Rishikesh - located in the laps of lower Himalayas about 24 Kms from Haridwar represents the Gateway to the Himalayas and is often claimed as the `Yoga Capital of the World". Today Rishikesh is fast emerging as a centre for curing ailments through yoga and meditation. Meditation at this place leads to attainment of salvation and the whole place is considered to be sacred.
Sayan Chatti - 27 km from Barkot and 18 km from Yamunotri is a scenic spot on the banks of river Yamuna.
Hanuman Chatti - The confluence of Hanuman Ganga and Yamuna rivers, from where the trek to Dodi Tal (3,307 mts) starts.
Yamunotri -
The Garhwal Himalayas have been blessed with some of the holiest Hindu pilgrimage sites and Yamunotri is one such. One of the Char Dhams according to Hindu mythology, Yamunotri is the origin of the sacred river Yamuna. Famous for its thermal springs and glaciers, it is one of the most important stopovers on the itinerary of the Hindu pilgrim. According to an old legend, Asit Muni, the revered sage, used to reside here.
Janaki Chatti - 5 km from Yamunotri, it is noted for its thermal springs, where tourists can enjoy a refreshing bath.
Gangotri - Be it man's urge to placate the Gods above or to quench his desire for adventure, Gangotri is an ideal location. Gangotri, the origin of the sacred river Ganges, attracts tourists in large numbers every year. The confrontation with the daunting rivers and attempts to unravel the mysteries of the supernatural world are ubiquitous sights here. Along with the thrill of conquering nature, what one experiences here is the mystical aura that India is so famous for.
Situated 145 km from Rishikesh, at an elevation of 1158 m on the bank of river Bhagirathi, Uttarkashi acquires importance because of very significant pilgrimage centres, Gangotri and Yamunotri. The picturesque town has some breath-taking views of the charming valleys, natural lakes, fountains and beauteous landscapes luxuriously decked with vegetation. Uttarkashi has emerged as an utmost attraction for the tourists, the pilgrims and for those having a taste for adventures, involving trekking and mountaineering.
Uttara Kashi - In 1960, it was made a border district with the district headquarters at Uttarkashi. The district is more important because of the two very significant Pilgrimage-centers viz. Gangotri and Yamunotri, the source of the two rivers, Ganga (Bhagirathi) and Yamuna.
The major locations of the district are Dunda, Puroia, Rajgarhi and Bhatwari. Major tourist attractions are Chaurangi Khal, Bhairon Ghati and Gangotri. Yamuna, Rupin and Bhagirathi Rivers flow through the district.
Gaurikund - At a distance of 5kms from Sonprayag and at an altitude of 1982 meters, one can take bath in the hot water pond here and visit the Gauri Temple. This is the place where Goddess Parvathi meditated to attain Lord Shiva. It is the base for a trek to Kedarnath.
Kedarnath - is amongst the holiest pilgrimages for the devout Hindu. It is set amidst the stunning mountainscape of the Garhwal Himalayas at the head of the Mandakini River. Kedar is another name of lord Shiva, the protector & the destroyer. Shiva is considered the embodiment of all passions - love, hatred, fear, death & mysticism which are expressed through his various forms.
Badrinath - dhaam is considered as one of the most sacred centres of pilgrimage situated in the lofty Himalayan heights in the Tehri-Garhwal hill tracks (Uttarakhand) at the height of 10,248 feet above sea level. The route to Badrinath is one of the most arduous one due to the lofty hilly terrain, curves and cliffs amidst the most scenically beautiful place on the earth.
Haridwar - "Gateway to the abode of gods" blessed by the holy trinity of Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva nestles on the banks of River Ganga. Renowned for the "Maha Kumbh Mela" appearing every 12 years and the Ardh (half) Kumbh performed every six years fortunately beautifies India drawing a number of pilgrims and devotees to commemorate this divine event. Haridwar also provides plenty to learn. |