The holy town of Uttarkashi is set on the banks of river Bhagirathi at an altitude of 1158 metres, about 145 kms from Rishikesh on the main route to Gangotri. It is considered to have similar religious importance as Kashi. The famous Vishwanath temple here is dedicated to Lord Shiva. In front of the temple is unique Mahadev-ka-Vishal Trishul or Shiva's Great Trident, made of eight major metals. It is believed Lord Shiva killed Vakasur with this trident. Other important temples are dedicated to Lord Parashuram, Lord Ekadash Rudra and Goddess Kali.
It is an important stopover for pilgrims visiting Gangotri. Uttarkashi has also emerged as an important centre for adventure sports.
Uttarkashi Stats
Area: 7951 sq km
Total Population: 295,013
Literacy: 66.58%
Places to Visit in Uttarkashi
Bugyal or a "high altitude meadow" at an altitude of 3048 metres affords awe-inspiring view of the Himalayas. There is also a small lake here. The road to Dayara Bugyal branches off near Bhatwari, 28 kms from Uttarkashi on Gangotri road. Vehicles can go up to Barsu village, from where one has to trek for 8 kms.
Dodi Tal (32.5 kms) :
The beautiful lake in the lap of high mountains, surrounded 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 connected by road.
Gangnani (39 kms) :
It lies further up on the way to Gangotri. There is a temple dedicated to Sage Parashar. Visitors bathe at Rishikund near the shrine in a hot water spring.
Harsil (73.5 kms) :
The enchanting spot on the way to Gangotri is noted for its natural beauty and delicious apples.
Sat Tal:
Sat Tal or 'seven lakes', a group of lakes amidst scenic surroundings is located just above Dharali, 2 kms beyond Harsil.
Maneri (13 kms) :
It lies on the Gangotri route and has a dam across river Bhagirathi. The resultant lake adds to the beauty of Maneri.
Nachiketa Tal:
The beautiful lake can be reached via Chaurangi-Khal (29 kms) from where one has to trek for 3 kms A small temple is located on the banks of the lake.
Gangotri :
It is the spiritual source of Ganga, the holiest river in the country and is one of the 'Char Dhams' of Uttaranchal. The Gangotri Temple is situated at an altitude of 3048 metres, about 99 kms from Uttarkashi. The 20 ft. high temple on the left bank of Bhagirathi is made of white granite. It was built in early 18th century by Amar Singh Thapa, a Gorkha General and was renovated in 20th century by the ruler of Jaipur. It is believed that Raja Bhagirathi worshipped Lord Shiva at the sacred stone nearby. There is also a 'submerged' shivlinga, which is believed to be the site where Ganga descended into the matted locks of Lord Shiva. ,
Gaumukh (18 kms) :
The Gaumukh glacier is the physical source of Bhagirathi (Ganga) and is of great importance to the pilgrims. One has to trek from Gangotri to Gaumukh.
Kedartal (18 kms) :
The trek to this enchanting lake surrounded by majestic peaks is quite tough, but is worth taking the trouble.
Yamunotri :
Yamunotri, the mythological source of river Yamuna is one of the sacred 'Char Dham'. The temple of Goddess Yamuna Temple was built in 19th century by Maharani Gularia of Jaipur. It is set at an altitude of 3,235 metres and is dominated by the towering Banderpoonch mountain (6,316 m.) in the back drop. The temple remains closed from Nov. to Apr.
Divya Shila :
This rock pillar is worshipped before entering the Yamunotri Temple.
Surya Kund :
The hot spring here is formed due to volcanic heat. The blistering water immediately cooks potatoes and rite tied loosely in a piece of cloth. These are taken as prasad by the pilgrims.
Sapta Rishi Kund :
It is the original source of river Yamuna. To trek upto here is a true test of endurance.
Hanumanchatti (13.5 kms):
Confluence of Hanuman Ganga and Yamuna rivers.
Govind Wildlife Sanctuary& Harki Doon Valley
The sanctuary was set up in 1955, sprawling over an area of 953sq.kms, dotted with peaks like Swarg Rohini, Black Peak and Bandarpoonch. Himalayan black bear, brown bears, snow leopard, tahr, serow, monal, trogopan, chir, bharal, musk deer, koklas, kaleej pheasants and chukor etc. can be sighted here. The stunning beauty of Har ki Doon valley, snow clad peak and glorious glaciers also attract Jarge number of trekkers to this part of the state.
How to Reach Uttarkashi
By Rail: Nearest railway station is Rishikesh (145.5 kms)
By Road: Uttarkashi is well connected by road to Dehradun, Rishikesh, Haridwar and other major towns of the state and region.
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