On February 24, 1960, the district of Uttarkashi was established in the extreme north-west corner of the state, spanning an area of 8016 sq. km. The district is situated in the rugged terrain of the mystic Himalayas and is bordered by Himachal Pradesh State and the territory of Tibet to the north, and the district of Chamoli to the east. The district takes its name from Uttarkashi, its headquarters town, which is an ancient place with a rich cultural heritage. As the name suggests, it is considered the Kashi of the north (Uttara) and is held in high veneration, much like the Kashi of the plain (Varanasi). Both Kashis are located on the banks of the river Ganga (Bhagirathi). The area known as Uttarkashi, which is considered sacred, lies between the rivers Syalam Gad, also known as the Varuna, and Kaligad, also known as the Asi. These are the same names as the rivers that flow between the Kashi of the plain. Manikarnika Ghat is one of the holiest sites in Uttarkashi, just as it is in Varanasi, and both places have temples dedicated to Vishwanath.
The physical environment of Uttarkashi district is harsh and challenging, making it unsuitable for human settlement. However, despite the hazards and difficulties, the land has been inhabited by hill tribes since ancient times, showcasing their adaptive abilities. The Kiratas, Uttara Kurus, Khasas, Tanganas, Kunindas, and Pratanganas are among the hill tribes mentioned in the Upayana Parva of the Mahabharata. Uttarkashi has been considered a sacred land by Indians for ages, where seers and sages found solace and spiritual fulfillment, and where devas performed their sacrifices. The Vedic language was spoken and taught here, attracting people for learning purposes. According to the Mahabharata, Jada Bharatha, a great sage, performed penances at Uttarkashi. Skanda Purna’s Kedar Khand also references Uttarkashi and the rivers Bhagirathi, Jahanavi, and Bheel Ganga. The Garhwal Kingdom ruled over the district of Uttarkashi, and it was part of the Pal dynasty, which was later changed to Sah during the 15th century by the Sultan of Delhi, perhaps Bahlul Lodi. In 1803, the Gorkhas of Nepal invaded Garhwal, and Amar Singh Thapa was made Governor of the region. In 1815, the British ousted the Gorkhas from Garhwal after the two powers came into contact over their borders. Border troubles prompted the British to invade Garhwal, leading to its annexation as a British district. Garhwal was then divided into eastern and western Garhwal, with the western part made over to the heir of Garhwal dynasty Sudarshan Sah, becoming known as Tehri Garhwal. After India’s independence in 1947, Tehri Garhwal was merged with the state of Uttar Pradesh in 1949.
Uttarkashi: The Divine Kashi of North
Uttarkashi, located in the picturesque valley of Uttarakhand, is a revered pilgrimage center often equated with the holy city of Varanasi or Kashi. The town, known as the district headquarters, is surrounded by the mighty Himalayas and is believed to be the land of gods and goddesses. Uttarkashi, also known as Kashi of the North (Uttar), boasts of numerous temples devoted to different deities, similar to Varanasi.
The Vishwanath Temple: The town is famous for its 32 temples, including the renowned Vishwanath Temple devoted to Lord Shiva. The temple, located about 300 meters from the local bus stand, has a Shivling measuring 60 cm in height and 90 cm in circumference. It attracts devotees from all over India who visit Uttarkashi, Gangotri, and Yamunotri.
Shakti temple: Right in front of the Vishwanath Temple is the Shakti Temple, which houses a massive Trishul of approximately 6 meters in height and 90 cm in circumference at the bottom. Although the making of this Trishul is surrounded by different views, it is believed to be made of iron and copper. As per the epics, the Goddess Durga (Shakti) threw this Trishul at the devils, giving it its name. The Shakti Temple is one of the popular attractions in Uttarkashi.
Nehru Institute of Mountaineering: Apart from the temples, Uttarkashi is also famous for the Nehru Institute of Mountaineering. Established in 1965, the institute was built to honor the desire of the great mountain lover, late Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru. The institute is situated 5 km away from the town atop a hill on the south bank spur of Holy Bhagirathi, providing a breathtaking view of the river and the valley of gods. The Nehru Institute of Mountaineering is an autonomous body that aims to impart theoretical and practical training in mountaineering and adventure courses to young men, women, and children without causing environmental degradation.
The other temples in Uttarkashi are : Hanuman Temple, Sakhsi Gopal Temple, Markandey Rishi Temple, Dundiraj temple, Ganesh temple, Gopeshwar Mahadev temple, Gopal temple, Koteshwar Mahadev temple, Ma Kali temple, Sitaram Temple, Kedareshwar Mahadev temple, Jaipur Temple, Ganga Temple, Varneshwar Mahadev Temple, Gyanwapishwar Mahadev temple, Kali Mandir, Kaleshwar Mahadev ,Gangoti temple, Pundeer Nag Temple, Kandar Devta, Bhairav temple, Annapurna temple, Dattatreya temple, Parasuram temple, Ma Mahishasur Mardini temple, Onkareshwar temple, Durga Devi Temple, Lakheshwar temple.
Uttarkashi is a divine pilgrimage center that is often equated with Varanasi or Kashi. Its serene surroundings, picturesque valley, and numerous temples devoted to different deities make it a must-visit destination for travelers and devotees alike.
Popular places in the District
Nachiketa Tal: A drive through the terraced fields takes one to Chaurangi Khal, a place 29 Kms. from Uttarkashi. From there a 3 Kms. track through lush green forests takes one to Nachiketa Tal, a tranquil spot.
There is greenery all around and a small temple at the bank of the lake gives a serene look to an otherwise beautiful surroundings. Nachiketa, the devout son of saint Uddalak, is said to have created this lake hence the name.There is no accommodation facility and visitors have either to come back to Uttarkashi or stay at the PWD Inspection House at Chaurangi Khal
Gangotri:
The shrine of Gangotri situated at an elevation of 3200 meters above sea level amidst captivating surroundings is 100 kms from Uttarkashi. The temple, constructed by Gorkha GeneralAmar Singh Thapa in the 18th century, is situated in the bank of Bhagirathi. It is visited by lakhs of pilgrims every year. A number of Ashrams are located on the other sites, some of which provides accommodation facilities to the visitors. Tourist Bungalows, PWD Inspection House, Forest Rest House and Dharamshalas provide lodgings. The places to be visited nearby are Gaurikund, Kedarkund and Patangna.
Gaumukh: The Gaumukh glacier is the source of Bhagirathi (Ganga) and is held in high esteem by the devouts who do not miss the opportunity to have the holy dip in the bone chilling icy water. It is 18 kms. from Gangotri. The trek is easy and at times people come back to Gangotri the same day.There is a Tourist Bungalow at Bhojbasa, 14 kms. from Gangotri where lodging and other facilities are available.
Nandan-Van Tapovan: These two spots are situated opposite the Gangotri glacier further up from Gaumukh, at a distance of 6 kms. from where visitors can have a superb view of the majestic Shivling peak. There are ideal spots for camping and also provides base camps for Bhagirathi, Shivling, Meru, Kedardom, Kharchakund, Satopant, Kalindi Khal and many other snow peaks.
Yamunotri: The shrine of Yamunotri, source of river Yamuna is situated in the direction opposite to Gangotri and the road bifurcates and goes to Yamunotri from Dharasu, a place between Rishikesh – Uttarkashi. Yamunotri can also be visited via Mussoorie and Barkot. Situated at an elevation of 3235 meters above sea-level, the shrine of Yamunotri is one of the “Four Dhams” (four pilgrimages) of Uttarakhand. The source of Yamuna lies above 1 km. ahead at an altitude of about 4421 meters. The approach is extremely difficult and pilgrims therefore offer Puja at the temple itself. There are hot springs close to the temple, a bath in them is very refreshing after a tedious 13 kms. trek from Hanuman Chatti or 5 kms. from Janaki Chatti. Pilgrims can find accommodation in the houses belonging to the “Pandas” or the sole Dharamshala.Hanuman Chatti is the bus terminus from where one has to trek 13 kms. to reach Yamunotri. On the way one can stay at Janaki Chatti 8 kms. from Hanuman Chatti. There are tourist bangalow, PWD and Forest Rest Houses, Hotels and Dharamshalas. You can also stay at Hotel Sachin Residency, Yamunotri, Uttarkashi
Maneri: On way to Gangotri at a distance of about 13 kms. from Uttarkashi, Maneri has lately emerged as a place of tourist interest as a result of the construction of a dam across the Bhagirathi river, from where the water is fed to the turbines through an 8 kms. long tunnel at Tiloth in Uttarkashi. The resultant lake at Maneri has added to the charm of the place.
Gangnani: Further up on way to Gangotri about 37 kms. from Maneri, is the hot water spring at Gangnani where one can have a refreshing bath.
Dodital: The road from Uttarkashi to Gangotri, bifurcates at 4 kms. from Uttarkashi and vehicles can go upto Kalyani, 7 kms. further up, from where, Agoda is 5 kms. away at an altitude of 2288 meters. The trek from there ascends gradually through thick forest and beautiful mountainous scenery. Dodital is 16 kms. further situated at an elevation of 3307 meters. The lake is sparkling and crystal clear, surrounded by forests. The famous Himalayan trouts are found in abundance in the lake. Permit for fishing can be had from the Divisional Forest Officer, Uttarkashi. There is a forest rest house and a Log Cabin by the site of the lake. From there one can trek down to Hanuman Chatti (27 kms.) and then to Yamunotri.
Dayara Bugyal: Dayara Bugyal in the local language means “high altitude meadow”. The road to Dayara Bugyal branches off near Bhatwari a place on Uttarkashi – Gangotri road about 32 kms. from Uttarkashi. Vehicles can go up to the village of Barsu from where one has to trek a distance of about 8 kms. to reach Dayara. Situated at an elevation of about 10,000 feet above sea-level this vast meadow is second to none in natural beauty. During winter it provides excellent ski slopes over an area of 28 sq.kms. The panoramic view of the Himalayas from here is breathe taking. There is a small lake also in the area, and to camp by its side would be a memorable event.
From this spot one can trek down to Dodi-Tal which is about 30 kms. away, through dense forests
Harsil: The Bhagirathi valley is most enchanting and preserves many colourful spots in its lap. Situated at a distance of 72 kms. from Uttarkashi on the main highway to Gangotri at an elevation of 2623 meters, this sylvan hamlet is famous for its natural beauty and delicious apples. Tourist Bungalow, PWD and Forest Rest Houses exist here for the travelers.
KedarTal: This spectacular and enchanting lake is situated at a distance of about 18 kms. from Gangotri, negotiable through rough and tough mountain trail. The trek is very tiring and there are testing moments even for a hardy trekker. There is no facility of any kind on the way and one has to make all arrangements in advance. A local guide is a must. The lake is crystal clear with the mighty Thalayasagar (spahatikling) peak forming a splendid backdrop. The place is about 15000 feet of sea level and is the base camp for trekking to the Thalayasagar, Jogin, Bhrigupanth and other peaks.
Har Ki Doon: Harkidoon is famous for its natural beauty and is a popular destination for trekkers. A convenient route is from Mussoorie via Yamuna bridge – Naugaon- Purola- Saur- Sankri, Taluka and Osla. Accommodation facilities are available at the above in the form of Forest Rest Houses and Tourist Bangalows. At Harkidoon too there is a small rest house at an altitude of 3506 meters. A trek is satisfying experience, moving through dense forests and mountainous landscape. The Ruinsara lake which is about 8 kms. from Osla, is yet another attractive place for trekkers.
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Weather: The winter starts at Uttarkashi in late October which extends upto late March, of which December & January are extreme cold during which snow fall may also occur. April to Mid June & the month of October is the most pleasant time at Uttarkashi. It rains very heavily from July to September.
Clothing: Heavy woolens in winter and light woolens in summer. Raincoat & Umbrella are must during rainy season.
Best time to visit: Round the year
Language: Hindi, Garhwali, English
What to buy: Handmade clothing, handicraft, pullovers,
Driving Guidline: Avoid driving in night hours in hilly-curved roads. especially in fog, indistinct objects like animals & heavy loaded trucks suddenly appear on the road in the bends.
Keep adequate fuel in your vehicle, you won’t find filling stations in every mile and usually fuel canters close till 7 in the evening.