Uttarkashi was originally a part of district Tehri Garhwal. Soon after independence, when Tehri Garhwal kingdom merged with India, it was made a border district with the district headquarter at Uttarkashi was created. The new district acquires importance because of the two very significant pilgrimage-centres viz. Gangotri and Yamunotri, the sources of the two holy rivers, Ganga (Bhagirathi) and Yamuna. Irrigating a large part of northern India, these rivers finally unite at Allahabed, also known as Prayag Raj. Topographically, the district is mountainous but a network of roads has made all parts easily accessible. Dodital, Dayara, Harsil, Gaumukh, Nandanvan, Tapovan, Har-ki-doon and Kushkalyan are some of the places of tourist interest..

Uttarkashi

99 kms. from Gangotri, Uttarkashi is an important pilgrimage centre, equated with Varanasi or kashi in divinity. it is located in a wide stretch of a valley.

Situated at a distance of 145 kms, from Rishikesh, the last rail head and at an ekevation of 1158 mts. on the bank of river Bhagirathi, this picturesque town is also the district headquarter. From the relligious point of view as well, it is considered important because the temple of Lord Vishwanath, is located here where a massive iron trident is erected. Description about this temple is given in "Kedar Khand" (Skand-Puran). The other important temples situated here are Ekadash Rudra, Bhairav and Gyaneshwar. The temple of Goddess Kuteti Devi is situated at the top of hill about 1.5 kms. away.

The Nehru Institute of Mountaineering is also located on a hill above the town, 5 kms. away. Close by at Ujeli are a number of ashrams and temples. Every year on the occasion of "Magh Mela" (January 14 ),

people from far and near visit Uttarkashi to take a holy dip in Bhagirathi along with the idol of their local deities.