Opening & Closing Dates of Gangotri Temple

Gangotri Temple is a holy place dedicated to Goddess Ganga. It is one of the four Char Dham temples in Uttarakhand. According to belief, the river Ganga started from here in the form of the Bhagirathi River. Many pilgrims visit Gangotri during the Char Dham Yatra to pray and seek blessings.

The Gangotri temple is located in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, at a height of 3,100 meters. The temple is surrounded by serene valleys and snow-capped peaks. The location is known for its peaceful ambiance and favorable climate during the open season.

The temple is accessible only six months a year, typically from May to November, and remains closed during the winter due to heavy snowfall and harsh weather conditions. During this time, the idol of Goddess Ganga is ceremoniously shifted to her winter seat at Mukhba village, near Harsil, where devotees can continue their worship.

Gangotri Temple Opening Date 2026

The Gangotri Temple Opening Date 2026 is scheduled for 19th April 2026, on the auspicious occasion of Akshay Tritiya. Every year, the temple opens in the last week of April or early May. This day also marks the beginning of the Char Dham Yatra for many pilgrims.

The Gangotri Temple opening ceremony is celebrated with great devotion. The Gangotri Dham is beautifully decorated with flowers, and the idol of Goddess Ganga is brought from her winter seat in Mukhba village in a grand doli procession, accompanied by music, chants, and rituals. From the day of the opening ceremony, the gates of Gangotri Temple remain open for devotees throughout the Char Dham Yatra season, until the temple closes for winter

Gangotri Temple Closing Date 2026

Gangotri Temple closes every year for the winter season, around late October or early November, typically on the next day of Diwali. Due to extreme cold, heavy snowfall, and inaccessible roads, the temple becomes unsafe for travel during this period.

During the temple’s closure, the idol of Goddess Ganga is ceremoniously shifted to her winter seat at Mukhba Village, located near Harsil. The deity is taken in a beautifully decorated doli, accompanied by sacred rituals, chants, and vibrant local celebrations. Pilgrims can continue to offer prayers and seek blessings at Mukhba throughout the winter months, until the temple reopens in Mid April. The Gangotri Temple Closing Date 2026 is 10 Nov, 2026.

Best Time to Visit Gangotri Temple

The best time to visit Gangotri Temple is from the last week of April to mid-June and then from September to early November. During these months, the weather remains pleasant and suitable for travel, allowing pilgrims to visit the temple without difficulty. It is advised to avoid visiting Gangotri during the monsoon season, especially from July to August, as the region often experiences heavy rainfall, landslides, and road blockages, which can make travel risky. For a safe and peaceful pilgrimage, planning your visit during the early summer or post-monsoon months is ideal.

Important Tips for Opening Closing of Gangotri Temple

Here are some Important Tips for the Opening and Closing of Gangotri Temple pilgrims should know:

• Gangotri Temple remains closed from late October/November to April due to harsh weather conditions and heavy snowfall.
• Always check official announcements for the Gangotri temple’s opening and closing dates.
• Plan to visit Gangotri in the early part of the season (May–June) or after the monsoon (September–October) for a safer and more comfortable experience.
• Check weather conditions before your Gangotri Dham journey to avoid disruptions due to landslides or rain.