Yamunotri Temple – Complete Guide

Yamunotri Temple is a sacred Hindu pilgrimage site located in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, India. It is one of the Char Dham destinations, which are considered the most important pilgrimage sites in Hinduism. Yamunotri is dedicated to the goddess Yamuna, who is believed to be the daughter of the Sun god, Surya, and the sister of Yama, the god of death.

Yamunotri Temple is situated at an elevation of about 3,293 meters (10,804 feet) above sea level. The temple is dedicated to the goddess Yamuna and is said to be more than a thousand years old. It is believed to have been originally built by the sage Asit Muni. The shrine attracts a large number of devotees and tourists, especially during the summer months when the shrine is open.

To reach this place, one has to undertake a trek of around 6 kilometers (3.7 miles) from the town of Hanuman Chatti. The trek follows a scenic route along the banks of the Yamuna River, passing through beautiful forests and mountains. Ponies and palanquins are also available for those who cannot undertake the trek on foot. The temple is generally open from the end of April or early May until the time of Diwali, which usually falls in October or November.

Apart from the religious significance, Yamunotri is also known for its natural beauty. The region is surrounded by snow-capped mountains, lush green valleys, and hot water springs. The Surya Kund and the Divya Shila are two popular attractions near the shrine. The Surya Kund is a natural hot water spring where pilgrims cook rice and potatoes to offer it as prasad (holy food) at the temple. The Divya Shila is a rock pillar near the shrine that is worshipped before entering the main shrine.

Visiting Yamunotri provides not only a spiritual experience but also an opportunity to enjoy the picturesque landscape of the Himalayas. It is advisable to carry appropriate warm clothing and trekking gear, as the weather can be unpredictable and the terrain challenging. It is also important to respect the religious sentiments and practices of the pilgrims and maintain the cleanliness of the surroundings.

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Yamunotri Temple History:

The history of Yamunotri Temple is a long and complex one, dating back to ancient times. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Yamuna, the twin sister of Yama (god of death) and daughter of Surya (sun god). It is one of the four Char Dham pilgrimage sites in India and is located in the Garhwal Himalayas at an altitude of 3,291 meters (10,797 feet).

The exact date of the construction of the temple is unknown, but it is believed to have been built in the 16th century by the Garhwal king, Kalyan Chand. The shrine was destroyed by an earthquake in 1790, and was rebuilt by the king of Tehri, Sudarshan Shah, in 1839. The temple has been damaged several times since then, but has always been rebuilt.

The present shrine is a simple structure made of granite stones. It has a conical roof with a golden finial, and is surrounded by a courtyard. The main shrine of the temple houses a black marble idol of Goddess Yamuna. The idol is said to have been brought to Yamunotri by the sage Asit Muni, who lived in the area in ancient times.

Yamunotri Temple is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus, and is visited by lakhs of devotees every year. The shrine is also a popular tourist destination, and is known for its stunning scenery and natural beauty.

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Here are some of the notable legends about Yamunotri Temple:

    According to one legend, the sage Asit Muni lived in the area in ancient times. He was a devotee of Goddess Yamuna, and would often visit the source of the river to pray. When he became old and infirm, he was unable to make the journey to the source. Impressed by his devotion, Yamuna changed her course and started flowing near his ashram.

    Another legend says that the Pandavas, the heroes of the Mahabharata, visited Yamunotri after the war. They bathed in the waters of the river to cleanse themselves of their sins.

    The temple is also said to be the place where the sage Durvasa cursed Karna, the Pandava prince. Karna was born with a natural armor that made him invincible. Durvasa was angry with Karna for not offering him alms, and cursed him that his armor would fall off when he needed it most.

What is special about Yamunotri?

Origin of the Yamuna River: Yamunotri is considered the source of the Yamuna River, one of the sacred rivers in Hinduism. According to Hindu mythology, the Yamuna is believed to be the daughter of the Sun god, Surya, and her waters are considered pure and purifying. The Yamuna River holds great importance in Hindu rituals and is associated with various legends and stories.

Char Dham Pilgrimage: This is one of the four sites that constitute the Char Dham pilgrimage circuit in the Indian Himalayas. The other three sites are Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. Undertaking the Char Dham Yatra is considered highly auspicious for Hindus, as it is believed to cleanse one’s soul and lead to spiritual liberation.

Yamunotri Temple: Yamunotri Temple is dedicated to the goddess Yamuna. The shrine is believed to have been built by the sage Asit Muni and holds immense religious significance. It is an important place of worship for devotees who come to seek the blessings of the goddess.

Natural Beauty: Yamunotri is surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. The region is nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas and offers panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, lush green valleys, and cascading waterfalls. The trek to this place provides an opportunity to immerse oneself in the serene and awe-inspiring landscapes of the Himalayas.

Hot Water Springs: Yamunotri is known for its natural hot water springs, particularly the Surya Kund. The Surya Kund is a thermal spring where devotees cook rice and potatoes by tying them in cloth bags and immersing them in the hot water. This cooked food is then offered as prasad at the temple. The hot water springs are believed to have medicinal properties and are considered sacred.

Divya Shila: Near the shrine, there is a sacred rock pillar called the Divya Shila. It is believed to be highly auspicious and is worshipped by pilgrims before entering the main shrine. The Divya Shila is considered a symbol of divine energy and devotion.

How difficult is Yamunotri Trek?

Moderate Trek: The trek to this place is generally considered a moderate-level trek. The total distance from Hanuman Chatti, the starting point of the trek, to Yamunotri mandir is approximately 6 kilometers (3.7 miles). While the distance may not be too long, the altitude gain and the terrain can make it moderately challenging.

Altitude: Yamunotri is situated at an elevation of about 3,293 meters (10,804 feet) above sea level. This means that trekkers will be ascending to a higher altitude, which can lead to symptoms of altitude sickness such as shortness of breath, fatigue, and headaches. It is important to acclimatize properly and take necessary precautions to avoid altitude-related issues.

Steep Sections: The trek involves a gradual ascent along the banks of the Yamuna River, with some steep sections along the way. The trail can be rocky and uneven in certain parts, requiring a moderate level of fitness and sure-footedness. However, it is not excessively challenging compared to some other treks in the region.

Weather Conditions: Weather conditions in the Himalayas can be unpredictable and may add to the difficulty of the trek. The region experiences cold temperatures, especially during the winter months and evenings. It is essential to be prepared with proper clothing, including warm layers, rain gear, and sturdy trekking shoes.

Duration and Facilities: The trek from Hanuman Chatti to Yamunotri usually takes around 4-6 hours, depending on the individual’s pace. There are basic facilities available along the route, including restrooms and shops that sell snacks and refreshments. However, it is advisable to carry water and some energy-rich snacks to sustain yourself during the trek.

Ponies and Palanquins: For those who are unable to undertake the trek on foot, there is an option to hire ponies or palanquins (a type of chair carried by porters) to reach this shrine. These alternatives can make the journey more accessible for individuals with physical limitations or those who prefer not to walk the entire distance.

Yamunotri Temple Architecture:

•     This mandir is built in the Nagara style of architecture, which is a traditional style of Hindu temple architecture.
•     The shrine is made of granite stones, and has a conical roof with a golden finial.
•     The main shrine of the temple houses a black marble idol of Goddess Yamuna.
•     This pilgrimage place is surrounded by a courtyard, which is where devotees gather to pray and perform religious ceremonies.
•     The shrine is located in a beautiful setting in the Garhwal Himalayas, and is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and lush forests.

The architecture of Yamunotri Temple is simple and elegant, and reflects the religious and cultural traditions of the region. This mandir is a popular pilgrimage destination for Hindus, and is a beautiful place to visit.

Here are some additional details about the architecture of Yamunotri Temple:

•     The temple is divided into three parts: the Garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum), the Mandapa (assembly hall), and the Antarala (vestibule).
•     The Garbhagriha is the most sacred part of the temple, and houses the idol of Goddess Yamuna.
•     The Mandapa is where devotees gather to pray and perform religious ceremonies.
•     The Antarala is the connecting passage between the Garbhagriha and the Mandapa.
•     This pilgrimage place is decorated with intricate carvings of Hindu gods and goddesses.

Yamunotri temple timing:

Yamunotri Temple is open to the public from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM, every day of the year. The temple is located in the Garhwal Himalayas, at an altitude of 3,291 meters (10,797 feet). The temple is dedicated to Goddess Yamuna, the twin sister of Yama (god of death) and daughter of Surya (sun god).

The best time to visit this shrine is during the summer months, from June to September. The weather is mild during these months, and the skies are clear. However, the temple is also crowded during this time, so it is important to book your accommodation and transportation in advance.

Places to visit near yamunotri temple

Surya Kund: Located near the Yamunotri Temple, Surya Kund is a natural hot water spring. It is believed that taking a dip in the holy waters of Surya Kund before entering the temple purifies the soul. The water in the Kund is extremely hot, and there are separate bathing points for men and women.

Divya Shila: Situated near the temple, Divya Shila is a sacred rock pillar. Devotees offer prayers and seek blessings from the Divya Shila before entering the main shrine. It is believed that offering prayers at the Divya Shila brings good fortune.

Janki Chatti: Janki Chatti is a small town located about 7 kilometers (4.3 miles). It serves as the starting point for the trek to Yamunotri and offers accommodation options for pilgrims. Janki Chatti is also known for its natural beauty and scenic views.

Hanuman Chatti: Hanuman Chatti is another small town located at a distance of about 13 kilometers (8 miles). It is the base camp for the trek to Yamunotri and offers facilities such as guesthouses, shops, and eateries. The town is named after Lord Hanuman and has a temple dedicated to him.

Kharsali: Kharsali is a picturesque village situated near Yamunotri. It is known for its ancient Shani Dev Temple, dedicated to Lord Shani (the deity associated with the planet Saturn). The temple is believed to be the oldest in the region and attracts devotees seeking blessings and protection from Lord Shani.

Barkot: Barkot is a town located at a distance of about 49 kilometers (30 miles). It serves as a popular stopover for pilgrims visiting this shrine and other nearby destinations. Barkot offers beautiful views of the mountains and is a gateway to various trekking routes in the region.

How to reach Yamonotri Temple:

Reach the Base Camp: The journey to Yamunotri starts from the town of Hanuman Chatti, which is the base camp for the trek. Hanuman Chatti is well-connected by road and can be reached from major nearby towns and cities like Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Dehradun. You can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Hanuman Chatti.

Trekking from Hanuman Chatti: From Hanuman Chatti, you will need to undertake a trek of approximately 6 kilometers (3.7 miles) to reach the Temple. The trek follows a scenic trail along the banks of the Yamuna River.

Trekking Options: You have a few options to cover the trekking distance:

Trek on Foot: Many pilgrims choose to trek on foot, enjoying the beautiful landscapes along the way. The trek involves ascending through forests and rocky terrain, and it generally takes around 4-6 hours, depending on your pace.

Ponies or Palanquins: If you prefer not to walk the entire distance, you can hire ponies or palanquins (a type of chair carried by porters) to reach the temple. These options can be availed at Hanuman Chatti, and they make the journey more accessible for those with physical limitations.

Yamunotri Temple: After completing the trek, you will arrive at the Yamunotri mandir. The temple is situated at an elevation of approximately 3,293 meters (10,804 feet) above sea level. Take your time to offer prayers, explore the temple complex, and soak in the spiritual atmosphere.