Gaumukh Glacier

Gaumukh Glacier, 18 km from Gangotri at 4,023 m, is the primary source of the Ganges River — the snout of the Gangotri glacier shaped like a cow's mouth (gau = cow, mukh = mouth). One of the largest glaciers in the Himalayas and a top Uttarakhand trekking destination, the trail passes through Chirbasa and Bhojbasa meadows amid towering granite peaks. Overnight camping at Bhojbasa before the final ascent to Gaumukh is the classic trek itinerary. Permits required.