High in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand lies a temple so serene, so sacred, that every year thousands of people make the journey on foot just to get a glimpse. This is the Yamunotri Temple, the starting point of the holy Yamuna River and the first stop of the famous Char Dham Yatra.
Visiting Yamunotri isn’t just a trip—it’s an experience that blends faith, nature, and adventure in one unforgettable journey.
Why Yamunotri Temple is So Special
The Yamunotri Temple is dedicated to Goddess Yamuna, believed to be the daughter of Surya (the Sun God) and the sister of Yama (the God of Death). According to Hindu belief, taking a dip in the river Yamuna can wash away sins and protect you from an untimely death.
That’s why so many devotees brave the tough terrain to come here—it’s not just about the temple, but what it represents: faith, purity, and blessings.
Reaching Yamunotri – The Trek That Touches the Soul
You can’t just drive to Yamunotri Temple. The last motorable stop is Janki Chatti, from where you begin a beautiful 6-km trek up the mountain. The path is lined with pine forests, waterfalls, snow-covered peaks, and tiny dhabas offering tea and snacks. It’s tough, but every step brings you closer to something magical.
If you’re not comfortable trekking, no worries—you can hire a pony, palki, or pitthu (porter) to help you reach the temple.
The Magic of Surya Kund
One of the most fascinating things at Yamunotri is the Surya Kund, a natural hot spring near the temple. Devotees use it to cook rice and potatoes in muslin cloth—this becomes prasad (holy offering) that they take home. It’s a small ritual, but one that stays with you forever.
Best Time to Visit
Yamunotri Temple isn’t open year-round. It only opens during the summer months and remains closed in winter due to heavy snowfall.
- Opens: Around April/May (Akshaya Tritiya)
- Closes: Around October/November (Bhai Dooj)
The best time to visit is from May to June and again in September to October.
How to Reach Yamunotri
Here’s how you can plan your route:
- By Air: Nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun), about 210 km away.
- By Train: Nearest railway station is Dehradun or Rishikesh.
- By Road: Reach Barkot first (major town), then take a taxi or local vehicle to Janki Chatti.
Janki Chatti Hotel Contact Number – Recommended Stay
One of the most recommended and reliable stays near Janki Chatti is Champsar Heritage.
Champsar Heritage – Comfortable Stay Near Yamunotri
- Location: Just 100 meters from Janki Chatti (towards Yamunotri Trek)
- Hotel Type: Family-friendly, clean, and peaceful
- Highlights: Mountain views, homely pahadi food, clean rooms, parking
Champsar Heritage Contact Number 📞 +919548816738 – You can call or WhatsApp on this number to book your room directly.
Official Website: https://champasarheritage.com