Yamunotri Temple
Yamunotri Temple, located in Uttarkashi is a major Hindu temple. Yamuna River is popular for its thermal springs, icy peaks, and glaciers, and is one of the most beautiful and second-most scared rivers after Ganga. As per Hindu mythology, Goddess Yamuna (Yamunotri) is the sister of Lord Yamraj (Lord of Death), daughter of Surya (Sun) and one of Ashta-bharya (eight consorts) of Lord Krishna. It is believed that taking a dip in the holy river, Yamuna leads to a painless death. Yamunotri is one of the Himalaya Chaar Dhaams namely Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri. Yamuna is one the famed trio sister rivers – Ganga, Yamuna and Sarasvati.
Yamunotri Temple:
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Deity |
Goddess Yamuna |
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Location |
Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand, India. |
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Creator |
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Altitude |
Height 3,291 metres (10,797 feet) |
It is situated in the western region of Garhwal Himalayas on the side of ‘Bandarpoonch’ (Tail of Monkey) Parbat and near the foot of Kalind Parbat. The temple is located at an altitude of height 3,291 metres (10,797 feet) above sea level. Here Goddess Yamuna is worshipped in the form of irregular black marble. There is another white marble beside her, who is said to be Goddess Ganga.
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The journey of the Chaar Dhaam starts with the Yamunotri temple.
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All Hindu devotees believe that visiting Char Dhams and praying at the feet of Yamunotri, taking the dip into the holy river and taste the “Prasadam” would dissolve all their sins and lead to a peaceful and painless death.
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Yamunotri has many eye-catchy and beautiful locations around, like Janki Chatti (7 km away), Saptarishi Kund (10 km away), Hanuman Chatti (13 km away), etc.
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It is famous for trekking, thermal springs, and glaciers and is holding more than 7 places to see.
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The Famous Dodi Tal track joins Gangotri to Yamunotri and starts with Kalyani from Uttarkashi and ends at Hanuman Chatti. It is about 60 km long and usually takes four days to complete.
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Prasad (offering) of Yamuna is considered unique which is prepared in the hot spring of Surya Kund, which is very pure and sacred. And This Prasad is first offered to Goddess first then distributed to devotees.
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The opening and closing dates of the temple are decided as per the dates of Akshaya Trityya and Yam Dwitiya respectively. Sometimes it depends on the weather conditions too.
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Two hot springs are present at Yamunotri, one which has a hot spring known as
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Surya Kund and the other as Gauri Kund has lukewarm water for bathing.
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The entry is free of cost in temples but as per the government of Uttarakhand, a biometric registration is needed; you can register yourself online or offline mode.
Yamunotri – Gateway to Religious Faith and Adventure
Located in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, Yamunotri is a sacred site and one of the famous Char Dham pilgrimage sites. Apart from holding a strong religious significance, the place is also the origin of the famous Yamuna River and offers serene views of the Himalayas to various trekkers, devotees and travellers from all over the country.
Best Time to Visit Yamunotri
Between months from May to June, the Yamunotri weather is ideal for pilgrimage as well as the famous Yamunotri trek, since the possibility of landslides is quite low. The Yamunotri temperature during these months remains quite pleasant and the place is often filled with blooming flowers and lush greenery, making it the best time to visit Yamunotri.
How to Reach Yamunotri
For tourists wondering about how to reach Yamunotri via flight, the nearest airport to this hilly town is the famous Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun. From here, tourists can either book a taxi or take a local bus ride to complete the rest of the journey. Keep in mind that Hanuman Chatti or Janki Chatti is the last possible spot and from there, tourists will have to trek to this hilly town. Similarly, the nearest major railway station is the Haridwar Railway Station from where tourists can take a cab or a bus ride to complete their journey.
What are the Things to See and Do in Yamunotri
While the primary attraction in Yamunotri Uttarakhand is undoubtedly the religious sites, travellers can still enjoy various other activities too. Surrounded by stunning Himalayan ranges and lush meadows, there are several famous Yamunotri tourist spotspresent in this region. Moreover, tourists can also enjoy some local Garhwali cuisines and interact with locals to learn more about their culture.
Places to Visit in Yamunotri
Yamunotri Temple
Dedicated to the sacred goddess Yamuna, this historic templefeatures intricate architecture and witnesses religious rituals performed by devotees from all over the world. In addition, the temple also highlights several sacred hot water springs where pilgrims can take a dip to cleanse their bodies and soul.
Divya Shila
A religious rock pillar located near the temple, Divya Shilais another popular spot among pilgrims in Char Dham Yamunotri region. Described as a powerful and sacred object in Hindu mythology, this spot also represents the presence of the goddess Yamuna.
Surya Kund
One of the most famous hot water springs in or around the temple, Surya Kundis believed to have healing properties. Every year, thousands of travellers visit here to experience its warmth and therapeutic effects, making it one of the most popular places to visit in Yamunotri.
Restaurants in Yamunotri
Cafe TFH
Known for its simple and clean environment, Cafe TFH is a popular name among locals as well as tourists due to their hearty and delicious servings.
Saket Restaurant
One of the most highly rated restaurants in this hilly town, Saket Restaurantis a popular eatery option with a variety of dishes including local Garhwali cuisines as well.
Cafe Power
Located quite close to the famous Yamunotri temple, Cafe Poweris known for its cosy seating with serene views and freshly made snacks at budget-friendly costs.
Places to Stay in Yamunotri
Prabal Yamuna Himalaya Darshan Homestay
Situated quite close to several Yamunotri tourist places, this famous homestay offers comfortable and affordable accommodation options with all essential amenities and facilities.
Hotel Kalindi
Another popular hotel in the Yamunotri Dham region, the accommodation options here are reasonably priced with all basic amenities available for trekkers and pilgrims.
Hotel Riya Residency
A famous budget accommodation option, Hotel Riya Residency offers dozens of well-maintained and spacious rooms with all the necessary facilities for its guests.
Food to Try in Yamunotri
The Garhwali culture is imminently present in this famous region and hence, Garhwali cuisines along with typical North Indian dishes are quite popular here. During a trip to this hilly town, travellers can enjoy a variety of local cuisines such as – Aloo Ke Gutke, Chainsoo, Jhangora, Kafuli, Mandua Ki Roti and many more.
Things to Buy in Yamunotri
Since this hilly town is primarily a trekking and pilgrimage site, there aren’t too many shopping complexes or marketplaces. However, there are various local shops and establishments from where tourists can purchase local handicrafts and other souvenirs.
Hanuman Chatti Market
On the route to Hanuman Chatti, there are several local shops and stalls selling various items such as trekking gear, snacks, water bottles and other essential products.
Yamunotri Temple Complex
Within the main temple complex, tourists can find a lot of stalls and small shops selling religious items such as idols, souvenirs and offerings for the visit inside the temple.
Main Road Market
Since the options are limited, tourists can also choose to buy handmade fabrics, decorative items or small sculptures made by local artisans.
Yamunotri Overview
| State | Uttarakhand |
| Tourist Places in Yamunotri | Barkot, Janki Chatti, Saptarishi Kund, Kharsali, Surya Kund in Yamunotri |
| Best Time to Visit in Yamunotri | May to June |
| Yamunotri is famous for | Religious ,Pilgrimage ,Foodie Hotspots |
Conclusion
As a sacred and religious destination nestled among the famous Himalayas, this famous site is bound to fill you with devotion and love towards nature. By visiting here, tourists can’t only experience the perfect blend of adventure and spirituality but also deep dive into the famous Garhwali culture.
