Gangotri

Gangotri, a square temple, about 20 feet high, erected on the right bank of the Ganges (q.v.), which here forms a small bay, about 10,319 feet above the level of the sea. This spot is regarded by pilgrims as the source of the holy stream, here called the Bhagirathi, which, however, rises 8 miles higher up. The water here is peculiarly sacred, but few pilgrims come so far, and the only dwelling-house in the locality is occupied by the officiating Brahmans, by whom flasks of the holy element are sealed for conveyance to the plains.