Yamunotri Temple is the westernmost shrine of the Char Dham Yatra and is dedicated to Goddess Yamuna. Located in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand at an altitude of about 3,293 meters, Yamunotri marks the sacred origin of the River Yamuna and is surrounded by pristine Himalayan landscapes.
A visit to Yamunotri is believed to protect devotees from untimely death and cleanse sins through the blessings of Goddess Yamuna.
Significance of Yamunotri Dham
According to Hindu mythology, Goddess Yamuna, the daughter of Surya (Sun God) and sister of Yama (God of Death), resides here. It is believed that bathing in the Yamuna absolves devotees from the fear of death and grants spiritual purification.
The temple was built by Maharani Guleria of Jaipur in the 19th century and later renovated due to natural calamities.
Yamunotri Temple Opening & Closing
- Opening Time: April/May (on Akshaya Tritiya)
- Closing Time: October/November (on Yama Dwitiya / Bhai Dooj)
Dates are announced every year by the temple committee.
Yamunotri Yatra Route
- Base Point: Janki Chatti
- Trek Distance: ~6 km (one way)
- Options Available:
- Trekking
- Pony / Mule
- Palki
Major Attractions Near Yamunotri
- Surya Kund – Hot water spring used for cooking prasad
- Divya Shila – Sacred rock near the temple
- Hanuman Chatti – Confluence and stopover point
- Kharsali Village – Known for ancient Shani Dev Temple
How to Reach Yamunotri
By Road:
Rishikesh / Haridwar → Dehradun → Barkot → Janki Chatti
By Rail:
Nearest railway station – Dehradun (172 km)
By Air:
Nearest airport – Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (196 km)
Best Time to Visit Yamunotri
The best time to visit Yamunotri is May to June and September to October. July–August should be avoided due to heavy monsoon rains and landslides.
Important Travel Tips for Yamunotri Yatra
- Complete Char Dham Yatra registration in advance
- Carry warm clothing and rain gear
- Walk slowly during the trek to avoid exhaustion
- Use proper trekking shoes with good grip
- Follow local weather and safety advisories
Why Visit Yamunotri Dham?
Yamunotri offers a peaceful and spiritually uplifting start to the Char Dham Yatra. The serene environment, sacred hot springs, and divine presence of Goddess Yamuna make this dham a place of purity, devotion, and inner calm.