Yamunotri Dham Yatra
Yamunotri is situated at an elevation of approximately 3,293 meters (10,804 feet) above sea level in the Garhwal Himalayas. The Yamuna River, originating from the Champasar Glacier near the Bandarpoonch peaks, is revered by Hindus, and its source at Yamunotri is considered highly sacred.
The Yamunotri temple is the main attraction, dedicated to Goddess Yamuna. To receive blessings and take a dip in the Yamuna River’s holy waters, pilgrims travel to the Yamunotri temple. A dip in Yamuna is said to pay for sins and bring peace. For those seeking spirituality, the Yamunotri Yatra is regarded as a bit challenging but highly satisfying.
Stand Apart with Our
3 Day Yamunotri Dham Yatra
Explore sacred Yamunotri in 3 days: Trek to the revered temple, Trek to the sacred Yamunotri Temple, witness the pristine Champasar Glacier, and immerse in the serene Himalayan landscape.
- We will start the journey early from Rishikesh to Barkot (approximately 180 km).
- En route, we will visit the scenic town of Nainbagh and the Kempty Falls.
- Check-in at a hotel in Barkot.
- Relax and acclimatize to the altitude.
- Drive to Jankichatti (around 45 km from Barkot).
- From Jankichatti, trek or take a pony ride to Yamunotri (6 km trek).
- Visit the Yamunotri Temple and the Champasar Glacier.
- Return to Barkot in the evening for an overnight stay.
- Check out from the hotel in Barkot.
- Drive back to Rishikesh.
- En route, visit the Lakhamandal temple and enjoy the scenic beauty.
- Reach Rishikesh and check in at your hotel.
Yamunotri Temple Opening and Closing
The Yamunotri Temple, a revered Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to Goddess Yamuna, typically opens its doors on the auspicious occasion of Akshaya Tritiya, which falls on the third lunar day of the bright half of the month of Vaishakha. In 2024, for example, the temple is scheduled to open on May 10th.
The daily opening and closing times of the Yamunotri Temple may also vary, and it’s recommended to check with the local authorities or the temple administration for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
As for the closing time, the temple shuts down for the winter season around the time of Yama Dwitiya, which is the second day after Diwali. The closing date may vary each year, following the Hindu lunar calendar, and pilgrims and travelers should check the specific closing date for the respective year they plan to visit.
The temple’s opening and closing ceremonies are significant events for devotees, marking the beginning and end of the pilgrimage season.
Attractions Nearby Yamunotri Temple
Janki Chatti: Located just 7 kilometers from Yamunotri, Janki Chatti serves as the base for the trek to the temple. The hot springs here, called the ‘Divya Shila,’ are believed to have medicinal properties.
Kharsali: A picturesque village near Yamunotri, Kharsali is known for its ancient Shani Temple and the oldest Lord Shiva temple in the region.
Barkot: Situated around 49 kilometers from Yamunotri, Barkot is a charming town surrounded by mountains. It serves as a stopover for pilgrims on their way to Yamunotri.
Lakhamandal: En route to Yamunotri, Lakhamandal is known for its ancient Shiva temple and legends from the Mahabharata. The temple’s unique architecture and historical importance make it a notable stop.
Hanuman Chatti: Located at the confluence of the Hanuman Ganga and Yamuna rivers, Hanuman Chatti is a scenic spot and a starting point for the trek to Yamunotri. The Hanuman Temple here is a popular pilgrimage site.
Dodital: For those interested in trekking and nature, Dodital is a serene lake situated at an altitude of 3,307 meters. It requires a trek from Hanuman Chatti and offers stunning views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks.
Surya Kund: Close to Yamunotri Temple, Surya Kund is a hot water spring where pilgrims traditionally cook rice and potatoes to offer at the temple. The Kund is known for its high temperature, and it adds a unique aspect to the pilgrimage.
Divya Shila: This sacred rock near Janki Chatti is believed to be the holy slab where devotees offer their prayers before proceeding to Yamunotri Temple. It is an essential part of the pilgrimage.
