Chorabari Glacier, located in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, is a pristine and awe-inspiring glacier that holds immense geographical and spiritual significance. Situated at an altitude of around 3,800 meters, this glacier is the source of the Mandakini River, which flows through the Kedarnath Valley. Its proximity to the sacred Kedarnath Temple further adds to its allure for both pilgrims and adventure seekers.
Geographical Importance
The Chorabari Glacier extends over 15 km and is nestled in the foothills of the Kedarnath Peak (6,940 meters). The glacier offers a mesmerizing view of the surrounding Himalayan ranges and is a vital water source for the region. The Mandakini River, which originates from this glacier, flows southward and meets the Alaknanda River at Rudraprayag, one of the five sacred confluences of the Alaknanda.
Spiritual Connection: The Kedarnath Temple
Just a short distance from Chorabari Glacier is the Kedarnath Temple, one of the most revered shrines in Hinduism and part of the Char Dham pilgrimage. Pilgrims visiting Kedarnath often trek towards Chorabari Tal, a pristine glacial lake also known as Gandhi Sarovar, located near the glacier. The area around the glacier and lake is steeped in spirituality, with many devotees seeking blessings and experiencing the tranquility of this sacred environment.
Chorabari Tal (Gandhi Sarovar)
Chorabari Tal is a picturesque glacial lake located at an elevation of approximately 3,900 meters. It is named after Mahatma Gandhi, whose ashes were immersed here in 1948. The serene lake, surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks, offers a perfect setting for trekkers and nature lovers to enjoy the beauty of the high Himalayas.
Trekking and Adventure at Chorabari Glacier
The trek to Chorabari Glacier, starting from Kedarnath, is one of the most scenic routes in Uttarakhand. The trail is filled with breathtaking views of the Himalayas, alpine meadows, and glacial formations. The trek to Gandhi Sarovar is relatively short but requires good fitness due to the high altitude. It is ideal for those looking to experience the serenity of the Himalayas up close.
- Trek Distance: The trek from Kedarnath to Chorabari Tal (Gandhi Sarovar) is about 3.5 kilometers and can be completed in a few hours.
- Best Time to Visit: The best time to explore the Chorabari Glacier is from May to October, as the region experiences heavy snowfall during the winter months, making the trek inaccessible.
Devastation and Rebirth
In June 2013, a catastrophic flash flood caused by the bursting of Chorabari Lake devastated the Kedarnath Valley. The glacial outburst resulted in significant loss of life and property. However, in the years since, the region has seen efforts to rebuild, and Kedarnath continues to be a center of pilgrimage and adventure.
How to Reach Chorabari Glacier
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, about 239 kilometers away from Kedarnath. From there, visitors can take a taxi or bus to Gaurikund, the base camp for the Kedarnath trek.
- By Rail: The nearest railway station is in Rishikesh, about 221 kilometers from Kedarnath. Buses and taxis are available from Rishikesh to Gaurikund.
- By Road: Gaurikund is well-connected by road, and the trek to Kedarnath starts from here. From Kedarnath, visitors can take a scenic trek to Chorabari Glacier.
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FAQs for Chorabari Glacier:
1. What is the Chorabari Glacier known for?
Answer: Chorabari Glacier is known for being the origin of the Mandakini River and its close proximity to the Kedarnath Temple. It’s also famous for the picturesque Chorabari Tal, also called Gandhi Sarovar.
2. Where is Chorabari Glacier located?
Answer: Chorabari Glacier is located near Kedarnath in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, at an altitude of around 3,800 meters.
3. How do you reach Chorabari Glacier?
Answer: Chorabari Glacier can be reached via a short trek from Kedarnath Temple. The nearest motorable point is Gaurikund, from where pilgrims and trekkers can start their journey to Kedarnath.
4. What is the best time to visit Chorabari Glacier?
Answer: The ideal time to visit Chorabari Glacier is from May to October, as the region is covered in snow during the winter months, making it inaccessible.
5. What is the significance of Chorabari Tal (Gandhi Sarovar)?
Answer: Chorabari Tal is a glacial lake near the Chorabari Glacier. It was renamed Gandhi Sarovar after Mahatma Gandhi’s ashes were immersed in the lake in 1948.
6. Is the trek to Chorabari Glacier difficult?
Answer: The trek to Chorabari Glacier from Kedarnath is moderate and suitable for individuals with good physical fitness. The route is scenic but can be challenging due to the altitude.
7. What natural disaster is associated with Chorabari Glacier?
Answer: In 2013, a glacial lake outburst flood from Chorabari Tal led to severe destruction in Kedarnath and the surrounding areas, causing significant loss of life and property.
8. How far is Chorabari Glacier from Kedarnath Temple?
Answer: Chorabari Glacier is located about 3.5 kilometers from Kedarnath Temple, making it a popular trekking destination for pilgrims and adventurers visiting the temple.
9. Can Chorabari Glacier be visited year-round?
Answer: No, Chorabari Glacier is best visited from late spring to early autumn. During the winter, the heavy snowfall in the region makes the trek inaccessible.
10. Is Chorabari Glacier part of any religious pilgrimage?
Answer: While not directly part of a pilgrimage, Chorabari Glacier and Chorabari Tal hold spiritual importance due to their proximity to the Kedarnath Temple, a key destination in the Char Dham Yatra.