Yamunotri Dham

• Location: Yamunotri Dham is situated in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, India.
• Altitude: It is located at an elevation of approximately 3,293 meters (10,804 feet) above sea level.
• River Yamuna: The sacred Yamunotri temple is dedicated to Goddess Yamuna, and it is the source of the Yamuna River, one of the major rivers in India.
• Access: The temple is not directly accessible by road; visitors have to trek a distance of about 6 kilometers from the town of Hanuman Chatti to reach Yamunotri.
• Char Dham Yatra: Yamunotri is one of the four Char Dham pilgrimage sites, along with Badrinath, Kedarnath, and Gangotri, forming a significant pilgrimage circuit in the Himalayas.
• Opening Time: The temple is usually open from May to October, and the best time to visit is during the summer months, as the region experiences extreme cold and heavy snowfall in winter.
• Temple Timings: 6 am – 8 pm
• Entry Fee: No entry fee
• Time Required: 1-3 hours
• Religious Significance: Pilgrims visit Yamunotri to seek the blessings of Goddess Yamuna and to perform religious rituals and ceremonies.
• Natural Beauty: The journey to Yamunotri offers stunning views of the Himalayan mountains, pristine landscapes, and hot water springs like Surya Kund.
• Panch Prayag: Yamunotri is also associated with the Panch Prayag pilgrimage circuit, representing the confluence of five sacred rivers in the Garhwal region.
• Cultural Importance: The region around Yamunotri is rich in cultural heritage, and the temple reflects traditional Garhwali architecture.
• Yatra Challenges: The trek to Yamunotri involves challenging terrains, and visitors should be prepared for the high-altitude conditions and changing weather.
• Tourist Facilities: Despite the rugged terrain, there are facilities like rest houses and accommodations available for pilgrims and tourists.

Yamunotri Dham, located in the heart of the Garhwal Himalayas in Uttarakhand, India, is a sacred pilgrimage site revered for its historical importance and religious significance. Dedicated to the goddess Yamuna, it marks the source of the holy Yamuna River. According to Hindu mythology, it is believed that sage Asit Muni performed rigorous penance here, which led to the manifestation of the Yamuna River. The temple at Yamunotri, constructed in the 19th century, is a fine example of traditional Garhwali architecture, characterized by its wooden structure and ornate carvings. Surrounded by picturesque landscapes and snow-capped peaks, Yamunotri offers pilgrims and nature lovers a tranquil and spiritually enriching experience.

Yamunotri experiences a chilly climate throughout the year, with temperatures dropping significantly during winter months. The ideal time to visit is during the summer season from May to June and then again in September when the weather is milder, and the temple is accessible. To reach Yamunotri, one can begin their journey from Rishikesh and take a road route that passes through scenic towns like Barkot and Hanuman Chatti. The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, and the nearest railway station is in Rishikesh. Additionally, pilgrims must undertake a trek of about 6 kilometers from Hanuman Chatti to reach the temple, adding an element of adventure to their spiritual journey. Yamunotri Dham is a place where history, mythology, and natural beauty converge, offering a sacred and rejuvenating experience for all who make the pilgrimage.