Bhojwasa
Located at an altitude of 3,800 meters (12,500 feet) in Uttarakhand's Uttarkashi district, Bhojwasa serves as the final camping ground for pilgrims and trekkers heading to Gangotri Glacier and Gaumukh—the source of the sacred River Ganga. Nestled amidst towering Himalayan peaks and surrounded by dense pine forests, Bhojwasa offers a unique blend of spiritual significance, raw natural beauty, and high-altitude adventure.
Why Visit Bhojwasa?
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Gateway to Gaumukh Glacier – The originating point of River Ganga
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Spiritual Atmosphere – Meditative environment near one of Hinduism's holiest sites
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Stunning Himalayan Views – Panoramic vistas of Bhagirathi peaks
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Adventure Trekking – Challenging yet rewarding high-altitude hikes
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Wildlife Spotting – Chance to see blue sheep and Himalayan birds
Best Time to Visit
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May-June: Pleasant weather (5°C-15°C), ideal start of pilgrimage season
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September-October: Clear skies post-monsoon, excellent visibility
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Avoid July-August: Heavy rains cause landslides and route closures
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Winter (Nov-Apr): Extremely cold (-5°C to -15°C), inaccessible due to snow
How to Reach Bhojwasa?
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Base Point: Gangotri Temple (18 km before Bhojwasa)
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Trek Route:
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Gangotri → Chirbasa (9 km) → Bhojwasa (5 km) → Gaumukh (4 km)
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Nearest Transport:
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Airport: Jolly Grant, Dehradun (250 km)
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Rail: Rishikesh (234 km)
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Road: Buses/taxis to Gangotri from Uttarkashi
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Key Attractions
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Gaumukh Glacier – The iconic snout-shaped ice formation
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Shivling Peak – Magnificent 6,543m mountain visible from the trail
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Tapovan Meadows – High-altitude spiritual retreat above Gaumukh
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Bhagirathi River – Crystal-clear glacial waters
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Meditation Caves – Used by sadhus for centuries
Accommodation Options
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GMVN Guest House – Basic government-run accommodation
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Camping Tents – Available through trek operators
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Ashram Stay – Simple dormitories near Gangotri