Mukhba

Mukhba is a peaceful and picturesque village located in the beautiful Harsil Valley of Uttarkashi, near the famous Gangotri Temple. This charming village holds great religious importance as it is the winter seat of Goddess Ganga when the Gangotri Temple closes during the snowy months. Surrounded by mountains and natural beauty, Mukhba is a favorite stop for both pilgrims and trekkers. Mukhba is popularly known for the Mukhba Temple, the winter seat of Goddess Ganga. The temple is admired for its simple yet elegant architecture and serene spiritual atmosphere.

Spiritual and Cultural Significance of Mukhba

Mukhba holds great spiritual value as it is the winter seat of the Gangotri Temple, where the idol of Goddess Ganga is worshipped during the colder months. According to ancient legends, this village is also believed to be the place where Rishi Markandeya and Rishi Matang performed deep penance.

Another local belief says that during their exile, the Pandavas stayed in Mukhba. A sacred stream known as Bheem Gattu or Pandava Dhara, flowing from a waterfall above the village, is said to have been created by Arjuna’s arrow. Surrounded by myths and spiritual stories, Mukhba is not only a religious site but also a culturally rich and peaceful destination for pilgrims visiting the Gangotri region.

Mukhba During Char Dham Yatra

During the Char Dham Yatra, on the way to Gangotri Dham, the peaceful village of Mukhba is located along the route. Just 1 km before Harsil in the Uttarkashi district, this scenic Himalayan village is known for its spiritual importance and traditional charm. Surrounded by natural beauty, Mukhba offers a quiet and refreshing stop for pilgrims. The village showcases beautiful wooden houses and reflects the rich Garhwali culture.

Mukhba also holds great religious value as it becomes the home of Goddess Ganga during the winter months. When snow blocks access to the Gangotri Temple (from November to April), the idol of Goddess Ganga is respectfully brought to Mukhba, where devotees continue their worship until the temple reopens in summer.

Places to visit in Mukhba During Char Dham Yatra

While heading to Gangotri during the Char Dham Yatra, take a short halt at Mukhba to explore its serene temples, scenic spots, and cultural charm. Here are some of the best places to visit in and around Mukhba.

• Markandey Temple: During the Char Dham Yatra, devotees traveling to Gangotri Dham can also visit sacred spots in Mukhba village. One such place is the Markandeya Temple, located near the Bhagirathi River. Dedicated to Rishi Markandeya, who is believed to have meditated here and composed the Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra, the temple offers a peaceful spiritual experience. It also plays a key role during the Ganga Saptami Festival and the procession of Goddess Ganga’s idol from Mukhba to Gangotri.
• Kalp Kedar Temple: Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Kalp Kedar Temple in Mukhba is believed to have been originally built by the Pandavas from the Mahabharata. The temple has a square base with a sanctum that houses the Shiva Lingam, topped by a tall curvilinear spire. During the Char Dham Yatra, pilgrims en route to Gangotri Dham can take a short halt in Mukhba to visit this sacred and historically significant temple.
• Harsil: Harsil is a scenic Himalayan town located just before Mukhba village on the route to Gangotri Dham. Surrounded by snow-covered peaks, pine forests, and apple orchards, Harsil offers a refreshing stop for pilgrims. Visitors can explore ancient temples, enjoy short treks, and experience the charm of traditional Garhwali houses. The town is also known for its local crafts and peaceful atmosphere, making it a perfect place to relax before continuing the spiritual journey.
• Dharali: Dharali, a scenic village located near Mukhba on the route to Gangotri Temple, is one of the best places to visit near Mukhba. This charming and remote village is known for its lush apple orchards, serene landscapes, and majestic mountain views. Surrounded by dense forests, Dharali also serves as a base for popular treks, including Dayara Bugyal. The village is home to a revered Shiva Temple, and many travelers choose to stay here to enjoy the peaceful ambiance and experience authentic Garhwali culture.
• Gartang Gali: Gartang Gali, is located around 12 km from Mukhba village, must-visit stop on the Char Dham Yatra route to Gangotri. This 150-year-old wooden bridge is a 136-meter-long staircase carved into a steep cliff and was once part of an ancient Indo-Tibetan trade route. Carefully restored, it now offers travelers a unique blend of history and adventure. Walking through Gartang Gali provides breathtaking views of the Nelong Valley, making it a one-of-a-kind experience for pilgrims and nature lovers alike.
• Bheem Nadi water fall: Bheem Nadi Waterfall, also known as Bheem Gattu or Pandava Dhara, this scenic waterfall near Mukhba village is set in the serene Harsil Valley. According to legend, it was formed by an arrow shot by Arjuna during the Mahabharata era. Located at an altitude of 2,625 meters, the short hike from Mukhba offers beautiful views of the Bhagirathi River and surrounding Himalayan peaks, making it a peaceful stop during the Char Dham Yatra.

Best Places to stay in Mukhba During Char Dham Yatra

Mukhba, located on the way to Gangotri Dham, serves as a perfect base for pilgrims during the Char Dham Yatra. With its scenic surroundings and spiritual ambiance, the village offers budget-friendly hotels and authentic homestays that provide a warm and comfortable stay. Here are the best places to stay in Mukhba for a restful break on your pilgrimage journey.

The Tibaari Riverside
Add: Mukhba, village, Gangotri, Uttarakhand 249135

Nine Apple Resort
Add: Nine Apple Resort, near Kalp Kedar Temple, Dharali, Mukhawa, Uttarakhand 249135

Golden Heritage
Add: Dharali, Mukhawa, Uttarakhand 249135

Hotel Kailash
Add: Mukhawa, Uttarakhand 249135

Hotel Kalpkedar
Add: Gangotri Road Dharali, Harsil, Uttarakhand 249193

How to Reach Mukhba

Mukhba is a small village near Harsil in Uttarakhand. To reach Mukhba, you first need to get to Harsil. From there, it’s just a short drive to the village. Here’s a simple guide to help you reach Mukhba easily.

• By Road: Reaching Mukhba by road is easy and convenient. You can first travel to major towns like Rishikesh, Haridwar, or Dehradun. From any of these towns, buses, taxis, and private cabs are available to take you toward Harsil and then Mukhba. For a smoother travel experience, it’s a good idea to pre-book your transport in advance. From Rishikesh, Mukhba is approximately 240 km, and the journey takes around 6 to 7 hours, offering beautiful views of the Himalayan landscape along the way.
• By Train: Mukhba does not have its own railway station. The nearest railway stations are Haridwar and Rishikesh. Travelers can take a train to either of these stations and then continue the journey by road. It takes around 6 to 7 hours by taxi or bus to reach Harsil, which is the closest point to Mukhba. Once you reach Harsil, you can easily take local transport or even enjoy a short scenic walk to Mukhba, which is just a few kilometers away.
• By Air: The nearest airport to Mukhba is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun. You can board a flight to Dehradun from major cities like Delhi, Jaipur, Bangalore, Mumbai, and others. After reaching the airport, you can book a cab directly to Mukhba village, which is approximately 246 km away and takes around 7 hours by road. Alternatively, you can travel from the airport to Rishikesh, and then take a bus or taxi to reach Harsil and then Mukhba.