Top Sights
Yamunotri Temple
Yamunotri Temple
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 weather and avalanches.
The main shrine houses a black marble idol of Goddess Yamuna. Pilgrims offer prayers and seek blessings for purification and spiritual growth. The atmosphere is charged with devotion and reverence.
The temple complex is relatively small. It is located near the hot springs, where pilgrims take a dip before entering the temple. Photography inside the temple is usually restricted.
Hours: 06:00-20:00 daily (when open)
Closed: November to April
Best Time: Morning, to avoid crowds and for a peaceful darshan.
Getting There: Trek from Jankichatti (5-6 km) or hire a pony/palanquin.
Honest Take: Worth visiting for spiritual significance, but expect crowds and basic facilities.
Insider Tip:
Arrive early in the morning to avoid the long queues and have a more peaceful experience.
Surya Kund
Surya Kund
Surya Kund is a hot spring near the Yamunotri Temple. It is revered for its therapeutic properties and high temperature.
Pilgrims boil rice and potatoes in the hot spring as an offering to the deity. The cooked food is then distributed as prasad. The steam rising from the kund creates a mystical atmosphere.
The water is extremely hot, so exercise caution. There are designated areas for bathing and collecting water. It is considered auspicious to take a dip in the kund before visiting the temple.
Hours: Open during temple hours
Closed: November to April
Best Time: Anytime during the day
Getting There: Located near the Yamunotri Temple.
Honest Take: A unique experience, especially for those interested in the religious rituals.
Insider Tip:
Bring a small cloth bag to boil rice or potatoes in the hot spring.
Divya Shila
Divya Shila
Divya Shila is a rock pillar near the Yamunotri Temple. Pilgrims traditionally offer prayers to Divya Shila before entering the main shrine.
It is believed that offering prayers to Divya Shila purifies the soul and prepares one for the darshan of Goddess Yamuna. The rock is considered sacred and powerful.
The ritual involves circling the rock and chanting prayers. The atmosphere is filled with devotion and reverence. It's a quick but important part of the pilgrimage.
Hours: Open during temple hours
Closed: November to April
Best Time: Anytime during the day
Getting There: Located near the Yamunotri Temple.
Honest Take: A significant part of the Yamunotri pilgrimage, worth the short stop.
Insider Tip:
Follow the instructions of the local priests for the proper way to offer prayers.
Janki Chatti
Janki Chatti
Janki 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.
The town offers basic accommodation, restaurants, and shops catering to pilgrims. Ponies and palanquins can be hired here for the trek. It's a bustling place during the pilgrimage season.
Pilgrims often stay overnight in Janki Chatti to acclimatize to the altitude. It provides a necessary rest stop before the challenging trek to Yamunotri. Ensure you have adequate warm clothing.
Hours: 24 hours
Closed: Open year-round, but accessibility varies in winter
Best Time: During the day
Getting There: Road access, base for Yamunotri trek
Honest Take: Necessary stopover, don't expect luxury.
Insider Tip:
Negotiate prices for ponies and palanquins before hiring them.
Kharsali
Kharsali
Kharsali is a village near Jankichatti, known as the winter home of Goddess Yamuna. The idol is brought here during the winter months when Yamunotri is inaccessible.
The village offers a glimpse into the traditional Garhwali lifestyle. The Shani Dev temple is another attraction in Kharsali. It's a peaceful and serene place, away from the crowds.
Visiting Kharsali provides a different perspective on the Yamunotri pilgrimage. It is a less strenuous trip than the trek to Yamunotri itself. The village is surrounded by beautiful scenery.
Hours: Daylight hours
Closed: Accessibility may be limited in winter
Best Time: During the day
Getting There: Short drive from Jankichatti
Honest Take: A good option for those unable to make the trek to Yamunotri.
Insider Tip:
Respect the local customs and traditions when visiting the village.
Hanuman Chatti
Hanuman Chatti
Hanuman Chatti is another starting point for the Yamunotri trek, though slightly longer than the Janki Chatti route. It's a small settlement with basic facilities.
The route from Hanuman Chatti is considered more scenic by some trekkers. It offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Ponies and palanquins are available for hire.
Hanuman Chatti is less crowded than Janki Chatti. It is a good option for those seeking a quieter starting point for the pilgrimage. Ensure you are well-prepared for the trek.
Hours: 24 hours
Closed: Open year-round, but accessibility varies in winter
Best Time: During the day
Getting There: Road access, start of some Yamunotri treks
Honest Take: Good alternative starting point for the trek.
Insider Tip:
Check the condition of the trail before starting the trek, especially during the monsoon season.