Places to Visit In Yamuntori

Places to Visit in Yamunotri – A Complete Travel Guide

Yamunotri, located in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, India, is a sacred pilgrimage destination and the source of the holy Yamuna River. Known for its spiritual significance and breathtaking natural beauty, Yamunotri is a major stop on the Char Dham Yatra. Every year, thousands of devotees visit this divine place to pay homage to Goddess Yamuna and experience the serene Himalayan landscapes.

📍 Best Time to Visit Yamunotri: May – October
📍 Altitude: 3,293 meters (10,804 feet)
📍 How to Reach: Helicopter, Trek from Janki Chatti

Spiritual Significance of Yamunotri

The Yamuna River is considered the second holiest river in Hinduism after River Ganga. It is believed that taking a holy dip in the Yamuna purifies the soul and protects devotees from untimely death. The Yamunotri Temple, dedicated to Goddess Yamuna, is the prime attraction of this holy site.

The original source of River Yamuna is at Saptarishi Kund, located at 4,421 meters above sea level. However, due to its challenging terrain, the temple at Yamunotri is worshiped as the main origin point.

Top 7 Places to Visit in Yamunotri

1. Yamunotri Temple – The Sacred Shrine of Goddess Yamuna

🏯 Yamunotri Temple is the first stop of the Char Dham Yatra, dedicated to Goddess Yamuna. It is located at an altitude of 3,293 meters in the Garhwal Himalayas. The temple is surrounded by snow-covered peaks, glaciers, and the Yamuna River, offering a majestic and spiritual experience.

✨ Why Visit?
✔ One of the Chota Char Dham Temples
✔ Stunning location amidst Himalayan peaks
✔ Spiritual significance & divine peace

📍 Best Time to Visit: May to October

2. Barkot – A Scenic Hill Station Near Yamunotri

🌿 Barkot is a picturesque hill station located en route to Yamunotri. It is famous for hiking trails, white-water rafting, and stunning views of Bandarpoonch Peak. Situated at the confluence of the Yamuna and Ganga Rivers, Barkot is an ideal stopover for Char Dham pilgrims.

✨ Why Visit?
✔ Breathtaking mountain views
✔ Adventure activities – Trekking & Rafting
✔ Perfect for a stopover during Char Dham Yatra

📍 Distance from Yamunotri: 50 km

3. Hanuman Chatti – Trekking Paradise & Pilgrimage Site

🚶‍♂️ Hanuman Chatti, located 13 km from Yamunotri, is a popular trekking hub and a spiritual landmark. Situated at the confluence of Hanuman Ganga and Yamuna Rivers, it serves as the base camp for treks to Yamunotri, Darwa Top, and Dodital.

✨ Why Visit?
✔ Major trekking point for Yamunotri & beyond
✔ Spiritual significance – Home to Hanuman Temple
✔ Scenic views & tranquil atmosphere

📍 Trek Distance to Yamunotri: 7 km

4. Divya Shila – The Rock of Divine Power

🔱 Divya Shila, meaning "Slab of Divine Light," is a holy rock near Yamunotri Temple where pilgrims offer prayers before entering the temple. It is believed that offering prayers at Divya Shila blesses devotees with positive energy and divine protection.

✨ Why Visit?
✔ Highly revered pilgrimage spot
✔ Essential ritual before entering Yamunotri Temple
✔ Located near Surya Kund hot springs

📍 Distance from Yamunotri Temple: 500 meters

5. Surya Kund – The Sacred Hot Spring

♨ Surya Kund is a natural thermal spring located near the Yamunotri Temple complex. The boiling hot water from this spring is used by devotees to cook rice and potatoes, which are later offered as prasad at the Yamunotri Temple.

✨ Why Visit?
✔ Sacred hot water spring with medicinal benefits
✔ Spiritual significance in Hindu mythology
✔ Located within the Yamunotri Temple premises

📍 Temperature: 88°C (190°F)

6. Saptarishi Kund – The Original Source of River Yamuna

🏔 Saptarishi Kund, located at 4,421 meters, is a high-altitude glacial lake considered the true origin of River Yamuna. It is one of the most challenging treks in Uttarakhand, passing through glaciers, rocky terrain, and breathtaking Himalayan landscapes.

✨ Why Visit?
✔ The sacred origin of River Yamuna
✔ Panoramic views of glaciers & mountains
✔ Thrilling trekking experience

📍 Trek Distance: 16 km from Yamunotri

7. Kharsali – The Winter Home of Goddess Yamuna

🏯 Kharsali, also known as Khushimath, is the winter abode of Goddess Yamuna. During the winter months, the idol of Goddess Yamuna is shifted from Yamunotri Temple to the Shani Dev Temple in Kharsali. The village is surrounded by snow-capped Garhwal mountains, offering stunning landscapes and a serene atmosphere.

✨ Why Visit?
✔ Winter home of Goddess Yamuna
✔ Ancient Shani Dev Temple
✔ Perfect for camping & nature lovers