Surya Kund, Gangotri — Attraction in Uttarakhand

I recently had the opportunity to visit Surya Kund Gangotri, and it proved to be an enchanting retreat amidst the Himalayan wonders. Here's my review of this remarkable destination.

Location and Accessibility: Nestled in the pristine Garhwal Himalayas in Uttarakhand, Surya Kund Gangotri is situated at an altitude of about 3,100 meters (10,200 feet) above sea level. Accessing this holy site requires a trek of approximately 18 kilometers from the town of Gangotri, making it a relatively challenging journey. However, the effort is undoubtedly worth it, as the breathtaking natural beauty and spiritual significance of Surya Kund Gangotri make it an unmissable experience for those seeking solace and adventure.

Natural Splendor: Upon reaching Surya Kund Gangotri, I was immediately captivated by its ethereal surroundings. The majestic peaks, the gushing Bhagirathi River, and the vast expanse of verdant meadows create a picture-perfect setting. The air is crisp and rejuvenating, and the sight of snow-capped mountains in the distance is awe-inspiring. The place is imbued with a profound sense of tranquility, making it an ideal spot for meditation, introspection, and connecting with nature.

Religious Significance: Surya Kund Gangotri holds immense religious importance as it is believed to be the birthplace of the sacred River Ganges. The natural thermal springs here are believed to be blessed by Lord Surya (the Sun God) and are known to possess healing properties. Pilgrims visit this spot to take a dip in the holy waters, seeking spiritual purification. The devout atmosphere and the serene rituals performed by visitors create a sense of spiritual serenity that permeates the surroundings.

Trekking and Adventure: The journey to Surya Kund Gangotri involves a moderate-to-difficult trek, which adds an element of adventure to the experience. The trail passes through rugged terrain, dense forests, and picturesque landscapes, offering breathtaking views at every turn. The trek can be physically demanding, so it is advisable to be adequately prepared and physically fit. However, the challenging path is rewarded with unparalleled vistas and a deep sense of accomplishment upon reaching the destination.

Infrastructure and Facilities: Being a relatively remote location, the infrastructure at Surya Kund Gangotri is basic but sufficient. There are a few basic accommodation options and ashrams available for pilgrims and trekkers, offering a modest stay amidst the mountains. Food options are limited, mostly consisting of simple vegetarian meals. It is advisable to carry essential supplies, such as warm clothing, medicines, and snacks, to ensure a comfortable stay.

Conclusion: Surya Kund Gangotri is a hidden gem that combines natural beauty, religious significance, and adventure in one package. It offers an opportunity to connect with nature, seek spiritual solace, and challenge oneself physically. While the journey may be demanding, the rewards are immeasurable. If you're a nature lover, a spiritual seeker, or an adventure enthusiast, Surya Kund Gangotri should definitely be on your travel bucket list. It is a place where the soul finds solace and the spirit finds renewal amidst the...

Gangotri is a town and a Nagar Panchayat (municipality) in Uttarkashi district in the state of Uttarakhand, India. It is 99 km from Uttarkashi, the main district headquarter. It is a Hindu pilgrim town on the banks of the river Bhagirathi – the origin of the river Ganges. The town is located on the Greater Himalayan Range, at a height of 3,100 metres (10,200 ft). According to popular Hindu legend, Goddess Ganga descended here when Lord Shiva released the mighty river from the locks of his hair.

A temple dedicated to Goddess Ganga is located near a sacred stone where King Bhagiratha worshipped Lord Shiva. According to Hindu culture, Goddess Ganga took the form of a river to absolve the sins of King Bhagiratha's predecessors, following his severe penance of several centuries. Bhagiratha Shila is a sacred slab where king Bhagirath meditated. Ganga is believed to have touched earth at this spot. According to another legend, Pandavas performed the great ‘Deva Yagna‘ here to atone the deaths of their kinsmen in the epic battle of Mahabharata. Hindus believe that performing the ancestral rites on the banks of Bhagirathi frees the spirit of the ancestor from the cycle of rebirth and a holy dip in its waters cleanses sins committed in the present also past...

Surya Kund in Gangotri, Uttarakhand is another holy place which holds a primary importance to Hinduism. The Surya Kund is a pond and waterfall which is located near the Gangotri temple. The Surya Kund is believed to be the kund of eternal purification. The Gangotri temple was established, according to a myth, when Goddess Ganga was brought down on earth from Lord Shiva’s hair. The Gangotri glacier melts and is the source of the river Ganga. Ganga being a sacred river makes the source a sacred one too.

The legend of Gangotri goes to a long time back when King Sangara had left a horse to run as far as it could uninterrupted as a part of a ritual. It was said that whatever territory the horse would run on that land will come under the King and if someone refuses to obey then they would have to face an army of his 60,000 sons. Lord Indra had tied the horse near Sage Kapil who was deep in meditation and when the sons came to demand the land, they interrupted his meditation, which made the Sage angry and killed all of the sons at once. Hence, Goddess Ganga had to be brought down for putting the souls of those dead men to rest and peace.

Surya or Suraj Kund is said to be where Goddess Parvati used to take her bath and hence people pay homage to the...