Places to Visit in Yamunotri
The holy place Yamunotri, also known as Jamnotri, is said to be the birthplace of the river Yamuna and the seat of its patron goddess Yamuna. Geographically, it is 150 km north of Uttarkashi and sits high up in the Garhwal Himalayas at an altitude of 3300 meters above sea level. The actual origin of the river is an ice lake located on the Kalind mountain, which is another 1km up in altitude. The approach to this lake is quite treacherous and so the main shrine dedicated to the goddess Yamuna sits at the foot of the hill, where devotees come from all over to offer puja to the patron goddess.
1. Yamunotri Temple
The holy Dham of Yamunotri is flanked by lush, green rolling hills along with a backdrop of a silver cascading waterfall. As the name suggests this holy shrine is dedicated to Goddess Yamuna and it also functions as the commencement point for the Char Dham YatraJOurney. The only way to reach Yamunotri Temple is via trekking your way to the main temple site which is 6 km but the resulting spirituality and view are impeccable. The location of the temple marks the emergence point of the holy river of Yamuna.
2. Surya Kund
Surya Kund is one of the famous tourist spots in Yamunotri. This thermal hot water spring gets its anime from the gently flowing river of Yamuna that makes its way from right next to it. The temperature inside this hot water spring can go up to a scorching temperature of 88 degrees Celsius. The holy Prasad that is distributed inside the temple is prepared here which includes the preparation of rice and potatoes inside the boiling water. After presenting this prasad at the temple to the presiding deity, it is distributed amongst the devotees visiting who take it home.
3. Hanuman Chatti
Situated right on the confluence of the rivers of Hanuman Ganga and Yamuna, this holy place is situated at a distance of 13 km from the main temple of Yamunotri. Initially, this was the place from where the trekking for the temple used to commence however now, jeepable roads have been constructed that have shortened the distance to 6 km currently from Hanuman Chatti to Janki Chatti. This Yamunotri tourist place serves as an important stopover for the people on their journey to Yamunotri like raincoats, medicines along other essential requirements. This place is also a popular trekking destination and people can also visit its nearby counterparts of Darwa Top or Dodi Tal.
4. Saptarishi Kund
Sitting peacefully at a distance of 10 km from the main Dham of Yamunotri, this place can be reached after covering a trekking distance of 2 to 3 days. This crystal, clear, and gleaming high-altitude lake is a pristine destination among nature lovers and outdoor explorers. Sitting amidst the lush greenery and enchanting surroundings the terrain of Saptarishi Kund also consists of pathways strewn with rocky debris making the journey difficult yet extremely fruitful. It is named so since it is believed that the famous 7 rishis of India are said to have performed various yoga around the perimeter of this lake.
5. Janki Chatti
Janki Chatti is one of Yamunotri sightseeing known for its numerous naturally occurring thermal hot water springs which sit at an elevation of 2,650 meters above sea level, your Travel To Yamunotri remains incomplete without a visit to this pristine destination. Surrounded by thick and lush greenery on all sides and close to the Indo-China border, this was the previous starting point of the trek to Yamunotri. This newly made route not only shortens the entire trekking route but also offers a memorable time. Pilgrims on their journey have the option of shopping for their essential items from this holy town.
6. Kharsali
Located near the temple of Yamunotri this place is home to the temple which is the winter home of the residing idol of the goddess Yamuna. Formerly known as ‘Kushimath’, Kharsali is one of the most scenic destinations near Uttarakhand. You will be able to have a fun time with your family and loved ones by going on picturesque picnics. The clean air and the pristine nature will allow you to have a relaxing time in the lap of nature. This tiny hamlet gets completely covered in mesmerizing snow. This scenic destination is located at just a distance of 6 km from Yamunotri and can only be covered after covering a trekking journey of 1 km from Janki Chatti.
7. Barkot (Badkot)
The quaint hamlet of Barkot is a quiet and extremely pristine destination near the holy shrine of Yamunotri. Nestled amongst the tall rhododendrons and oak on an elevation of 1,220 meters above sea level Barkot offers some of the most magnificent views of the surrounding Bandarpoonch peaks. This is not only a popular pilgrimage destination but it’s also recognized as a popular adventure sports destination among numerous trekkers. This holy town has several ATMs and petrol pumps here where you can load up on supplies before heading on for your journey. Since it is situated at a mere distance of 46 km from Yamunotri temple and offers some of the most majestic views of the surrounding snow-bound Himalayas, Barkot is a place that you should visit.
8. Dodital
This pristine high-altitude lake is located at an elevation of 3,024 meters above sea level and is a freshwater lake that is home to a collection of Dodi fishes; hence the lake is named so. Dodotal serves as the beginning point for the river of Assi Ganga which rises here and confluences the holy river of Bhagirathi. The trekking journey here is extremely easy and simple and is a great option to take if you are planning on going on an adventure with your family with kids.
9. Dayara Bugyal
Looking to get into the fascinating world of trekking? Dayara Bugyal trek has to be one of the top-rated trekking options for beginner trekking enthusiasts. This trekking on the lush green meadows or Bugyal will take you across some of the vastest expanses of dense forests and incredible greenery. This trekking trail’s commencement point is from the village of Barsu and is located at an elevation of 3,048 meters above sea level. People can also visit this place to get a taste of adventure by skiing on its snowy slopes during the winter months when the entire region gets covered in a thick layer of white snow.
10. Raithal Village
The quaint Raithal village in the Uttarkashi, a place to visit in Yamunotri, Uttarakhand has been plucked straight from heaven. Located at an elevation of 1800 meters, the hamlet showcases serenity that transcends ordinary description. It’s a trekker’s paradise, many trekkers visit Raithal village as it’s a beautiful base camp of Dayara Bugyal. Away from the hustle and bustle of city life, one cannot help but feel a sense of admiration for the natural beauty of Raithal.
11. Uttarkashi
Often called Shivnagari, Somya Kashi, or Kashi of the North, Uttarkashi is one of the most popular places to visit around Yamunotri. It is a gateway for spiritual nourishment, an escape paradise for solace seekers, and a thrilling hub for adventure lovers. One of the most iconic spiritual landmarks of Uttarkashi is the Vishwanath Temple which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The holy shrine of the temple has a copper trident and a circumference of 1 meter. Kashi in Banaras also has Vishwanath Temple which radiates the divine aura of external sanctity. Adventurers love Uttarkashi as there are many opportunities for Trekking, mountaineering, adventure sports, etc.
12. Divya Shila
Divya Shila is a sacred rock located in the Yamunotri in Uttarakhand, India. It is considered to be a holy site by Hindus. In Hindu mythology, Divya Shila is said to be the stone that Lord Vishnu used to measure the universe. It is described as a powerful and sacred object that grants blessings to those who touch or worship it. At the site of Divya Shila, there is a small temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
When should you plan your trip to Yamunotri?
May – June and September – November are the best months to visit Yamunotri. Yamunotri is cold all the calendar, while winters make most activities difficult. Visiting the area during festivals Basant Panchami, Phool Devi, etc. will let you witness a more colorful and joyful side of Yamunotri.
List of Things to do in Yamunotri
Visit the Yamunotri Temple
A trip to the temple should be on top of your things-to-do list. The fabled structure was dedicated to Goddess Yamuna, where a black marble statue of her has been expertly created. The temple is at a height of 3293 meters and is surrounded by gorgeous mountains on all sides. This is the first temple out of the four, for pilgrims partaking in the Char Dham Yatra.
Trekking in Yamunotri
The Yamunotri trek is a 6km trek from Janki Chatti and is perfect for novice trekkers, along the river bank, with mountains trailing in the background. The whole journey to the Yamunotri Temple takes place through a dense forest full of little streams, making for a charming experience.
Visit Kharsali
It is known to be the winter throne to the Goddess Yamuna as during the winter her idol is shifted out of the Yamunotri temple and into the temple in Kharsali for worship. It is a picturesque hamlet situated at an elevation of 2675 meters above sea level. It is one of the best places to visit for some peace and serenity.
Take a dip in the Surya Kund Spring
A significant religious spot, this thermal spring records temperatures of nearly 88 degrees C. It is a must-visit place before entering the Yamunotri Temple, where pilgrims dip offerings of rice or potatoes mixed with salt into the water and then present the cooked food to the deity of Goddess Yamuna. This is one of the most popular things to do when visiting Yamunotri.
Bali Pass Trek
It is 16,240 feet above sea level, the Bali Pass is relatively untouched. It is an extremely notorious trekking path and it is strongly recommended to be scaled only with professional and highly experienced guides. The best months to do the trek are expected from May to October. The Ruinsara Lake that trekkers can observe on the route, is known to be of unmatched beauty.
How to Reach Yamunotri Temple
If you are planning a visit to the sacred Yamunotri Temple, located in the serene Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, India, here’s a comprehensive guide on how to reach this revered pilgrimage site:
By Air
The nearest airport to Yamunotri is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, approximately 210 km away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Janki Chatti, the base point for the Yamunotri trek.
By Train
The nearest railway station to Yamunotri is Rishikesh Railway Station, situated about 200 km away. After reaching Rishikesh, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Janki Chatti, from where the trek to Yamunotri begins.
By Road
From Delhi: Yamunotri is approximately 430 kilometers away from Delhi. You can drive or take a bus from Delhi to Dehradun, and then proceed to Janki Chatti by road.
From Haridwar: Yamunotri is about 230 km away from Haridwar. You can drive or take a bus from Haridwar to Dehradun, and then proceed to Janki Chatti.
From Dehradun: Yamunotri is approximately 180 km away from Dehradun. You can drive or take a bus from Dehradun to Janki Chatti directly.
Trekking Route:
Once you reach Janki Chatti, the main pilgrimage trek to Yamunotri begins. The Trek from Janki Chatti to Yamunotri is around 6 km long and usually takes about 4-5 hours to complete. The route offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lush greenery. Ponies and palanquins are also available for those who may find the trek challenging.
Helicopter Services:
For those seeking a quicker and more convenient way to reach Yamunotri, helicopter services are available from Dehradun to Yamunotri. These services provide an aerial view of the beautiful landscape and significantly reduce travel time.
Best Hotels and Resorts in Yamunotri Temple
- GMVN Tourist Rest House(Yamunotri)
- Yamunotri Cottages
- Hanuman Chatti Tourist Rest House(GMVN)
- Camp Nirvana Yamunotri
- Barkot Tourist Rest House(GMVN)
