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q-1 Can I visit Gangotri throughout the year?
Ans: No, Gangotri Dham remains closed for the entire winter Month due to heavy snowfall and extreme cold.
Q-2 Are there any medical facilities available in Gangotri?
Ans: Yes, there are basic medical facilities available in Gangotri, but it’s always beneficial to carry your medical kit or first-aid for safety.
Q-3 What is the significance of taking a dip in the Bhagirathi River?
Ans: Taking a dip in the Bhagirathi River is a spiritually enriching experience for the devotees. The holy dip is believed to cleanse one’s sins and purify the soul according to Hindu mythology.
Q-4 How can I reach Gangotri by air?
Ans: The nearest airport to Gangotri is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Gangotri.
Q-5 Is it necessary to book accommodation in advance in Gangotri?
Ans: Yes, especially during peak pilgrimage tourism seasons, it’s important to book your accommodation in advance to avoid any last-minute inconvenience.
Also Know
Are tourists allowed to enter Gangotri premises during March end? Not inside the Mandir but in area around it? How close are tourists allowed to enter when Mandir door are closed?