Yamunotri
Significance & Lore
The Divine Heritage
Yamunotri is the source of the Yamuna River and is dedicated to Goddess Yamuna. She is the daughter of Surya (the Sun God) and the sister of Yama (the God of Death). It is believed that bathing in the Yamuna's freezing waters protects devotees from untimely death and spiritual suffering. The temple is located near Divya Shila, a sacred rock pillar that is worshipped before entering the temple, and Surya Kund, a collection of natural boiling water springs.
Spiritual Importance
“Part of Char Dham Yatra”
Pilgrimage Guidelines
Mandatory Compliance & Safety
Janki Chatti to Yamunotri is a steep 6 km trek. Consider renting a horse, pony, or doli if you have mobility limitations.
Ensure you purchase fresh rice to cook in the boiling waters of Surya Kund as a holy offering (Prasad).
Register at the local counter in Janki Chatti if biometric registration was not completed online.
Sacred Offerings
Key Puja Offerings & Rituals
Yamuna Aarti
Evening prayer ritual of lamps dedicated to the goddess Yamuna along the riverbank.
Divya Shila Puja
Special ritual of prayers and vermillion offering to the sacred rock pillar near the temple.
Visual Journey
Glimpses of the divine landscapes and sacred sites awaiting you.
Temporal Protocols
दर्शन एवं आरती समय (Temple Timings)
Morning Timings
- Mangala Aarti6:00 AM
Evening Timings
- Sandhya Aarti6:00 PM
Conditions
Mission Advisory
- Carry warm clothes due to cold mountain weather
- Wear comfortable trekking shoes
- Start trek early in the morning
- Keep raincoat and medicines during travel
- Book accommodation in advance during Char Dham season
Yamunotri Yatra Guide & Pilgrimage Information
About the Yatra
Yamunotri Yatra marks the commencement of the Chardham Yatra. Devotees visit Yamunotri to pay homage to Goddess Yamuna, seeking blessings of health, longevity, and protection from untimely death.
Temple Information & Significance
The Yamunotri Temple is located at the foot of Kalind Mountain. It houses a black marble idol of Goddess Yamuna and is located close to natural hot springs.
Pilgrim Registration Details
Every pilgrim is required to obtain a Chardham Yatra registration slip online or at Janki Chatti counters.
Yatra Route & How to Reach
Drive from Dehradun or Rishikesh to Barkot and then Janki Chatti (the last motorable point, approx. 220 km). From Janki Chatti, pilgrims trek 6 km along a paved path to Yamunotri.
Accommodation & Facilities
Basic guest houses, ashrams, and GMVN tourist bungalows are available at Yamunotri and Janki Chatti. Barkot offers better hotel accommodations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the trek to Yamunotri difficult?
The trek is steep but paved. Ponies, doli (palanquins), and basket-carriers (Kandi) are available for pilgrims who cannot walk.
What is Divya Shila?
Divya Shila is a sacred rock pillar near the temple that is worshipped before entering the Yamunotri temple.