Opening and Closing Dates for Gangotri in 2025
Gangotri, one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites in Hinduism and part of the revered Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand, follows a seasonal schedule due to extreme winter conditions in the high Himalayas. The temple marks the origin of the holy River Ganges (Ganga) and attracts thousands of devotees each year during its operational months.
For 2025, Gangotri temple is scheduled to open on April 30, 2025 (Akshaya Tritiya), coinciding with the opening of Yamunotri. The temple will close for the winter season in November.
The opening ceremony is a significant event marked by elaborate rituals and ceremonies. After remaining closed during the harsh winter months, the idol of Goddess Ganga is ceremoniously brought back from her winter abode in Mukhba village, accompanied by priests, devotees, and local officials. The air fills with the sound of drums, traditional music, and Vedic chants as the deity returns to her summer residence.
During the six-month period when the temple remains open, pilgrims can:
- Offer prayers at the sacred Gangotri temple
- Take a holy dip in the Ganges (at designated safe spots)
- Participate in the evening Ganga Aarti
- Visit nearby attractions like Surya Kund and Gauri Kund
- Trek to Gaumukh glacier, the actual source of the Ganges (requires permit)
The best time to visit Gangotri is generally during May-June and September-October when the weather is relatively pleasant. July and August bring monsoon rains that can cause landslides and road closures in the region.
Pilgrims planning their journey should make appropriate arrangements for accommodation and transportation well in advance, especially during peak season. They should also stay updated on local weather forecasts and any potential changes to the opening and closing dates, which might vary slightly based on astrological considerations or exceptional weather conditions.
As part of the Char Dham Yatra, Gangotri is often visited along with Yamunotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath, making it a spiritually significant journey for devotees seeking divine blessings.
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