Yamunotri

Yamunotri is one of the four sacred sites of the Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand, India. It is the source of the Yamuna River and holds great spiritual significance in Hinduism. Nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas at an altitude of 3,293 meters (10,804 feet), Yamunotri is revered for its natural beauty, hot springs, and religious importance.

Key Highlights

1. Yamunotri Temple:

   • Dedicated to Goddess Yamuna, the temple is the focal point of pilgrimage at Yamunotri.

   • The temple was originally constructed by Maharani Guleria of Jaipur in the 19th century and has been rebuilt several times due to natural calamities.

   • The idol of Goddess Yamuna is made of black marble and is worshipped here.

2. Geographical Location:

   • The temple is situated near the source of the Yamuna River, surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Himalayas.

   • The actual source, a frozen lake and glacier called the Champasar Glacier, lies at an altitude of about 4,421 meters (14,505 feet) and is inaccessible to pilgrims.

3. Religious Significance:

   • The Yamuna is considered the sister of Yama (the God of Death) and the daughter of Surya (the Sun God) and Sangya (the Goddess of Consciousness).

   • Bathing in the Yamuna is believed to cleanse sins and protect devotees from untimely death.

Nearby Attractions

1. Surya Kund:

   • A natural hot spring near the temple where pilgrims cook rice and potatoes as offerings to the deity.

   • These offerings are later distributed as prasad.

2. Divya Shila:

   • A sacred rock pillar near the Surya Kund.

   • Pilgrims offer prayers at Divya Shila before entering the Yamunotri Temple.

3. Champasar Glacier:

   • The source of the Yamuna River, located at the Kalind Parvat.

   • Though the actual glacier is challenging to reach, the trek to its vicinity offers breathtaking views.

4. Hanuman Chatti:

   • Located about 13 km from Yamunotri, it is a serene spot and the starting point of the Yamunotri trek.

   • Known for its picturesque surroundings and Hanuman Temple.

Travel Information

1. Access:

   • By Road: The last motorable point is Janki Chatti, 6 km from Yamunotri. From here, pilgrims must trek to the temple.

   • Nearest Railway Station: Dehradun (about 175 km away).

   • Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun (about 192 km away).

2. Trekking Options:

   • The 6 km trek from Janki Chatti to Yamunotri can be covered on foot, by pony, or by palanquin.

   • The trail passes through beautiful forested areas and offers stunning views of the Himalayas.

3. Best Time to Visit:

   • May to June and September to November are ideal months to visit.

   • Avoid the monsoon season (July and August) due to the risk of landslides.

Yamunotri in the Char Dham Yatra

• Yamunotri is typically the first stop on the Char Dham Yatra, followed by Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath.

• Pilgrims believe that visiting Yamunotri brings spiritual merit and peace.