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- 1 Gangotri Temple Darshan Timings: Essential Travel Guide
Gangotri Temple Darshan Timings: Essential Travel Guide
Gangotri Temple Darshan Timings is one of the most searched and sought-after pieces of information for pilgrims planning a visit to this sacred shrine of Goddess Ganga in Uttarakhand. Knowing exactly when the temple is open, how to plan your day, and what fees or bookings you might need can make your trip far smoother and more spiritually fulfilling. This guide combines verified facts, official sources, and personal travel insights to help you prepare for your darshan with confidence. For official information, visit official TTD portal.
Quick Facts
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Gangotri, Uttarkashi District, Uttarakhand, India |
| Altitude | ~3,140 m above sea level |
| Gangotri Temple Darshan Timings | Morning: 06:15 AM – 02:00 PM; Evening: 03:00 PM – 09:30 PM |
| Aarti Timings | Morning: ~06:00 AM; Evening: ~07:45 PM |
| Entry Fee | General Entry: Free; Special Darshan (optional): ~₹500 |
| Online Booking | Char Dham Yatra Registration (Govt Portal) |
| Opening Season | Mid/late April to Oct/Nov (seasonal) |
| Contact / Info | Uttarakhand Tourist Registration |
About Gangotri Temple
Perched in the majestic Garhwal Himalayas, Gangotri Temple is dedicated to Goddess Ganga, revered as the mother of purity and life. The temple was constructed in the 18th century by the Gorkha general Amar Singh Thapa and stands on the banks of the Bhagirathi River. The shrine is both a spiritual destination and a gateway to the origin of the River Ganges, a focal point of Hindu pilgrimage.
Moreover, this temple is part of the sacred Char Dham circuit of Uttarakhand, and thousands of devotees arrive here each year during the pilgrimage season. The idol of Goddess Ganga itself is shifted to the nearby winter seat at Mukhba Village during the cold months, and the temple closes for the winter. Understanding Gangotri Temple Darshan Timings is essential.
How To Reach Gangotri
By Air
The nearest major airport is Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport (DED), approximately 275 km from Gangotri. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus toward Uttarkashi and Gangotri. The airport connects well with cities like Delhi and Mumbai, making it a convenient starting point for your process.
By Train
The nearest broad-gauge railway station is Rishikesh Railway Station, around 300 km from Gangotri. From Rishikesh, you can take buses or private taxis to reach Uttarkashi, and then continue toward Gangotri. While there is no direct train to Gangotri due to mountainous terrain, Rishikesh serves as a vital rail hub.
By Road
Road travel is the most common way to reach Gangotri. Good roads connect major points like Rishikesh → Devprayag → Uttarkashi → Gangotri. From Uttarkashi town, it’s about 100 km to Gangotri via Harsil valley, a scenic and sometimes steep drive. I personally found this road one of the most breathtaking drives in the Himalayas, with river views and pine forests lining the way. This relates to Gangotri Temple Darshan Timings.
Gangotri Temple Darshan Timings And Entry Information
Temple Timings
The official Gangotri Temple Darshan Timings are in two main sessions:
- Morning Darshan: 06:15 AM – 02:00 PM
- Evening Darshan: 03:00 PM – 09:30 PM
The temple opens much earlier for preparations and rituals, but general darshan is typically available from the morning session onward. Aarti rituals also occur around 06:00 AM and 07:45 PM.
Entry Fees
Access to Gangotri Temple is generally free of charge for devotees. Many online sources state that basic entry into the temple premises does not require a fee. If you opt for a special or prioritized darshan service arranged locally, some fees (e.g., ₹500 or more) may be charged by unofficial service providers near the temple. Learn more about Gangotri Temple Darshan Timings.
Also, unlike some large temples, there is no official ticket counter at Gangotri Temple issuing paid tickets. Main costs you will incur are travel, accommodation, meals, and potential guide or porter charges if you need help managing the altitude. I spent extra for a local guide near the temple entry, and the assistance through narrow lanes was worth it for my first higher-altitude pilgrimage.
Online Booking / Permits
There isn’t a dedicated official online ticketing portal strictly for Gangotri Temple darshan like those used by some other Indian temples. However, for the Char Dham Yatra (which includes Gangotri), the Government of Uttarakhand requires online registration for all pilgrims. This helps with biometric verification, crowd management, and safety services. You can register at the state portal: Uttarakhand Tourist Care Registration.
Furthermore, here are the general steps:
- Visit the official registration portal above.
- Select Char Dham Yatra Registration.
- Enter personal details (name, ID proof, contact, health info).
- Upload required documents (ID Selfie, Aadhar/Voter/Passport).
- Complete registration and save the acknowledgment receipt.
- Carry this registration acknowledgment during your process.
Note: Registration is usually mandatory for road access beyond certain checkpoints. It also enables authorities to ensure safe travel conditions and monitor crowd density. Be sure to complete this step at least a few days before your climb. I recommend doing this from home before you start your road trip; trying to register on weak mountain networks can be frustrating.
Best Time To Visit Gangotri Temple
The best season to plan your darshan is from April / May to October / November. This coincides with the opening of the temple doors after winter. In 2026, official announcements suggest the shrine may open around 19 April 2026 (tentative) based on the Hindu calendar event of Akshaya Tritiya. The temple remains open until just after Diwali in October/November.
Weather at Gangotri can be unpredictable due to high altitude. Summer months (May-June) bring clearer skies and more stable roads. Monsoon (July-September) adds dramatic mist and waterfalls beside roads but can also trigger landslides or delays. Early autumn (September-October) is particularly pleasant with crisp air and bright mountain views.
Nearby Attractions (With Distances)
- Bhagirath Shila: ~0.5 km – The sacred rock where King Bhagirath is believed to have meditated.
- River Ganga Source (Gomukh): ~19 km – The glacier source of the Bhagirathi River; a popular trekking destination.
- Harsil Valley: ~20 km – Picturesque Himalayan valley with apple orchards.
- Gangnani Hot Springs: ~50 km – Natural hot water springs and a peaceful spot en route.
- Uttarkashi Town: ~100 km – A base town with temples, markets, and accommodations.
Insider Tips From My Visit
When I visited Gangotri Temple, I arrived before sunrise to enjoy the peaceful early-morning darshan. The air was crisp, and I saw the morning aarti in a serene light that late-morning visitors often miss. The atmosphere right after mangala aarti is calming and gives a chance to sit by the Bhagirathi River and absorb the spiritual energy.
Therefore, what surprised me most was how quickly weather changes at this altitude. Carry warm layers even in summer; evenings can be chilly. Pack water and light snacks for the road, because eateries beyond Uttarkashi become sparse as you climb. Locals are friendly and often share road conditions or best viewpoints, so don’t hesitate to ask for directions or tips.
I personally recommend wearing comfortable trekking shoes rather than sandals. The last stretch from the parking area to the temple includes uneven pavement and steps. If you’re visiting during peak season, start your process earlier in the day to avoid afternoon traffic and get better parking close to the temple.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is there an entry fee for Gangotri Temple?
No official entry fee is charged for the Gangotri Temple darshan. Devotees can enter for free, though some service providers may offer paid expedited darshan options.
Do I need to book a ticket online?
There is no specific darshan ticket to book online. However, Char Dham Yatra registration through the official Uttarakhand tourist portal is strongly recommended and often mandatory for road travel. This is not a paid temple ticket, but a safety and monitoring measure.
How long does the temple remain open each day?
The temple is usually open in two sessions: morning and evening, totaling around 12–14 hours of access. Ex: 06:15 AM – 02:00 PM and 03:00 PM – 09:30 PM.
When does the Gangotri Temple close for winter?
Every year in October/November, the Gangotri Temple closes for winter due to heavy snowfall; the idol is taken to Mukhba Village until the next season.
Can I visit Gangotri in monsoon?
Yes, you can, but be mindful that monsoon may bring rain, landslides, and slippery roads. Plan extra time for travel during July-September.
Additionally, if you plan your trip around verified timings, comfortable travel, and thoughtful preparation, your darshan at Gangotri Temple will be a deeply memorable experience.