Yamunotri: The Sacred Source of the Yamuna River 🛕🏔️

Yamunotri is one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites in Uttarakhand, India. It is the origin of the holy Yamuna River, situated at an altitude of 3,293 meters (10,804 ft) in the Garhwal Himalayas. Devotees visit this sacred place to seek blessings from Goddess Yamuna, who is believed to be the sister of Yama (the God of Death) and the daughter of Surya (the Sun God).

1. Major Attractions in Yamunotri 🏞️

Yamunotri Temple 🛕

  • Dedicated to Goddess Yamuna, built in the 19th century by Maharaja Pratap Shah of Tehri.
  • The idol of the goddess is made of black marble.
  • The temple opens in summer (April/May) and closes before winter (October/November).

Surya Kund ♨️

  • A hot water spring near the temple, where devotees boil rice and potatoes as prasad (offering).

Divya Shila 🪨

  • A sacred rock pillar near the temple, where pilgrims offer prayers before entering the shrine.

Janki Chatti 🌿

  • A hot spring and resting point for pilgrims, located 7 km from Yamunotri.

Hanuman Chatti 🏔️

  • The starting point for the Yamunotri trek, located 13 km before the temple.

 

Rishikesh

2. Trek to Yamunotri Temple 🥾

  • The trek starts from Janki Chatti (6 km trek).
  • Ponies, palkis (palanquins), and pitthus (porters) are available for those unable to walk.
  • The trail offers breathtaking views of glaciers, waterfalls, and dense forests.

3. Best Time to Visit Yamunotri 📅

  • Summer (April – June): Best for visiting the temple and trekking.
  • Monsoon (July – September): Rainy season, but landslides can occur.
  • Autumn (September – November): Best weather, fewer crowds.
  • Winter (December – March): Temple remains closed due to heavy snowfall.

4. How to Reach Yamunotri? 🚗

  • By Air – Nearest airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (210 km).
  • By Train – Nearest railway station: Rishikesh (200 km), Haridwar (230 km).
  • By Road – Reach Janki Chatti by road from Rishikesh, Dehradun, or Haridwar, then trek 6 km to the temple.

5. Why Visit Yamunotri? 🤔

✅ One of the four sacred Char Dham sites in Uttarakhand.
✅ Home of Goddess Yamuna, believed to bless devotees with longevity and peace.
✅ Surrounded by glaciers and Himalayas, perfect for spiritual seekers and nature lovers.
✅ Unique hot springs where pilgrims cook rice as an offering.

Yamunotri is a divine destination that blends spirituality, adventure, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a pilgrim or a trekker, a journey to Yamunotri is an unforgettable experience! 🙏🏔️

Would you like information on accommodation options near Yamunotri? 😊

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