Yamunotri Dham is among the Char Dham located in Uttrakhand which has special religious importance among the Hindus. The temple is in the western region of the Garhwal Himalayas, at an altitude of 3,291 metres. The temple is atop the Bandarpunch mountain, worships Goddess Yamuna, and is the source of Yamunotri River. If you plan to embark on the Yamunotri Yatra in 2024, here are some important details about the temple.
About Yamunotri Dham
Historical Significance of Yamunotri Dham
Yamunotri Dham has a lot of tales to tell of mythologies and legends surrounding the place. Some people think that Maharaja Pratap Shah of Tehri Garhwal constructed the temple. Legends have it that the Hindu sage known as Asit Muni used to reside near the site of the present-day temple. Stories have it that the goddess Yamuna is believed to be the daughter of Surya – the god of the sun, and the sister to Yama – the god of death; worshippers are bestowed with long life and wealth. Legends say bathing in the Yamuna can wash away one’s sins.
Spiritual Importance
Yamunotri has great importance in Hindu religion and mythology. Devotees pay their homage to Goddess Yamuna and perform rituals at the shrine for the salvation and welfare of their ancestors. Yamunotri is also considered one of the holiest rivers in India; where it is believed that if one visits the place, one soul gets purified, and one feels spiritually satisfied. The temple is one of the important temples of the Chardham Yatra besides Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath.
How to reach Yamunotri?
Yamunotri has no direct road/rail/air connectivity from any part of India. The last motorable stop is Janki Chatti, from where pilgrims need to trek a distance of 6 kilometers to reach the temple. Here are some of the options you can consider to travel to Yamunotri Dham:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, which is situated in Dehradun, and the distance from this airport to Yamunotri is about 210 kilometres. You can hire a taxi from the airport or take a bus up to Janki Chatti, the starting point of the trek at Yamunotri. Alternatively, you can book Chardham Yatra by Helicopter services from Dehradun to visit Yamunotri and all other Chardham Temples.
- By Train: The nearest railway stations are in Dehradun and Rishikesh, which are properly connected to different parts of the country. You can hire a taxi from the stations or board a bus to Janki Chatti.
- By Road: The region is accessible through road and the nearest motorable road head is Janki Chatti. The well-maintained motorable roads connect Janki Chatti to other places of tourist importance, such as Dehradun, Rishikesh and Haridwar. The distance from Janki Chatti to Yamunotri Dham is a trek of 6 km by foot.
The Journey To Yamunotri Dham Route
1. Starting Point: Janki Chatti
Jankichatti is the starting point for the trek and is situated 6 km away from Yamunotri. With accommodation, food, and first aid services, the town has become an appropriate base for the pilgrims.
2. The Trek to Yamunotri
A challenging trek begins from Janki Chatti to Yamunotri, enriched with natural beauty. The entire route covers the sprawling forests, white bubbling streams, picturesque scenery and compelling beauty. Ensure you take enough water and food to stay hydrated and energized during the trek.
3. Arriving at Yamunotri Dham
When one arrives at Yamunotri, the calmness of the place and the marvellous temple will calm your tired soul. Attend the temple rites and traditions. Also, Yamunotri Dham has some notable attractions, such as the Surya Kund, the thermal spring and the sacred Divya Shila, a rock pillar revered by devotees. For those who wish to cover only Kedarnath and Badrinath temples, the Do Dham Yatra by helicopter is a convenient option.
Exploring Yamunotri Dham: Places to Visit Near Yamunotri Dham
1. Hanuman Chatti
About 13 kilometers away from Yamunotri, Hanuman Chatti is a small village which becomes an important place for Yatra towards Yamunotri and Dodital Taal. This place is believed to be where Lord Hanuman and Bhima met; therefore, it is called Hanuman Chatti. It is famous for its peaceful surroundings, beautiful scenery, and the merging of the Hanuman Ganga and Yamuna rivers.
2. Saptrishi Kund
The next destination you can cover during your Yamunotri Dham is Saptrishi Kund, the actual source of Yamuna. So, this is the perfect trekking trail for all those who love an adrenaline rush. Saptrishi Kund is situated at an elevation of around 4,421 meters or 14,505 feet, the trek is steeped in rough terrains, alpine pastures and untouched scenery. The kund (lake) carries great religious value or importance because the great Saptarsihas used to meditate there. The water in the kund is crystal clear blue, and the natural beauty around them always compensates for the hard trekking.
3. Kharsali
Kharsali is where the idol of Goddess Yamuna remains during winter when the shrine of Yamunotri temple remains closed owing to heavy snowfall. Approximately one kilometer from the Janki Chatti, it is a lovely small village with grassy fields, the historic temple of Shiva, and wooden houses. The deity of Goddess Yamuna is moved to Kharsali for the winter session.
4. Surya Kund
Surya Kund is a hot water spring close to the temple, where pilgrims boil rice and potatoes to offer to the deity. So this is due to natural sulphur in the thermal springs’ water. One should take safety measures while visiting the kund.
5. Divya Shila
Before entering the temple, the devotees pay their reverence to Divya Shila or the ‘Divine Stone’. People offer prayers here, which is considered to have immense religious importance.
Best Time to Visit Yamunotri
Generally, the best time to visit Yamunotri Dham is from May to November. So this is when the temple opens and before the temple closes officially. This year, the temple opened on 10th May, 2024 and will close on 3rd November, 2024. Hence, pilgrims can make their plans accordingly.
However, they need to note that July till September is the monsoon period when the region experience heavy rainfall. Hence, this can lead to landslides and flood situations. So pilgrims must not plan their Yatra during this period.
Important Tips For Yamunotri Dham
1. Physical Preparation
The trek to Yamunotri is not very strenuous and requires moderate physical fitness. Hence, having good physical health, building your stamina, and endurance is advisable.
2. Packing Essentials
- Clothing: Carry extra clothes and accessories that will complement the temperature change. Take suitable clothing for the weather and local dress for the temples.
- Footwear: You should wear good trekking shoes to help you through the journey.
- Accessories: Hat/umbrella, pocket/torch, thermos flask/water bottle, spare batteries, camera, binoculars, map/compass, wet-wipes, snacks, walking sticks/backpacks etc.
3. Book Accommodations & Packages in Advance
It can become challenge during the peak season to get accommodations last moment. Hence, it is always advisable to book your accommodations in advance.
4. Behave Well & Respect Others
Respect local people, customs, and their culture. Do not consume alcohol or non-veg during the Yatra and dress well when visiting temples.
5. Have Emergency Contacts With You
Ensure that you note down all the emergency contacts with you since it can be useful in times of uncertainties.
6. Take Weather Updates
Before you step out, ensure you know the present road and weather condition and if it is safe to travel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1). What is the best time to visit Yamunotri Temple?
The best time to visit the Yamunotri temple is from April to June.
Q2). Which hot water spring is located near the Yamunotri temple?
Surya Kund is the hot water spring located near the Yamunotri temple.
Q3). Do we need to register for Yamunotri Dham?
Yes, a biometric registration is required to visit pilgrimage sites in Uttrakhand.
Q4). Is there any trek from Yamunotri Temple?
Yes, there is a trek of 5km from Janki Chatti vehicles to reach Yamunotri Temple.
