Ma Yamuna who in the form of river nourishes the land of India is worshiped in Yamunotri dham, the place of its origination.
Yamunotri Dham is also the first and foremost part of the Char dham circuit of Uttrakhand located in Uttarkashi district of Uttrakhand.
The Yamuna that originates from Saptarishi kund is fed by Champasar glacier in Yamunotri near Banderpunch mountain. Yamunotri dham is situated at an elevation of 3290 m on the foothills of Kalind mountains at the stretch of 150 km from Uttarkashi which is why ma Yamuna is also known as Kalindi.
Believed to be the daughter of Bhagwan Surya, the kund near Yamunotri temple is known as Surya kund where the Pooja of Divine stone (Divya Shila ) is marked as an essential ritual before worship at Yamunotri temple.
Generally Rice, potatoes are cooked in muslin cloth in hot waters of Surya Kund and offered as Prasad to Yamuna ji. Yamunotri dham open on the day of Akshya Tritya and remains open till Yama Dwitya that is on the second day of Diwali.
Trek to Yamunotri Dham Yatra.
Yamunotri Dham yatra is at the stretch of 7 km from Janki Chatti that takes around 3 to 4 hours to complete. Janki Chatti is last motor able spot from where trek to temple starts. The trek is slight steep and narrow and can be done on foot, also the services of Ponies, Palkis are available.
Generally the cost of Ponies is INR 1200 for one way and of Palki it costs around 4000 INR -6000 INR for one way.
Although Yamunotri trek yatra is ardent but the beauty of lush green valleys and eye soothing views of mountains, breathing in fresh air ,one gets connected with nature. The beauty of sparkling waters of River Yamuna soothes your mind and soul. There are various points amid trek where you can have food, tea, juices and enjoy the beautiful serene of pattern of clouds covering the snow peaks of Kalind Mountains.
How to reach Janki Chatti?
Janki Chatti from where the trek to Yamunotri Dham begins is at the distance of aroun 210 km from Rishikesh. One can also start the journey from Dehradun. Nearest Airport is Jolly Grant Airport of Dehradun from where you can take cab/bus to Janki Chatti. One can also reach by train to Rishikesh, Haridwar and Dehradun. To start the journey .
Make sure to register yourself before going to Yamunotri Dham at booking counter of Haridwar, Rishikesh and Dehradun or through online.
FAQs for Yamunotri Dham Yatra
Yamunotri Dham is one of the Char Dhams in Uttarakhand and holds immense religious significance as the origin of the Yamuna River. It is dedicated to Goddess Yamuna, who is believed to protect devotees from untimely death.
Yamunotri Dham can be reached by road up to Janki Chatti, which is the last motorable point. From there, a 6 km trek leads to the temple. You can hire ponies or palanquins for assistance during the trek.
The best time to visit Yamunotri is from April to June and September to November, as the weather is pleasant and the trek becomes more comfortable. The temple remains closed during the winter months due to heavy snowfall.
The main attractions include the Yamunotri Temple, Surya Kund (a natural hot water spring), and the Divya Shila, where devotees offer prayers before entering the temple.
Yes, accommodations are available at Janki Chatti, Hanuman Chatti, and Barkot. Options range from budget lodges to guesthouses catering to all types of pilgrims.
The trek is moderate and suitable for pilgrims with average fitness levels. Elderly pilgrims or those with health issues can opt for ponies or palanquins for convenience.
Carry warm clothes, sturdy trekking shoes, raincoats (if visiting during monsoon), medicines, and water bottles. Do not forget to carry a walking stick for additional support during the trek.
The trek involves high-altitude travel, so it is advisable to consult a doctor if you have any health concerns. Stay hydrated and avoid overexertion during the journey.
Yes, you can visit Yamunotri Dham with children, but ensure you take necessary precautions for their safety during the trek. Hiring a palanquin or pony is advisable for young children.
The trek to Yamunotri from Janki Chatti usually takes around 4-6 hours, depending on your pace. The entire yatra can be completed in 1-2 days, including travel and temple darshan.