Kedartal, popularly known as Lord Shiva’s lake, is a stunning circle of emerald encircled by towering snow-covered peaks. While the around 18-km trek from Gangotri to the glacial lake is challenging, the sight of the clear water reflecting the almost perfect Thalaysagar peak, is a one-in-a-lifetime experience. It is one of the highest glacial lakes (approx 4,912 m) in Uttarakhand. It is awe-inspiring to stand by the lake and look around to an almost panoramic view of some of the highest Himalayan peaks: Manda, Bhrigupanth, Meru and Thalaysagar. 

A scenic meadow located at an altitude of around 4,463 m, Tapovan, is around 25 km from Gangotri. It is the base camp for climbing several peaks like Shivling and Bhagirathi and is said to be one of the most beautiful high-altitude meadows. Nearby is Nandanvan, a meadow at the base of the Bhagirathi massif. 

Located near the confluence of Jat Ganga and Bhagirathi rivers is the scenic Bhairon Ghati valley. Around 10 km from Gangotri, it is known for the temple of Bhairav Nath, which sits amidst dense forests. 

The glacial source of River Ganges, this is the place where you can witness the stream that gushes out of a snout-like opening in the glacier and flows down as Bhagirathi. The trek from Gangotri to Gaumukh is moderately challenging can be completed in around 10 hours. 

A natural rock Shivling submerged in water is one of the most popular spots in Gangotri. Located near the Gangotri temple, it can be seen clearly during the winter season when the water level recedes. Devotees consider this place sacred as it is believed that this where Lord Shiva sat to receive the river descending from heaven in his locks. Mythology says that Goddess Ganga transformed herself into a river to wash away the sins of king Bhagiratha’s ancestors after he performed intense penance to appease Lord Vishnu. Since the flow of the river was very powerful and would have caused severe destruction, Lord Shiva offered to stagger its force by gathering it into his locks before it flowed down to earth. 

Just 500 m ahead of the Gangotri temple is the waterfall Surya Kund, where devotees offer prayers to Sun God. The waterfall on the River Bhagirathi also makes for beautiful photographs. An iron bridge links it to another fall, Gauri Kund, which is also considered scared.