Gangotri National Park is located in the upper catchment of Bhagirathi River in the Uttarkashi
district of Uttarakhand. It is spread over an area of about 1,553 square kilometres.
About the Park
The park was established in 1989. Gangotri glacier, the origin point of the river Ganga, is situated in
the interior of this park. The park is managed by the Forest Department of Uttarakhand government.
The international boundary with China is located at the north-eastern edge of this enchanting park.
Fauna
The animal species of Gangotri National Park include Bharal, Snow Leopard, Brown Bear, Himalayan
Snowcock, Himalayan Monal, Musk Deer, Himalayan Thar, Tigers, and Black Bear.
Avian-fauna
Doves, Bulbul, Ibex, Himalayan Barbet, Partridges, Pigeons, Serow, etc. are endemic bird species
here.
Flora
Western Himalayan sub-alpine conifer forests are found at lower ranges of the park. At the higher
elevations meadows and Western Himalayan alpine shrub are more common. Spruce,
deodar, chirpine, rhododendrons, oak and fir trees are found in great numbers in this park. Alpine
scrub is the unique feature of the park.
How to get there
The nearest railway station and bus terminal are located at Dehradun, (approximately 187 km away
from Uttarkashi district) and Haridwar. From here one can hire bus, car or taxi to reach Uttarkashi.
Jolly Grant airport at Dehradun is the nearest airport.
Tourist Information
Forest Rest Houses are available at Gangotri, Harsil and Bhaironghati. Entry can be obtained from
the entrance of the park at a cost of Rs. 150/-. Hire a porter from Gangotri itself. The porter can be
useful as a guide along your trip.
Always carry your own food and water as there are no human settlements along the glacier. Do not
litter your trashes in the Himalayas or else you will be heavily fined for doing so. Sun-burn is the
common problem in the higher altitudes, so keep sun creams handy.
General information
Gangotri National Park, Gangotri-Gaumukh Pedestrian Way, Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand, India.
Ideal time to visit: April to October (summer season); Entry timing: 6 am
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