Situated amidst the grandeur of the snowy peaks of the Garhwal Himalayas, Yamunotri is not just an attraction; it’s a pilgrimage, a serene retreat, and a place that exudes divinity. Nestled in the state of Uttarakhand, India, Yamunotri is renowned as the source of the Yamuna River, one of the major rivers in India. The place holds deep religious significance in Hinduism, being the first stop in the Char Dham Yatra, a sacred pilgrimage circuit in the Indian Himalayas.
Historical Significance of Yamunotri
The roots of Yamunotri’s history are deeply entwined with spiritual legends and Hindu mythology. The temple at Yamunotri is dedicated to Goddess Yamuna, who, according to Hindu mythology, is the daughter of the Sun god, Surya, and sister to Yama, the god of death. The temple was first constructed by Maharani Gularia of Jaipur in the 19th century. Later, it was damaged and reconstructed several times due to natural calamities.
Where is Yamunotri?
Located in the Western region of Uttarakhand, Yamunotri is perched at an altitude of 3293 meters above sea level. It sits majestically in the Uttarkashi district, surrounded by the undulating heights of the Bandarpoonch Parvat.
Best Time to Travel to Yamunotri
The best time to visit Yamunotri is during the summer months, from May to June, when the weather is pleasant, and the roads are free of snow. The temple usually opens on the auspicious day of Akshaya Tritiya, which falls in late April or early May. The temple remains closed during the winter months due to heavy snowfall.
haridwar to yamunotri distance
the distance from Haridwar to Yamunotri is 120 km.
How to Reach Yamunotri?
Reaching Yamunotri involves a combination of road travel and a moderate trek. The nearest airport is Jolly Grant in Dehradun, around 210 km away, while the nearest railway station is in Rishikesh, approximately 200 km away.
From Dehradun or Rishikesh, one can embark on a journey towards Yamunotri, which is typically routed through Tehri, Barkot, and finally reaches Hanuman Chatti. The total distance from Haridwar to Yamunotri via this route is about 246 km, and it takes approximately 5 to 6 hours of travel time.
Hanuman Chatti serves as the starting point of the trek to Yamunotri. One can hire taxis or take buses to reach there. From Hanuman Chatti, shared taxis are available till Janki Chatti, which reduces the trekking distance by 7 km.
Finally, a 5 km trek, which often passes through Kharsali, leads to the Yamunotri Temple. This section can be quite steep, narrow, and tiring. Despite the physical demands of the journey, the trek to Yamunotri is a scenic one, traversing through lush green valleys and forests, and it offers a sense of spiritual accomplishment upon reaching the destination.
Journey Overview to Yamunotri
| Stage | From | To | Distance | Travel Time | Transport |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Dehradun/Rishikesh | Haridwar | Varies | Depends on starting point | Bus/Taxi |
| 2 | Haridwar | Hanuman Chatti | 246 km | 5-6 hours | Bus/Taxi |
| 3 | Hanuman Chatti | Janki Chatti | 7 km | Depends on traffic | Shared Taxi |
| 4 | Janki Chatti | Yamunotri Temple | 5 km | Depends on trekking speed | Trek |
Why is Yamunotri Famous?
Yamunotri is famous primarily for its religious significance in Hinduism. It’s the source of the Yamuna River, which is revered as a holy river in India. The Yamunotri temple, dedicated to Goddess Yamuna, attracts thousands of pilgrims every year during the Char Dham Yatra. The location’s breathtaking beauty, nestled among the snow-clad peaks and lush greenery, also draws nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
Major Attractions and Tourist Places Around Yamunotri
- Yamunotri Temple: The main attraction, this temple dedicated to Goddess Yamuna, is a beautiful structure with a majestic backdrop of the Bandarpoonch peak.
- Surya Kund: A hot water spring near the temple, pilgrims cook rice and potatoes here as offerings to the deity.
- Janki Chatti: Known for its thermal springs, it’s the midpoint of the trek to Yamunotri.
- Divya Shila: A rock pillar worshipped before entering the Yamunotri temple.
- Kharsali: A small village known for its ancient Shani temple.
12 Months Temperature Data of Yamunotri
| Month | Average Temperature (°C) |
|---|---|
| January | -7 |
| February | -5 |
| March | 1 |
| April | 5 |
| May | 12 |
| June | 15 |
| July | 15 |
| August | 15 |
| September | 12 |
| October | 7 |
| November | 2 |
| December | -5 |
Yamunotri: A Spiritual and Natural Retreat
Yamunotri, besides being a sacred spot, also offers visitors an opportunity to experience tranquility and awe-inspiring natural beauty. From the snow-capped peaks, thermal springs, and verdant forests to the sacred aura of the Yamuna river and temple, it offers a perfect blend of spirituality and nature’s splendor.
Yamunotri Related FAQs
When does the Yamunotri temple open and close during the year?
The Yamunotri temple typically opens on Akshaya Tritiya, in late April or early May, and closes on the second day of Diwali, in October or November.
What are the facilities available in Yamunotri for tourists?
Basic facilities such as accommodation, food, and medical aid are available in Yamunotri. However, as it’s a high-altitude location, facilities may be basic compared to cities.
What is the Yamunotri trek like?
The trek to Yamunotri from Hanuman Chatti is approximately 13 km long. It’s a moderate trek with some steep sections. The path is well maintained, and ponies or palanquins are available for those unable to trek.