Uttarkashi district General information
Uttarkashi District, also known as Uttar Kashi District, is a district of Garhwal division of the Uttarakhand state in northern India.
Uttarkashi District town lies high in the Himalaya range, and the district contains the source of both the Ganges and Yamuna rivers, which attract thousands of Hindu pilgrims. The town lies on the main route to Gangotri, has many Hindu temples, and is also considered an important Hindu pilgrimage centre. The district is bounded on the north by Himachal Pradesh state, on the northeast by Tibet, on the east by Chamoli District, on the southeast by Rudraprayag District, on the south by Tehri Garhwal District, and on the west by Dehradun District.
HISTORY
Uttarkashi district was created on February 24, 1960 out of what then constituted the parganas of Rawain and Uttarkashi of Rawain tahsil of erstwhile Tehri Garhwal district. It sprawls in the extreme north-west corner of the state over an area of 8016 sq. kms. in the rugged terrain of the mystic Himalayas. On its north lie Himachal Pradesh State and the territory of Tibet and the district of Chamoli in the east. The district is named after its headquarters town Uttarkashi, an ancient place with rich cultural heritage and as the name suggests is the Kashi of north (Uttara) held almost as high a veneration as Kashi of the plain (Varanasi). Both the Kashi of the plain (Varanasi) as well as the Kashi of north are situated on the banks of the river Ganga (Bhagirathi). The area which is held sacred and known as Uttarkashi, lies between the rivers Syalam Gad also known as the Varuna and Kaligad also known as the Asi. The Varuna and the Asi are also the names of the rivers between which the Kashi of the plain lies. One of the holiest Ghats in Uttarkashi is Manikarnika so is the one by the same name in Varanasi. Both have temples dedicated to Vishwanath.
The terrain and climate of Uttarkashi district provide uncongenial physical environment for human settlement. Yet undaunted by hazards and hardships this land was inhabited by hill tribes since ancient times bringing out the best in man his adaptive talents. The hill tribes namely Kiratas, Uttara Kurus, Khasas, Tanganas, Kunindas and Pratanganas find references in the Upayana Parva of Mahabharata. The land of Uttarkashi district has been held sacred by Indians since ages where the seers and sages had found solace and spiritual aspirations and performed penances and where devas performed their sacrifices and Vedic language was better known and spoken than elsewhere. People came here for learning Vedic language and speach. According to an account given in the Mahabharata, Jada Bharatha a great sage performed penances at Uttarkashi. the Kedar Khand of Skanda Purna refers Uttarkashi and the rivers Bhagirathi, Jahanavi and Bheel Ganga. The district of Uttarkashi was part of Gharwal Kingdom ruled by Garhwal dynasty that carried the cognomen `Pal' which was changed to Sah during 15th century conferred by Sultan of Delhi perhaps Bahlul Lodi. In 1803 Gorkhas of Nepal invaded Garhwal and Amar Singh Thapa was made Governor of this region. The Gorkhas came into contact with the British power in 1814 as their frontiers in Gharwal became determinous with those of the British. The border troubles prompted the Britishers to invade Garhwal. In April, 1815 Gorkhas were ousted from Garhwal region and Garhwal was annexed as British district and was split up into eastern and western Garhwal. The eastern Garhwal was retained by the British Government. The western Garhwal, lying to the west of the Alaknanda river with the exception of the Dun was made over to the heir of Garhwal dynasty Sudarshan Sah. This state came to be known as Tehri Garhwal and it was merged with the state of Uttar Pradesh in 1949 after India attained independence in 1947.
GEOGRAPHY AND PHYSICAL FEATURES
Lying in the upper Himalayas, Uttarkashi contains within itself varying geographic environments ranging from snow free valleys and outer hills to the high peaks with perpetual snow and glaciers. The terrain runs into series of ridges and valleys. Each ridge leads to another coiling up in seemingly unending chains.Most of the terrain is mountainous consisting of high rise ridges, hills and plateaus and flat pieces of land are rare. The land in these areas is now in fertility due to large content of out crops of boulders and gravels. Made-up of alluvial soil, valley is a stream bed. Generally forests occur on the upper ridges that bound the valleys. On their sloping hill sides lie a chain of sparsely populated settlements interspersed with terrace cultivation.
RIVERS
It is the land of Uttarkashi district that gives rise to two great and reverent rivers of India the Bhagirathi, called the Ganga in the plains and the Yamuna. The Ganga coming up in the glaciers `gaumukh' traverses 128 kms. in Uttarkashi district before flowing down farther. The third important river of this district is Tons besides host of tributaries that drain these areas.
AGRICULTURE AND IRRIGATION
Agriculture in these areas suffer from many constraints. The availability of cultivable land itself is the greatest restricting factor on the development of agriculture. It can be seen from the fact that as much as 88% of the area is either covered by forests or is barren and uncultivable. The land is low in fertility except in the valleys and even land is too few and far between. Shorter agricultural season, low temperature, high altitude, smallness of land holding, perpetual problem of soil erosion due to steep gradients etc. are other inhibiting factors effecting agriculture. The agriculture, therefore, does not offer too much hope for bringing about well being to the people of the area. Sheep rearing for production of wool and meat, orchard raising, spinning and weaving of wool and other cottage industries etc. offer much scope and their potential be exploited to the fullest extent. The cultivation in these areas are carried on largely by making terraces on the sloping hillsides. Some cultivation is done on steep hills also where terracing and tilling cannot be done and the place is cleared by burning scrubs and bushes. The seeds are sown with the help of a hoe. This practice of cultivation is known as `Katil'. Both Rabi as well as Kharif crops are harvested. The main Kharif crops are paddy, small millets and potato and chief Rabi crops are wheat and barley. These crops account for over 80 percent of the total cropped area. Horticulture is another field that can boost up the economy of the district. However, it has not made much headway due to difficulties in marketing the produce, due to poor communications and remoteness of areas.
ANIMAL HUSBANDRY
Animal husbandry is an important source of supplementing income of the rural population. Of the total live-stock, bovine population and that of sheep accounted for almost one third each. The production of milk per milch animal is very low. Efforts are under way for introducing high yielding strain. Sheep rearing is an important industry in the district. Yet it does not provide full time employment and it is only avocation for those who are engaged in its pursuit.
INDUSTRIES
The knowledge regarding occurrences of minerals in the district is scanty. As per stray surveys, soap stones, iron, graphite, lime stone, kyanite and mica deposits occur in the district. There has been hardly any industrial development in the district. The cottage and village industries play an important role in the economy of the district. The most important cottage industry is the production of wool and woolen goods. Sheep are reared in a large number and the industry flourished at an altitude between 1525 metres and 2440 metres. Carpets (namdas), tweeds, blankets etc. are produced. Other cottage industries are basket-making, mat weaving and wood craft. The potentials of forest and horticulture can be better exploited by locating forest and horticulture based industries within the district. This will bring down transportation cost as a proportion to the selling price of the products, making them competitive in the market. Tourism industry possesses tremendous possibilities of development. The terrain produces some of the rarest spectacles contrasting between awesome raggedness and breath takingly beautiful landscape which have charmed and challenged man since ages. The location of Hindu religious places takes it beyond the pale of connoisseur and lovers of nature to the common man who throngs for religious satiety.
FLORA AND FAUNA
Due to the inaccessibility of the region and relatively fewer human habitations, the flora and fauna in the district are abundant. The forest cover is in the region of 60 - 80%,, housing a bewildering variety of trees, flowers, wild animals, birds, fish and butterflies.
Trees of various kinds are found in different altitudinal ranges, for which they are best adapted. Between 1,000 - 2,000 m., the forest cover is almost exclusively of pine. The pine flowers between February and April, the seeds being shed in October. Pine trees are tapped for resin and their dry leaves used as manure. The biggest pine tree in Asia, with a height of 60.5 m., is found at Khoonigad, en route to Arakot from Mori.
Between 2,000 m - 3,000 m. are found forests of deodar, oak and rhododendron. Deodar (from the Sanskrit, deva - daru, divine - tree) is used for building temples. The wood from oak and rhododendron is utilised for agricultural implements while their leaves serve as cattle fodder.
Beyond 3,000 m., forests of spruce, birch and fir are widespread. The bark of the birch tree (bhojpatra) was used in ancient times for recording manuscripts, some of which are still in excellent condition. Between 3,500 m-4,500 m. occur the bugyals, with a rich variety of flowering shrubs.
The bugyals are especially noted for their wild flowers, which carpet the hill - sides for miles on end. Of these, the most beautiful is the rare blue poppy, of which Frank Smythe had this to say -'In all my mountain wanderings, I have not seen a more beautiful flower'. Also called 'hemkamal' or snow lotus, its silky - blue petals radiate serenity. Another celebrated blossom is the Brahmakamal, or 'the lotus of Brahma.' Often used for religious observances, this large flower is sweet - smelling and found in the higher reaches beyond 3,000 m. The flowers of the Rhododendron family, red, pink or white, set hillsides ablaze between February and April. Syrup from the flowers is extremely tasty, but some varieties are poisonous.Several medicinal herbs and plants are found at higher altitudes and in the valleys. Near Nelang village, extensive tracts of padam can be found. The powdered wood of this shrub is used for 'havan' purposes because of its perfume. In the Dayara range are found atish and guggool, used in medicine manufacture. The crushed leaves of the Chiraita shrub are believed to banish fever in minutes. Another useful plant is the Semru, which exudes a milky substance that produces light when ignited.
The jungles and forests harbour a rich variety of wild - life, some of the chief categories of which are given below:
Among the felines found are the snow leopard, leopard, tiger, leopard cat and civet cat. Of these, the most elusive is the snow leopard, with a coat of pale misty grey.
Of the bear family, both the Himalayan Black Bear and Brown Bear are present. They are good tree climbers and can be quite aggressive when disturbed.
Among the antelopes, the most prominent are the bharal, serow, musk - deer barking deer (kakar) and sambhar. The bharal is found at altitudes of around 3500m such as Nandanvan,and is extremely agile and nimble. The musk deer are being hunted for musk - pods and are now quite rare.
Among reptiles, a wide variety of snakes are seen, many of whom are worshipped as nag devtas. Another striking specimen is the monitor lizard, a good 2ft. in length, called goh or gumla in the local dialect.
A large number of rodents, such as squirrels, marmots and rats, can be observed. Marmots are common in the Har - Ki - Dun area, where their presence can be detected by their high - pitched, chittering voices. They store food in their burrows and hibernate through winter.
The wide diversity of bird - life is distributed according to the altitude. Among the pheasants found here are the kalij, kokla, chir and monal. The monal with its resplendent plumage of metallic green, glistening purple, startling red and jet - black, is a sight to behold. It moves about in small groups and takes flight when one almost stumbles upon it.
Among partridges, the Himalayan snow cock, kala titar and chakor are frequently sighted. The kala titar or black partridge frequents shrubs near cultivated land. The chakor loves open hill slopes and also visits cultivated fields in search of grain.The pigeons and doves that inhabit the area are the harial, the fakta, and the malyo or blue rock pigeon. The harial is a yellowish - green bird found in oak forests. The fakta is a large dove while the malyo has a slaty grey colour with a metallic lustre.
The non - game birds generally sighted are the magpie, thrush, paradise fly - catcher, parakeet, golden oriole, sunbird and robin. The birds found near water courses are the brown dipper, plumbeous redstart, spotted fork - tail and wagtails. Various swifts, skylarks, swallows, warblers, bulbuls, mynahs and other smaller birds add to the rich bird - life of the district.
Fish are plentiful in almost a11 the lakes and rivers, except at high altitude. Trout in Dodital and carp in Nachiketatal are in abundance. Besides, the mahaseer, kalhana and goonch lurk in the shadowy depths wherever river - water collects.
Butterflies are generally seen in bugyals and near flowering shrubs. Some of the prominent are: Peacock Pansy: Golden brown with large spots, it is found in low lying, moist areas.
Blue - Peacock: Deep black and metallic blue in colour, with red spots, it makes a striking appearance.
Tawny Raja: This species has a dark brown tipped outer wing, with inner zones of light brown colour.
Red Lacewing : It is bright brown in colour with a dark brown lace - like fringe.
Large Silverstripe: It is commonly seen on flowering shrubs, having yellow wings with brown polka dots.
Great Orange - tip: Its wings are half white and half brown in colour.
Red - base Jezebel: It is brown with white, yellow and red markings.
Yellow Pansy: Found in the lower reaches, it is brown with four large yellow patches.
Red - Helen: It is reddish brown in colour with one white patch on each wing.
Saturn - Moth: This is a beautifully coloured nocturnal creature, found at higher altitudes.
Temples
Vishwanath Temple
Uttarkashi is situated at a distance of 154 kilometres from Rishikesh, on the Rishikesh- Gangotri route. The Viswanath Temple is the most important and ancient holy shrine in this region. Of the many temples in Uttarkashi, the temple of Lord Vishwanath is unrivalled in importance. Shiva, the presiding deity of this temple, is worshipped all day here. Every evening, visitors are greeted by the sound of bells, and the chanting of mantras by pundits at the puja.Within the courtyard of the Vishwanath temple, and to the front of it, is the Shakti Temple, dedicated to the goddess of strength. The massive brass trident projecting from this temple bears an inscription describing how the Vishwanath Temple was built. According to it, the temple was built by King Ganeshwar, whose son Guh, a great warrior, built the trident. 26 feet high, this trident's base measures 8 feet 9 inches, and its top, 18'/2 inches in circumference.
The town of Gopeshwar also features a Shiva Temple and a trident with Sanskrit inscriptions. It is much smaller.
Bhairav Temple
Uttarkashi is situated on the banks of Ganga at a distance of 199 kilometres from Dchra Dun. It is a prosperous town with modern amenities and is the Headquarters of the district of the same flame.
Uttarkashi is a small and beautiful town, situated between two rivers: Varuna and Ashi, whose waterflow into the Bhagirathi from either side of the town. Elevated, at a height of 1588 metres, this little town is very similar to Kashi and Varanasi, in that it has the same kind of temples and ghats and likewise, a north or'uttar' facing river. The major temple is the Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Two other very important temples are located in the Chowk area. These are the Annapurna Temple and the Bhairav Temple. Once, it is said, there were 365 temples here. Hiuen Tsang referred to this place as Brahma Pura, while the Skanda Puran has recorded it as Varunavata. It is believed that in the second millennium of Kaliyug, Kashi will be submerged, and Uttarkashi will replace it as an important religious centre.
Lakhamandal Temple
About 75 kilometres from Mussoorie on Mussoorie-Yamunotri road, Lakhamandal, one of the very important temples is situated at a height of 1090 metres. One can reach the place via Kalsi also. Kalsi is 50 kilomctres from Dehra Dun.
Lakha mandal, or Lakshmandal as it used to be known, is presumed to be the spot where the palace made of resinous timber was built by the Kauravas, who conspired to kill the Pandavas. 'Lakh' or 'Lac' is Hindi for Resin and 'Mandal' means region. While the Pandavas lived here, Bhima slayed two tyrannical chieftains of this region, and it was here that he married Hidimba, (sister of one of the tyrants) and fathered Ghatotkach.A tunnel leading from a ruined fortress to the riverbed, and mentioned in Walten's Gazetteer of the Doon, is probably the one which the Pandavas took to escape from the palace on fire. On the Lakhamandal rock are inscribed the names of 9 rulers, of which 3 have been erased with time. The list includes two Chagleshs, one of whom built the Shiva temple at Lakhamandal. Here also, eleven generations of the Seoverman dynasty ruled. Divakarverman, the I 1 th ruler, was succeeded by his younger brother Bhaskerverman who married a commoner called Jayavali. Their daughter Ishwara, married Chandragupt, the son of the ruler of Jallandhar (Punjab). Widowed at an early age, Ishwara returned to her parental house in Lakhamandal, where she built a Shiva temple in memory of her husband. Inscribed on it is her prayer, that so long as the Earth, the Mountains, the Sea, the Moon, the Sun and the Stars exist, this temple built for the salvation of her husband's soul would last.
Kuteti Devi Temple
Located on another bank, farther away from the town, this temple was constructed on a very old site, but appears to be new. Its priest, the latest from a family of priests spanning fourteen generations, tells an interesting story:
The Maharaja of Kota (in Rajasthan), lost a bag of money while on a pilgrimage to Gangotri. Thus, unable to meet the required expenses, he returned to Uttarkashi where he prayed for deliverance from his troubles at the Vishwanath.Temple, promising to marry off his only daughter to any suitable boy from the village, should his bag be found.The bag was found by the priest, inside the temple, and with all the money intact. The delighted Maharaja then requested the priest to arrange a suitable match for his daughter. In due course, the Rajkumari was married to a boy chosen by the priest of the Vishwanath Temple. But she was very unhappy because marriage would take her away from her family deity Kuteti Devi, whom she had always worshipped. So husband and wife together, prayed to the goddess to help them. Kuteti Devi appeared in their dreams and informed them that she would be present in their fields, in the shape of a stone. The Rajkumari and her husband, discovered 3 stones with a heavenly aroma, and the Kuteti Devi Temple was erected on the exact spot where these stones were found.
Uttarkashi is the Headquarters of the district of the same name. It is situated at a distance of 199 kilometres from Dehradun on the route to Gangotri.
Gangotri Temple
The most sacred of all rivers is the Ganga.The Ganga symbolizes purity. It washes away all sins. It is compared to a mother goddess which presides through all the stages of life: from birth to death. The river is believed to have been born out of Vishnu's big toe. It is said to flow through the skies (like the Milky Way).These are but a few of the myths about the Ganga, whose temple is situated on the right bank of the Bhagirathi, right in the middle of the tiny village Gangotri, 3140 metres above sea level, where the sun filters through the branches of giant deodars and conifers in a mesmeric display of light and shade.The Ganga legend tells us all about King Sagar's 60,000 sons who were reduced to ashes and about King Bhagirath's'tapasya'to Shiva who appeased and brought them back to life.The stone slab on which Bhagirath meditated is called the Bhagirath Shila and it is located near the Temple of Ganga which was built by the Gorkha General, Amar Singh Thapa.
The holy shrine of Gangotri is situated at an elevation of 3200 metres above sealevel. It is linked by a good motorable road. The distance is about 248 kilometres from Rishikesh.A number of Ashrams are located on the other side, some of them provide accommodation for visitors.
Wilson Cottage Harsil
Situated at a distance of 72 kilometres from Uttarkashi on the main highway to Gangotri it is at an elevation of 2623 metres above sea-level. This sylvan hamlet is famous for its beauty and delicious apples.
Harsil is named after Vishnu (also known as Hari), who is believed to have meditated here on a stone (or 'shila'), after the descent of the Ganga. A Lakshmi-Narayan Temple marks the sacred spot. The cottage known as Wilson Cottage was built by the Englishman Wilson in 1864 who married a local girl from the village of Dharali, close to Harsil. A beautiful building with an apple orchard it was built in the Indian style. The walls were made of alternately placed blocks of stone and wooden logs and set the trend for other buildings in the area.Wilson was known as a philanthropie, who taught the local people to cultivate potatoes and to transport wood down the river. Today potato is the region's chief cash crop and the word 'Wilson' spells quality. A Wilson rope, a Wilson cottage a Wilson bridge stands for excellence.
Yamunotri Temple
It is from Barkot that the road to Yamunotri starts wending its way along the banks of the Yamuna and the roads from Mussoorie and Kalsi meet here. There is motorable route up to Hanuman Chatti. This little Chatti is just 7 kilometres from Sayana Chatti and set against beautiful surroundings. A 13 kilometres trek to Yamunotri starts from here.
Two perilous routes connect Hanuman Chatti toYamunotri. The route along the right bank proceeds via Markendeya Tirtha, where the sage Markendeya wrote the Markendeya Puran. The route on the left bank goes to Kharsali. From here, the climb takes five or six hours. There are two kunds atYamunotri, at a height of 3292 metres: Surya Kund, whose water is boiling hot; and Gauri Kund, where it is just tepid. The idol of Yamuna is a vision in black; and Ganga, a lady in white. The river Yamuna flows from Kalindi Parvat in the Bandar Poonch range. Here, flowers, especially wild roses, grow in abundance. Yamunotri is surrounded by some hoary chestnut trees. According to Hindu mythology and custom a dip in the Yamuna here would absolve one of all sins.
Shani Temple , Kharsali
Two routes take you to Kharsali from Hanuman Chatti to Yamunotri. They are on the either side of the river Yamuna. The route along the left bank goes to Kharsali where the Shani temple is situated. 1 km from Janaki Chatti, 6.5 km from Yamunotri and 8 km from Hanuman Chatti.
On either side of the Kharsali village are two temples, both dedicated toYamuna's brother, Shani. Perched at a height of 7000 ft, one temple is very tall and is shaped like a 5-storey house. Built with stone and wood, this structure is protected from floods and earthquakes by wooden stilts which place it above the danger level. A narrow wooden staircase reaches right to the top floor where a bronze statue of Shani Maharaj is installed. Inside, it is dark and dingy, the sun peeping in only occasionally through slated roof. But standing here, you have a magnificent view of the entire Kharsali village pitted against theYamunotri
Pokhu Devta Temple , Netwar
Netwar is just 12 kilometres away from Mori and approximately 69 kilometres from Chakrata. A brisk walk would take you to the river bed of Tons where this temple is situated.
Pokhu Devta Mandir, Karna Mandir, Sarnaul and Duryodhan Mandir, Saur. (All three temples are in the same region) Deodar, Chir and Pine surround the Netwar village where these three temples are located, all within a range of 14 kms.
Netwarcan be reached from Chakrata via Tiuni, which is on the Chakrata-Simla Road. To reach the village from Tiuni, one has to go to Har-ki-doon Valley via Mori. Here a narrow'pakdandi' (goat's track) leads one to the confluence of the rivers Rupen and Supen (which later form the Tatnas or Tons) where one crosses a light iron bridge. It is a risky track,21/2 kms long-stony, mossy and damp-that finally leads to the Pokhu Devta Temple. What a refreshing sight at last! A little courtyard beckons one past the few hutments surrounding the temple area, the morning glory and golden pumpkin flowers blossom in peace, under a benign sun.
Karna Devta , Sarnaul
From Netwar one has to climb up for a mile and a half to reach a village called Sarnaul. It is known for its serenity and sylvan charm.
There once lived a great warrior king called Bhubruvahan. This King of Patal Lok came to witness the epic war of the Mahabarata, intending to participate in it. But Krishna,who feared that he might overwhelm Arjuna, asked him to first prove his superiority with the bow and arrow. Bhubruvahan was happy to oblige. Asked to shoot off all the leaves on a single tree, he proceeded to comply, and to deceive him, Krishna hid one leaf under his foot, but the master archer's keen.sense of observation did not miss this, and an arrow came shooting down towards Krishna's foot. Krishna brought the leaf out hastily, only to see it torn apart by Bhubruvahan's unerring aim.
After passing this test, the king told Krishna he wished to fight for the losing side-the Kauravas. The clever Krishna, who always sided with the Pandavas, secretly persuaded him that both sides were equal for him and he should remain neutral. Every one knew it for a fact that it will be impossible for a warrior to stay away from the war. They tried to get rid of Bhubruvahan. Krishna planned it in such a way that he was beheaded before the start of the war.
Duryodhan Mandir , Saur
Saur village is situated on the Mori Taluka/Har-ki-Doon Road which is 12 kilometres from Netwar.
Krishna, who had stage-managed the show granted Bhubruvahan eternal life after the war. Consequently, his head was placed on the top of a tree that overlooked the warfield. And so, his helpless head watched the Kauravas lose the war; making protesting noises; inciting them to fight harder; advising them with new strategies; shedding tears at their every defeat. Bhubruvahan's tears still flow today-so say the local people. It is those tears of intense, helpless, uncontrollable sorrow, that now make the river Tamas or Tons. That is why the water from this river is never drunk. Karna and Duryodhan were not the only admirers of Bhubruvahan. The people of the region started singing his praise. The inhabitants of this area made mandirs in memory of Karna and Duryodhan. One at Sarnaul, the other at Saur respectively. The two eventually became " Kshetrapal" of the area.
Mahasu Devta , Hanol
Hanoi is situated on the Tiuni-Mori road. One has to reach Chakrata, which is 92 kilometres from Dehradun and then proceed towards Hanoi.
The deity of 'Mahasu' is worshipped by people in the village of Hanol, on the eastern bank of the Tamas (Tons). 5000 ft above sea level, 132 kms from Dehradun, the temple of this deity was originally constructed in the 'Huna' architectural style, but over the ages it acquired a mixed style.A legend says a dreadful demon lived here and consumed at least one man from the nearby villages, everyday. In one of the villages, called Mandrath, a Brahmin decided to defy this tyrant.He began to worship Shiva who directed Deolari Devi, one of his woman devotees, to help the man. She heard his story and requested her four sons to come to Mandrath. She also asked the brahmin to plough his fields. On doing this, he discovered four Shivlings-subsequently named after Mahasu, Pavasi, Vasik and Chalda, Deolari Devi's four sons, whom she sent out in search of the demon. They surrounded him from all sides and in a battle lasting several days the demon was killed. The villagers rejoiced, and Shiva was worshipped as Mahasu ever after. Other deities are also worshipped here in this region, which belonged to Himachal Pradesh till the British reign. It later became a part of Uttarakhand.
Kapil Muni's Ashram Temple ,Gundiyat Gaon
From Mori one has to come down to Purola and then take a route to Gundiyat Gaon through an enchanting valley. A distance is about 10 kilometres from Purola.
Ten kilometres north west of Purola lies a village called Gundiyat. Situated 4500 feet above sea level, in a green valley where potato is the main crop, this is a typical Garhwali village, featuring black slate roofs and small windows on all the houses. Walk a little way, through the narrow 'one person' lane from the bus stop, and you'll find yourself in what was once the sage Kapil Muni's Ashram. It was here that the sage meditated to please the Lord Shiva and obtain a boon. To mark the spot where Shiva appeared, there now stands the Shivling called Kapileshwar Mahadev.
5 kms away, in a village called Rama, you'll find the ancient temple of Lord Rama.
Tourist Place
Uttarkashi Town:
Situated at a distance of 170 Km from Rishikesh, the last railhead, at an elevation of 1150 Mts. above sea-leval on the bank of river Bhagirathi, this picturesque town is also the district headquarters.
From the religious point of view as well, it is considered important because the temple of Lord Vishwanath, is located here where a massive iron trident is erected. Description about this temple is given in "Kedarkhand" (Skand-Purana). The other important temples situated here are Ekadash Rudra, Bhairav and Gyaneshwar.The temple of goddess Kuteti Devi is situated at the top of hill about 1.5 Km. away.
The Nehru Institute of mountaineering is also situated here, which provides training in mountaineering to enthusiasts from also over the country. It is about 5 Kms.from Uttarkashi amid beautiful surroundings.
Close by at Ujeli there are a number of Ashrams and temples. On the occasion of "Magh Mela" (Jan.14) every year people from far and near visit Uttarkashi to take a holy dip in Bhagirathi along with the idol of their village deity.
Hotels, Dharamshalas and Tourist Bungalow are available besides numerous Ashrams for lodging.
Maneri:
On way to Gangotri at a distance of about 13 kms. from Uttarkashi, Maneri has lately emerged as a place of tourist interest as a result of the construction of a dam across the Bhagirathi river, from where the water is fed to the turbines through an 8 kms. long tunnel at Tiloth in Uttarkashi. The resultant lake at Maneri has added to the charm of the place.
Gangnani:
Further up on way to Gangotri about 37 kms. from Maneri, is the hot water spring at Gangnani where one can have a refreshing bath.
Dodital:
The road from Uttarkashi to Gangotri, bifurcates at 4 kms. from Uttarkashi and vehicles can go upto Kalyani, 7 kms. further up, from where, Agoda is 5 kms. away at an altitude of 2288 meters. The trek from there ascends gradually through thick forest and beautiful mountainous scenery.
Dodital is 16 kms. further situated at an elevation of 3307 meters. The lake is sparkling and crystal clear, surrounded by forests. The famous Himalayan trouts are found in abundance in the lake. Permit for fishing can be had from the Divisional Forest Officer, Uttarkashi.
There is a forest rest house and a Log Cabin by the site of the lake. From there one can trek down to Hanuman Chatti (27 kms.) and then to Yamunotri.
Dayara Bugyal:
Bugyal in the local language means "high altitude meadow". The road to Dayara Bugyal branches off near Bhatwari a place on Uttarkashi - Gangotri road about 32 kms. from Uttarkashi. Vehicles can go up to the village of Barsu from where one has to trek a distance of about 8 kms. to reach
Dayara. Situated at an elevation of about 10,000 feet above sea-level this vast meadow is second to none in natural beauty. During winter it provides excellent ski slopes over an area of 28 sq.kms. The panoramic view of the Himalayas from here is breathe taking. There is a small lake also in the area, and to camp by its side would be a memorable event.
From this spot one can trek down to Dodi-Tal which is about 30 kms. away, through dense forests.
Harsil :
The Bhagirathi valley is most enchanting and preserves many colourful spots in its lap. Situated at a distance of 72 kms. from Uttarkashi on the main highway to Gangotri at an elevation of 2623 meters, this sylvan hamlet is famous
for its natural beauty and delicious apples. Tourist Bungalow, PWD and Forest Rest Houses exist here for the travelers.
Sat-Tal :
Sat-Tal meaning seven lakes, is situated just above Dharali, 2 kms. beyond Harsil. The trek of about 7 kms. is rewarding as this group of lakes is situated amid beautiful natural surroundings. It also provides lovely camp sites.
Gangotri:
The shrine of Gangotri situated at an elevation of 3200 meters above sea level amidst captivating surroundings is 100 kms from Uttarkashi.
The temple, constructed by Gorkha GeneralAmar Singh Thapa in the 18th century, is situated in the bank of Bhagirathi. It is visited by lakhs of pilgrims every year. A number of Ashrams are located on the other sites, some of which provides accommodation facilities to the visitors.
Tourist Bungalows, PWD Inspection House, Forest Rest House and Dharamshalas provide lodgings.
The places to be visited nearby are Gaurikund, Kedarkund and Patangna.
Kedartal:
This spectacular and enchanting lake is situated at a distance of about 18 kms. from Gangotri, negotiable through rough and tough mountain trail. The trek is very tiring and there are testing moments even for a hardy trekker.
There is no facility of any kind on the way and one has to make all arrangements in advance. A local guide is a must. The lake is crystal clear with the mighty Thalayasagar (spahatikling) peak forming a splendid backdrop. The place is about 15000 feet of sea level and is the base camp for trekking to the Thalayasagar, Jogin, Bhrigupanth and other peaks.
Nachiketa Tal:
A drive through the terraced fields takes one to Chaurangi Khal, a place 29 Kms. from Uttarkashi. From there a 3 Kms. track through lush green forests takes one to Nachiketa Tal, a tranquil spot.
There is greenery all around and a small temple at the bank of the lake gives a serene look to an otherwise beautiful surroundings. Nachiketa, the devout son of saint Uddalak, is said to have created this lake hence the name.There is no accommodation facility and visitors have either to come back to Uttarkashi or stay at the PWD Inspection House at Chaurangi Khal.
Gaumukh :
The Gaumukh glacier is the source of Bhagirathi (Ganga) and is held in high esteem by the devouts who do not miss the opportunity to have the holy dip in the bone chilling icy water. It is 18 kms. from Gangotri. The trek is easy and at times people come back to Gangotri the same day.There is a Tourist Bungalow at Bhojbasa, 14 kms. from Gangotri where lodging and other facilities are available.
Nandan-Van Tapovan:
These two spots are situated opposite the Gangotri glacier further up from Gaumukh, at a distance of 6 kms. from where visitors can have a superb view of the majestic Shivling peak. There are ideal spots for camping and also provides base camps for Bhagirathi, Shivling, Meru, Kedardom, Kharchakund, Satopant, Kalindi Khal and many other snow peaks.
Yamunotri:
The shrine of Yamunotri, source of river Yamuna is situated in the direction opposite to Gangotri and the road bifurcates and goes to Yamunotri from Dharasu, a place between Rishikesh - Uttarkashi.
Yamunotri can also be visited via Mussoorie and Barkot. Situated at an elevation of 3235 meters above sea-level, the shrine of Yamunotri is one of the "Four Dhams" (four pilgrimages) of Uttarakhand. The source of Yamuna lies above 1 km. ahead at an altitude of about 4421 meters. The approach is extremely difficult and pilgrims therefore offer Puja at the temple itself.
There are hot springs close to the temple, a bath in them is very refreshing after a tedious 13 kms. trek from Hanuman Chatti or 5 kms. from Janaki Chatti.
Pilgrims can find accommodation in the houses belonging to the "Pandas" or the sole Dharamshala.
Hanuman Chatti is the bus terminus from where one has to trek 13 kms. to reach Yamunotri. On the way one can stay at Janaki Chatti 8 kms. from Hanuman Chatti. There are tourist bangalow, PWD and Forest Rest Houses and Dharamshalas.
Harkidoon:
Harkidoon is famous for its natural beauty and is a popular destination for trekkers. A convenient route is from Mussoorie via Yamuna bridge - Naugaon- Purola- Saur- Sankri, Taluka and Osla.
Accommodation facilities are available at the above in the form of Forest Rest Houses and Tourist Bangalows. At Harkidoon too there is a small rest house at an altitude of 3506 meters. A trek is satisfying experience, moving through dense forests and mountainous landscape. The Ruinsara lake which is about 8 kms. from Osla, is yet another attractive place for trekkers.