Gangotri Temple – Complete Yatra Guide (2026)

About Gangotri Dham

The sacred shrine of Gangotri is situated at an altitude of 3,200 meters above sea level, surrounded by serene Himalayan landscapes. It is one of the most important pilgrimage sites for devout Hindus and forms an integral part of the Char Dham Yatra.

The temple was originally constructed in the early 18th century by the Gorkha commander Amar Singh Thapa. The present structure is believed to have been reconstructed by the Jaipur dynasty.

Every year, thousands of pilgrims visit the shrine between May and October. The temple priests (Pujaris and Brahmins) belong to the nearby village of Mukhwa.

Devotees carry the holy water of the Ganges from Gangotri to offer it to Lord Shiva. It is believed that this sacred water contains amrit (nectar) and soothes Lord Shiva, who consumed poison during the cosmic churning.

Opening & Closing Dates (2026)

The temple opens on the auspicious occasion of Akshaya Tritiya, usually in the last week of April or the first week of May.

For 2026:

• Opening Date: 19 April 2026

• Closing Date: 10 November 2026

The temple closes on the day of Diwali with a traditional ceremony illuminated by rows of oil lamps.

Gangotri Temple Timings

Summer Timings:

• Morning Darshan: 6:15 AM – 2:00 PM

• Evening Darshan: 3:00 PM – 9:30 PM

Winter Timings (Before Closure):

• Morning Darshan: 6:45 AM – 2:00 PM

• Evening Darshan: 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM

Aarti & Special Rituals

• Mangala Aarti: 6:00 AM (performed behind closed doors and not open to the public)

• Sandhya Aarti:

  • 7:45 PM during summer

  • 7:00 PM as winter approaches

Special poojas are performed on:

• Janmashtami

• Vijayadashami

• Diwali

Gangotri in Winters

After Diwali, it is believed that Goddess Ganga shifts to her winter abode at Mukhwa (about 12 km downstream from Gangotri).

During winter:

• The temple remains closed due to heavy snowfall.

• Worship continues at Mukhwa village.

• The deity returns to Gangotri the following year on Akshaya Tritiya.