Gangotri is an ideal location for the tourists looking for peace and adventure. Located in the hills, 18 kms downstream from Gaumukh is Gangotri. It is an important pilgrim site located at 3,048 m above sea level. Gangotri is situated in the northern part of the state of Uttaranchal and is very close to the Indo-Tibetan border. Gangotri glaciers, the original source of the sacred river Ganges, attracts tourists in large numbers every season. Discover the daunting rivers and attempt to reveal the mysteries of the natural world, which are rare to find elsewhere. Along with the thrill of exploring nature, what one experiences here is the aura that India is totally Indian.

At Gangotri there is a temple dedicated to Goddess Ganga and the sacred stone where Raja Bhagirath is believed to have worshipped Lord Shiva. Submerged in the river here is the natural rock Shivalinga where Lord Shiva is believed to have received the Ganges (called Bhagirathi here) in his matted locks. It is visible in the winter months when the water level recedes.

The shrine of Gangotri is around 300 years old. Renovated in the 20th century, the shrine is a 20-feet high structure of white granite. During the winters the statue is taken to Mukhimath village where it is worshipped. There is a natural rock Shivalinga, called the Jalamagna Shivalinga. This is the place where Lord Shiva received Ganga in his locks. Visible only during winters.

Nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is a domestic airport located at about 226 km away from city center. Taxi cabs are available from airport to Gangotri city, which cost about Rs 4000. The airport operates daily flights to Delhi. Nearest International airport is Delhi, which is about 513 km away.

Gangotri is well connected by state owned bus services. Many buses are available from Gangotri to Uttarakashi (97 km), Yamunotri (232 km), Mussoorie (250 km) and Tehri (167 km). Private deluxe buses charge about Rs 3 per kilometer while state buses charge less than Re 1 per kilometer.

Rishikesh is the nearest railway station, which is about 250 km away. The station is well connected to many major cities in India. The taxi charge between Rishikesh and Gangotri is about Rs 4500.

A tough trek alongside the Gangotri glacier takes one to the beautiful Nandanvan. It is also the base camp for the Bhagirathi peaks, and offers an excellent view of the surrounding Shivalik Peak. It also leads to Tapovan which is known for the beautiful meadows that surrounds the base of the Shivalik Peaks.

Uttarkashi is a very important pilgrimage centre, and is located at an altitude of 1,150 metres above sea level. It is situated on the bank of river Bhagirathi. A few of the very important temples located here are, the Vishwanath temple, Ekadash Rudra temple, Gyaneshwar temple and Kuteti Devi temple. The Nehru Institute of Mountaineering is also located close-by. Every year people visit Uttarkashi to take a holy dip in the Bhagirathi River.

Kedar Tal is a beautiful lake that is located at 4,425 metres above sea level. The magnificient Thalaiyasagar peak is the backdrop of the lake. It is accessible through a mountain trek, and it also acts as the base for trekking into the surrounding areas. However, do remember that the trek to Kedar Tal needs a local guide.

Gaumukh is the source of the Bhagirathi River. Pilgrims trek up on foot all the way to take a holy dip in the ice cold water. Ponnies are also available for the trekking as well.

Located at a height of 3,048 metres above sea level, Dayara Bugyal is a beautiful meadow. A road connects Bhatwari with Raithal village. From this village, Dayara Bugyal is about a 6 km. long trek. The Sheshnag temple, located here is also a major attraction. It falls enroute to Dayara. From Dayara, one can trek down towards Dodi Tal as well. Ski slopes are provided at an area of 28 sq.kms. during the winters at Dayara Bugyal.

A beautiful trek through some of the lush green forests leads one to the Nachiketa Tal. The main attractions of the place are the beautiful surroundings and the small temple lake.

The former capital of Tehri Garhwal Principality is also a major attraction for the tourists. Tehri is also the site of a giant hydel project - the Tehri Project.

The present capital of the Tehri state, Narendranagar offers some of the most pleasant view of the Ganga valley of Rishikesh and even the plains of Haridwar.