By Arun Pratap Singh
Uttarkashi, 1 Apr: The gates of Gangotri National Park have been formally opened for tourists and mountaineers by the Forest Department for the current season. On behalf of the park administration, the lock of the gate at Kankhu barrier of Gaumukh-Tapovan Trek was opened with formal puja this morning. It may be recalled that Gangotri National Park is spread over an area of around 2,390 square kms.
Gangotri National Park is home to some very rare wild animals including snow leopard, bharal, brown bear, etc., besides being the origin point of River Ganga at Gaumukh. The Gangotri Glacier has peaks ranging from 4,000 metres to 7,000 metres above sea level. Along with this, Gangotri Dham and Nelang Valley are also included under the park area. The Nelong Valley connects the India-China international border (China-occupied Tibet).
It may be recalled that, it was in the year 2015, that the Union Government had for the first time permitted opening the Nelang Valley for tourists. Gadtang Gali is also included under this park. Gartang Gali, located near Bhairav Ghati (Bhairav Valley), has been a historical trading point of trade between India and Tibet. It was renovated and opened in 2021. This is a favourite place for adventure tourism lovers. After getting permission for tourism here from the Central Government, adventure tourists come here in good number.
Nelang Valley is another major point of attraction here and the geographical conditions of this valley match those of Ladakh and Spiti Valley. It is situated at a distance of 18 km from Gangotri. A road leads from the valley to the forward posts of the India-China border. It is also called small Ladakh.
Kalindikhaal Trek is a popular trekking route which connects Gangotri and Badrinath. This trek of about 90 km is considered one of the most difficult treks in the world, being covered with snow throughout the year and also because of its very high altitude. On this trek, adventure tourists reach Mana Village near Badrinath while passing through Vasukital, Kalindi Khal Pass, Ghastoli, Arvatal. One enters Chamoli district from Uttarkashi district from here.
In addition, Kedartal, located in the Gangotri Himalayas, is another popular trek located at a distance of about 18 km from Gangotri. On this route, trekkers reach Kedartal via Bhojkharak, Kedarkharak. The sight of Thalaya Sagar mountain near this lake is a big centre of attraction.
However, the most famous trek of Gangotri National Park area is Gaumukh Tapovan Trek. The distance of this trek to Gaumukh is about 22 km from Gangotri. Many pilgrims and Kanwar pilgrims who visit Gangotri Dham also reach here. Only 150 pilgrims are allowed on this trek every day.
Deputy Director Ranganath Pandey informed that all the four gates of Gangotri National Park have been opened to tourists for 6 months.
