Discover Bagori Village Harshil: “The Home of Ancient Traders”

Discover the beauty and cultural richness of Bagori Village in Harshil. Explore the unique blend of Hindu and Buddhist temples, witness the Bhotia community’s heritage, and immerse in the serenity of this offbeat destination.

Overview : Bagori Village Harshil

Bagori Village Harishi is a quaint village that boasts approximately 150 wooden houses. While modern concrete structures have slowly encroached upon the village, it still retains a charming glimpse of the past. To reach the village, visitors must pass through Harsil and cross three small bridges before arriving at Bagori.

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Bagori Village Harshil is known for its people and unique culture, although its history and traditions are not widely known. The village is a must-visit destination for those traveling towards Gangotri, thanks to its wooden carved houses with colorful walls and gates. Unlike other tourist destinations, Bagori has maintained its historical importance and natural beauty with limited interference from modernization and tourism.

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The Bhotias in Bagori is skilled at hand-weaving woolen sweaters. During the winter, they migrate to Dunda, their second home. The village has a unique blend of Hindu and Buddhist temples, showcasing the religious beliefs of both Indian and Tibetan cultures.

The entrance to the village is marked by the temple of the local deity, Laal Devta, alongside a Buddhist temple. Despite being deserted, the village’s beauty is striking, with the wind playing with one’s imagination, creating an eerie atmosphere.

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Bhotia Tibe in  Bagori Village Harshil

Bagori Village Harshil is home to the Bhotia people, whose name translates to “people from the north.” Originally from the Nelong Valley near the Indian border, they were traders on the “Salt route” before the Indo-Tibet border closed in 1962. They would carry out trade in Tibetan markets across the Himalayas, bringing back wool, borax, and salt. In 1962, the Bhotia people migrated to Bagori village near Gangotri.

Conclusion

During the onset of winter, these villages become deserted as the residents move to lower ground to escape the harsh cold weather. The drop in temperature causes the water lines to freeze, making it difficult to access water even for daily use. As a result, these villages become ghost towns, devoid of their usual hustle and bustle, until the arrival of warmer weather prompts the villagers to return