Gangotri Temple is one of the most sacred pilgrimage destinations of the Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand. The temple stands at an altitude of about 3,100 meters in Uttarkashi and is dedicated to Goddess Ganga. It is believed to be the place where the holy Ganga descended to Earth after King Bhagirath’s penance. The temple sits beside the Bhagirathi River, surrounded by thick forests, snowy mountains, and a calm Himalayan atmosphere.
Each year, the temple opens on Akshaya Tritiya and closes on Diwali. The idol is then taken to Mukhba Village for winter worship. Lakhs of devotees visit this temple every year to seek blessings, participate in sacred rituals, and begin treks to Gaumukh, the source of the river.
In 2025, Gangotri Temple will continue offering online booking for darshan and sevas through the official Char Dham portal. Pilgrims can book special pujas, check timings, and plan their journey in advance. This article explains everything including timings, offerings, booking steps, how to reach, accommodation, dos and don’ts, and FAQs.
2. Gangotri Temple 2025 Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand |
| Altitude | ~3,100 m |
| Deity | Goddess Ganga |
| Expected Opening Date 2025 | Akshaya Tritiya (April/May) |
| Expected Closing Date 2025 | Diwali (Oct/Nov) |
| Best Visit Months | May–June, Sept–Oct |
| Nearest Town | Uttarkashi |
| Entry Fee | Free |
| Official Website | https://badrinath-kedarnath.gov.in |
3. Gangotri Temple Timings 2025
| Activity | Timing |
|---|---|
| Temple Opens | 6:00 AM |
| Morning Darshan | 6:00 AM to 2:00 PM |
| Temple Break | 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM |
| Evening Darshan | 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM |
| Morning Aarti | 6:30 AM |
| Evening Aarti | 7:30 PM |
These timings may change on festival days or during bad weather.
4. Sevas and Darshan Options at Gangotri Temple (With Timings & Prices)
| Seva / Darshan | Time | Approx Price |
|---|---|---|
| General Darshan | Temple hours | Free |
| Special Darshan | Fixed slots | ₹250–₹500 |
| Ganga Aarti Participation | Evening | ₹300–₹700 |
| Rudrabhishek Puja | Morning | ₹1,100–₹2,000 |
| Ganga Pujan | Morning | ₹1,500–₹3,000 |
| Maha Abhishek | Early morning | ₹3,500–₹5,000 |
| Archana / Bhog | Morning/Evening | ₹200–₹500 |
Prices may vary slightly in 2025.
5. How to Reach Gangotri Temple
By Air
Nearest airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (250 km)
Taxi and buses are available to Uttarkashi and Gangotri.
By Train
Nearest railway station: Dehradun Railway Station
Direct buses and taxis to Uttarkashi → Gangotri.
By Road
Gangotri is well-connected by road from:
• Rishikesh
• Dehradun
• Uttarkashi
Most common route: Rishikesh → Uttarkashi → Harsil → Gangotri
6. How to Book Gangotri Temple Darshan Tickets Online
Online Booking Steps
- Visit the official website: https://badrinath-kedarnath.gov.in
- Go to the Gangotri Temple section.
- Create an account or log in.
- Select your darshan or seva.
- Choose date and time.
- Fill in devotee details and upload ID proof if needed.
- Complete payment online.
- Download and carry your booking receipt.
Offline Booking
Available at temple counters for special pujas and darshan slots.
7. Nearby Attractions Around Gangotri Temple
Gaumukh Glacier
Source of the river Ganga, accessible via an 18 km trek from Gangotri.
Harsil Valley
A peaceful valley known for deodar forests and apple orchards.
Bhairon Ghati
Located 10 km away and known for the Bhairav Baba temple.
Surya Kund
A natural waterfall near the temple.
Pandav Gufa
A cave associated with the Pandavas during their exile.
8. Important Instructions for Pilgrims
• Weather is cold throughout the year; carry warm clothes.
• High altitude may cause breathing problems; walk slowly.
• Carry raincoat or umbrella during monsoon.
• Keep identity proof and booking receipt.
• Photography inside the sanctum is usually restricted.
• Follow security instructions and queue discipline.
• Start early to avoid rush and bad weather.
• Avoid plastic and maintain cleanliness near the river.
Dos and Don’ts at Gangotri Temple
Dos
• Dress modestly.
• Move slowly and give way to elders.
• Carry medicines and first-aid.
• Use water responsibly.
• Follow temple regulations.
Don’ts
• Avoid carrying tobacco, alcohol, or non-veg food.
• Don’t litter near river banks.
• Don’t disturb wildlife.
• Don’t take risky shortcuts on trekking paths.
• Don’t enter restricted areas.
9. Accommodation Options Near Gangotri Temple
| Stay Type | Area | Price Range | Facilities |
|---|---|---|---|
| GMVN Guest House | Gangotri / Harsil | ₹800–₹2,500 | Simple rooms, hot water |
| Budget Hotels | Gangotri Market | ₹600–₹1,500 | Comfortable stay, veg meals |
| Mid-Range Hotels | Harsil Valley | ₹1,500–₹3,000 | Scenic views, parking |
| Dharamshalas | Near temple | ₹200–₹500 | Basic rooms, shared washrooms |
| Camps & Tents | Harsil / Lanka | ₹1,000–₹2,000 | Nature stay, campfire options |
10. FAQs About Gangotri Temple 2025
Q1. What is the opening date of Gangotri Temple in 2025?
It will open on Akshaya Tritiya, usually in April or May.
Q2. How much is the ticket price for darshan?
General darshan is free. Special darshan starts from ₹250.
Q3. Can I book sevas online?
Yes, all major sevas and pujas are available on the official Char Dham website.
Q4. What is the best time to visit Gangotri?
May–June and September–October.
Q5. Are medical facilities available?
Basic medical help is available near the temple.
Q6. Is photography allowed?
Outside the temple yes; inside sanctum usually no.
Q7. Is the road to Gangotri safe?
Yes, but monsoon season may cause landsli