Uttarakhand

History and Geography
Uttarakhand finds mention in the ancient Hindu scriptures as Kedarkhand, Manaskhand and Himavant. The Kushanas, Kunindas, Kanishka, Samudra Gupta, the Pauravas, Katuris, Palas, the Chandras and Panwars and the British have ruled it in turns. It is often called the Land of the Gods (Dev Bhoomi) because of its various holy places and abundant shrines. The hilly regions of Uttarakhand offer pristine landscapes to the tourists.

The State of Uttarakhand was earlier a part of the United Province of Agra and Awadh, which came into existence in 1902. In 1935, the name of State was shortened to the United Province. In January 1950, the United Province was renamed as Uttar Pradesh and Uttaranchal remained a part of Uttar Pradesh before it was carved out of Uttar Pradesh on 09 November 2000. It is incepted as the 27th State of India.

Located in the foothills of the Himalayas, the State has international boundaries with China (Tibet) in the north and Nepal in the east. On its North-West lies Himachal Pradesh, while on the south is Uttar Pradesh.

Transport

Uttarakhand Roads: The total length of metalled roads in Uttarakhand is 29,939 km. The length of PWD roads is 22,623 km. The length of roads built by local bodies is 15,041 km.

Uttarakhand Railways: The main railway stations are Dehradun, Hardwar, Roorkee, Kotdwar, Kashipur, Udhamsingh Nagar, Haldwani, Ramnagar and Kathgodam.

Uttarakhand Aviation: There are air strips at Jolly Grant (Dehradun), and Pantnagar (Udham Singh Nagar). Air strips at Naini-Seni (Pithoragarh), Gauchar (Chamoli) and Chinyalisaur (Uttarkashi) are under construction. From this year Pawan Hans Ltd., has started helicopter service from Rudraprayag to Kedarnath for pilgrims.

Uttarakhand Festivals:

The world-famous Kumbh Mela/Ardh Kumbh Mela is held at Hardwar at every twelfth/sixth year interval. Other prominent fairs/festivals are : Devidhura Mela (Champawat), Purnagiri Mela (Champawat), Nanda Devi Mela (Almora), Gauchar Mela (Chamoli), Baisakhi (Uttarkashi), Magha Mela (Uttarkashi), Uttaraini Mela (Bageshwar), Vishu Mela (Jaunsar Bhabar), Peerane-Kaliyar (Roorkee), and Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra held every twelfth year.

Uttarakhand Tourist Place:

Kedarnath Temple, Nainital,Gangotri, Yamunotri. Badrinath, Kedarnath, Hardwar, Rishikesh, Hemkund Sahib, Nanakmatta, etc. Kailash Mansarovar Yatra can be performed through Kumaon region. The world-famous Valley of Flowers, Pindari Glacier, Roop Kund, Dayara Bugyal, Auli, and hill stations like Mussoorie, Dehradun, Chakrata, Nainital, Ranikhet, Bageshwar, Bhimtal, Kausani, and Lansdowne etc. are the other tourist destinations.

Uttarakhand

History and Geography
Uttarakhand finds mention in the ancient Hindu scriptures as Kedarkhand, Manaskhand and Himavant. The Kushanas, Kunindas, Kanishka, Samudra Gupta, the Pauravas, Katuris, Palas, the Chandras and Panwars and the British have ruled it in turns. It is often called the Land of the Gods (Dev Bhoomi) because of its various holy places and abundant shrines. The hilly regions of Uttarakhand offer pristine landscapes to the tourists.

The State of Uttarakhand was earlier a part of the United Province of Agra and Awadh, which came into existence in 1902. In 1935, the name of State was shortened to the United Province. In January 1950, the United Province was renamed as Uttar Pradesh and Uttaranchal remained a part of Uttar Pradesh before it was carved out of Uttar Pradesh on 09 November 2000. It is incepted as the 27th State of India.

Located in the foothills of the Himalayas, the State has international boundaries with China (Tibet) in the north and Nepal in the east. On its North-West lies Himachal Pradesh, while on the south is Uttar Pradesh.

Transport

Uttarakhand Roads: The total length of metalled roads in Uttarakhand is 29,939 km. The length of PWD roads is 22,623 km. The length of roads built by local bodies is 15,041 km.

Uttarakhand Railways: The main railway stations are Dehradun, Hardwar, Roorkee, Kotdwar, Kashipur, Udhamsingh Nagar, Haldwani, Ramnagar and Kathgodam.

Uttarakhand Aviation: There are air strips at Jolly Grant (Dehradun), and Pantnagar (Udham Singh Nagar). Air strips at Naini-Seni (Pithoragarh), Gauchar (Chamoli) and Chinyalisaur (Uttarkashi) are under construction. From this year Pawan Hans Ltd., has started helicopter service from Rudraprayag to Kedarnath for pilgrims.

Uttarakhand Festivals:

The world-famous Kumbh Mela/Ardh Kumbh Mela is held at Hardwar at every twelfth/sixth year interval. Other prominent fairs/festivals are : Devidhura Mela (Champawat), Purnagiri Mela (Champawat), Nanda Devi Mela (Almora), Gauchar Mela (Chamoli), Baisakhi (Uttarkashi), Magha Mela (Uttarkashi), Uttaraini Mela (Bageshwar), Vishu Mela (Jaunsar Bhabar), Peerane-Kaliyar (Roorkee), and Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra held every twelfth year.

Uttarakhand Tourist Place:

Kedarnath Temple, Nainital,Gangotri, Yamunotri. Badrinath, Kedarnath, Hardwar, Rishikesh, Hemkund Sahib, Nanakmatta, etc. Kailash Mansarovar Yatra can be performed through Kumaon region. The world-famous Valley of Flowers, Pindari Glacier, Roop Kund, Dayara Bugyal, Auli, and hill stations like Mussoorie, Dehradun, Chakrata, Nainital, Ranikhet, Bageshwar, Bhimtal, Kausani, and Lansdowne etc. are the other tourist destinations.

Rishikesh

Popular Place Visit
Lakshman Jhula, Triveni Ghat, Swarga Ashram, Gita Bhawan, Baba Kali Kamliwala Pachyati Kshetra, Shri Sivananda Ashram and Diving Life Society

Ram Jhula

Climate Hot during the summers and cold during winters

Ideal Time April to June/ September to October

Languages Hindi, Garhwali, English

Rishikesh STD Code 0135

Rishikesh is a city and a municipal board in the Dehradun district in Uttarakhand. It is a famous holy city of pilgrimage for the Hindus. Rishikesh is also known as the gateway to the Himalayas. It is located about 25 kms. from Haridwar, which is another holy city. Rishikesh is also the starting point for traveling to the Char Dham pilgrimage, namely; Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri and Yamunotri.

Rishikesh derives its name from 'Hrsikesa', which is a name of Vishnu. It means the Lord of Senses. It is a holy city located in the foothills of the Himalayas. The place gets its name from Lord Vishnu, who appeared to Raibhya Rishi as a result of the tapasya, as Lord Hrishikesh. The River Ganga also flows through Rishikesh. It is at Rishikesh that the Ganga leaves the mountain ranges in Shivalik and flows onto the plains in northern India.

One can also find many ancient as well as new temples along the banks of the River Ganga. Every year, thousands of pilgrims and tourists visit the holy city of Rishikesh, from India as well as abroad. It has also got many Yoga centres, because of which it is also known as the world capital of Yoga. It is a strong belief that meditation in Rishikesh brings one closer to attaining moksha, as does a holy dip in the holy River Ganga that flows through it. Not only for pilgrimage, it has also become a famous place for river rafting, as it offers medium to rough rapids in the river Ganga.

The 120 year old Kalas Ashram Brahmavidyapeetham which is an institution dedicated to preserve and promote the traditional Vedantic Studies, is also located at Rishikesh. Famous personalities like Swami Vivekananda, Swami Rama Tirtha and Swami Shivananda have all studied here. Rishikesh is also famous as during the mid 1960s, the pop band 'Beatles' visited the place and even recorded a song here, which was titled 'The Happy Rishikesh Song'. This place has been of interest to many celebrities, including Hollywood star Kate Winslet.

Rishikesh

Popular Place Visit
Lakshman Jhula, Triveni Ghat, Swarga Ashram, Gita Bhawan, Baba Kali Kamliwala Pachyati Kshetra, Shri Sivananda Ashram and Diving Life Society

Ram Jhula

Climate Hot during the summers and cold during winters

Ideal Time April to June/ September to October

Languages Hindi, Garhwali, English

Rishikesh STD Code 0135

Rishikesh is a city and a municipal board in the Dehradun district in Uttarakhand. It is a famous holy city of pilgrimage for the Hindus. Rishikesh is also known as the gateway to the Himalayas. It is located about 25 kms. from Haridwar, which is another holy city. Rishikesh is also the starting point for traveling to the Char Dham pilgrimage, namely; Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri and Yamunotri.

Rishikesh derives its name from 'Hrsikesa', which is a name of Vishnu. It means the Lord of Senses. It is a holy city located in the foothills of the Himalayas. The place gets its name from Lord Vishnu, who appeared to Raibhya Rishi as a result of the tapasya, as Lord Hrishikesh. The River Ganga also flows through Rishikesh. It is at Rishikesh that the Ganga leaves the mountain ranges in Shivalik and flows onto the plains in northern India.

One can also find many ancient as well as new temples along the banks of the River Ganga. Every year, thousands of pilgrims and tourists visit the holy city of Rishikesh, from India as well as abroad. It has also got many Yoga centres, because of which it is also known as the world capital of Yoga. It is a strong belief that meditation in Rishikesh brings one closer to attaining moksha, as does a holy dip in the holy River Ganga that flows through it. Not only for pilgrimage, it has also become a famous place for river rafting, as it offers medium to rough rapids in the river Ganga.

The 120 year old Kalas Ashram Brahmavidyapeetham which is an institution dedicated to preserve and promote the traditional Vedantic Studies, is also located at Rishikesh. Famous personalities like Swami Vivekananda, Swami Rama Tirtha and Swami Shivananda have all studied here. Rishikesh is also famous as during the mid 1960s, the pop band 'Beatles' visited the place and even recorded a song here, which was titled 'The Happy Rishikesh Song'. This place has been of interest to many celebrities, including Hollywood star Kate Winslet.

Panch Kedar

Cradled in the Garhwal Himalaya's ranges are five of Hinduism's most important temples inspired by the five religious forms of Lord Shiva, known as the Panch Kedar.

Kedarnath (3584 m) / Madhmaheshwar (3289 m) / Tungnath (3810 m) / Rudranath (2286 m) / Kalpeshwar (2134 m),sprawled over the vast Kedar Valley with altitudes ranging from 1500m to 3680m.

The Panch Kedar trek includes all the shrines associated with these legends. Kedarnath is situated at the head of the Mandakini River, where the Linga is a natural rock that resembles the hump of a bull. Madhmaheshwar, at the base of the Chaukhamba Peak, is at the altitude of 3500 m. The Linga is here worshipped in the form of a navel. Tungnath, where the arm of Shiva appeared, is the highest temple in Garhwal (3810 m).

500 m above the temple at Tungnath is Chandrashila, with a breathtaking view of the Himalayas. Rudranath is situated where the face of Shiva is said to have appeared.

There is a natural rock temple in which the Shiva Mukha is worshipped. Nearby the temple, there are many little lakes like the Surya Kund, Tara Kund and Manas Kund. Kalpeshwar is situated in the beautiful valley of Urgam. There is a cave temple and Shiva is worshipped in his matted hair form, when He tried to flee from the Pandavas at Kedarnath.

Panch Kedar

Cradled in the Garhwal Himalaya's ranges are five of Hinduism's most important temples inspired by the five religious forms of Lord Shiva, known as the Panch Kedar.

Kedarnath (3584 m) / Madhmaheshwar (3289 m) / Tungnath (3810 m) / Rudranath (2286 m) / Kalpeshwar (2134 m),sprawled over the vast Kedar Valley with altitudes ranging from 1500m to 3680m.

The Panch Kedar trek includes all the shrines associated with these legends. Kedarnath is situated at the head of the Mandakini River, where the Linga is a natural rock that resembles the hump of a bull. Madhmaheshwar, at the base of the Chaukhamba Peak, is at the altitude of 3500 m. The Linga is here worshipped in the form of a navel. Tungnath, where the arm of Shiva appeared, is the highest temple in Garhwal (3810 m).

500 m above the temple at Tungnath is Chandrashila, with a breathtaking view of the Himalayas. Rudranath is situated where the face of Shiva is said to have appeared.

There is a natural rock temple in which the Shiva Mukha is worshipped. Nearby the temple, there are many little lakes like the Surya Kund, Tara Kund and Manas Kund. Kalpeshwar is situated in the beautiful valley of Urgam. There is a cave temple and Shiva is worshipped in his matted hair form, when He tried to flee from the Pandavas at Kedarnath.

Haridwar

Haridwar

Area : 2360 Sq. km
State : Uttarkhand
STD Code : 01334
Haridwar Railway Enquiry : 131
Haridwar Roadway Enquiry : 227037
Temperature at Haridwar : Summer 42.5 – 16.9 degree centigrade
: Winter 23.8 – 6 degree centigrade
Rainfall at Haridwar : 165 cm
Main Attranction of Haridwar : Har ki paurI, Mansa devi temple, chandi dev temple
Near by Cities : Rishikesh, Dehradoon, Mussorie, Roorkee

According to Hindu mythology, Haridwar is one of the seven holiest places as the Gods are believed to have left their footprints in Haridwar. Haridwar, the city of legends lies in the foot hills of Shivalik ranger of Himalayas.

There are many legends and tales that lies behind Haridwar which every localities of Haridwar is always ready to speak about. The most popular tales of Haridwar says that “ One can attain salvation by praying to Lord Vishnu (Hari) or Lord Shiva and hence this spot of salvation is called Haridwar or Hardwar”

The holy city of Haridwar is home to some of the most sacred Hindu rituals. One can see devotees from round the globe pondering to Haridwar and Rishikesh to perform poojas and prayers. Not only this, Haridwar stands as a gate way to the other three most important pilgrimage spot for Hindu in Uttaranchal i.e. Rishikesh, Badrinath and Kedarnath. Haridwar has always been a major pilgrimage for the Hindu religion believers and for the people seeking peace and eternity

source:http://www.thekumbhmela.com/kumbh_mela.html

Haridwar

Haridwar

Area : 2360 Sq. km
State : Uttarkhand
STD Code : 01334
Haridwar Railway Enquiry : 131
Haridwar Roadway Enquiry : 227037
Temperature at Haridwar : Summer 42.5 – 16.9 degree centigrade
: Winter 23.8 – 6 degree centigrade
Rainfall at Haridwar : 165 cm
Main Attranction of Haridwar : Har ki paurI, Mansa devi temple, chandi dev temple
Near by Cities : Rishikesh, Dehradoon, Mussorie, Roorkee

According to Hindu mythology, Haridwar is one of the seven holiest places as the Gods are believed to have left their footprints in Haridwar. Haridwar, the city of legends lies in the foot hills of Shivalik ranger of Himalayas.

There are many legends and tales that lies behind Haridwar which every localities of Haridwar is always ready to speak about. The most popular tales of Haridwar says that “ One can attain salvation by praying to Lord Vishnu (Hari) or Lord Shiva and hence this spot of salvation is called Haridwar or Hardwar”

The holy city of Haridwar is home to some of the most sacred Hindu rituals. One can see devotees from round the globe pondering to Haridwar and Rishikesh to perform poojas and prayers. Not only this, Haridwar stands as a gate way to the other three most important pilgrimage spot for Hindu in Uttaranchal i.e. Rishikesh, Badrinath and Kedarnath. Haridwar has always been a major pilgrimage for the Hindu religion believers and for the people seeking peace and eternity

source:http://www.thekumbhmela.com/kumbh_mela.html

Gangotri

Gangotri
Location : Uttarakhand
Altitude : 3042 mts.
Climate : Summer - Cool during the day and cold at night.
Winter - Snow-bound. Touching sub-zero
Best Season : April to November

Gangotri - The Eternal Gift of Bhagirath's Penance
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.

Location
Couched in the magnificent Garhwal hills, Gangotri is at an altitude of 3048 meters above sea level. It is on the northernmost part of the state of Uttarakhand and is very near the Indo-Tibetan border. It is approximately 300 km from Dehradun, 250 km from Rishikesh and 105 km from Uttarkashi. The summers are relatively cool and winters are freezing cold, with rains in the months of May and June. For the devotees and tourists, the gates of the temple are open only in the months of May to November.

Mythological Legend
According to an old legend, Lord Shiva rewarded King Bhagirath after his penance and Ganga came down to earth. However, due to her pride, and the fact that the earth would be devastated if Ganga came down in her full force, Lord Shiva caught her in his locks. It was then proclaimed that Goddess Uma or Parvati, Shiva's consort, would bathe in the Ganges daily and only then would she descend on the earth. The sacred stone near the temple denotes the place where Ganga first came down to earth. This is why Ganga is also called by the name of Bhagirathi.
Unique Pilgrimage Attraction

Submerged Shivling
The natural rock Shivling, submerged in the river, is an amazing sight reinforcing the power of the divine. According to mythology, Lord Shiva sat at this spot to receive the Ganaga in his matted locks. The shivling is visible in the early winters when the water level goes down. The picturesque pilgrimage in the hinterlands of the Himalayas is the most sacred spot where Ganga, the stream of life, touched earth for the first time.

Mythological Mystery
According to mythology, Goddess Ganga- the daughter of heaven, manigested herself in the form of a river to absolve the sins of King Bhagirath's predecessors, following his severe penance of several centuries. Lord Shiva received into his matted locks to minimise the immense impact of her fall. She came to be called Bhagirathi at her legendary source.

A long the right bank of Bhagirathi stands the shrine of Gangotri dedicated to the Goddess. Perched at a height of 3042 mts., it was constructed in the early 18th century by a Gorkha Commander, Amar Singh Thapa. Every year, lakhs of pilgrims throng the sacred temple between May and October. By November, Gangotri is covered by snow. It is believed that the Goddess retreats to Mukhba, her winter abode.

Gangotri Temple
The 18th century's temple dedicated to Goddess Ganga is located near a sacred stone where King Bhagirath worshipped Lord Shiva. Ganga is believed to have touched earth at this spot. According to another legend, Pandavas performed the great 'Deva Yagna' here to atone the deaths of their kinsmen in the epic battle of Mahabharata. The temple is an exquisite 20 ft. High structure made of white granite.

Nandanvan Tapovan
An arduous trek along the Gangotri Glacier leads to scenic Nandanvan - the base camp for the Bhagirathi peaks, that offers a panoramic view of the surrounding Shivaling peak. A trek across the snout of the Gangotri Glacier leads to Tapovan known for its beautiful meadows that encircle the base of the Shivling Peak.

Uttarkashi (99 kms.)
An important pilgrimage centre, situated at an elevation of 1,150 mts. above sea level on the bank of river Bhagirathi. Some of the important temples worth visiting are - Vishwanath temple, Ekadash Rudra temple, Gyaneshwar temple and Kuteti Devi Temple. Nearby is the Nehru Institute of Mountaineering. Every year, during the 'Magh Mela' people visit Uttarkashi to take a holy dip in Bhagirathi along with the image of their village deity.

Kedar Tal (18 kms.)
An enhancing lake, 4425 mts. above sea level against the splendid backdrop of mighty Thalaiyasagar peak. Accessible through a rough mountain trail, it is the base camp for trekking to surrounding peaks. The trek to Kedartal needs a local guide.

Gaumukh( 18 kms.)
The snout of the Gangotri Glacier and the source of the Bhagirathi river. Pilgrims trek upto the sacred spot on foot or on ponies to take a holy dip in the ice-cold water.

Dayara Bugyal (93 kms.)
A breathtakingly beautiful meadow, situated at a height of 3,048 mts. above sea level. A motorable road connects Bhatwari (27 kms. from Uttarkashi) with Raithal village, from where follows a 6 kms. long trek to Dayara. The famous Sheshnag Temple enroute is an attraction of the trek. From Dayara, one can also trek down to Dodi Tal (30 kms.). During winters, Dayara provides excellent ski slopes over an area of 28 sq.kms.

Nachiketa Tal (131 kms.)
A pleasant trek through lush green forests leads to this peaceful retreat. A small temple along the lake and lovely surroundings are an attraction.

New Tehri (173 kms.)
Lying at the confluence of Bhagirathi and Bhilangna rivers is the former capital of Tehri Garhwal principality. It is the site of a giant hydel project.

Narendranagar (239 kms.)
The new capital of erstwhile Tehri state, offers a magnificent view of the Ganga valley of Rishikesh and the plains of Har

Accessibility
Airport
Jolly Grant, Dehradun 226 kms.

Rail
Rishikesh, 249 kms.
Road
Well connected to Rishikesh, Haridwar, Dehradun and Delhi.

Source: http://www.pilgrimage-india.com/chardham/gangotri.html

Gangotri

Gangotri
Location : Uttarakhand
Altitude : 3042 mts.
Climate : Summer - Cool during the day and cold at night.
Winter - Snow-bound. Touching sub-zero
Best Season : April to November

Gangotri - The Eternal Gift of Bhagirath's Penance
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.

Location
Couched in the magnificent Garhwal hills, Gangotri is at an altitude of 3048 meters above sea level. It is on the northernmost part of the state of Uttarakhand and is very near the Indo-Tibetan border. It is approximately 300 km from Dehradun, 250 km from Rishikesh and 105 km from Uttarkashi. The summers are relatively cool and winters are freezing cold, with rains in the months of May and June. For the devotees and tourists, the gates of the temple are open only in the months of May to November.

Mythological Legend
According to an old legend, Lord Shiva rewarded King Bhagirath after his penance and Ganga came down to earth. However, due to her pride, and the fact that the earth would be devastated if Ganga came down in her full force, Lord Shiva caught her in his locks. It was then proclaimed that Goddess Uma or Parvati, Shiva's consort, would bathe in the Ganges daily and only then would she descend on the earth. The sacred stone near the temple denotes the place where Ganga first came down to earth. This is why Ganga is also called by the name of Bhagirathi.
Unique Pilgrimage Attraction

Submerged Shivling
The natural rock Shivling, submerged in the river, is an amazing sight reinforcing the power of the divine. According to mythology, Lord Shiva sat at this spot to receive the Ganaga in his matted locks. The shivling is visible in the early winters when the water level goes down. The picturesque pilgrimage in the hinterlands of the Himalayas is the most sacred spot where Ganga, the stream of life, touched earth for the first time.

Mythological Mystery
According to mythology, Goddess Ganga- the daughter of heaven, manigested herself in the form of a river to absolve the sins of King Bhagirath's predecessors, following his severe penance of several centuries. Lord Shiva received into his matted locks to minimise the immense impact of her fall. She came to be called Bhagirathi at her legendary source.

A long the right bank of Bhagirathi stands the shrine of Gangotri dedicated to the Goddess. Perched at a height of 3042 mts., it was constructed in the early 18th century by a Gorkha Commander, Amar Singh Thapa. Every year, lakhs of pilgrims throng the sacred temple between May and October. By November, Gangotri is covered by snow. It is believed that the Goddess retreats to Mukhba, her winter abode.

Gangotri Temple
The 18th century's temple dedicated to Goddess Ganga is located near a sacred stone where King Bhagirath worshipped Lord Shiva. Ganga is believed to have touched earth at this spot. According to another legend, Pandavas performed the great 'Deva Yagna' here to atone the deaths of their kinsmen in the epic battle of Mahabharata. The temple is an exquisite 20 ft. High structure made of white granite.

Nandanvan Tapovan
An arduous trek along the Gangotri Glacier leads to scenic Nandanvan - the base camp for the Bhagirathi peaks, that offers a panoramic view of the surrounding Shivaling peak. A trek across the snout of the Gangotri Glacier leads to Tapovan known for its beautiful meadows that encircle the base of the Shivling Peak.

Uttarkashi (99 kms.)
An important pilgrimage centre, situated at an elevation of 1,150 mts. above sea level on the bank of river Bhagirathi. Some of the important temples worth visiting are - Vishwanath temple, Ekadash Rudra temple, Gyaneshwar temple and Kuteti Devi Temple. Nearby is the Nehru Institute of Mountaineering. Every year, during the 'Magh Mela' people visit Uttarkashi to take a holy dip in Bhagirathi along with the image of their village deity.

Kedar Tal (18 kms.)
An enhancing lake, 4425 mts. above sea level against the splendid backdrop of mighty Thalaiyasagar peak. Accessible through a rough mountain trail, it is the base camp for trekking to surrounding peaks. The trek to Kedartal needs a local guide.

Gaumukh( 18 kms.)
The snout of the Gangotri Glacier and the source of the Bhagirathi river. Pilgrims trek upto the sacred spot on foot or on ponies to take a holy dip in the ice-cold water.

Dayara Bugyal (93 kms.)
A breathtakingly beautiful meadow, situated at a height of 3,048 mts. above sea level. A motorable road connects Bhatwari (27 kms. from Uttarkashi) with Raithal village, from where follows a 6 kms. long trek to Dayara. The famous Sheshnag Temple enroute is an attraction of the trek. From Dayara, one can also trek down to Dodi Tal (30 kms.). During winters, Dayara provides excellent ski slopes over an area of 28 sq.kms.

Nachiketa Tal (131 kms.)
A pleasant trek through lush green forests leads to this peaceful retreat. A small temple along the lake and lovely surroundings are an attraction.

New Tehri (173 kms.)
Lying at the confluence of Bhagirathi and Bhilangna rivers is the former capital of Tehri Garhwal principality. It is the site of a giant hydel project.

Narendranagar (239 kms.)
The new capital of erstwhile Tehri state, offers a magnificent view of the Ganga valley of Rishikesh and the plains of Har

Accessibility
Airport
Jolly Grant, Dehradun 226 kms.

Rail
Rishikesh, 249 kms.
Road
Well connected to Rishikesh, Haridwar, Dehradun and Delhi.

Source: http://www.pilgrimage-india.com/chardham/gangotri.html

Heavy rains claim 10 lives in Uttarakhand

Heavy rains claim 10 lives in Uttarakhand

Dehra Dun (PTI) At least 10 people, including two Hemkund pilgrims, were killed in heavy rains and landslides in Uttarakhand that have also disrupted the Gangotri yatra.

Two pilgrims returning from Hemkund Sahib in Chamoli district died when landslides hit Rishikesh-Badrinath Highway yesterday, police said on Friday.

They have been identified as Amarjit Singh and Sona Singh from Muktsar area of Punjab.
In another incident, three persons were killed when their car fell into the Ganga river at Pali Pani area after a portion of the road caved in on the Rishikesh-Badrinath Highway.

Three members of a family were among four killed when a heavy boulder fell on their car yesterday near Kaladhungi area in Kumoan region.

One person identified as Rais was washed away in the Kolhu river on Haridwar-Bijnor Highway.
Heavy rains continued to lash Uttarakhand today, triggering landslides at several places.

Hundreds of pilgrims were stranded at the Gangotri shrine after landslides hit Sukhitop area on the Uttarkashi-Gangotri Highway last evening. Efforts are on to clear the debris.
Source: http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/holnus/002200806201340.htm

Statistics of Uttarkhand State

Statistics State symbols
State animal - Musk Deer
State bird - Monal
State tree - Rhododendron
State flower - Brahma Kamal
Total Geographical area: 51,125 km²
Hill Area: 92.57%
Plain Area: 7.43%
Area Covered By Forest: 63%
Location
Longitude 77° 34' 27" East to 81° 02' 22" E
Latitude 28° 53' 24" North to 31° 27' 50" N
Total Population: 8,479,562 (2001 Census)
Male to Female Ratio: 1000 : 964
Male: % 50.9
Female: % 49.1
Literacy Rate: 72%
Villages: 15620
Cities and Urban Areas: 81
Railway Stations:
Kotdwara, Dehradun, Haridwar, Rishikesh, Haldwani, Lalkuan, Kathgodam, Ramnagar, Roorkee, Tanakpur, Laksar
Airports: Jolly Grant, Pantnagar, Nainisain, Gauchar (Helipad)
Major Peaks: (height in metres above sea level) Nanda Devi (7816), Kamet (7756), Badrinath (7140), Chaukhamba (7138), Trishul (7120), Dunagiri (7066), Panchchuli (6910), Nanda Kot (6861), Gangotri (6614), Gauri Parvat (6590) Major Passes Mana La (5450), Niti La (5070), Lipu Lekh pass (5122), Lumpia Dhura (5650)
Industry
Tourism, Hydroelectric Power, Dairy, Agriculture, Horticulture, Floriculture, Sugar, Manufacturing, and other small scale industries.
Famous Temples in Uttarakhand
Bheem Shankar Mahadev Mandir (Shringar View), KashipurRudreshwar Mahadev Temple near Sanara, Golu Devta Temple, Nanda Devi Mandir, Binsar Mahadev Temple, Bhoomiya Devta Temple, Badri Kedar, Gangotri, Yamunotri, Kedar Temple near Masi, Bheem Shankar (Moteshwar)Mahadev, (Kashipur), Purnagiri(Tanakpur), Jageswar(Almora), Devidhura temple(barahi mata) Champawat
Festivals
Uttarani, Nanda Devi Mela, Holi, Diwali, Dasara, Kandali, Hilljatra, Bikhoti, Bagwal, Harela, Ghugutee, Khirsu Gwarh (Mela) Events Sardotsav, Basantotsav, Nanda Devi Raj Jat, Chipla Kedar Jaat, Kedarnath Yatra, Badrinath Yatra, Kumbh Mela, Ardh Kumbh Mela, Ramleela, Uttarakhand Mahotsav (Dehradun), Mahashivatri Fair at Rudreshwar Mahadev Temple
Trade Centers
Haldwani, Rudrapur, Roorkee, Tanakpur, Dehradun, Haridwar, Kotdwara, Rishikesh, Kashipur
source: wikipedia.org

Statistics of Uttarkhand State

Statistics State symbols
State animal - Musk Deer
State bird - Monal
State tree - Rhododendron
State flower - Brahma Kamal
Total Geographical area: 51,125 km²
Hill Area: 92.57%
Plain Area: 7.43%
Area Covered By Forest: 63%
Location
Longitude 77° 34' 27" East to 81° 02' 22" E
Latitude 28° 53' 24" North to 31° 27' 50" N
Total Population: 8,479,562 (2001 Census)
Male to Female Ratio: 1000 : 964
Male: % 50.9
Female: % 49.1
Literacy Rate: 72%
Villages: 15620
Cities and Urban Areas: 81
Railway Stations:
Kotdwara, Dehradun, Haridwar, Rishikesh, Haldwani, Lalkuan, Kathgodam, Ramnagar, Roorkee, Tanakpur, Laksar
Airports: Jolly Grant, Pantnagar, Nainisain, Gauchar (Helipad)
Major Peaks: (height in metres above sea level) Nanda Devi (7816), Kamet (7756), Badrinath (7140), Chaukhamba (7138), Trishul (7120), Dunagiri (7066), Panchchuli (6910), Nanda Kot (6861), Gangotri (6614), Gauri Parvat (6590) Major Passes Mana La (5450), Niti La (5070), Lipu Lekh pass (5122), Lumpia Dhura (5650)
Industry
Tourism, Hydroelectric Power, Dairy, Agriculture, Horticulture, Floriculture, Sugar, Manufacturing, and other small scale industries.
Famous Temples in Uttarakhand
Bheem Shankar Mahadev Mandir (Shringar View), KashipurRudreshwar Mahadev Temple near Sanara, Golu Devta Temple, Nanda Devi Mandir, Binsar Mahadev Temple, Bhoomiya Devta Temple, Badri Kedar, Gangotri, Yamunotri, Kedar Temple near Masi, Bheem Shankar (Moteshwar)Mahadev, (Kashipur), Purnagiri(Tanakpur), Jageswar(Almora), Devidhura temple(barahi mata) Champawat
Festivals
Uttarani, Nanda Devi Mela, Holi, Diwali, Dasara, Kandali, Hilljatra, Bikhoti, Bagwal, Harela, Ghugutee, Khirsu Gwarh (Mela) Events Sardotsav, Basantotsav, Nanda Devi Raj Jat, Chipla Kedar Jaat, Kedarnath Yatra, Badrinath Yatra, Kumbh Mela, Ardh Kumbh Mela, Ramleela, Uttarakhand Mahotsav (Dehradun), Mahashivatri Fair at Rudreshwar Mahadev Temple
Trade Centers
Haldwani, Rudrapur, Roorkee, Tanakpur, Dehradun, Haridwar, Kotdwara, Rishikesh, Kashipur
source: wikipedia.org