A sacred journey from Dehradun to Gangotri is a trip that can reward the devotees with a wonderful spiritual exposure. From spirituality to the serenity of the Himalayas, this high-altitude tour is such a wholesome experience to feel and commence on. If you go on this Yatra, it will make you pass through slightly challenging uphill passages but make your dedication worth it by its awe-inspiring views of the Bhagirathi valley and surrounding peaks.
Let us look into the other significant details, such as the best time to visit, nearby attractions, and modes of reaching on this trip.
Why is Gangotri a Famous Site
- Gangotri Dham is a famous pilgrimage site dedicated to the well-known sacred river Ganga.
- It is one of the significant Hindu temples and considered part of the Char Dham Yatra
- The interesting fact is that it is the temple depicting the precious origin of Ganga Ji.
- In the quest for Darshan, a number of devotees embark on this sacred voyage every year.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Gangotri Pilgrimage falls in the warm months of May and June. Due to extreme weather conditions, this temple enshrining Devi Ganga stays open from May to November roughly. Therefore, you should look forward to proceeding during these six months only. As we said, May and June are the ideal time to visit, but you can plan your sacred trip in autumn as well. What you should not do is embark on this journey during monsoon season because the weather in the peak Monsoon season is not favourable for outsiders at all.
Where is Gangotri Located
- This spiritual destination is nestled in the lap of the Himalayas at an altitude of 3415 m.
- Further, it is situated in the Uttarkashi district and the distance from there is about 98 Km.
- The most convenient mode of travel is by reaching Dehradun, Rishikesh, or Haridwar and then traveling by Helicopter or rental car.
Distance from Dehradun to Gangotri
- The distance from Dehradun to Gangotri temple is about 254 Km, and the en route towns are Mussoorie and Uttarkashi.
- If you cover this distance by hiring a taxi, then it will take 8 to 9 hours to finally reach the temple doorstep.
- The best thing is that you should not have to trek to arrive at this religious cum beautiful spot.
Route Map
Dehradun → Mussoorie → Chinyalisaur → Uttarkashi → Harsil → Gangotri
Dehradun to Gangotri Route with Distance per Destination
| Route Segment | Distance (Approx.) |
| Dehradun → Mussoorie | 36 km |
| Mussoorie → Chinyalisaur | 75 km |
| Chinyalisour → Uttarkashi | 45 km |
| Uttarkashi → Harsil | 72 km |
| Harsil → Gangotri | 26 km |
How to Reach
From Dehradun, there are only road and air modes to travel to this holy temple of Maa Ganga. Here are the further details.
By Taxi
- The rental taxi services from Dehradun to your destination, Gangotri Dham, are the most active and convenient mode of travel.
- You can book the one-way or two-way road journey online in advance to avoid price surge and last-minute hustle.
- Based on your preference, you can get the transport services even customised.
- If you are traveling solo, then it’s cost-effective to book the shared jeep on this beautiful journey.
By Bus
- There is an unavailability of direct bus service from Dehradun to Gangotri.
- However, you can travel by breaking your journey. It means you should reach Rishikesh by Bus and then rent a taxi to cover the rest of the distance.
- If you are looking for a budget-friendly mode to visit Gangotri, then you should surely choose this Bus mode.
Helicopter Yatra
- Helicopter ride to Gangotri is the most premium and comfortable mode of visit.
- To enjoy a flawless aerial journey, you should register for the pre-planned Helicopter Package in advance.
- The Sahastradhara helipad of Dehradun is utilised as the starting point of the Helicopter Tour.
- Whereas the Harsil helipad of Gangotri is the one where you will land and go to the temple.
Attractions in Gangotri
Here are some of the most-visited places in the Dham:
Gangotri Temple
This shrine is dedicated to the goddess Ganga. The white granite structure of the temple surrounded by deodar and pine trees steals the hearts of the pilgrims in a heartbeat!
Bhagirath Shila
This rock slab is located very close to the Gangotri shrine and is considered highly sacred. Pilgrims pay their homage to this rock before they enter the sacred temple. This place is famous as the site where King Bhagirath meditated to have River Ganga descend to this world.
Surya Kund
This gushing waterfall is a tourist-favourite for its awe-inspiring views. The Bhagirathi River fills it, adding to its spiritual charm. Moreover, its waters are believed to have healing properties.
Tapovan
This high-altitude spot is popular among trekkers. Located at 4,400 m, it impresses visitors with its meditation caves and panoramic views of Shivling Peak. This place is ideal if you’re looking for some adventure.
En Route Famous Sites
- Mussoorie: When you move from Dehradun, then this astonishing hill station falls on the route. Mussoorie is among the most attractive and beautiful hill stations of India, and so if you want to explore, then it is worth wandering.
- Uttarkashi: Uttarkashi is another lovely town on the route to Gangotri. This town is blessed with several Hindu temples. Therefore, people like to take a break here and enjoy the visit to religious spots.
Conclusion
What can be more healing than visiting a spiritual site. If you have never been there, then it’s time to plan a devotional tour to Gangotri Dham. You will be amazed to see the beauty of the river valley and snow-covered mountains. Whatever information you need to plan this religious trip is mentioned above. We hope you will be able to visit there and seek the blessings of Maa Ganga.
FAQs
Q1. Are there direct buses available from Dehradun to Gangotri?
Ans. There are no direct buses available. What you can do is take a bus from Dehradun to Uttarkashi/Harsil first. And from there on, take a taxi/shared jeep to Gangotri.
Q2. Can I take a taxi from Dehradun to Gangotri?
Ans. Yes, private taxis are available. In addition, you can also book a full-day cab to the Dham. Depending on the vehicle, it can cost anywhere from ₹6,500 to ₹9,000.
Q3. Can I get a helicopter service from Dehradun?
Ans. Helicopter services are available but do not provide direct accessibility. From Sahastradhara helipad in Dehradun, you can fly to Harsil. From there, it’s just a 30-45 minute road drive.
Q4. Where can I stay during my Dehradun to Gangotri trip?
Ans. The following spots are best for staying en-route to the Dham:
- Uttarkashi: Hotel Shivlinga, Shikhar Nature Resort, Hotel Sahaj Villa, etc.
- Harsil: Harsil Retreat, Prakriti Retreat, Himalayan Eco Lodge, etc.
Q5. Is the road safe for self-driving?
Ans. The road route has some challenges, such as narrow, winding roads with steep curves. It is also prone to landslides during the monsoon season. It’s best if you can get an experienced driver for the road trip.
Q6. Are there any petrol stations along the way?
Ans. Yes, but after Uttarkashi, their frequency really declines. It’s often advised to fully load up on your fuels at Uttarkashi.
Q7. What should I pack for this journey?
Ans. Pack warm clothes, ID proof, sunscreen, power bank, water, snacks, and essential medicines.
Q8. What can we eat at Gangotri?
And. You can easily avail roti, dal, rice, and veggies here. Non-veg food and alcohol are strictly prohibited here.
Q9. What is the helicopter ticket price to Gangotri?
And. From Dehradun, you can book a flight, which can range anywhere from INR 70,000 to INR 90,000.
Q10. What’s the best time for the Yatra?
Ans. The months of May, June, September, and October are ideal for the pilgrimage. The weather stays pleasant and is perfect for temple tours.
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