Uttarkashi: The Kashi of the North and its Rich Heritage

Uttarkashi is located in the western Himalayas, at an elevation of approximately 1,160 meters (3,810 feet) above sea level. The town is situated on the banks of the Bhagirathi River, which is one of the main tributaries of the Ganges. It is surrounded by towering peaks and lush green forests, making it a popular destination for trekking and outdoor activities.

The town is also known as “Somya Kashi” and “Shivnagri” due to the presence of numerous temples and ashrams dedicated to Lord Shiva.

The town is known for its religious significance and is home to several temples and ashrams. The most famous temple in Uttarkashi is the Vishwanath Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is believed that the temple was built by the Pandavas during their exile. The temple is popular pilgrimage site and is visited by thousands of devotees every year.

Uttarkashi is also a popular base for trekking and adventure activities in the surrounding mountains. Some of the popular trekking routes in the region include the Kedarnath Trek, the Gangotri Trek, and the Yamunotri Trek. The town is also a popular destination for white-water rafting and paragliding.

In addition to its natural beauty and religious significance, Uttarkashi is also known for its rich culture and traditions. The region is home to several indigenous communities, including the Garhwalis and the Jaunsaris, who have their own unique customs and traditions.

Overall, Uttarkashi is a beautiful town with a rich cultural heritage, and it offers a wide range of activities and experiences for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re interested in trekking and outdoor activities, or you’re looking to explore the town’s religious and cultural heritage, Uttarkashi is definitely worth a visit.

It is considered to be the Kashi of North (Varanasi). The area, known as Uttarkashi, is located between the Varuna and Asi rivers and is considered sacred by many.

The district has a difficult terrain and climate, but it has been inhabited by hill tribes for centuries and has historical significance, as it was a place where seers and sages sought spiritual enlightenment and performed penances.

The district was part of the Gharwal Kingdom, ruled by the Garhwal dynasty, and was later invaded by the Gorkhas of Nepal. The British also played a role in the district’s history and it was eventually merged with the state of Uttar Pradesh in 1949 after India’s independence.

History of Uttarkashi

Uttarkashi has a rich history dating back to ancient times. According to legend, the town was founded by the Pandavas during their exile in the Mahabharata epic. The town is also said to have been visited by the sage Vyasa, who wrote the Mahabharata, and by the sage Drona, who taught archery to the Pandavas.

Uttarkashi was an important center of learning and culture during the medieval period. The town was home to several gurukuls (traditional schools) where students were taught a variety of subjects including Vedic literature, philosophy, and martial arts. Many famous scholars and saints, including Adi Shankaracharya and Vashishta Muni, are said to have visited Uttarkashi.

In the 19th century, the British established a garrison in Uttarkashi as part of their efforts to exert control over the region. The town was also an important center of the Indian independence movement, with many local leaders and activists participating in the struggle for freedom.

Today, Uttarkashi is a district headquarters and an important center of administration and education. It remains an important pilgrimage center for Hindus and a popular destination for trekking and adventure activities.

Mythological stories of Uttarkashi

Uttarkashi has a rich mythological history and is associated with several stories and legends from Hindu mythology. One of the most popular stories is the legend of the Pandavas, the five brothers from the epic Mahabharata. According to the legend, the Pandavas, along with their wife Draupadi, spent a significant portion of their exile in the forests around Uttarkashi. It is said that the Pandavas built the Vishwanath Temple in Uttarkashi to worship Lord Shiva, and that the temple was visited by the sage Vyasa and the sage Drona.

Another popular legend associated with Uttarkashi is the story of Parvati and Lord Shiva. According to the legend, Parvati performed severe austerities in the forests of Uttarkashi to win the hand of Lord Shiva in marriage. It is said that Lord Shiva was so impressed by her devotion that he appeared before her and granted her wish. This legend is also linked with the temple of Kedarnath and the belief that the Kedarnath peak was the site where Parvati performed her austerities.

Uttarkashi is also said to be the place where the sage Vashishta performed penance and attained enlightenment. There are several ashrams in Uttarkashi which are believed to have been visited by the sage.

These stories and legends have made Uttarkashi an important religious and pilgrimage center for Hindus. The temples and ashrams in Uttarkashi are visited by thousands of devotees every year who come to seek blessings and to learn more about the rich mythological history of the town.

Places to visit in Uttarkashi

Uttarkashi is a town with a rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. There are several places to visit in Uttarkashi that are worth exploring. Some of the popular places to visit in Uttarkashi include:

1. Vishwanath Temple: This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is considered one of the most important temples in Uttarkashi. It is believed to have been built by the Pandavas during their exile. The temple is a popular pilgrimage site and is visited by thousands of devotees every year.
2. Kedarnath Temple: This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is located in the Kedarnath range of the Himalayas. The temple is believed to be the site where Parvati performed austerities to win the hand of Lord Shiva in marriage. The temple is only accessible during the summer months and is visited by thousands of devotees every year. The distance between Utarkashi and Kedarnath is 62 kms.
3. Gangotri Temple: This temple is dedicated to Goddess Ganga and is located in the Gangotri range of the Himalayas. The temple is believed to be the source of the Ganges River and is visited by thousands of devotees every year.
4. Yamunotri Temple: This temple is dedicated to Goddess Yamuna and is located in the Yamunotri range of the Himalayas. The temple is believed to be the source of the Yamuna River and is visited by thousands of devotees every year. Distance between Uttarkashi and Yamunotri is 32 kms.
5. Gandhi Chowk: This is the main market place in Uttarkashi and offers a variety of local handicrafts and souvenirs.
6. Nehru Institute of Mountaineering: This institute is known for promoting adventure activities and mountaineering. It provides training and courses in mountaineering, rock climbing, skiing, and other adventure sports.
7. Maneri Dam: This dam is located on the Bhagirathi river, it is a popular spot for picnics and sunset views.
8. Harsil: This is a beautiful village situated on the banks of the Bhagirathi river, it is a popular spot for trekking and adventure activities.

These are some of the popular places to visit in Uttarkashi, but there are many other places to explore and discover in this region as well.

Best time to visit Uttarkashi

The best time to visit Uttarkashi depends on your interests and the activities you plan to do.

If you’re interested in trekking and outdoor activities, the best time to visit Uttarkashi is between April and June and between September and November. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the skies are clear, making it ideal for trekking and other outdoor activities. However, it’s important to note that some trekking routes, such as the Kedarnath Trek, are closed during the monsoon season (July-August) due to heavy rains and landslides.

If you’re interested in religious and cultural activities, the best time to visit Uttarkashi is during the Char Dham Yatra season, which typically falls between May and June. During this time, the temples and ashrams in Uttarkashi are bustling with activity as thousands of devotees come to seek blessings and participate in the annual Char Dham Yatra.

For river rafting or paragliding the best time is between September- October and March-April.

In general, Uttarkashi can be visited throughout the year, but the aforementioned months are considered the best time to visit Uttarkashi.

Keep in mind that the temperature can drop below freezing point during the night during winter months ( November- February) and heavy snowfall can cause roadblocks.

It is always a good idea to check the weather forecast before planning a trip to Uttarkashi and to be prepared for unexpected changes in weather conditions.

Activites/ Sports or Adventrous activities in Uttarkashi

Uttarkashi is a town known for its natural beauty and adventure activities. There are many activities that visitors can enjoy while in Uttarkashi, such as:

1. Trekking: Uttarkashi is a popular base for trekking and there are several trekking routes to choose from in the surrounding mountains. Some of the popular trekking routes in the region include the Kedarnath Trek, the Gangotri Trek, and the Yamunotri Trek.
2. River Rafting: The Bhagirathi river offers several rapids for River rafting. The rapids range from easy to challenging, and the best time to go rafting is between September- October and March-April.
3. Paragliding: The beautiful landscapes around Uttarkashi make it a perfect spot for paragliding. You can fly over the snow-capped peaks, and the beautiful valleys, and get a bird’s eye view of the town.
4. Skiing: During the winter months, skiing can be enjoyed in the nearby ski slopes of Dayara Bugyal and Auli.
5. Rock Climbing: There are several rock climbing spots in and around Uttarkashi that offer challenging routes for experienced climbers.
6. Fishing: Uttarkashi is a place of religious significance and has several temples and ashrams that can be visited. Some of the famous temples in Uttarkashi include the Vishwanath Temple, Kedarnath Temple, and Gangotri Temple.
7. Nature walks: Uttarkashi is surrounded by beautiful forests and is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. Visitors can take nature walks and explore the natural beauty of the region.
8. Camping: There are several camping sites in the surrounding mountains, where visitors can pitch their own tents and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

These are just a few examples of the many activities that visitors can enjoy in Uttarkashi. The town offers a wide range of experiences for visitors to enjoy, from trekking and adventure activities to religious and cultural exploration.

Food in Uttarkashi

Uttarkashi is known for its delicious local cuisine which is heavily influenced by the Garhwal region. Some popular dishes that you can try while in Uttarkashi include:

1. Bhaang ki khatai: This is a traditional dish made from the leaves of the cannabis plant. It is usually consumed during festivals and special occasions.
2. Chainsoo: This is a traditional dish made from mashed potatoes and is a popular food during winters.
3. Dubuk: This is a popular local dish made from mashed lentils and is served with steamed rice.
4. Rus: This is a popular dish made from fermented millet flour and is usually served with curd or buttermilk.
5. Jholi: This is a popular dish made from mixed vegetables and is usually served with steamed rice.
6. Local sweets: Uttarkashi is also famous for its local sweets such as Bal Mithai, Singodi and Gulgula.
7. Non-vegetarian food: Uttarkashi also has a good variety of non-vegetarian food such as chicken, mutton, fish and pork dishes, but it is mostly limited to restaurants.
8. Indian cuisine: Local eateries and restaurants serve a variety of Indian cuisine such as dal makhani, paneer butter masala, biryani and more.

When it comes to food, Uttarkashi is a great place to try traditional, local dishes. Many of the local eateries and restaurants source their ingredients locally and use traditional cooking methods, which adds to the authenticity of the food.

It’s always a good idea to ask locals or hotel staff for recommendations on where to eat and what to try, as they are the best source of information on the local food scene.

Culture of Uttarkashi

Uttarkashi is heavily influenced by the Garhwal region of which it is a part of. The culture of Uttarkashi is a blend of ancient traditions and modern values. The people of Uttarkashi are known for their warm hospitality and strong sense of community.

Religion plays a major role in the culture of Uttarkashi, with Hinduism being the dominant religion. The town is home to several temples and ashrams, and religious festivals and ceremonies are an important part of the local culture. The Char Dham Yatra, an annual pilgrimage to four important temples in the region, is a major cultural event in Uttarkashi.

Music and dance are also an important part of the local culture. Folk songs and dances such as the Jagar, Langvir Nritya, and Choliya are performed during festivals and ceremonies.

Handicrafts and textiles are also an important aspect of the culture of Uttarkashi. The town is known for its woolen shawls, blankets, and carpets, which are made using traditional techniques and are highly valued for their quality and craftsmanship.

The traditional lifestyle of the people of Uttarkashi is closely tied to the natural environment. Agriculture and animal husbandry are the main livelihoods of the people of Uttarkashi, and they have a deep understanding and respect for the natural world.

Overall, the culture of Uttarkashi is a unique blend of ancient traditions and modern values. Visitors to Uttarkashi can experience the richness of the local culture by participating in festivals and ceremonies, visiting temples and ashrams, and learning about traditional crafts and textiles.

Mythological stories of Uttarkashi

Uttarkashi has a rich mythological history and is associated with several stories and legends from Hindu mythology. One of the most popular stories is the legend of the Pandavas, the five brothers from the epic Mahabharata. According to the legend, the Pandavas, along with their wife Draupadi, spent a significant portion of their exile in the forests around Uttarkashi. It is said that the Pandavas built the Vishwanath Temple in Uttarkashi to worship Lord Shiva, and that the temple was visited by the sage Vyasa and the sage Drona.

Another popular legend associated with Uttarkashi is the story of Parvati and Lord Shiva. According to the legend, Parvati performed severe austerities in the forests of Uttarkashi to win the hand of Lord Shiva in marriage. It is said that Lord Shiva was so impressed by her devotion that he appeared before her and granted her wish. This legend is also linked with the temple of Kedarnath and the belief that the Kedarnath peak was the site where Parvati performed her austerities.

It is also said to be the place where the sage Vashishta performed penance and attained enlightenment. There are several ashrams in Uttarkashi which are believed to have been visited by the sage.

These stories and legends have made Uttarkashi an important religious and pilgrimage center for Hindus. The temples and ashrams in Uttarkashi are visited by thousands of devotees every year who come to seek blessings and to learn more about the rich mythological history of the town.

Uttarkashi Weather

The weather in Uttarkashi varies depending on the time of year. In general, the town has a pleasant climate, with cool summers and cold winters.

During the summer months (April-June), the temperature ranges from 15-25°C (59-77°F) and the weather is warm and pleasant, making it an ideal time for trekking and other outdoor activities. The monsoon season (July-August) can bring heavy rainfall, which can cause landslides and make some trekking routes inaccessible.

During the winter months (November-February), the temperature can drop below freezing point, and heavy snowfall can cause roadblocks. This is the best time for skiing and other winter sports.

The temperature during the spring and fall months (March-April and September-October) are mild and varies between 5-15°C (41-59°F) making it a good time for outdoor activities like river rafting, paragliding and trekking.

It is always a good idea to check the weather forecast before planning a trip to Uttarkashi and to be prepared for unexpected changes in weather conditions.

How to reach Uttarkashi

Uttarkashi can be reached by various means of transportation:

• By road: Frequent buses and shared taxis are available from Dehradun bus station to Uttarkashi. There are several routes to reach Uttarkashi from Dehradun, including the Suwakholi Mussoorie route (150 km approximately), the Rishikesh route (240 km approximately), and the Vikasnagar Barkot route (230 km approximately).
• By rail: The nearest railway station is in Dehradun, which is well connected to other parts of the country.
• By air: The nearest airport is Jollygrant airport in Dehradun.

Places of Trek in Uttarkashi

1. Bali Pass Trek
2. Dodital Lake Trek
3. Gaumukh – Tapovan Trek
4. Har-Ki-Dun Trek
5. Kalindi Khal Pass Trek
6. Kedartal Trek
7. Kush Kalyan Trek
8. Lamkhaga Pass Trek
9. Sahastra Trek Tal Lake Trek
10. Nandanvan Trek
11. Vasukital Trek
12. Auden’s Col Trek
13. Mt Shivling Mt
14. Kedardome
15. Mt Satopanth

Har Ki Dun Trek:

The Har-Ki-Dun trek is an exciting journey for adventure seekers who wish to explore a secluded Himalayan valley. The trek includes a gradual climb through picturesque oak and conifer forests, past traditional mountain villages, and up to alpine meadows with majestic mountain peaks above Hari-Ki-Doon (the Valley of Gods).

The trek culminates at the Bali Pass, also known as the Yamunotri Pass, where you can camp by the side of the Ruinsara Tal lake. The valley is dominated by the Swargarohini peak and is known for its diverse and rich array of flora. The trek is situated in the upper catchment basin of the Tons River, an area that is less well-known but equally as beautiful as the famous Valley of Flowers.

The region is surrounded by mystery and offers a challenging experience for those who want to explore the land of the Pandavas, located in the western part of Uttarkashi along the Fateh Parvat. The Har-Ki-Doon Mountain Trekking will take you to the source of the Karmanasha stream, which meets the Obragaad stream below the village of Sankri or Saur, forming the Tons River, a major tributary of the Yamuna River.

The Dodital trek

The Dodital trek is a popular trekking destination in the Uttarakhand Himalayas, located in the border district of Uttarkashi. The trek takes two days to complete and has a midway campsite at Bevra or Manjhi. The trek is surrounded by greenery and river streams on the way to the lake. The trekkers also have the option to trek up to Darwa Top. The trek offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas and the serene beauty of the lake surrounded by mountains and a small temple. Dodital is also a pilgrimage center for local communities, and during the festival of Ganga Dussshera, local deities visit the lake to celebrate the descent of the Ganges on earth. Historically, the trek has been used by Gujjars, the herdsmen who take their buffaloes to the high meadows every summer, and by pilgrims and sadhus traveling between Gangotri and Yamunotri.

Gaumukh – Tapovan Trek

The Garhwal region of northern India is a sacred and mystical area known for its natural beauty, including meadows, forests, and the majestic peaks of Shivling and Nanda Devi. Our trek takes us to Gaumukh, the source of the River Ganges according to mythology, located at the snout of the Gangotri glacier. At Gaumukh, blocks of ice fall into the river and many pilgrims cleanse themselves of their sins in the freezing water. The melting water from the Gangotri glacier forms the Bhagirathi River, which sparkles as it begins its rapid descent through the mountains. Combining the trek with a Bhagirathi rafting expedition is an excellent way to experience the adventure opportunities, as well as the colorful culture and traditional village life of the Himalayas. The trek starts from the Gaumukh glacier, the supposed origin of the Ganges River.

Har Ki Dun trek

The Har Ki Dun trek is one of the most sought-after treks in the Garhwal region of the Indian Himalayas. This is a valley trek where you will trek along the Supin River to reach the Har Ki Dun valley.

The trek has a rich mythology associated with it, with it being said that the Pandavas took the same route to ascend to heaven via the mountain of Swargarohini, which surrounds the Har-Ki-Dun valley. Also known as the “Doorway to Heaven”, this small valley is a trek away from the Sankri village and is located at an altitude of 3,566 m (11,600 ft). The valley remains covered in snow from October until the end of March.

The meadowed wonderland is one of the most beautiful treks in the Western Himalayas. The valley is home to villages that are more than 3000 years old, making it a gateway to a cultural experience. The trail takes you to a world that is untouched by modern technology, and it will definitely transport you back to simpler times.

Kalindi Khal Pass trek

The Kalindi Khal Pass trek is a challenging trek that takes you through the Garhwal region, from the Bhagirathi Valley to the Alaknanda Valley. It is suitable only for those who have done high altitude treks before, and its very mention is thrilling for even the most experienced climbers. The Kalindi Khal trek reaches a height of 5950m (19500 ft) above sea level and divides the watersheds of the Bhagirathi and Alaknanda river systems. It was discovered by Shipton and Tilman in 1934, but there is also a legend of people knowing the route for ages. The trek connects the two holy shrines of Gangotri and Badrinath, the walk is mostly over the moraines and the snow fields with deep crevasses and gives great opportunities to view the high altitude wildlife and camp by some small glacial lakes.

Kedartal Trek

Kedartal, also known as Shiva’s lake, is a glacial lake located at an altitude of 4,750m (15,600 ft) in the Garhwal region of the Himalayas in India. The lake is fed by snowfall from surrounding peaks such as Thalayasagar (6,904m), Meru (6,672m), Bhirgupanth (6,772m) and others. It is the source of Kadar Ganga, which is considered to be Shiva’s contribution to Bhagirathi in Hindu mythology. The pea-green lake with melting snow from the Kedar glacier originates Kedar Ganga, a tributary of Bhagirathi. It is considered as Lord Shiva’s contribution to Bhagirathi. The trek offers a chance to encounter a variety of high-altitude fauna such as Bharal (blue sheep), Goral, Himalayan black bear, and a wide variety of birds. The trek is a bit challenging, but the rewards are breathtaking.

Khush Kalyan Trek

The region of Western Garhwal, adjacent to Uttarkashi, is a paradise for trekkers and adventure lovers. One of the most beautiful regions in the area is the wide meadow of Kush Kalyan. It takes two days to reach Kush Kalyan through thick forests and ancient mountain villages.

The region is referred to as the “Bugyal of Blessing” and is also called the Lake District of Garhwal, as the higher elevations are decorated with multiple lakes. Kush Kalyan is a popular trekking and camping destination, with an elevation of 3789m. The trek is 16km and starts from Malla, which is around 30km from Uttarkashi. The trek goes through dense forests, past lakes and amidst wild flora and fauna.

The best time to visit Kush Kalyan is in the summer months of April and June, or post-monsoon months of September and October. The Bugyal is located on the old bridle route of Gangotri and Kedarnath. From Kush Kalyan Bugyal, you can see the Garhwal Himalayan peaks such as Kalanag, Bandarpunch and Swargarohini.

Lamkhaga Pass trek

The Lamkhaga Pass trek is a challenging and dangerous journey that connects the north eastern region of Garhwal Himalayas with Himachal Pradesh. The trek takes you through a breathtaking landscape of snow-capped peaks, glaciers and streams, and thin air. It’s considered one of the most difficult treks in India and even Indians need special permission to undertake it.

The Lamkhaga Pass trek is a classic route from Gangotri to Kinnaur and was first crossed by Marco Pallis in 1933. The trek takes you through some of the most remote and beautiful areas of Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh, including the Jalandhari valley which is covered with flowers after the monsoon season. The snow in the early season can make the trek difficult, but post-monsoon season offers an easier trek with fewer boulders.

The trek can be started from either side, but the ascent from Chitkul side is steeper than that of the Harsil side. Rope fixing is required on both sides. Harsil is famous for Wilson’s Cottage built in 1864 and Gangotri is a short drive from Harsil, while Chitkul is the last village in the Baspa valley. Overall, it’s an excellent proposition to consider for an adventure.

Sahastra Tal Trek

The Sahastra Tal Trek is a challenging but rewarding experience, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, as well as the opportunity to explore local culture and tradition. The trek starts from Kalyani village and takes you through dense forests, past picturesque hamlets, and across rivers and streams. The trek is also known for its abundance of Brahma Kamal flowers, a rare and beautiful flower that blooms in the area. The best time to take this trek is between May and June, or September and October, as the area around the lake is covered in a variety of vibrant flowers. It is a challenging trek but the reward is the beautiful views and the chance to explore the local culture and tradition.

Vasuki Tal trek

The Vasuki Tal trek via Tapovan/Nandanvan offers unique and breathtaking views as you trek through miles of glaciers and camp at the base of towering Himalayan peaks such as Mount Shivling. This high altitude trek in the Gangotri National Park brings you close to some of the most iconic peaks in the Indian Himalayas, such as Shivling, Bhagirathi, Meru, Satopanth, Manda, Chautrangi, and Chandra. Additionally, you will also get the opportunity to trek on the Gangotri Glacier and visit Gaumukh, the source of the Ganges. It is important to note that prior experience in trekking in the Himalayas is required to undertake this trek.

Auden’s Col trek

The Auden’s Col trek is a challenging mountain pass that connects the peaks of Jogin I and Gangotri III, standing at an elevation of around 5400m. It connects two glaciers, the Khatling glacier and another that belongs to Jogin I. The trek is named after J.B Auden who first crossed it in 1939-40 and it was not widely explored until the late 80s. It is considered one of the most dangerous passes in the Garhwal Himalayas due to the presence of crevasses and the difficulty of the terrain. The trek is strenuous and requires prior experience and proper planning, it is recommended to hire a guide who has firsthand knowledge of the trek.

Mount Shivling Trek

The trek to Mount Shivling in the Garhwal Himalayas of India is a challenging journey that reaches heights of over 6,000 meters. The peak was first climbed in 1974 by a team from the Indo-Tibetan Border Police and is known for its twin summits, with the northeastern peak being slightly higher than the southwestern peak. The trek to Shivling offers an inspiring view of the mountain and passes through the Tapovan meadow, a popular pilgrimage site.

Lakes of Uttarkashi

Some of the notable lakes include:

• Sahastra Tal: A pristine lake situated on the border of Uttarkashi and Tehri district, known for its numerous lakes and the Brahma Kamal flower.
• Kedartal: A glacial lake situated at an altitude of 4,750m, known for its picturesque surroundings and the source of the Kadar Ganga river.
• Dayara Bugyal: A high altitude meadow located in the western Garhwal region, known for its multiple small lakes and stunning views of the surrounding peaks.
• Vasuki Tal: A high altitude lake located in the Gangotri National Park, known for its proximity to the Mount Shivling peak and the Gangotri Glacier.
• Dodital: A freshwater lake located in the Uttarkashi district, known for its picturesque surroundings, and the home to the Golden Mahseer fish.
• Saptarishi Kund: A high altitude lake located in the Gangotri National Park, known for its religious significance and the source of the Saptarishi Ganga river.

• Dodital: A freshwater lake located at an altitude of 3,024 meters, Dodital is known for its crystal-clear waters and picturesque surroundings. The lake is considered sacred by the locals and is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Ganesha.
• Har Ki Dun: Known as the “Valley of Gods”, Har Ki Dun is a glacial valley located at an altitude of 3,566 meters. The valley is home to several beautiful alpine meadows and is surrounded by snow-capped peaks. The Har Ki Dun trek is a popular destination for trekkers and hikers.
• Rupin Pass: Rupin Pass is a high-altitude mountain pass located at an altitude of 4,650 meters. The pass is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The Rupin Pass trek is considered to be one of the most challenging and scenic treks in the region.
• Darwa Top: Darwa Top is a high-altitude pass located at an altitude of 4,900 meters. The pass is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The Darwa Top trek is a popular destination for trekkers and hikers.
• Khirao Ganga: Khirao Ganga is a high-altitude glacial lake located at an altitude of 4,300 meters. The lake is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and is a popular destination for trekkers and hikers.

These are some of the notable lakes in Uttarkashi district. There may be other lakes as well, which are less known but each one of them offers different scenic beauty and unique experience.

Stay in Uttarkashi

The town is a popular destination for trekkers and hikers, and is home to several temples and ashrams. There are many places to stay in Uttarkashi, including hotels, guesthouses, and homestays, catering to a wide range of budgets. If you’re planning to visit Uttarkashi, it’s a good idea to book your accommodation in advance, as the town can get quite busy during peak seasons.

Hotels in Uttarkashi

There are several hotels available in Uttarkashi for travelers to stay at, catering to different budgets and preferences. Some popular options include:

• Hotel Vishnu Palace: This is a budget-friendly hotel that offers basic amenities and is located close to the bus stand.
• Hotel Deepak: This hotel offers comfortable rooms with attached bathrooms, and is located in the heart of the town.
• Hotel Gangotri: This is a mid-range hotel that offers well-appointed rooms and is located near the Bhagirathi river.
• Hotel Himalayan Eco Lodge: This is a eco-friendly hotel that offers comfortable accommodation with a view of the Himalayas.
• Hotel Kinner Kailash: This hotel is located in a peaceful location and offers comfortable rooms with a view of the Himalayas.
• Hotel Ganga View: This hotel offers rooms with a view of the Bhagirathi River and is located near the bus stand.

These are just a few examples, and more options are available in Uttarkashi. It’s always best to check online reviews and compare prices before making a booking.