Gaumukh,Uttarakhand

• Gaumukh/Gomukh glacier snout — the symbolic source of the Ganges
• Gangotri Temple (in the village of Gangotri) — starting point for the pilgrimage and daily puja
• Bhagirathi River — pristine glacial stream flowing from the snout
• Tapovan meadows — high-altitude alpine meadows beyond Gaumukh (for experienced trekkers)
• Views of peaks such as Shivling and Chaukhamba visible from the trek

• Glacial moraine and ice formations at the snout
• Clear turquoise glacial meltwater of the Bhagirathi
• High‑altitude alpine flora and seasonal wildflowers near Tapovan
• Sacred pilgrimage atmosphere mixed with rugged Himalayan scenery
• Photogenic vantage points for sunrise/sunset over the glacier and peaks

• Pilgrimage and darshan at Gangotri Temple
• Trek from Gangotri to Gaumukh (moderate high‑altitude walk)
• Photography of glaciers, river, and peaks
• Meditation, prayer and ritual offerings at the glacier’s snout (respect local customs)
• Day‑hiking to Bhojbasa/Bhujbasa and optional extended trek to Tapovan (requires high‑altitude experience)
• Nature observation; seasonal wildflowers and limited birdwatching

April/May to September (summer and early autumn) for road access and trekking. The Gangotri temple typically opens in late April/May and closes around Diwali (Oct/Nov). Avoid the heavy monsoon period (peak July) and winter when roads are snowbound.

High‑altitude alpine climate. Days in the open season are cool (around 5–15°C), nights can drop to near or below 0°C. Sudden weather changes, snow at higher altitudes, and cold winds are common. Monsoon brings rain, landslides, and slippery trails.

There is usually no entry fee to visit Gaumukh itself; the Gangotri temple does not charge an entry fee but follows daily darshan/puja timings (typically early morning and evening rituals). Register at local forest/administrative checkposts if required; some treks beyond Gaumukh (Tapovan/advanced glacier approaches) may require permits and authorized guides.

Nearest major railhead: Haridwar/Rishikesh (connected to the Indian Rail Network). Nearest airport: Dehradun (Jolly Grant) ~200–260 km depending on route. Road travel from Uttarkashi leads to Gangotri (road motorable to Gangotri village). From Gangotri the path to Gaumukh is a pedestrian trek of approximately 9–10 km one way (about 18–20 km round trip) depending on trail variations. Expect simple mountain roads, occasional road blockages, and limited cellular connectivity. High‑altitude trekking beyond the glacier requires guides and mountaineering experience.

Plan 2–3 days minimum: 1 day for Gangotri (temple and acclimatization) and 1 day for the trek to Gaumukh and return. Add 2–3 extra days if you want to rest, acclimatize, or continue to Tapovan/Bhrigupanth.

Layered warm clothing, insulated jacket, waterproof outer shell, sturdy trekking boots, warm hat and gloves, sunglasses with UV protection, sunscreen, trekking poles, daypack, water purification tablets, basic first‑aid and altitude sickness medication (consult a physician). If crossing snow or going onto the glacier, carry crampons/ice gear and only proceed with experienced guides.

Simple mountain and Kumaoni fare available in Gangotri (dal, rice, local vegetables, tea). Try local dishes like Kafuli and aloo ke gutke where available. Souvenirs: woollen shawls, prayer beads (rudraksha), handicrafts, and locally made woolens. Carry sufficient cash as ATMs are unavailable near Gangotri/Gaumukh.