Category: Uttarakhand

The term “Divya Shila” is associated with the Yamunotri temple, one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. Yamunotri is dedicated to the goddess Yamuna, and it is an important pilgrimage destination for Hindus.The Divya Shila is a holy rock pillar located near the Yamunotri temple.

Divya shila In Yamunotri

The term “Divya Shila” refers to a holy rock pillar or slab located near the Yamunotri temple. Devotees believe that this rock pillar is a divine stone where they offer their prayers before entering the Yamunotri temple. It holds significance as a sacred symbol, and pilgrims often perform rituals and pujas at the Divya Shila as part of their religious journey.

Near Place to Visit

How To Reach

Reach Dehradun or Haridwar:Dehradun and Haridwar are well-connected by road, rail, and air. You can either take a flight to Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun or a train to Haridwar, and then proceed to Yamunotri.

Travel to Hanuman Chatti:From Dehradun or Haridwar, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Hanuman Chatti. It is the base camp for the trek to Yamunotri and is approximately 215 km from Dehradun.

Trek to Yamunotri:From Hanuman Chatti, you need to trek to Yamunotri. The trek is about 6 km long and usually takes around 3-4 hours. The route is picturesque, with the Yamuna River flowing alongside.

Visit Yamunotri Temple:The Yamunotri Temple is dedicated to Goddess Yamuna. After reaching Yamunotri, you can visit the temple and seek the blessings of the goddess.

Reach Divya Shila:Divya Shila is a short walk from the Yamunotri Temple. It is customary for pilgrims to offer prayers and perform rituals at Divya Shila. The rock is considered sacred, and it is believed that offering prayers here completes the pilgrimage.

Kharsali, also known as ‘Khushimath,’ is a serene and untouched village nestled in the picturesque Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, India. Situated at an impressive elevation of 2,675 meters above sea level, this tiny hamlet is not only a visual delight but also holds significant religious importance.

Mythology & Cultural and Traditional

Kharsali, situated near the Yamunotri temple in Uttarakhand, holds religious and mythological significance in Hinduism. Here are some aspects of the importance of Kharsali in terms of mythology and spirituality:

Mythological Connection

The Yamunotri region is steeped in Hindu mythology. It is believed to be the source of the Yamuna River, and the temple at Yamunotri is dedicated to Goddess Yamuna, who is considered the daughter of the sun god, Surya, and sister of Yama, the god of death.

Char Dham Yatra:

Kharsali is often visited by pilgrims undertaking the Char Dham Yatra, which includes four sacred pilgrimage sites in Uttarakhand—Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. The journey is considered a significant and spiritually enriching experience for Hindus.

Cultural and Traditional Practices

The village of Kharsali may also be a place where visitors can witness local cultural and traditional practices associated with the worship of Goddess Yamuna. These practices often involve rituals, festivals, and ceremonies that are an integral part of the local community’s way of life.

Kharsali – Winter Seat of Goddess Yamuna

Kharsali is known as the winter seat of Goddess Yamuna. During the winter months when the Yamunotri temple is covered in snow and inaccessible due to harsh weather conditions, the idol of Goddess Yamuna is shifted to the village of Kharsali. The locals believe that the goddess resides there during the winter season.
Pilgrims who visit Yamunotri during the summer months may find that Kharsali is a serene and picturesque village surrounded by snow-capped mountains. The journey to Yamunotri and its nearby areas is not only a religious pilgrimage but also an opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the Himalayan region.

Near Place to Vist

How To Reach Kharsali