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Gangotri is situated on the upper reaches of Ganges, 3140 m above
sea level near the most famous Ganges's source - Gomukh. Ganges
has many sources which gradually combine into full-fledged Ganges.
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In Gangotri king Bhagirat
prayed for deliverance of his forefathers by sacred water from Ganges.
By his prayers he satisfied demigod Brahma and by his benediction
Ganges agreed to descend on Earth planet. |
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Lord Shiva had to capture
her strong current and thus protect the Earth from disturbance.
Ganges's outpour was in this way divided into many streams which
fell on different places in Himalayas where Ganges has its springs.
The most prominent of them is Gomukh. Lord Shiva is often seen with
Ganges on his head. |
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Gangotri-ghat
Pandavas are said to perform penances in Gangotri to atone for
death of their relatives in the Battle of Kuruksetra.
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Arati ceremony for direct worship of Ganges river is conducted
in this place. Ganges is worshiped in temple in her Deity form
on the altar and afterwards her waters are worshipped here.
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Temple of Goddess Ganges
The temple is located near sacred stone, called Bhagirati-sila,
which can be found just 50 steps on the left from the temple.
King Bhagirat is said to perform penances here to please Lord
Shiva, when he wanted him to sustain Ganges on her descend.
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I front of the temple.
Arati ceremony is every day attended by many people. |
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White roof of the temple. |
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Ganges flowing down the Gangotri creates pleasing fizzy sound
which gives Gangotri pleasant atmosphere.
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Waterfall Sahasradhara in
Gangotri. |
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Confluence of Bhagirati
and Khedar Ganges in Gangotri. |
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In this place Ganges flows to the north thus giving Gangotri
its name. "Gangotri" literally means "Ganges flowing
to the north".
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One courageous tourist from
Switzerland put up his tent in Gangotri. |
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In the center of Gangotri. |
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Pavan-suta is worshipping
Ganges by water from the river... |
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...which is afterwards poured
on head for purification. |
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Gauri-kund
Ganges is flowing here in narrow gorge about one meter wide. Its
waters are penetrating the rock and creating strong current.
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Ganges on its way from Uttarakashi to Gangotri.
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