The temple is situated next to the river Bhagirathi. The temple is dedicated to Mother Ganga. A silver idol of the deity adorns the temple. Gangotri is believed to be the origin of the Ganges. It is also one of the Chota Chardham yatra temples. During the winters the Ganga deity is brought down to the Mukhba village, Mukhyamath temple. According to a Legend, King Bhgirath had done his penance here and requested the holy river Ganges to come down on earth. It is here that the river with all her might had descended on Earth. It is believed to stop the devastation and flooding of the earth due to her power, Lord Shiva caught her in her locks. King Bhagirath then prayed to the Lord Shiva to release her.