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Yamunotri Temple is a well-known Hindu temple of Yamunotri, situated in the beautiful folds of the Garhwal Himalayan range in Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand. It is located in the western Himalayas and is dedicated to Goddess Yamuna. A black marble idol of Yamuna is situated in the temple, and testimony of these ancient practices still stands. With Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Dehradun being the prominent urban centres of Uttarakhand, the temple can be reached after a long and pleasant trek that rewards one with fascinating sights of waterfalls and snow-filled mountains.
Yamunotri Temple Location
Photo: Atarax42 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Yamunotri temple is located 5 kilometres away from Janki Chatti as well as 13 kilometres from Hanuman Chatti. From Janki Chatti, the devotees find themselves on a breathtaking journey towards Yamunotri temple.
How To Reach Yamunotri Temple
Photo: Paul Hamilton / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
To reach the Yamunotri temple, below are the modes of transport available:
By Air: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun, is the nearest airport closer to Yamunotri. Engage a taxi or board a bus from here.
By Train: Haridwar and Dehradun are well connected with the trains throughout the year. Catch a cab or bus at these points.
By Bus: Roads are motorable till Janki Chatti, from where those wishing to visit the shrine have to trek. Buses and taxis from Rishikesh, Dehradun, Uttarkashi, Tehri, and Barkot exist.
Places To Visit Around Yamunotri Temple
Explore these nearby attractions for a well-rounded experience:
1. Surya Kund
Photo: Bernard Gagnon / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
A component of the eight elements drawn to worship Lord Shiva, Surya Kund is a hot spring near the Yamunotri Temple. During ancient times, it served the purpose of examining priests who came to offer rituals and was often visited by saints and people of religious faith. It is said to have been named after the sun god, who was believed to be the son of Goddess Yamuna during ancient times. It is an impressive hole that dwarfs patrons.
Location: At the Yamunotri temple complex
Duration: 30 minutes
2. Hanuman Chatti
Photo: Saatviki / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Hanuman Chatti is a small town just 13 kilometres away from Yamunotri. It is located at a height of 2400m and lies at the confluence of the Hanuman Ganga and Yamuna Rivers. The location is ideal for people looking for peaceful or quiet surroundings, as rivers surround it. It also has plenty of options for rental housing. Hanuman Chatti is the first stop for some tourists who want to go up to Yamunotri or explore other trailheads such as Darwa Top, Dodi Tal, and many more in-depth valleys surrounding the region.
Location: 9.6 km from Yamunotri temple
Best Time To Visit: May to October
3. Janki Chatti
Photo: Andrei Tanase / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Janki Chatti serves as the starting point of the 5-kilometer trek to Yamunotri. The trek can be completed on foot in 2.5 to 3 hours or by hiring mules, palanquins, or pithoo (porters). Hot water ponds are dispersed at Janki Chatti, and the pilgrims can swim in the water to cleanse themselves before making the final entry into the temple. The place is also said to have ashrams, lodges, and inexpensive hotels to make it easier for the pilgrims who want to make it a resting stop.
Location: 5 km from Yamunotri temple
Height: 2,580 meters above sea level
4. Saptarishi Kund
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Saptarishi Kund is around 7 km from Yamunotri and is described as a dark blue glacial body of water encompassed in slate stones. The pond is supplied with spiritual meaning, as it is stated that seven sages have been meditated there at times. This tour is also perfect for trekkers eager to seek a wild adventure or devotees willing to endure a challenging trek. The Kund area’s sense of isolation combined with the unspoiled beauty is always the hype to succeed in any adventure to seek nature and spirituality. It’s a stunning sight, and nothing will discourage one from trying to reach it.
Location: 7 km from Yamunotri
Time: 9 PM – 5 PM
5. Divya Shila
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Divya Shila is a holy ground shila that was built and is located next to the Yamunotri temple. Before stepping into the Yamunotri temple, it is a tradition for the pilgrims to pay homage to this rock. As the name suggests, the rock is believed to be a blessing stone. The stone is significant and believed to transcend visitors with positive energy. Divya Shila is a great place to be alone and calm the mind. The location is also well suited to get beautiful pictures of the snow-capped mountain ranges, making it a wonderful experience for the Yamunotri yatra.
Location: 6 km from Yamunotri temple
Ideal For: Pilgrimage, Family, Sightseeing
Where To Stay
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Several accommodation choices are available in Janki Chatti, Hanuman Chatti, and Barkot for those travelling to Yamunotri. These range from budget hotels and guesthouses to ashrams which cater to different requirements and preferences. Janki Chatti has basic facilities near the temple to accommodate the pilgrims. Hanuman Chatti is a better option for people seeking peace and a comfortable stay in a beautiful river bulge. During the voyage period, it is recommended that you book a room ahead of time to have a satisfactory stay without disturbance.
Where To Eat
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Travellers looking for good food while on a voyage to Yamunotri should not miss Janki Chatti, Hanuman Chatti, and Barkot, which have several eateries and restaurants. All of the restaurants are vegetarian and serve North Indian fare, as food is considered to be pure in culture. Aloo paratha, dal, and rice are common items on menus. Simple meals, but adequate for the hike, are found in most concessionaires. One should also keep in mind that consumption of alcohol and non-vegetarian food is not allowed in the area. However, before or after the hike to the temple, some pilgrims can have light snacks such as pakoras and drink chai.
Best Time To Visit
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When planning a trip to Yamunotri Temple, the best period to visit is from April to June and September to November. This is the best time because the climate is favourable, with sunny days and moderate temperatures during these months, making the hike more pleasant. The temple is held in the last week of April and can be visited until the second week of November, after which it is closed because of heavy snow.
Other Factors To Consider
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Other than the temple visiting hours and availability, here are some things to consider when making the pilgrimage to Yamunotri Temple:
Average Cost
For the journey, including lodging facilities, the average expenses are expected to be around ₹3,500 and go up to ₹7,000 maximum per individual.
Tips to Travellers
- To avoid afternoon rush hour, leave early enough for the trek.
- Warm clothes are necessary since the temperature drops and elevations go up.
- Have some cash available since there aren’t many ATMs in the area.
Yamunotri Temple is a sacred place of worship and a beautiful place filled with spirituality and God’s creation. Each and everyone’s experience would be different, but it always starts from a challenging trek filled with treasures to behold and ends up clenching any stress one might have in hot springs while reciting prayers for Goddess Yamuna. Let TripXL manage all the travel requirements for an effortless trip to the iconic Yamunotri temple. In short, the divine will be felt as one goes through the unspoiled regions with nature and many memories created, with TripXL being the holiday manager for one.
Cover Photo: Anurag.vq / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
