Gangotri National Park, Uttarakhand

Dev Bhoomi Uttarakhand is home to snow-capped mountains, beautiful mountain passes, picturesque valleys and lush green meadows that are dotted with coniferous trees. Located among this beautiful surrounding in the Uttarkashi district is the Gangotri National Park. Spread across a 2,390 sq. km. area, the national park is home to several rare species of flora and fauna including the snow leopard, musk deer and Himalayan Monal etc. The scenic beauty along with rare animals and birds is what attracts most tourists to this place.
Gangotri National Park is one of the most famous high-altitude wildlife sanctuaries in India which is located at an altitude of 1,800 – 7,083 m. This beautiful national park which is the 3rd highest in India, falls under the biogeographical zone. The Most astounding feature of this park is that the river Ganga’s origin is located inside the park. The Park is named after Gangotri glacier, which is the source of the water of the holy river Ganga. With the Bhagirathi river flowing through the national park, providing nourishment to the flora and fauna of the region. Located in a remote town, the pristine beauty is maintained thanks to relatively less human activity.

Why Should you visit Gangotri National Park?

The National Park was established in 1989 in the upper catchment area of Bhagirathi river, covering 1,552 sq. km. also enclosing the Gangotri glacier within the boundaries. The Park draws several wildlife enthusiasts, trekkers and adventure seekers because of the several attractions. Nestled in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, the Gangotri National Park serves as an important link between the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary and Govind Pashu Vihar (National Park). The Biogeographical zone 2A of West Himalaya is home to magnificent deodar, oak and fir trees where wild animals like tahrs find shelter. Apart from lush green meadows, there are spectacular springs and waterfalls, glaciers and snow-capped mountain peaks, deep valleys contrasting high ridges.

Wildlife which can be observed at Gangotri National Park

Flora–
Conifers like fir, deodar, spruce, chir, pine, oak as well as rhododendron trees are common in this national park, reflecting the diversity from alpine meadows to conifer forests. Some patches at lower and higher elevations have oak, kharsu and Betula trees also.

Fauna–
Mammals: Brown bear, blue sheep, musk deer, Himalayan tahr, Asian black bear, snow leopard, thar, tiger, serow

Birds: Pheasants, Himalayan Monal, Himalayan barbet, doves, partridge, Himalayan snowcock, bulbul, ibex, parakeet, pigeon, partridge, koklass

Attractions Available at Gangotri National Park

Adventure Treks – Bhojwasa, Chirbasa, Gaumukh, and Gangotri are the most popular as well as challenging treks which attract several adrenaline junkies every year. Other popular places that attract people include the cold desert valley of Nelong, the barren yet scenic Tapovan and the high-altitude lake; Kedartal.

Spiritual Trek – The Park contains around 144 species of birds, which attract bird lovers from all over the world. Some of the popular attractions include orange bush ribbons, fantail flycatchers, etc. Summer months are ideal for catching sight of these beautiful creatures.

Gaumukh Glacier – Gangotri is one of the Char Dhams of Hindu faith and as a result attracts several visitors. Legend has it that these spots are not just scenic beauties but also have legends of Mahabharat associated with it.
Other activities available here include hand gliding, paragliding, mountaineering, river rafting and skiing.

Safari Available at Gangotri National Park

The Process of entering Gangotri National Park is slightly different from other national parks. You need to obtain prior permit (either online or in person) to enter the park from District Forest Officer (DFO). You are required to mention the areas of the park you will be visiting (Nadanvan, Sundervan, Raktvan, Basu ki Taal apart from others mentioned previously). Everyday only 150 members can enter inside the park, thus, prior booking is recommended. You are also allowed to stay inside the national park; however, this too needs to be informed prior.

How to Reach Gangotri National Park?

Air: The Nearest Airport is Jolly Grant airport in Dehradun which is around 220 kms from Uttarkashi. From here you can either take a self-drive car or take a taxi to reach the Gangotri National Park, though the former is not recommended as the roads are tricky and driving on them is not an easy task. Additionally, the weather is unpredictable, so starting early is recommended.

Road: The Nearest bus stand is at Dehradun from where you can hire a taxi. Gangotri National Park is accessible through route 108 that passes directly through Uttarkashi.

Train: The Nearest Railway Station is Dehradun which is around 210 km. from the park. The Railway Station is connected to major cities with daily trains connected from Delhi.

Best Time to Visit Gangotri National Park

The Best time to visit Gangotri National Park is from spring to early summer (April-May). The Weather is pleasant during this time and you can enjoy various activities that are available within the national park. The Monsoon season should be avoided as there are chances of landslides during heavy rains in this region. The early winter months (October and November) can also be ideal for visiting this area as the flora and fauna can be enjoyed along with nature walk and sightseeing. During winter months (December to March) the weather is extremely cold and dry with winds blowing making it difficult for people to enjoy the natural beauty. And, even locals migrate to lower altitudes during this time when the Gangotri shrine is closed for six months when snow falls.

Tips While Visiting Gangotri National Park

The Park is closed for 5 months of winter from 15th November and opens in April.
If you are going to trek in the national park, be prepared for it. Carry trekking shoes and socks that are ideal for trekking along with walking poles and water in enough quantity.
Carry enough warm clothes with you, especially, if you are travelling during winter months. At higher altitude, the temperatures are relatively lower than in plains.
Carrying emergency medicines, first aid kit, hot water battle, LED torch or headlamp along with batteries is recommended.
The Entry fees for the park is different for Indian and foreign nationals and additional charges exist if the stay is extended from 3 days. there are no charges for kids below 5 years and students (5-18 years) are charged 1/4th price with a valid student ID.
Pitching of tents is allowed in certain areas (separate charges, depending on size of tent). 10-15 small tents are allowed at a time.