Gangotri National Park is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. It is located in the state of Uttarakhand and is home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes in India. In this guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about Gangotri National Park, from its history and geography to the best time to visit and things to do.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- History and Geography of Gangotri National Park
- Wildlife in Gangotri National Park
- Flora in Gangotri National Park
- Best Time to Visit Gangotri National Park
- How to Reach Gangotri National Park
- Entry Fees and Permits
- Accommodation in Gangotri National Park
- Trekking in Gangotri National Park
- Sightseeing in Gangotri National Park
- Adventure Sports in Gangotri National Park
- Food and Beverage in Gangotri National Park
- Safety Tips for Gangotri National Park
- Conclusion
- FAQs
History and Geography of Gangotri National Park
Gangotri National Park was established in 1989, and it is spread over an area of 2,390 sq km. It is located in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand and is a part of the Himalayan ecosystem. The park is named after the Gangotri Glacier, which is one of the primary sources of the Ganges River.
The park is divided into two zones – the lower zone and the upper zone. The lower zone is at an altitude of 1,800 to 2,100 meters and is dominated by forests, while the upper zone is at an altitude of 2,100 to 7,083 meters and is covered by snow and glaciers.
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Wildlife in Gangotri National Park
Gangotri National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife species. Some of the commonly found animals in the park include the Himalayan black bear, snow leopard, musk deer, brown bear, and bharal. The park is also home to a variety of birds such as the Himalayan monal, koklass pheasant, and snow partridge.
Flora in Gangotri National Park
The park is known for its rich flora, and it is home to a variety of trees such as deodar, pine, fir, oak, and rhododendron. The lower zone of the park is dominated by forests of chir pine, while the upper zone is covered with alpine meadows and glaciers.
Best Time to Visit Gangotri National Park
The best time to visit Gangotri National Park is from May to June and from September to November. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the park is open to visitors. The monsoon season, which lasts from July to August, is not recommended for visiting the park due to the risk of landslides and flash floods.
How to Reach Gangotri National Park
The nearest airport to Gangotri National Park is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is around 250 km away from the park. The nearest railway station is Rishikesh, which is around 240 km away from the park. From Rishikesh, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach Gangotri National Park.
Entry Fees and Permits
The entry fee for Gangotri National Park is Rs. 200 for Indians and Rs. 600 for foreigners. In addition to this, visitors also need to obtain a permit from the forest department to enter the park. The permit can be obtained from the forest office located near the park entrance. The permit is necessary for both Indian and foreign visitors and is valid for a specific duration. It is essential to carry a valid ID proof while obtaining the permit. The permit fee for Indian visitors is Rs. 50 per day, while for foreign visitors, it is Rs. 200 per day. Visitors are advised to carry a copy of the permit while inside the park, as it may be checked by the forest department officials at various checkpoints.
Accommodation in Gangotri National Park
There are various accommodation options available for visitors in and around Gangotri National Park. The forest department provides several rest houses and tourist lodges inside the park, which can be booked in advance. There are also several private hotels and guesthouses located in the nearby towns of Gangotri and Uttarkashi.
Trekking in Gangotri National Park
Gangotri National Park is a popular destination for trekking enthusiasts. The park offers several trekking trails, ranging from easy to difficult, and offers stunning views of the Himalayas. Some of the popular trekking trails in the park include the Gaumukh-Tapovan trek, the Nandanvan trek, and the Kedar Tal trek. Visitors are advised to hire a guide or a porter while trekking in the park.
Sightseeing in Gangotri National Park
Apart from trekking, Gangotri National Park offers several other sightseeing opportunities. The park is home to several temples and shrines, such as the Gangotri Temple, which is a popular pilgrimage destination for Hindus. The park also has several waterfalls, lakes, and glaciers that offer breathtaking views.
Adventure Sports in Gangotri National Park
Gangotri National Park is also a popular destination for adventure sports. The park offers several adventure sports activities such as rock climbing, rappelling, and river rafting. These activities are conducted under the guidance of trained professionals and are subject to weather and other conditions.
Food and Beverage in Gangotri National Park
There are several food and beverage options available for visitors in and around Gangotri National Park. The park has several tea stalls and small restaurants that serve local food and snacks. Visitors are advised to carry their own water bottles as there are limited water sources inside the park.
Safety Tips for Gangotri National Park
Visitors are advised to take necessary precautions while visiting Gangotri National Park. It is essential to carry warm clothing, rain gear, and sturdy trekking shoes. Visitors are also advised to avoid littering inside the park and to follow the instructions of the forest department officials. It is advisable to carry a first aid kit and necessary medicines while visiting the park.
Conclusion
Gangotri National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. It offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, wildlife, and adventure activities. The park is well-connected and easily accessible, making it an ideal destination for a weekend getaway or an extended vacation.
FAQs
- What is the best time to visit Gangotri National Park?
- The best time to visit Gangotri National Park is from May to June and from September to November.
- Is a permit necessary to visit Gangotri National Park?
- Yes, visitors need to obtain a permit from the forest department to enter the park.
- What are the accommodation options available inside Gangotri National Park?
- The forest department provides several rest houses and tourist lodges inside the park, which can be booked in advance.
- What adventure sports activities are available in Gangotri National Park?
- Gangotri National Park offers several adventure sports activities such as rock climbing, rappelling, and river rafting.
- Is it safe to visit Gangotri National Park?
- Yes