Located in the pristine Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, Gangotri National Park is a stunning example of the Himalayas’ untouched beauty and ecological diversity. Encompassing an area of 2,390 square kilometers, this park is named after the sacred Gangotri Glacier, the origin of the holy Ganga River. Established in 1989, Gangotri National Park is a treasure trove of alpine meadows, dense forests, cascading streams, and towering peaks, offering an unparalleled experience for nature lovers, trekkers, and pilgrims alike.
This guide provides comprehensive details about Gangotri National Park, including its main attractions, timings, ticket fees, booking procedures, and nearby places of interest.
Overview
Gangotri National Park is part of the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve and a crucial area for wildlife conservation. The park is renowned for its high-altitude ecosystems, housing rare flora and fauna found in the rugged Himalayan terrain. From towering glaciers to ancient temples, Gangotri National Park is a harmonious blend of nature, spirituality, and adventure.
Flora and Fauna
Flora
The park is home to diverse vegetation, including deodar, oak, blue pine, fir, and rhododendrons, alongside alpine shrubs and mosses. The high-altitude meadows, locally known as bugyals, bloom with vibrant flowers during the summer, creating a surreal landscape.
Fauna
Gangotri National Park shelters several endangered and elusive species, including:
- Himalayan Tahr
- Musk Deer
- Brown Bear
- Blue Sheep (Bharal)
- Monal (Uttarakhand’s state bird)
Bird enthusiasts can also spot species like the Himalayan Snowcock, Golden Eagle, and Bearded Vulture.
Main Attractions
- Gangotri Glacier
The park’s centerpiece, the Gangotri Glacier, is one of the largest in the Himalayas. It serves as the source of the Bhagirathi River, a primary tributary of the Ganga. Treks to the glacier offer awe-inspiring views of ice cliffs, moraines, and surrounding peaks. - Gaumukh
Located at the snout of the Gangotri Glacier, Gaumukh is considered the true origin of the Ganga River. The trek to Gaumukh is one of the most popular activities in the park. - Tapovan and Nandanvan Meadows
These high-altitude meadows are famed for their breathtaking beauty and serve as base camps for expeditions to peaks like Shivling and Bhagirathi. - Kedar Tal
A crystal-clear glacial lake nestled at an altitude of 4,750 meters, Kedar Tal is a trekking paradise surrounded by towering peaks like Thalaysagar and Bhrigupanth. - Harsil Valley
Located near the park, this serene valley is known for its apple orchards, dense deodar forests, and tranquil environment.
Timings and Days of Operation
- Opening Hours:
- The park remains open to visitors from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
- Closed Days:
The park is closed from November to April due to heavy snowfall and extreme weather conditions. It reopens in May when the trekking season begins.
Ticket Fees
- Indian Nationals: ₹150 per person
- Foreign Nationals: ₹600 per person
- Children (below 12 years): Free
- Camera Fee: ₹100 for still cameras and ₹500 for video cameras
Note: Trekking permits have additional charges based on the route and duration of the trek.
Booking Procedure
Visitors need to obtain an entry permit from the Forest Department Office in Uttarkashi. Here’s how you can book:
- Visit the Forest Department office or their official website.
- Submit a valid ID proof (Aadhar card for Indians; passport for foreigners).
- Mention the trekking route or areas you wish to explore.
- Pay the entry fee and obtain the permit.
Tip: Book through licensed tour operators for guided treks and hassle-free permits.
How to Reach
Nearest Airport
- Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (approx. 250 km from Gangotri).
Nearest Railway Station
- Rishikesh Railway Station (approx. 234 km from Gangotri).
By Road
- Gangotri National Park is well-connected by road to major cities like Dehradun, Rishikesh, and Uttarkashi. The last motorable point is Gangotri Town, from where treks to the park commence.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Gangotri National Park is between May and October. During this period, the weather is pleasant, and trekking routes are accessible. Monsoon months (July to August) should be avoided due to landslides and slippery trails.
Nearby Attractions
- Gangotri Temple
One of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites, the Gangotri Temple is dedicated to Goddess Ganga and attracts thousands of pilgrims each year. - Dayara Bugyal
A high-altitude meadow offering picturesque views of snow-capped peaks and an excellent trekking experience. - Yamunotri
Another Char Dham site, Yamunotri is located near Gangotri and is the source of the Yamuna River. - Uttarkashi Town
Known for its ancient temples and ashrams, Uttarkashi is a spiritual hub for visitors.
Important Facts
- Eco-Sensitivity: Gangotri National Park is an ecologically fragile zone. Littering, hunting, or disturbing wildlife is strictly prohibited.
- Altitude Range: The park spans an altitude of 1,800 to 7,083 meters, making it a haven for high-altitude flora and fauna.
- Spiritual Significance: Gangotri is one of the holiest sites in Hinduism, believed to be the point where the Ganga descended to Earth.
- Trekking Routes: Some routes require acclimatization due to the high altitude. Trekkers should be physically fit and carry adequate supplies.
Gangotri National Park is a paradise for adventure seekers, pilgrims, and nature enthusiasts. Its majestic landscapes, spiritual aura, and vibrant biodiversity create an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re trekking to Gaumukh, admiring the beauty of alpine meadows, or exploring the rich flora and fauna, Gangotri National Park promises to leave you spellbound.
Start planning your visit to this Himalayan marvel and immerse yourself in the splendor of nature and spirituality!