After completing the trip to Badrinath and Kedarnath 6 years ago, we were dying to complete the remaining 2 dhams - as they are called. I am a photographer by hobby, and several of my photography-friends were all praise for the awesome beauty of these 2 places, particularly Gangotri. Its literally the place where not just the Ganges but where heaven descends on earth. I finally got to go to these 2 places with my wife and mother this month (May 2006) and have been enchanted by the beauty of Gangotri. Its located in the midst of the mighty Himalayan peaks covered with snow and mist all year round. The moment you start your journey from Uttarkashi you know that you are entering heaven-terrirory. The road winds along the Ganga as you move up in the mountains and the Ganga flows downwards to earth.
Gangotri has a very peaceful environment with the gentle ringing of the bells and devouts moving around at a casual pace (though it can get pretty crowded during season). The best time to go is when the temple just opens after winter every year - which is usually around April end (do a search on the net to get hold of the exact date).
Stay at the GVMN guesthouse which is amongst the best place available there. They have pretty decent rooms (but with common baths) and supply hot water at reasonable rates. Situated right opposite the ’Surya-kund’, the g/h has good service too. But be prepared not to get great food in the mountains.
The small bazaar enroute from the parking lot to the temple has small trinkets and photos on sale, religios songs playing gently (not that I am a godly-man, but they do sound good on the ear).
A trip to Gangotri without going to Gaumukh is incomplete. Its an arduous trek of 18kms and not everybody has the courage to try it out. If you have time, take a halt at the GVMN g/h which comes on the way, and walk up to Gaumukh next day early morning. The two days will be worth it. Though this trek can also be done in a day, early morning to late evening - approx 5 hours each way + 2 hrs there.
We went on ponies and it was worth all the backache we got bouncing on them. No words can describe the feeling you get while you slowly meander along the trek, unable to decide which of the several mountains you see along the route is mightier. Finally you see the Gaumukh glacier. Muster the courage to take a dip in the freezing cold waters and all ur sins will get washed away (wink). Gangotri is usually mistaken by people as a pilgrimage destination. Its much much more than that.
A trip you’ll never forget. I am so impressed by it that I’d even recommend it as a honey moon destination.