The Char Dham Yatra, one of the most revered pilgrimages in India, takes devotees through four sacred shrines nestled in the majestic Himalayas - Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. Among these, Gangotri Dham holds immense spiritual significance as the origin of the holy River Ganga, where Goddess Ganga is believed to have descended from the heavens. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and serene pine forests, Gangotri offers a divine atmosphere for both pilgrims and nature lovers. Just beyond this spiritual haven lies the Gangotri National Park, a hidden gem of the Uttarkashi district. Though often overshadowed by the religious importance of the region, this national park is a gateway to experiencing the untouched beauty of the Himalayas, offering visitors a peaceful retreat not far from the divine Gangotri Dham.
Many visitors planning to explore this region often opt for Char Dham Tour Packages, which conveniently include stops at all four shrines and nearby natural wonders. These packages not only ease travel logistics but also allow pilgrims and tourists to soak in both spiritual and scenic experiences. Including a visit to Gangotri National Park as part of your Char Dham journey adds a refreshing connection with nature alongside your religious exploration.
A Brief Overview of Gangotri National Park
Gangotri National Park is one of India’s most untouched and beautiful natural reserves. Known for its breathtaking views, the park features dense coniferous forests, open meadows, and striking glaciers that make the landscape feel almost heavenly. A highlight for many visitors is the Gaumukh-Tapovan Trek, a popular trail that lets you connect with nature while taking in the scenic surroundings. The park is also the origin point of the holy River Ganga, which begins its journey from the Gaumukh glacier. The sight of the river’s clear, gushing waters is truly unforgettable. Established in 1989, the park covers an area of 1,553 sq. km and rises to an altitude of 7,083 meters, making it a rich habitat for both plants and animals. It shelters rare species like the snow leopard, musk deer, Himalayan monal, black bear, and blue sheep.
To visit, you need a permit, with daily access limited to 150 people. These permits can be collected at Gangotri or from the district office in Uttarkashi. If you're an experienced trekker, you can explore Tapovan, a scenic meadow 6 km beyond Gaumukh, but make sure to bring your own camping equipment.
Best Time to Visit: April to October
Recent News Highlight on Gangotri National Park
According to recent news updates in July 2025, the tourism department of Uttarakhand is considering a proposal to keep Gangotri National Park (GNP) open throughout the year, particularly during winter, to increase the chances of spotting the rare and elusive snow leopards. These animals are more visible in colder months as they migrate to lower altitudes. The proposal, submitted to the state’s eco-tourism council, aims to follow a similar approach to Hemis National Park in Ladakh, which remains open year-round and draws wildlife enthusiasts from around the world. This development is expected to boost tourism and add a thrilling essence to the Gangotri Dham Yatra. Also, the Chardham tour packages can include an eco-tourism spot along with visiting the Gangotri shrine. A final decision on the proposal will be made by the Central Government.
Tourism Secretary Dhiraj Singh Garbyal stated that there are approximately 50 snow leopards in the GNP region. He added that the park is currently closed during the peak winter season, which is actually the best time for sightings. Therefore, a request has been made to allow access throughout the year. Experts believe that this step could significantly boost winter tourism, attracting a large number of wildlife and nature lovers.
In addition, the tourism department plans to reassess the carrying capacity of trekking routes and has started preparing a list of sites for evaluation. The Adventure Tour Operators Association of India has recommended limiting the number of trekkers to improve monitoring, ensure safety, and maintain transparency and accountability.
