Uttarkashi is a major pilgrimage destination of North India and is located on the banks of Bhagirathi River. Uttarkashi, the place holds distinct importance in Uttaranchal. Bordered by a range of snow capped peaks on the northern side, Uttarkashi district of Uttaranchal is located at an elevation of 1158 mts. As stunning Garhwal district Uttarkashi is the land of holiest of pilgrimages of Hindus, Gangotri and Yamunotri. Within the bounds of its land, it has the origin of two holiest rivers of India, Ganga and Yamuna. Owing to its deep rooted holy link, the hill district is also known as 'Devbhumi' (the land of gods and goddesses).
On your tours to Uttarkashi, apart from the temples and shrines you will also find plenty of adventure sports destinations. There are some high-altitude lakes in Uttarkashi and the Gangotri and Yamunotri glaciers lead on to several major peaks where you can indulge in trekking and mountaineering.
Uttarkashi easily captivates the visitor's charm with a snowline high above and a green landscape around, terraced hills, lakes, springs and waterfalls, Uttarkashi is a destination that holds something for everyone. It is a trekker’s paradise, a pilgrim's dream come true, a nature lover's dream destination.
Not just that, Uttarkashi is surrounded by an interestingly varied places, Himachal on the north, Tibet on the North east, Chamoli on the east, Rudraprayag on the south east, Tehri on south and finally Dehradun on the east.
Best Time to Visit:
May-June, September-October
Places of Interest:
Vishwanath Temple: Vishwanath temple in Uttarkashi is one of the prime pilgrimage attractions in Uttarkashi around 300 mts from the local bus stand. An ancient temple, it is said that it was first built by Parasuram. Later, it was renovated by Maharani Khaneti, wife of Sudarshan Shah in 1857. The temple has a Shivling, 60 cms high and 90 cms in circumference. No one misses this holy shrine on their trip to Uttarkashi.
Shakti Temple: This temple is just differing Vishwanath temple. A big Trishul in this temple is the centre of attraction. The trishul is 6 mts in height and 90cms at the base. Different people hold different views about the trishul; it is widely supposed that the trishul is made of iron in the higher part and copper in the junior part. The epics say that this trishul was thrown at devils by goddess Durga.
Govind National Park: A perfect getaway in case you wish to enjoy all the things at one place. Spread over an area of 953 sq. km, the park offers you everything from wildlife, rare birds to snow capped peaks and glaciers. The park is particularly attractive in May-June because of the flowers in full bloom and pleasant weather. There are approximately 150 varieties of birds in the park. Cuckoos, minivets, parakeets can be easily spotted. The animals consist mainly of Himalayan wildlife.
Gangnani: The place is famous for its thermal springs and the views of Himalayas it offers. It lies on route to Gangnani. It is an ideal place to meditate because of the quietness that prevails here. The spring here called Rishikund offers a refreshing bath to the pilgrims going to Gangotri. Directly is a temple dedicated to sage Parasara, father of Veda Vyas.
Maneri: 13 kms from Uttarkashi is this gorgeous place called Maneri. The place has lately emerged as a tourist attraction because of a dam being built here on Bhagirathi River. The water from here is fed through an 8 kms long tunnel to turbines at Uttarkashi. A lake is formed because of the dam at Maneri which has added to the beauty of the place.
Har Ki Dun: A famous trekking destination, Har Ki Doon is located at an altitude of 3506 metres. The place is known for its popular treks, it offers its trekkers a reasonable trek among dense forests and a mountainous landscape.
Dayara Bugyal: Bugyal or a "high altitude meadow" at an altitude of 3048 mts affords awe-inspiring view of the Himalayas. There is also a small lake here. On route to Gangotri, a road branches off near Bhatwari, which will take you to Dayara Bugyal? The distance from Uttarkashi to Dayara Bugyal is 32 kms. Once there you will be simply enchanted by the beauty of this large meadow. A small lake, beautiful views of Himalayas, all these make the place unforgettable. A 30 kms trek through dense forest from here will take you to Dodi tal.
Harsil: 72 kms from Uttarkashi is the gorgeous Bhagirathi valley encompassing within itself all the colors of nature. Green grassy terrains, a blue sky and the flowing waters, the natural beauty are beyond expression. One can visit Wilson cottage that was built in 1964, Sat tal, the cluster of seven lake or be a bit adventurous and take treks from here to discover the nearby lands.
Dodi Tal: 32 kms The stunning lake in the lap of high mountains, bounded by tall majestic oak, deodar and rhododendron trees is a virtual paradise for nature lovers. The lake full of rare fishes like the Himalayan Golden Trouts, locally called as "Dodis" is an angler's delight. The trek for Dodi Tal starts from Kalyani, which is linked by road.
Reach:
By Air: The closest Airport from Uttarkashi is Jolly Grant airport, near Dehradun, 162 kms from here.
By Rail: The nearest railway station is Rishikesh, 145 kms from here. Rishikesh is well connected by rail to other major cities.
By Road: There are motor able roads connecting Uttarkashi to other major cities like Dehradun, Rishikesh, Haridwar and other important towns.
