MY HIMALAYAN JOURNEYS - NAMAMI GANGE - 2 - GANGOTRI

NAMAMI GANGE - 2 - GANGOTRI
Gangotri situated at an altitude of 10,500 ft above sea-level, 19 km from Gomukh, surrounded by the mountain peaks of Shivling & Satopanth, accessible by motor-able road, is one of the most pious pilgrimages. This place is considered one of the sacred places of Char Dham Yatra. Gangotri temple is situated just beside the river Ganga and it is quite peaceful place. The revered shrine of Gangotri constitutes one of the most important pilgrimages for the devout Hindu. The actual source of the Ganges is Gaumukh, a hard 19 km climb from Gangotri. The Gangotri temple is dedicated to the goddess Ganga. The Gangotri temple is erected near a sacred stone, called Bhagiratha Shila, which is a piece of rock where Bhagiratha is believed to have meditated to seek penance for his ancestors' sins. The temple marks site where River Ganga descended to the earth from Gomukh. Gangotri is the place where sacred Ganga Mata is worshiped and is considered the starting point of river Ganga (Ganges). Actually the temple is on the banks of river Bhagirathi and acquires the name Ganga only after six rivers confluence at various places down stream and finally at Devprayag when it meets Alakananda River it becomes Ganga.

Gauri Kund and Surya Kund are waterfalls on river Bhagirathi located about half a kilometre from Ganga Maa Temple in Gangotri. Suurya kund is a waterfall where water of River Bhagirathi falls with a great roar. The myth is that this is the place where Lord Shiva received the River in his matted hair locks. We had to cross an iron bridge to have a clear view of the magnificent water falls. On one side of the bridge lies the Surya Kund and on the either side lies the Gauri Kund. The majestic power of the water can be witnessed here. One can see how the water has shaped the rocks over ages to have smooth curves. Surya Kund and Gauri kund are appeasing to the eyes as well as to the ears. The sight of the waterfall and the sound of the water pounding the rocks leave an ever lasting memory. One can easily be mesmerized with continuous flow of water striking the surround rocks making big sounds of water flow. Surya Kund has formed almost big pit like area formed due to erosion of stones and due to steep water fall. It is indeed a scenic beauty as milky water gushes out of the rocks making loud sound. Amazing view....the sound of the river flowing....the rock faces....one can just stand there for hours and enjoy the serene beauty.
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