Uttarkashi Travel Guide

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Location
The district of Uttarkashi is located in the northern part of Uttaranchal.

About Uttarkashi
Uttarkashi, situated at 1150 M elevation, in north of Uttaranchal, is famous for being home to Gangotri and Yamunotri. The holy town is highly revered, as it holds the origin point of Ganga and Yamuna, also called as lifeline of India. The name Uttarkashi is derived from two words, Uttar (North) and Kashi (ancient name for Varanasi). The name signifies the religious importance. The place is equally revered as Varanasi, in north India. A common feature of Varanasi and Uttarkashi is that they both are situated on the banks of River Ganga.

Also Uttarkashi is known for its temples dedicated to Rishi Parasurama, Datatryea, Goddess Annapurna Devi, Goddess Kali, and Bhairon. There are approximately 365 temples in this town. Apart from being a pilgrimage, the town is also famous for hosts of adventure sports activities. Uttarkashi trek and Gangotri trek offer some really tough challenges to the trekkers. Climbing & rappelling is conducted on artificial wall at Nehru Institute of mountaineering with complete safety gear. River crossing on a medium size river-stream is also organised. All safety gears can be easily availed for undertaking this adventure.

Getting There
Air
The Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun, is 162 Km from Uttarkashi. One can easily get taxis from Dehradun to reach Uttarkashi.
Rail
Rishikesh, 145 Km, is the nearest major railhead, connected to Uttarkashi by motorable roads.
Road
The extensive road network of Uttaranchal makes Uttarkashi conveniently connected to the major cities of state and nearby states. Some of the major distances are: Rishikesh- 145 Km, Dehradun- 165 Km, Mussoorie- 140 Km, Delhi- 399 Km and Gangotri- 95 Km.

Places of Attractions
Nachiketa Taal
3 Km from Uttarkashi, the famous Nachiketa Taal is a prime attractions in the vicinity. The lake is known for the temple of Nachiketa, son of saint Uddalak. There is greenery all around and a small temple at the bank of the lake, which gives a serene look to the beautiful surroundings.

Dodital
Dodital is 16 Km from Uttarkashi, situated at an elevation of 3307 meters. The lake is sparkling and crystal clear, surrounded by forests. The famous Himalayan trouts are found in abundance in the lake. Permit for fishing can be obtained from the Divisional Forest Officer, Uttarkashi.

Dayara Bugyal
Bugyal in the local language means "high altitude meadow". Situated at an elevation of about 10,000 feet above sea-level, this vast meadow is second to none in natural beauty. During winter it provides excellent ski slopes over an area of 28 sq km. There is a small lake also in the area, and to camp by its side would be a memorable event.

Gangotri
Gangotri is the place where river Ganga originated. The river is one of holiest rivers for Hindus. Gangotri is said to be the same place where Lord Shiva sat and trapped Ganga in his hairlocks. The glacier Gaumukh is source of Ganga water. The site of Gangotri is among the Char Dhams of the state, and is visited by lakhs of pilgrims every year.

Yamunotri
Yamuna is one of the holiest rivers of Hindus. Goddess Yamuna is said to be a sister of Ganga. Yamuna river is said to be sister of Yamaraj, God of death and daughter of Surya, lord Sun. It is therefore believed that a bath in the Yamunotri will relieve a person from painful death. The site of Yamunotri also forms a part of Char Dham yatra in the state.

Vishwanath Temple
The Vishwanath Temple devoted to Lord Shiva is situated near the local bus stand at Uttarkashi. This temple was renovated by Maharani Khaneti, wife of Sudarshan Shah in 1857. The temple has a Shivling (60 cm high and 90 cm circumference). People from all over India visit the Vishwanath temple during their visits to Uttarkashi ,Gangotri and Yamunotri.

Shakti Temple
Right in front of the Vishwanath temple is Shakti temple. It has a big 'Trishul' of about 6 meters in height and a circumference of 90 cm at bottom. As per the epics this Shakti was thrown on the devils by the Goddess Durga (Shakti), hence it gets its name.

Accommodations
Uttarkashi has some comfortable stay option for visitors. There are some private as well as government owned hotels and guests houses. Being home to numerous pilgrimage sites, the place is highly visited by pilgrims.