Yamunotri – Ashu Tour and Travels
Yamunotri is one of the holiest and most important pilgrimage sites in India, located in the Garhwal region of the Uttarkashi district in Uttarakhand. It is the source of the Yamuna River, one of the most sacred rivers in Hinduism. The Yamunotri Temple, dedicated to Goddess Yamuna, sits at an altitude of about 3,291 meters (10,797 feet) above sea level, making it a part of the Char Dham Yatra, which also includes Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath.
Key Features of Yamunotri:
- Yamunotri Temple: The main attraction here is the Yamunotri Temple, built by Maharani Gularia of Jaipur in the 19th century. Devotees come here to pay homage to Goddess Yamuna, and the temple is an important stop for those undertaking the Char Dham pilgrimage.
- Source of the Yamuna River: The actual source of the Yamuna River is a glacier called the Yamunotri Glacier, which is located at the base of the Bandarpunch peak. The river originates from the Yamunotri Glacier and flows through the region before eventually joining the Ganga River.
- Thermal Springs: Near the temple, there are hot water springs at Surya Kund and Saptarishi Kund. Devotees cook rice and potatoes in the thermal water, which is believed to be a form of divine offering to the goddess.
- Scenic Beauty: Yamunotri is known for its natural beauty, with snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and rugged terrains. The region offers stunning views of the surrounding Himalayan mountains.
- Trekking to Yamunotri: The temple is accessible by a 6-km trek from the town of Janki Chatti, which is the nearest roadhead. The trek is an arduous but rewarding experience with breathtaking views of the mountains, forests, and valleys. Pilgrims often opt for horses or palkis (palanquins) for the journey, though the trek can be done on foot.
- Significance in Hinduism: Yamunotri holds immense religious significance. It is believed that a dip in the Yamuna River here purifies the soul and washes away sins. According to Hindu mythology, the river is the sister of Yama, the god of death, and is considered a protector from untimely death and misfortune.
Best Time to Visit:
The best time to visit Yamunotri is during the summer months (April to June) and the autumn months (September to November). The Char Dham pilgrimage season generally runs from April to November, and the temple is closed during the winter due to heavy snowfall.
How to Reach Yamunotri:
- By Road: The nearest major town to Yamunotri is Rishikesh, which is about 200 km away. From Rishikesh, you can drive to Hanuman Chatti, and from there, take a 6 km trek to Yamunotri.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Rishikesh, which is well-connected to major cities in India.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, about 210 km from Yamunotri. From the airport, one can drive to the base town of Hanuman Chatti.
Yamunotri, along with the other Char Dham sites, is considered one of the most spiritually uplifting journeys for Hindus, drawing millions of devotees and travelers from across the world.
