Yamunotri temple is situated at an altitude of 3291 meters (10,797 Feet) above sea level in the Western region of Garhwal Himalaya, Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand. It is one of the major destinations of the Chota Chardham Yatra circuit. Built by Garhwal Naresh Pratap Singh, back in the 19th century is one of the major attractions in the Chardham circuit. Read this topic to know more about it and plan your trip to Yamunotir temple smartly.
Yamunotri temple, the holy shrine is located at the pious location where the holy river of India, "Yamuna" originates. This ancient but beautiful temple is located at an altitude of 3,293 meters (10,804 feet) above the sea level. It's beautiful location in the lap of Himalaya beside the river stream makes it a favourite place for visitors. Snow capped mountain acting as a crown of this temple are the cherry on the top. It is one of the four prime temples included in Uttarakhand's Char Dham yatra package, the other three being Kedarnath, Badrinath, and Gangotri.
Every year millions of devotees visit this temple on Char Dham Yatra for spiritual fulfillment. In addition to spirituality, these places are also famous for it's natural beauty and calmness. It is also believed that these temples are the gateway to heaven. As per the legend, Pandavas were the first person to visit this temple before going to heaven, and since then it is done by Hindu devotees and holds great importance.
The revered goddess Yamuna is known as Yami in the Vedas. She is Yama's (the deity of death) twin sister and Sun's (the goddess of life) daughter. A dip in the Yamuna's holy waters is thought to wash away all sins and guard against an early or painful death. Yamuna Devi (the goddess) holds high positions of divinity in Hindu mythology as a result of these powerful connotations.
According to legend, Lord Hanuman put out the fires on Ravana's tail in the swift waters of the Yamuna close to Banderpooch after burning his Lanka. Because of this, the peak is known as Bander's (monkey) Pooch's (tail's) or the monkey's tail. Another story claims that Asit Muni, a famous sage, lived alone in Yamunotri. The Muni used to take baths in both the Yamuna and the Ganga, but due to his old age, he was unable to travel to Gangotri. When he became aware of his issue, a Ganga stream began to run next to the Yamuna stream.
Yamunotri temple is located in the lap of Himalaya, at an altitude of 3,293 meters (10,804 feet) above the sea level. It remains closed for six months in a year due to chilling cold and adverse climate. Route to Yamunotri temple get closed due to heavy snowfall. It gets open in late April or early May and closes in the month of late October to early November.
Best time to visit here is in the month of May to June or September to October. July and August is not good to travel in this region as this region observes heavy rainfall during this time, creating a danger of landslides, flood, cloudburst, stone shooting etc. so it's better to avoid these months.
May and June will be pleasant, but you may observe heavy crowds during this time causing a chance of heavy traffic jam and long queues. In the month of September and October, you can travel but keep note that during this time temperature will be very low, so pack your bags accordingly. You can refer our article on Things to pack for Char Dham Yatra for more details on what to pack and how to pack.
Uttarakhand is well known as dev bhoomi and there are millions of gems all around this state where you can visit. In addition to Yamunotri temple there are many other places near by where you can visit. Here I am going to list some of the most beautiful destinations around Yamunotri temple, read about it and try to include some or all of these in your itinerary for a fulfilling trip.
Surya kund is a divine hot water pond located near Yamunotri temple is one of the centre of attraction for devotees visiting this temple. Temperature of water of this pond will be 88°C (190°F) and most of the devotees prefer to cook rice and potatoes in this pond and offer it to the deity as Prasad. Surrounded by lush green valleys and snow capped mountains, Surya kund offers a soothing environment to the devotees.
Divya Shila is one of the most important centre of attraction near Yamunotri temple. It is believed to be the manifestation of goddess Yamuna herself. It holds a religious significance and an integral part of char dham yatra circuit. As per the belief it is said that offering prayer to divya shila will please goddess Yamuna and will bring prosperity in your life. So if you are coming to Yamunotri temple then do visit to Divya shila and offer your prayer to this pious stone.
Janki Chatti is a peaceful, tucked-away village in the heart of Uttarakhand, often the first stop for pilgrims on their way to the sacred Yamunotri Temple. It’s a charming little place, perched at an altitude of 2,370 meters, surrounded by nature’s beauty. The village is known for its natural hot springs, where you can relax before continuing the journey ahead. For those headed to Yamunotri, the 5-kilometer trek from Janki Chatti is an unforgettable experience, filled with scenic beauty and spiritual serenity. Whether you’re here for the pilgrimage or simply to enjoy the peaceful surroundings, Janki Chatti offers a calm and refreshing pause before the adventure continues.
Kharsali is a peaceful village, located just a short distance from Janki Chatti, which serves as a serene stop before reaching the Yamunotri temple. It’s known for its spiritual and natural beauty, making it an important part of the journey for pilgrims. and The final village in the area, one kilometer away from Janki Chatti, is Kharsali. There is a three-story Shiva temple there with carved stone walls. Another interesting feature is the elaborate woodwork Kharsali is also famous for its traditional wooden houses, which display remarkable craftsmanship. The detailed woodwork in the village’s structures gives a sense of timeless beauty and is a nod to the architectural traditions that have been passed down for generations.
Saptarishi Kund is a peaceful, beautiful lake located in the mountains of Uttarakhand, near Yamunotri Temple. It is about 7 kilometers away from the temple and is considered the true source of the Yamuna River. This lake is very special because it’s surrounded by tall mountains and is often covered in ice during the colder months, adding to its magical and serene atmosphere.
The name "Saptarishi" comes from seven ancient sages, called "Rishis," who are believed to have meditated by this lake. This makes the place religious for Hindu devotees, especially pilgrims looking for spirituality. One of the famous thing about this lake is the Brahma lotus, a beautiful flower that grows in the cold water and is considered religious, symbolizing purity.
Reaching Saptarishi Kund requires a tough trek, but the breathtaking beauty and peacefulness make it all worth it. The lake’s spiritual significance and natural beauty make it a memorable destination for travelers seeking both adventure and a quiet place to reflect.
The trip to Dodi Tal begins in Hanuman Chatti, which is situated at the meeting point of the Hanuman Ganga and Yamuna rivers. Additionally, lodging is accessible here.
The Tapta Kunda, where pilgrims take a wash before entering the temple, and the Draupadi Kunda are two other points of interest in Yamunotri. Hindu mythology states that pilgrims who make this journey with the highest purity and dedication are freed from the cycle of life and death.
Dehradun has the closest airport to Yamunotri. Fly into Jolly Grant Airport from any major Indian city.
There is no direct route to Yamunotri from the road. However, buses go from Rishikesh, Mussoorie, Uttarkashi, Gangotri, Badkot, Haridwar, and Dehradun to Hanuman Chatti. After that, you have two options: either walk the 14 miles on foot or rent some horses and palanquins.
Rishikesh, 200 kilometers away through Narendranagar and Haridwar, has the closest railhead.
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