NATIONAL PARKS OF INDIA

Gangotri National Park is located in the upper catchment of Bhagirathi River in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand. It is spread over an area of about 1,553 square kilometres

About the Park
The park was established in 1989. Gangotri glacier, the origin point of the river Ganga, is situated in the interior of this park. The park is managed by the Forest Department of Uttarakhand government. The international boundary with China is located at the north-eastern edge of this enchanting park.

Fauna
The animal species of Gangotri National Park include Bharal, Snow Leopard, Brown Bear, Himalayan Snowcock, Himalayan Monal, Musk Deer, Himalayan Thar, Tigers, and Black Bear.

Avian-fauna
Doves, Bulbul, Ibex, Himalayan Barbet, Partridges, Pigeons, Serow, etc. are endemic bird species here.

Flora
Western Himalayan sub-alpine conifer forests are found at lower ranges of the park. At the higher elevations meadows and Western Himalayan alpine shrub are more common. Spruce, deodar, chirpine, rhododendrons, oak and fir trees are found in great numbers in this park. Alpine scrub is the unique feature of the park.

How to get there
The nearest railway station and bus terminal are located at Dehradun, (approximately 187 km away from Uttarkashi district) and Haridwar. From here one can hire bus, car or taxi to reach Uttarkashi. Jolly Grant airport at Dehradun is the nearest airport.

Tourist Information
Forest Rest Houses are available at Gangotri, Harsil and Bhaironghati. Entry can be obtained from the entrance of the park at a cost of Rs. 150/-. Hire a porter from Gangotri itself. The porter can be useful as a guide along your trip.

Always carry your own food and water as there are no human settlements along the glacier. Do not litter your trashes in the Himalayas or else you will be heavily fined for doing so. Sun-burn is the common problem in the higher altitudes, so keep sun creams handy.

General information
Address: Gangotri National Park, Gangotri-Gaumukh Pedestrian Way, Post Taknaur Range, Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand - 249135, India.
Contact number: 0135 274 6934
Ideal time to visit: April to October (summer season).
Entry timing: 6 am