Yamunotri!
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india-guide.in
Population
Very small, sparsely populated
Best Time
May to June, September to October
Time Needed
2-3 days minimum
Currency
Rupee (₹)
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Yamunotri is the source of the Yamuna River and one of the four sites in the Char Dham pilgrimage circuit. Nestled high in the Garhwal Himalayas, it's a remote and spiritually significant destination. The Yamuna River originates from the Champasar Glacier, located a further trek from the main temple.
Yamunotri offers stunning mountain scenery and a deeply spiritual experience. However, the high altitude and challenging trek can be physically demanding. The infrastructure is basic, and accommodation options are limited. It's best suited for devout pilgrims and experienced trekkers.
Reaching Yamunotri involves a combination of road travel and trekking. Most pilgrims start from Barkot or Hanuman Chatti. Allow at least 2-3 days to acclimatize and complete the pilgrimage comfortably. The trek to the temple is approximately 5-6 km from Jankichatti.
May to June
10-20 degrees C
Pleasant and relatively dry weather, ideal for trekking. Clear skies offer stunning views of the surrounding peaks.
Why Visit:
The temple is open, and the weather is conducive for trekking. The snow has melted, making the trails accessible. This period avoids the monsoon rains and extreme winter cold. The views are spectacular, and the spiritual atmosphere is vibrant.
Tip: Expect large crowds, especially during weekends and holidays. Book accommodation and transportation well in advance.
September to October
5-15 degrees C
Cool and crisp weather with clear skies. The monsoon rains have subsided, and the landscape is lush green.
Why Visit:
Fewer crowds than the peak season, offering a more peaceful experience. The weather is still suitable for trekking, and the scenery is beautiful. The post-monsoon landscape is vibrant and refreshed.
Tip: Some facilities might start closing towards the end of October. Be prepared for colder temperatures, especially at night.
November to April
-5 to 5 degrees C
Extremely cold with heavy snowfall. The region is often inaccessible due to blocked roads.
Why Avoid:
The Yamunotri temple is closed during these months due to the harsh winter conditions. Trekking is impossible due to heavy snow and ice. The area is generally deserted and lacks essential facilities.
Note: The temple reopens in May, coinciding with Akshaya Tritiya. Check the exact opening dates before planning your trip.
The Yamunotri Temple is dedicated to Goddess Yamuna and marks the source of the Yamuna River. The temple is rebuilt multiple times due to damage from ...
Read more arrow_forwardSurya Kund is a hot spring near the Yamunotri Temple. It is revered for its therapeutic properties and high temperature....
Read more arrow_forwardDivya Shila is a rock pillar near the Yamunotri Temple. Pilgrims traditionally offer prayers to Divya Shila before entering the main shrine....
Read more arrow_forwardJanki Chatti is a small town serving as a base camp for the trek to Yamunotri. It's the last motorable point before the trek begins....
Read more arrow_forwardKharsali is a village near Jankichatti, known as the winter home of Goddess Yamuna. The idol is brought here during the winter months when Yamunotri i...
Read more arrow_forwardHanuman Chatti is another starting point for the Yamunotri trek, though slightly longer than the Janki Chatti route. It's a small settlement with basi...
Read more arrow_forwardThe trek to Yamunotri involves a challenging climb through mountainous terrain. It's a rewarding experience for those se...
Read more arrow_forwardTake a dip in the hot springs near the Yamunotri Temple. The hot water is believed to have therapeutic properties and ca...
Read more arrow_forwardExplore the traditional Garhwali village of Kharsali. Visit the Shani Dev temple and interact with the local community....
Read more arrow_forwardCapture the stunning landscapes and spiritual atmosphere of Yamunotri. The Himalayan scenery provides ample opportunitie...
Read more arrow_forward30 minutes | Free
The Aarti ceremony is a devotional ritual performed at the Yamunotri Temple. It involves chanting pr...
Read more arrow_forward15 minutes | Free
Offering prayers at Divya Shila is a traditional ritual performed before entering the Yamunotri Temp...
Read more arrow_forward30 minutes | Free
Boiling rice in the Surya Kund is a unique ritual performed by pilgrims. The cooked rice is offered ...
Read more arrow_forwardFlexible | Free
Interact with the Sadhus (holy men) who frequent the Yamunotri Temple. They often share their wisdom...
Read more arrow_forward2-3 hours | Free
Visit the Shani Dev Temple in Kharsali, the winter home of Goddess Yamuna. The temple is dedicated t...
Read more arrow_forwardFlexible | ₹100-₹300 per meal
Sample the local Garhwali cuisine in the restaurants around Yamunotri. Try dishes like Aloo ke Gutke...
Read more arrow_forward
Indian
📍 Jankichatti
Simple restaurant offering decent Indian food at reasonable prices. A popular choice among pilgrims.
₹300-500 for two
Indian, Chinese
📍 Barkot
Serves Indian and Chinese dishes. A clean and hygienic place to eat.
₹400-600 for two
💰 Budget: ₹50-100 per person
⚠️ Tips: Ensure food is freshly prepared. Bargain for better prices.
More restaurants & dishes from Yamunotri
The main base for the Yamunotri trek, crowded during peak season. Convenient for starting the trek early, but basic facilities.
Best For: Pilgrims, trekkers
A larger town en route to Yamunotri, offering better accommodation options. A good place to acclimatize before the trek, but further from the temple.
Best For: Families, travelers seeking comfort
₹800-₹1200/night
📍 Jankichatti
Basic but clean rooms, suitable for a short stay. Offers essential amenities and a convenient location for the trek.
₹800-₹1200/night
📍 Jankichatti
Government-run accommodation offering decent rooms at affordable prices. Provides a safe and reliable option for budget travelers.
₹900-₹1300/night
₹1500-₹2500/night
📍 Barkot (en route to Yamunotri)
Offers comfortable rooms with better amenities than budget options. A good choice for those seeking a more relaxed stay.
₹1500-₹2500/night
📍 Near Jankichatti
A camping site offering comfortable tents with attached bathrooms. Provides a unique experience close to nature.
₹2000-₹3000/night
₹4000+/night
📍 Barkot
Luxury tents with premium amenities and services. Offers a comfortable and memorable stay amidst the Himalayas.
₹4000+/night
📍 Barkot
Offers well-appointed rooms, multi-cuisine dining, and recreational facilities. Good for families and those seeking comfort.
₹3500+/night
Airport: Jolly Grant Airport (DED), 190km from Yamunotri
Dehradun (DDN)
Nearest railway station, well-connected to major cities.
Booking: IRCTC or 12Go.asia
Note: Trains more comfortable
💰 ₹1000-₹2000
Best for: Those unable to trek
Negotiate the price beforehand. Ensure the animal is well-treated.
💰 Free
Best for: Fit and adventurous travelers
Wear comfortable shoes. Carry water and snacks.
Wear warm and comfortable clothing. Layering is essential due to the fluctuating temperatures. Carry rain gear.
Daily Budget: Budget: ₹1500, Mid: ₹3000, Luxury: ₹5000+
ATMs: Limited availability, especially in Jankichatti. Carry sufficient cash.
Cash vs Card: Cash is preferred due to limited card acceptance.
Bargaining: Expected for ponies and palanquins.
Water: Drink only bottled or purified water. Avoid drinking tap water.
Food: Eat at reputable restaurants. Avoid street food that looks unhygienic.
Common Issues: Altitude sickness, fatigue. Acclimatize properly and carry necessary medications.
SIM Cards: Available in major cities. Airtel and Jio offer good coverage.
WiFi: Limited availability, especially in remote areas.
Language: Basic English is spoken in tourist areas. Learning a few Hindi phrases can be helpful.
Tipping: Restaurant: 5-10%, drivers: ₹50-₹100
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