Short answer: Bhairon Ghati is a temple to Bhairon Devta about 10 km before Gangotri, where the Jadh Ganga meets the Bhagirathi; tradition says pilgrims should visit it along with Gangotri. A few kilometres away, the Lanka bridge spans the deep Jadh Ganga gorge and is one of the highest road bridges in the region. Both are easy stops on the drive from Harsil to Gangotri.
At a glance
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Bhairon Ghati | About 10 km before Gangotri; about 2,740 m |
| Known for | Bhairon Devta temple; Jadh Ganga-Bhagirathi confluence |
| Lanka bridge | High bridge over the Jadh Ganga gorge, near Lanka |
| From Harsil | On the Gangotri road; both fit into a Gangotri day |
| Time needed | 15-30 minutes each |
Bhairon Ghati temple
Bhairon Devta is believed to be the guardian of the region, appointed by Shiva to protect it. Many pilgrims stop for darshan on the way to or from Gangotri, and local belief holds that the Gangotri yatra is complete only after visiting Bhairon. The temple sits among deodar forest above the river.
Lanka bridge and the Jadh Ganga gorge
The Jadh Ganga (also called Jahnavi) cuts a narrow, very deep gorge before joining the Bhagirathi. The bridge near Lanka crosses it high above the water and is often described as one of the highest bridges in Asia. The view down into the gorge is dizzying - stop only where it is safe to park and stay on the footpath.
Gateway to Nelong and Gartang Gali
The Bhairon Ghati checkpost is where the road into the Jadh Ganga valley begins. Gartang Gali, the old wooden walkway on the cliff face, and Nelong valley lie up this valley and both need permits.
Fitting them into your day
Leave Harsil early, go straight to Gangotri for darshan before the crowds, and stop at Bhairon Ghati and the Lanka bridge on the way back. You will be in Harsil for a late lunch.
Make Harsil your base for the Gangotri day - see where to stay for Gangotri and Harsil Village Resort.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Bhairon Ghati?
About 10 km before Gangotri on the road from Harsil, where the Jadh Ganga meets the Bhagirathi.
Why do pilgrims visit Bhairon Ghati?
Bhairon Devta is believed to guard the region, and local tradition holds that a Gangotri visit is complete only after darshan at Bhairon Ghati.
What is special about the Lanka bridge?
It crosses the very deep Jadh Ganga gorge high above the river and is often described as one of the highest bridges in Asia.
Can I visit Bhairon Ghati from Harsil?
Yes. It is on the Gangotri road and fits easily into a day trip from Harsil to Gangotri.