TREKKER'S DELIGHT
Uttarkashi
is located in the northern part of Uttar Pradesh. Uttarkashi was
originally a part of Tehri Garhwal. But soon after independence, when
Tehri Garhwal Kingdom merged with India, it was made a district of the
Kumaon division.
In 1960, it was made a border
district with the district headquarters at Uttarkashi. The district is
more important because of the two very significant Pilgrimage-centers
viz. Gangotri and Yamunotri , the source of the two rivers, Ganga (Bhagirathi)
and Yamuna.
The major locations of the
district are Dunda, Puroia, Rajgarhi and Bhatwari. Major tourist
attractions are Chaurangi Khal, Bhairon Ghati and Gangotri. Yamuna,
Rupin and Bhagirathi Rivers flows through the district.
Uttarkashi:
Uttarkashi is a regional centre,
155-kms. from Rishikesh and is the administrative headquarters of the
district. Several trekking companies operate from here and the town is
also the base for the Nehru Institute of Mountaineering, where
Bachhendri Pal, the first Indian woman to climb to the summit of Mt
Everest, was trained. The town is pleasantly situated on the banks of
the Bhagirathi River, drawing pilgrims to its Vishwanatha Temple, sacred
to Shiva.
Nachiketa Tal: Situated
between Panchangaon and Fold Gaon, this beautiful lake is perenially
filled with water. There is greenery all around and a small temple at
the bank of the lake gives a serene look to the location.
Maneri:
Bugyal in the local
language means “high altitude meadow”. Situated at an elevation of
about 10,000 feet above seal-level this vast meadow is second to none in
natural beauty. During winter, it provides excellent ski slopes over an
area of 28 sq. kms. The panoramic view of the Himalayas from here is
breathetaking. There is a small lake also in the area, and to camp by
its side would be memorable event.
Harsil: The Bhagirathi
valley is most enchanting and preserves many colorful spots in its lap.
Situated at a distance of 72 kms. from Uttarkashi on the main highway to
Gangotri, at an elevation of 2623 metres, this sylvan hamlet is famous
for its natural beauty and delicious apples.
Sat-Tal: Sat-Tal meaning
seven lakes, is situated just above Dharali, 2 kms. beyond Harsil. The
trek of about 7 kms is rewarding as this group of lakes is situated
amidst beautiful natural surroundings. It also provides lovely camping
sites.
Bhairon Ghati: On way to
Gangotri, Bhairon Ghati is a place where one can stay and enjoy the
mountainous landscape. A temple of Bhairon here is visited by scores of
pilgrims. The awe-inspiring lofty peaks, deep gorge of Jahnavi and
Bhagirathi rivers and the towering deodar trees provide a rare natural
bonanza.
Gangotri: The shrine of
Gangotri situated at an elevation of 3200 metres above sea level, amidst
captivating surroundings is 100 kms. from Uttarkashi. The temple,
constructed by the Gorkha general, Amar Singh Thapa in the 18th century,
is situated on the right bank of Bhagirathi. It is visited by lakhs of
pilgrims every year. A number of ashrams are located on the other side,
some of which provide accommodation facilities to the visitors.
Kedartal: This spectacular
and enchanting lake is situated at a distance of about 18 kms. from
Gangotri, negotiable through a rough and tough mountain trail. The lake
is crystal clear with the mighty Thalaysagar (Sphatiklin) peak forming a
splendid backdrop.
Gaumukh: The Gaumukh
glacier is the source of Bhagirathi (Ganga) and is held in high esteem
by the devouts who do not miss the opportunity to have a holy dip in the
bone chilling icy water. It is 18 kms. from Gangotri.
Nandan-Van Tapovan: These
two spots are situated opposite the Gangotri glacier further up from
Gaumukh, at a distance of 6 kms. from where visitors can have a superb
view of the majestic shivling peak.
Yamunotri : The shrine of
Yamunotri, source of river Yamuna is situated in the direction opposite
to Gangotri and the road bifurcates and goes to Yamunotri from Dharasu,
a place between Rishikesh-Uttarkashi. Situated at an elevation of 3235
metres above sea level, the shrine of Yamunotri is one of the ‘four
dhams’ of Uttarakhand.
Har-ki-dun: Har-ki-dun is
famous for its natural beauty and is a popular destination for
trekkers.at the height of 3566m, Har-Ki-Doon is a land of unparalleled
beauty in the whole district of Uttar Kashi.
White Water Rafting: Rafting
is done on river Bhagirath.
Kush Kalyan, Belak Khal Range:
About 16 kms. from Malla, which
is 28 kms. from Uttarkashi on Gangotri Road, the meadow of Kush-Kalyan
is situated at an elevation of 11000 feet. Further west, it extends up
to Chaurangi-Khal. Trekking along this range is an enjoyable experience.
During winter, all these places provide vast expanse of ski-slopes.
