Located in the divine Himalayas of Uttarakhand, Yamunotri is one of the four sacred shrines of the Char Dham Yatra. It marks the origin of River Yamuna, revered as the “Goddess of Life.” Every year, thousands of pilgrims embark on the Yamunotri trek to seek blessings at this high-altitude temple, surrounded by hot springs and majestic snow-capped peaks.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Uttarkashi district, Uttarakhand, India |
| Altitude (Yamunotri Height) | 3,293 meters (10,804 feet) above sea level |
| Yamunotri Trek Distance | 6 km from Janki Chatti |
| Nearest Town | Barkot (45 km away) |
| Best Time to Visit | May to October |
| Temple Opens | Akshaya Tritiya (May) |
| Temple Closes | Bhai Dooj (October/November) |
| Main Deity | Goddess Yamuna |
| Nearby Attractions | Surya Kund, Janki Chatti, Hanuman Chatti |
| Ideal Base Stay | Hotels in Barkot or GMVN Lodges near Yamunotri |
This table gives travelers a clear and concise overview before planning their spiritual journey.
Dedicated to Goddess Yamuna, the temple holds immense religious importance. According to Hindu mythology, Yamuna is the daughter of Surya (the Sun God) and sister of Yama (the God of Death). Bathing in her sacred waters is said to cleanse all sins and protect devotees from untimely death.
The Yamunotri Temple was established by Maharaja Pratap Shah of Tehri Garhwal, symbolizing devotion and eternal faith.
Yamunotri Temple is nestled in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, near the Indo-China border. It’s surrounded by dense forests, alpine meadows, and the stunning Bandarpunch Range, making it a place where spirituality meets nature.
Nearest Major Town: Barkot
Distance from Dehradun: 175 km
At a breathtaking elevation of 3,293 meters, Yamunotri’s height places it among the highest pilgrimage sites in India. The air here is pure and crisp, and the panoramic views of the snow-clad peaks inspire a deep sense of tranquility.
The Yamunotri trek distance is 6 km from Janki Chatti, the last motorable point. The trek passes through scenic forests, bubbling streams, and steep climbs. Pilgrims can walk, take a pony, or ride in a palanquin.
| Starting Point | Janki Chatti |
|---|---|
| End Point | Yamunotri Temple |
| Distance | 6 km (one way) |
| Average Duration | 3–4 hours |
| Difficulty Level | Moderate |
It’s not just a trek—it’s a soulful experience where every step brings you closer to the divine.
The temple is open only from May to October due to heavy snowfall in winter.
Avoid visiting during the monsoon (July–August), as landslides can make travel risky.
Nearest Airport – Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun), 210 km from Yamunotri.
Nearest Railway Station – Dehradun Railway Station, 175 km away.
Yamunotri is accessible by road up to Janki Chatti via Barkot and Hanuman Chatti, after which the trek begins.
Inside the Yamunotri Temple, the black marble idol of Goddess Yamuna radiates serenity. Devotees also visit Surya Kund, a nearby hot spring, where rice is cooked as a holy offering. A dip in the Yamuna River here is said to purify one’s soul and grant divine protection.
Built in traditional Garhwali style, the temple’s yellow stone walls and red roof stand out amidst snow peaks. Despite harsh conditions, this sacred site endures as a timeless monument of devotion.
Barkot, about 45 km from Yamunotri, serves as a major base for travelers. The town offers comfortable hotels, camps, and lodges for every budget.
Recommended Hotels in Barkot:
Each hotel in Barkot combines comfort with spiritual ambiance, making it ideal for pilgrims preparing for the trek.
Barkot, located in Uttarkashi district, is a serene hill town surrounded by apple orchards and pine forests. It serves as a gateway to Yamunotri, and also connects pilgrims to other Char Dham sites like Gangotri. With its natural beauty and peaceful vibes, Barkot is a perfect blend of spirituality and relaxation.
A visit to Yamunotri Temple is more than just a religious ritual—it’s a spiritual awakening amidst nature’s glory. From the 6 km Yamunotri trek to peaceful stays in Barkot Uttarkashi, this journey revives the spirit and purifies the soul.
Experience the sacred power of the Goddess Yamuna with Travel to Nirvana, and let faith guide your every step through the Himalayas.
