Top 7 Places To Visit in Yamunotri
Yamunotri is a significant pilgrimage site and part of the Char Dham yatra. Situated at a high altitude of about 3293 meters in Uttarkashi district, Uttarakhand, it offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. You can even see the Indo-China border from here. The mountains nearby make it perfect for trekking and rock climbing. The rugged peaks and dense forests add to the joy of travelers visiting this area.
If you are planning a trip to Yamunotri, get ready for a journey filled with beautiful sights and peaceful moments. Nestled in the Himalayas, Yamunotri is a special place to visit. Here are top 7 places to visit in Yamunotri
1. Yamunotri Temple
Start your journey by visiting this sacred temple dedicated to Goddess Yamuna. Surrounded by mountains and greenery, the temple is peaceful and serene. Don’t miss the evening Aarti, it is divine and beautiful.
2. Surya Kund
Surya Kund is a natural hot spring situated near Yamunotri Dham, known as one of the most important thermal springs close to the temple. It derives its name from the belief that Yamuna, the river, is the daughter of the sun god, Surya.
Pilgrims visit this hot spring to refresh themselves after a long trek and to prepare “prasad” for temple offerings. The prasad, made by wrapping a mix of potato and rice in a muslin cloth and boiling it in the hot spring, is a customary practice. Surya Kund is conveniently located within a short walk from the Yamunotri temple.
3. Divya Shila
The “Divine Stone” or “Divya Shilla” is a sacred pillar near the Yamunotri temple. According to Hindu tradition, worshippers should pay homage to the Divya Shilla before entering the Yamunotri shrine.
Pilgrims start by bathing in the holy Surya Kund, purifying themselves, and cooking prasad made of potato and rice in the hot water pool. After offering the prasad and performing puja rituals at the Divya Shilla, they proceed to the Yamunotri temple. The hot water spring is conveniently located near the Yamunotri shrine.
4. Janki Chatti
Visit this scenic village by the Yamuna River. It is a peaceful place with lovely views. Try some local food while you are there.
5. Kharsali
Known as the “Winter Abode of Goddess Yamuna,” Kharsali is a small village nestled in Uttarkashi district, Uttarakhand. Just 6 km away from Yamunotri Temple, it captivates visitors with its scenic beauty, including charming waterfalls and natural springs.
Kharsali is also home to the renowned Shani Temple, attracting pilgrims and tourists alike. During the winter months from November to April, Goddess Yamuna resides here. Despite enduring natural calamities and earthquakes, the temple, believed to be constructed by the Pandavas, stands strong.
6. Barkot
Barkot is well-known as a starting point for the sacred journey to Yamunotri Temple, a significant pilgrimage site dedicated to the goddess Yamuna. Pilgrims brave a challenging trek from Barkot to reach Yamunotri, nestled amidst the grand Himalayan peaks.
Aside from its religious importance, Barkot is famed for its stunning natural beauty. Situated on the banks of the Yamuna River, the town is surrounded by lush greenery and towering mountains, offering breathtaking landscapes. Barkot is a sought-after destination for those seeking peace and a close bond with nature.
Moreover, Barkot serves as a base for adventurers starting the Char Dham Yatra pilgrimage circuit, which includes Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. Its strategic location and serene atmosphere contribute to its reputation as a starting point for spiritual journeys and exploration of the Himalayan marvels. In essence, Barkot’s popularity stems from its dual role as a religious center and a gateway to Uttarakhand’s pristine natural beauty.
7. Hanuman Chatti
Hanuman Chatti, located in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, is an important stop for pilgrims heading to Yamunotri. Situated at an elevation of 2,401 meters (7,877 feet), it serves as the starting point for the challenging trek to Yamunotri Temple. Pilgrims often take a break in Hanuman Chatti before starting the uphill journey, seeking blessings from Lord Hanuman, to whom the place is dedicated. The town is also where the Hanuman Ganga and Yamuna rivers meet, adding to its religious significance. Besides being a pilgrimage base, Hanuman Chatti is a scenic stopover with beautiful landscapes, adding to the memorable spiritual journey to Yamunotri.
A) How To Reach Yamunotri
- By Air: The closest airport to Gangotri is Jolly Grant Airport. Travelers can easily reach the city from this airport using public transportation. Jolly Grant Airport is well-connected to many cities and states, ensuring a comfortable journey. It is approximately 196 km away from Gangotri.
- By Train: Dehradun Railway Station serves as the nearest major railway station to Gangotri. Trains from various destinations arrive frequently at this station, providing convenient access. Travelers can easily reach the railway station by bus or taxi.
- By Road: Buses offer a convenient mode of transportation for traveling between different places. To reach Gangotri, travelers can take a bus to Hanuman Chatti and then trek to the destination, as wheeled traffic is not suitable on the routes. Gangotri is accessible by road from Chandigarh (394km), Delhi (419km), Haridwar (223km), Dehradun (172km), and Mussoorie (142km).
Visiting Yamunotri offers a blend of spiritual serenity and natural beauty that leaves a lasting impression on travelers. From the sacred Yamunotri Temple to the picturesque Surya Kund and the tranquil surroundings of Hanuman Chatti, each place holds its own charm and significance. Whether seeking divine blessings or simply exploring the wonders of nature, Yamunotri provides a fulfilling experience for all who venture there. So pack your bags, embark on this enriching journey, and create memories that will stay with you forever.