Giri Ganga Temple is a hidden gem located near Kharapathar in the Shimla district of Himachal Pradesh. It is a serene place that is perfect for those who love nature, trekking, and peaceful spiritual experiences. Not only does it offer beautiful views, but it also has religious significance as the Giri Ganga River originates from here. Whether you are looking for adventure or quiet relaxation, Giri Ganga Temple has something special to offer. In this guide, you will learn everything you need to know about visiting Giri Ganga Temple, from its history to how to get there and the best time to visit.
History of Giri Ganga Temple and How It Started
According to an interesting legend, an ancient sage from Himachal Pradesh sought to create a place with the same spiritual energy and power as the holy city of Kashi (Varanasi). With this vision, he chose the village of Nirmand in Shimla district as the ideal location. To bring this sacred energy, the sage, along with a group of monks, travelled all the way from Haridwar, carrying the holy water of the Ganges in his sacred vessel (kamandal).
Their journey took them through the dense forests of Nagan Valley on an ancient route that was revered in those times. After covering a long distance, they stopped to rest at the top of a peak in a serene meadow called Kuppar Bugyal. While resting, something extraordinary happened – the holy Ganges water they were carrying accidentally spilled on the ground. As the water seeped into the earth, it gave rise to a stream at the same spot. This stream is believed to have divine properties, and was later named the Giri Ganga River.
The river, flowing from the holy spring, became a symbol of spiritual purity. Eventually, the entire region surrounding the stream was named after it, further increasing its importance in the local culture and spiritual beliefs of the region. This story adds a mystical charm to the region, linking it to the profound spiritual traditions of ancient India.
Where is Giri Ganga Located?
Giri Ganga Temple is located about 4 to 5 kms from the small town of Kharapathar on the Shimla-Rohru road in Himachal Pradesh India. Giri Ganga is situated at an altitude of approximately 3,000 meters (9842.52 feet) above sea level. To reach this holy temple, you have to walk or drive on a beautiful path that passes through dense forests, lush greenery and rugged terrains, offering a glimpse of the serene beauty of the Himalayan landscape. The journey to the temple itself is a unique experience for both nature lovers and spiritual seekers, as the path is surrounded by tall deodar trees and the melodious sounds of nature.
How to Reach Giri Ganga Temple
You have two routes to reach Giri Ganga Temple, the first route is via Shimla and the second route is via Uttarakhand. Here is a detailed description of how you can reach there:
By Road:
Via Shimla:
- Delhi to Shimla:
- Distance: Approximately 339.6 km
- Route: Take NH 44 and NH 5.
- Travel Time: About 7 to 8 hours by car or Volvo bus (HRTC government bus services available).
- Shimla to Kharapathar:
- Distance: Approximately 74.1 km
- Route: Follow NH 5 and NH 705.
- Travel Time: Roughly 2 to 3 hours by car or local bus and like HRTC government bus.
- Kharapathar to Giri Ganga:
- Distance: Approximately 6 km
- Travel Options: You can either take a car, which takes about 30 minutes, or enjoy a scenic hike that lasts around 2 hours.
Via Uttarakhand:
- Delhi to Dehradun:
- Distance: Approximately 246 km
- Route: Travel via NH 709B.
- Travel Time: Around 5 hours by car or Volvo bus (UTC government bus services available).
- Dehradun to Kharapathar:
- Distance: Approximately 210 km
- Route: Take the Paonta-Hatkoti Road.
- Travel Time: About 7 to 8 hours by car or government bus.
- Kharapathar to Giri Ganga:
- This segment is the same as above, approximately 6 km by car (30 minutes) or a hike (2 hours).
By Train:
The nearest railway station to Giri Ganga Temple is Shimla (Kalka–Shimla Railway) which runs from Kalka to Shimla, and it is a toy train. Kalka is 30 km from Chandigarh. The distance from Shimla to Kalka by train is about 96 km. From Kalka you can take the toy train to Shimla and then from Shimla you can come to Kharapathar by bus or taxi, bus is better than taxi and also cheaper than taxi.
By Air:
The nearest airport is at Jubbarhatti near Shimla which is 22 km from Shimla. It is best to reach Shimla from there and then take a taxi or bus from Shimla to Kharapathar.
Complete Itinerary of Giri Ganga Temple
Once you reach Kharapathar, the journey to Giri Ganga Temple takes you even deeper into the pristine beauty of the Himachal hills. Here is a detailed itinerary for exploring Giri Ganga.
Arrival in Kharapathar:
- Distance from Shimla: Approximately 74.1 km.
- Dehradun to Kharapathar: Approximately 210 km
- Activity: Kharapathar is a small, scenic town surrounded by orchards and dense forests. Upon arrival, take a short break, grab a snack, and get ready for the next leg of your journey.
Kharapathar to Giri Ganga Temple Itinerary
Option 1: Drive to Giri Ganga
- Distance: Around 6 km.
- Travel Time: 30 minutes by car or taxi.
- Activity: The drive takes you along a narrow, winding road that offers picturesque views of the valley. As you ascend, the landscape becomes even more serene, with pine and deodar trees lining the route.
- Tip: The road is manageable for most vehicles, but a 4×4 is ideal if you’re visiting during the rainy season or winter.
Option 2: Hike to Giri Ganga
- Distance: 6 km.
- Hiking Time: 2 hours.
- Difficulty: Moderate, suitable for most fitness levels.
- Activity: Begin your hike from Kharapathar, following a well-trodden path that winds through thick forests and alpine meadows. The trail is peaceful, with the sounds of birds and the rustling of leaves accompanying you.
- Tip: Carry enough water, some snacks, and a light jacket, as the weather can change quickly in the hills. Don’t forget to take your camera—there are plenty of photo-worthy spots along the way.
Exploring Giri Ganga:
- Arrival: Whether you drive or hike, you’ll reach Giri Ganga Temple, nestled in a quiet, spiritual spot surrounded by nature.
- Activity:
- Visit Giri Ganga Temple: This temple is a peaceful place for meditation and prayer, offering a tranquil environment far removed from the crowds.
- Explore Kuppar Bugyal: Just beyond the temple, the Kuppar Bugyal meadows spread out with breathtaking views of the Himalayan ranges. If you’re up for it, you can hike further to Kuppar Peak for a panoramic view.
- Tip: Take some time to relax by the Giri Ganga stream, a small but sacred water source. Many locals believe in its spiritual significance, and you can fill your bottle with this pure, cool water.
Best time to visit Giri Ganga Temple
The best time to visit Giri Ganga Temple is between April and June or September and November. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the trekking conditions are ideal.
- Summer (April to June): This is the best season for trekking, as the weather is cool and pleasant.
- Monsoon (July to August): Monsoons bring heavy rainfall, which can make the trek more challenging due to slippery trails.
- Winter (December to February): Winters are very cold, and the area may be covered in snow, making trekking difficult but offering a unique experience for snow lovers.
Weather conditions in Giri Ganga
Giri Ganga experiences a variety of weather conditions depending on the season.
- Summer: Temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C, making it ideal for trekking.
- Monsoon: The area receives heavy rainfall, making the trails slippery. If you plan to visit during this time, prepare for challenging weather.
- Winter: The temperature can drop to -5°C, and snowfall is common. This can make the trek more difficult but incredibly scenic.
What to Pack Based on Weather Condition
Your packing list will depend on when you’re visiting:
Weather Condition | What to Pack |
---|---|
Summer | Light and breathable clothes, trekking shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat. |
Monsoon | Waterproof clothing, trekking shoes with good grip, and a raincoat. |
Winter | Warm jackets, thermal wear, gloves, woolen hats, and trekking boots for snow. |
Main attractions near Giri Ganga Temple
- Kuppar Peak: also known as Kuppar Bugyal, is a stunning meadow located above Giri Ganga Temple. This peak, situated at an altitude of around 3,200 meters, Kuppar Bugyal trek is known for its easiness and takes 2-3 hours to complete, starting from Giri Ganga Temple. offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan ranges
- Hatkoti Temple: An ancient temple dedicated to Goddess Durga, located in the Hatkoti Valley. The temple is known for its historic architecture and religious importance, attracting both pilgrims and tourists alike.
- Chanshal Pass: Located at an altitude of around 4,520 meters, Chanshal Pass offers stunning views of the snow-capped Himalayan ranges. It is popular among adventure enthusiasts for trekking, off-roading, and camping. In winter, the area turns into a snow-clad wonderland, making it a prime spot for skiing.
- Chandernahan: Chandernahan is a glacier-fed lake, and one of the most pristine attractions in the region. The Chandernahan trek is a must-do for trekking enthusiasts, leading to the source of the Pabbar River. The trek offers mesmerizing views of waterfalls, alpine meadows, and snow-capped peaks.
- Jubbal Palace: Located in Jubbal, this heritage palace boasts an impressive blend of European and Indian architecture. The palace’s grandeur and well-manicured gardens make it a key attraction for history and architecture lovers.
- Tani Jubbar Lake: A small, serene lake surrounded by dense pine forests, Tani Jubbar is an ideal spot for a peaceful picnic or a short walk. The lake’s tranquility, combined with the natural beauty, makes it a favorite among visitors.
- Apple Orchards in Kotkhai: Kotkhai is known for its lush apple orchards. A visit during the apple harvest season allows travelers to explore the orchards, learn about apple cultivation, and even taste freshly picked fruit
- Rohru: A bustling town located on the banks of the Pabbar River, Rohru is another great place for trout fishing and is surrounded by beautiful landscapes. It serves as a base for those trekking to Chanshal Pass and other nearby trails.
- Thanedar: Known as the birthplace of India’s apple industry, Thanedar is a picturesque village surrounded by apple orchards. It’s a great spot to explore nature, enjoy fresh produce, and visit nearby temples.
These attractions, from high-altitude mountain passes to sacred temples and serene lakes, offer a diverse range of experiences for travelers visiting the Giri Ganga region. Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast or seeking spiritual solace, this area has something for everyone.
What to See in Giri Ganga
- Giri Ganga River Origin: The place where the sacred river starts is a beautiful spot surrounded by greenery.
- Shiva Temple: A small but important temple where locals and trekkers come to offer prayers.
- Panoramic Views: The trek offers some of the most stunning views of the Himachali landscape, with lush forests, mountain peaks, and valleys all around.
Things to Do in Giri Ganga Temple
- Trekking to Kuppar bugyal Peak.
- Exploring local flora and fauna.
- Camping near the river.
- Photography opportunities amidst stunning landscapes
Accommodation options near Giri Ganga
There aren’t any hotels or guesthouses directly in Giri Ganga Temple, but you can find accommodation in Kharapathar, the base of the trek. Options include:
Camping: If you prefer being close to nature, camping near Giri Ganga Temple is a great option. You’ll need to bring your own camping gear, though.
Guesthouses: Basic but comfortable guesthouses are available in Kharapathar.
Hotels: A few budget and mid-range hotels can be found in Kharapathar.
What to Eat: Local Food Specialties
In Kharapathar, you can find small eateries that serve local Himachali food. Some dishes you should try include:
- Siddu: A traditional Himachali steamed bread, often served with ghee.
- Dham: A festive meal prepared during local celebrations, made with lentils, rice, and yogurt-based dishes.
- Chana Madra: A chickpea curry that’s a local favorite.
Local Culture and Festivals
The people of this region follow traditional Himachali customs, and many are devoted to Lord Shiva. The temple at Giri Ganga is an important religious spot, and festivals like Mahashivratri are celebrated with great enthusiasm. If you’re lucky enough to visit during one of these festivals, you’ll witness beautiful cultural performances and religious processions. Keep in mind that people from nearby areas come here on this day and hence it is very crowded on this day.
Useful Things to Note: Practical Travel Tips and Recommendations
- Carry Water and Snacks: There aren’t many places to stop and eat along the trek, so carry your own water and light snacks.
- Be Prepared for the Trek: The trek is moderate, but it’s important to wear good trekking shoes and be physically fit.
- Local Guides: If you’re not familiar with trekking, consider hiring a local guide to help you navigate the trail.
Responsible Tourism at Giri Ganga
When visiting Giri Ganga, it’s important to respect the natural environment. Make sure to:
- Carry your trash: Don’t litter along the trek or at the site.
- Stick to the trails: Avoid damaging the plants and wildlife by staying on the marked paths.
- Respect the locals and their customs: Always ask for permission before taking photos of people or their property.
Conclusion
Giri Ganga Temple is a beautiful and peaceful destination, perfect for travelers who want to explore the natural beauty of Himachal Pradesh and enjoy a quiet trek. With its rich history, stunning views, and spiritual significance, it offers a unique experience for adventurers and pilgrims alike. Whether you’re there to trek, camp, or simply enjoy the serene surroundings, Giri Ganga is a destination worth adding to your travel list.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the origin of the name Giri Ganga?
Legend says that ancient sages, carrying Ganga Jal from Haridwar, rested at Kuppar Bugyal. When the Ganga Jal accidentally spilled, they exclaimed “Giri Ganga” meaning Ganga spilled fell, giving the place its name
What is the significance of the Giri Ganga Temple?
The ancient Giri Ganga temple is believed to have been built in the 13th century. Local myths suggest that the Pandavas built the temple complex during their exile.
Is Giri Ganga crowded?
Unlike other tourist places in Shimla, Giriganga is less crowded and offers a serene experience amidst nature.
What is the height of Giri Ganga
Giri Ganga is located at an altitude of about 3,000 meters (9842.52 feet) above sea level
Giri ganga temple distance from shimla
The distance from Shimla to Giri Ganga Temple is approximately 74.1 km via NH 705.