Nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, Uttarkashi is a serene town that serves as a gateway to sacred pilgrimages and thrilling adventures. Known as the “Kashi of the North,” this spiritual haven is home to ancient temples, including the famous Vishwanath Temple and Shakti Temple. Beyond its religious significance, Uttarkashi attracts nature lovers and trekkers with breathtaking trails like Dodital, Dayara Bugyal, and Gaumukh-Tapovan. Whether you’re seeking divine blessings, peaceful retreats, or adrenaline-pumping experiences, Uttarkashi offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of the mountains. 🌿🏔️✨
1. Shree Kashi Vishwanath Temple
Located on the banks of the Bhagirathi River, Shree Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Uttarkashi is a revered pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Shiva. Known as the “Kashi of the North,” it holds immense spiritual significance, especially during the Char Dham Yatra. Surrounded by the majestic Himalayas, this ancient temple offers a divine and peaceful retreat for devotees and travelers alike. 🙏✨
Location : The banks of the Bhagirathi River, in the heart of Uttarkashi town, Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand, India
Timing : 🕰 Shree Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Uttarkashi – Timings
Opening Time: 6:00 AM
Closing Time: 8:00 PM
Aarti Timings:
- Morning Aarti: 6:30 AM
- Evening Aarti: 7:00 PM
Entry Fee : Free (No charges for darshan)
2. Nachiketa Tal
Nachiketa Tal is a serene and picturesque high-altitude lake located near Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand. Surrounded by dense forests and offering breathtaking Himalayan views, this hidden gem is perfect for nature lovers and trekkers. The lake is named after Nachiketa, a mythological figure from the Kathopanishad. A small temple dedicated to Lord Shiva sits by the lake, adding to its spiritual charm.
Location : Nachiketa Tal is a serene high-altitude lake located near Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand, accessible via a 3 km trek from Chaurangi Khal.
Timing : Nachiketa Tal is open 24 hours, but daytime visits (6:00 AM – 6:00 PM) are recommended for safety and better views.
Entry Fee : Free (No charges for visiting Nachiketa Tal). 😊
3. Gangotri National Park
Gangotri National Park is a stunning high-altitude wildlife sanctuary located in Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand. Spanning 2,390 sq. km, it is home to diverse flora and fauna, including the snow leopard, Himalayan black bear, and musk deer. The park also houses the origin of the River Ganga at Gaumukh Glacier and offers breathtaking trekking routes through dense forests, alpine meadows, and snow-clad peaks.
Location : Gangotri National Park is located in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, covering 2,390 sq. km in the upper catchment of the Bhagirathi River.
Timing : Gangotri National Park is open from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. 😊
Entry Fee : 🎟 Entry Fee for Gangotri National Park
- Indians: ₹150 per person
- Foreigners: ₹600 per person
- Students: ₹75 per person
- Vehicle Entry: Extra charges apply
4. Dodital
Dodital is a stunning high-altitude freshwater lake located in Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand, at an elevation of 3,024 meters. Surrounded by dense oak, pine, and rhododendron forests, the lake is famous for its crystal-clear waters and mythological significance as the birthplace of Lord Ganesha. It is a popular trekking destination, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas and a peaceful retreat for nature lovers.
Location : Dodital is a high-altitude freshwater lake located in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, surrounded by dense forests at an elevation of 3,024 meters.
Timing : Dodital is open 24 hours
Entry Fee : Free (No charges for visiting Dodital).
5. Tapovan Kuti
Tapovan Kuti is a serene spiritual retreat located near Gaumukh Glacier in Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand. Situated at an altitude of 4,463 meters, it is a popular destination for sadhus, trekkers, and spiritual seekers. Known for its breathtaking views of Mount Shivling and the Bhagirathi peaks, Tapovan Kuti is an ideal place for meditation and peace amidst the Himalayan wilderness.
Location : Tapovan Kuti is a high-altitude spiritual retreat located near Gaumukh Glacier in Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand, at an elevation of approximately 4,463 meters.
Timing : Tapovan Kuti is open 24 hours
Entry Fee : Free (No charges for visiting Tapovan Kuti). 😊
6. Gangotri Glacier
Gangotri Glacier is a massive Himalayan glacier located in Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand, and is the primary source of the Bhagirathi River, which later becomes the Ganges. Situated at an altitude of 4,000 meters, it stretches around 30 km in length and is surrounded by majestic peaks like Shivling, Thalay Sagar, and Meru. The glacier is accessible via a trek from Gangotri to Gaumukh, the sacred snout of the Ganga.
Location : Gangotri Glacier is located in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, at an altitude of approximately 4,000 meters, and serves as the primary source of the Bhagirathi River.
Timing : Gangotri Glacier is open 24 hours.
Entry Fee : 🎟 Entry Fee for Gangotri Glacier (Gaumukh Trek Permit):
- Indians: ₹150 per person
- Foreigners: ₹600 per person
- Students: ₹75 per person
7. Govind Pashu Vihar National Park & Sanctuary
Govind Pashu Vihar National Park & Sanctuary is a biodiversity hotspot located in Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand. Covering an area of 958 sq. km, it is home to rare species like the snow leopard, Himalayan black bear, musk deer, and monal pheasant. The park is also famous for trekking routes like Har Ki Dun, Kedarkantha, and Ruinsara Tal, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
Location : Govind Pashu Vihar National Park & Sanctuary is located in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, covering 958 sq. km in the upper Tons River valley.
Timing : Govind Pashu Vihar National Park & Sanctuary is open from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. 😊
Entry Fee : 🎟 Entry Fee for Govind Pashu Vihar National Park & Sanctuary:
- Indians: ₹150 per person
- Foreigners: ₹600 per person
- Students: ₹75 per person
Famous Food in Uttarkashi
1. Kafuli
Kafuli is a famous Garhwali dish from Uttarkashi and Uttarakhand, made with spinach (palak) and fenugreek leaves (methi), cooked in an iron kadhai with buttermilk and minimal spices. This nutritious and flavorful dish is rich in iron and vitamins, making it a staple in the cold Himalayan climate. It is traditionally served with rice or mandua (finger millet) roti.
Ingredients : Spinach, Fenugreek Leaves, Rice Flour and spices
2. Phaanu
Phaanu is a traditional Garhwali dish made from mixed lentils (dal), soaked overnight and slow-cooked with aromatic spices. It is rich in protein, has a thick curry-like consistency, and is best enjoyed with steamed rice. Phaanu is especially popular in Uttarkashi and other parts of Uttarakhand for its nutritious and warming properties, perfect for cold weather.
Ingredients : Mixed lentils, ghee and spices
3. Jhangora Kheer
“A breathtaking view of Uttarkashi with the Bhagirathi River flowing through the Himalayas.”
Jhangora Kheer is a sweet pudding made from barnyard millet (Jhangora), a superfood rich in fiber and nutrients. This traditional Uttarakhandi dessert has a creamy texture and is flavored with cardamom, nuts, and saffron. It is commonly prepared during festivals, special occasions, and religious ceremonies in Uttarkashi and other Himalayan regions.
Ingredients : Jhangora, Jaggery, milk and dry fruits
4. Mandua Roti
Mandua Roti is a traditional Garhwali flatbread made from finger millet (Mandua) flour, known for its high fiber, calcium, and iron content. It is a staple food in Uttarkashi and other parts of Uttarakhand, often enjoyed with ghee, jaggery, or local curries like Kafuli. This wholesome roti is perfect for cold climates and promotes good digestion and energy.
Ingredients : Mandua flour, wheat flour and water
5. Singori
Singori is a unique sweet delicacy from Uttarakhand, especially popular in the Kumaon region. It is made from khoya (reduced milk), flavored with cardamom, and wrapped in a maalu leaf, which gives it a distinct aroma. Unlike other sweets, Singori is not shaped like a regular dessert but is conical, making it visually appealing and a specialty of the region.
Ingredients : Khoya, Maalu Leaves, sugar and dry fruits
