Yamunotri, located in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, is a revered pilgrimage site known for its spiritual significance and natural beauty. While the primary attraction in Yamunotri is the Yamunotri Temple itself, which marks the origin of the Yamuna River, the region also offers several other places of interest for both pilgrims and nature enthusiasts. The serene environment, high-altitude meadows, glaciers, hot springs, and nearby peaks make Yamunotri a wonderful destination for spiritual seekers and adventurers alike.
Here’s a guide to some of the key places to visit in and around Yamunotri:
The centerpiece of Yamunotri, the Yamunotri Temple is dedicated to Goddess Yamuna, the river goddess, and is one of the four important sites in the Char Dham Yatra. The temple is located at an altitude of 3,293 meters (10,804 feet) and offers a panoramic view of the surrounding Bandarpunch Mountain Range and the Yamunotri Glacier.
Significance: The temple marks the origin of the Yamuna River, which emerges from the Yamunotri Glacier located nearby. Devotees visit the temple to pay homage to the goddess and seek her blessings for purification of sins and salvation.
Festivals: The temple is the focal point for important festivals like Yamuna Jayanti (Yamuna Ashtami) and the opening and closing ceremonies of the Char Dham pilgrimage.
The Yamunotri Glacier, located around 1.5 km from the Yamunotri Temple, is the origin of the Yamuna River. The glacier lies at a height of about 6,387 meters (20,950 feet) and is one of the highest sources of a major river in India. The glacier is surrounded by stunning peaks, including Bandarpunch and Swargarohini, making it a must-visit spot for trekkers and adventure enthusiasts.
Trekking: A trek to the Yamunotri Glacier is an adventurous journey for those who are physically fit and love hiking in the high-altitude Himalayas. The glacier area is pristine and offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains.
Natural Beauty: The glacier region is filled with snow, rock formations, and glacial moraines, offering a beautiful and tranquil atmosphere.
Surya Kund is one of the most famous hot springs near the Yamunotri Temple and is believed to have healing properties. The water in Surya Kund is extremely hot, and its temperature can go up to 90°C (194°F). The hot spring is named after the Sun God (Surya), as it is believed that the Sun God blessed the waters of this spring.
Cooking Prasad: One of the unique aspects of Surya Kund is that pilgrims use the boiling water to cook prasad (offerings), such as rice and potatoes. The practice of cooking in the hot spring adds a special devotional aspect to the visit.
Therapeutic Properties: Many devotees also believe that a dip in the hot springs can cure various ailments and bring physical and mental well-being.
Another significant hot spring near the Yamunotri Temple is Gauri Kund. This spring is also believed to have therapeutic properties and is named after Gauri, the consort of Lord Shiva. The hot waters of Gauri Kund are thought to cleanse the body and provide relaxation after the long trek to Yamunotri.
Healing Waters: Devotees take a dip in the waters of Gauri Kund to purify themselves spiritually. The spring is a popular stop for pilgrims who visit Yamunotri.
Scenic Beauty: The surrounding area around Gauri Kund is peaceful and serene, offering beautiful views of the nearby hills and valleys.
Janki Chatti is a small settlement located about 8 km from Yamunotri. It is one of the base points for the trek to Yamunotri Temple and a popular rest stop for pilgrims. The village is named after Janki, another name for Goddess Sita, and is situated amidst dense forests of oak and pine trees.
Gateway to Yamunotri Trek: Janki Chatti is where most pilgrims begin their trek to the Yamunotri Temple. It is well-equipped with accommodation options, eateries, and shops.
Natural Beauty: The village is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, and visitors can enjoy the peace and tranquility of the area.
Located about 13 km from Yamunotri and around 5 km from Janki Chatti, Hanuman Chatti is another starting point for the Yamunotri Trek. It is named after Lord Hanuman, and like Janki Chatti, it is a small village set against the backdrop of lush greenery and Himalayan peaks.
Trekking Base: Hanuman Chatti serves as an alternative starting point for pilgrims who are making their way to the Yamunotri Temple. It is also known for its peaceful environment.
Trekking Trail: The trek from Hanuman Chatti to Yamunotri is slightly longer and more strenuous compared to the Janki Chatti route but is equally beautiful.
The Bandarpunch Peak (also called Bandarpunch Parvat) is one of the prominent mountains in the region and is located near Yamunotri. Standing at an elevation of 6,316 meters (20,700 feet), it is part of the Garhwal Himalayas and is a popular peak for mountaineers and trekkers.
Trekking and Mountaineering: Bandarpunch is a popular trekking destination for advanced trekkers, and the region around it offers mesmerizing views of glaciers, snow-capped peaks, and verdant valleys.
Mythological Significance: The peak is known for its shape, which is said to resemble a monkey’s tail, hence the name “Bandarpunch” (meaning “monkey’s tail” in Hindi). It holds cultural and mythological significance as well.
Located near Yamunotri, the Swargarohini Peak is another towering mountain in the Garhwal Himalayas. The peak stands at a height of 6,252 meters (20,505 feet) and is associated with the legendary Swargarohini (path to heaven) mentioned in the Mahabharata.
Trekking: The Swargarohini trek is considered a challenging but rewarding expedition. Trekkers can experience breathtaking views of the mountains and glaciers around Yamunotri. The peak offers panoramic vistas of the Bandarpunch and other neighboring peaks.
The Kedar Kanti is a sacred rock formation located near the Yamunotri Temple. It is believed to be associated with Lord Shiva and has mythological significance. The Kedar Kanti is often visited by pilgrims seeking blessings from Lord Shiva and is considered an important religious landmark in the Yamunotri region.
Religious Importance: Pilgrims stop at this spot to offer prayers and worship before continuing their journey to the temple.
Located about 5 km from Janki Chatti, Kharsali is a picturesque village that is home to the ancient Shani Dev Temple. It is believed that the Shani (Saturn) deity at this temple is highly revered and worshipped by pilgrims seeking relief from misfortunes. The village offers a peaceful atmosphere and is an excellent place for nature lovers and those looking for a serene retreat.
The temple dedicated to Shani Dev is an important religious site in the region and draws devotees who come to worship the deity.
Scenic Village: Kharsali is a quaint village with traditional houses and beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.