How to reach Janki Chatti – If you’re planning a visit to Yamunotri Dham, one of the four sacred Char Dham pilgrimage sites in Uttarakhand, you’ll definitely come across Janki Chatti. It is the last motorable point before Yamunotri Temple and marks the beginning of the 6 km uphill trek to the temple. Nestled amidst the breathtaking Himalayan ranges in Uttarkashi district, Janki Chatti is a key stopover for thousands of pilgrims every year.
So, how exactly do you get there?
In this guide, we’ll walk you through all the practical ways to reach Janki Chatti — whether you’re coming by car, bus, train, or air — ensuring your Char Dham Yatra begins smoothly and stress-free.
Where Exactly is Janki Chatti?
Janki Chatti is located at an altitude of approximately 2,650 meters in Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand. It’s about 6 kilometers away from Yamunotri Temple, surrounded by snow-capped peaks, scenic landscapes, and natural hot water springs.
It serves as the starting point for the Yamunotri trek, where pilgrims either walk, ride ponies, or hire palkis (palanquins) to reach the temple.
By Road – The Most Common Route
Traveling by road is the most popular and flexible way to reach Janki Chatti, especially from nearby cities like Delhi, Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Dehradun.
Popular Transport Modes from Delhi to Janki Chatti
By Private Car or Taxi
- Distance: ~435–470 km
- Travel Time: 10.5–14 hours (road conditions and stops affect duration)
- Route: Delhi → Haridwar/Rishikesh → Barkot → Hanuman Chatti → Janki Chatti
- Cheapest and simplest if you want direct travel. Google, Rome2Rio and taxi services provide consistent estimates.
By Train & Taxi
- Distance: Delhi to Dehradun is ~300 km (6–8 hours by train), then ~175 km by road to Janki Chatti
- Total Travel Time: ~9–11 hours
- Route: Train from Delhi to Dehradun; then taxi/bus to Barkot/Hanuman Chatti → Janki Chatti
- Advantage: Combines comfort of railway with flexibility of local transport.
By Bus & Taxi
- Distance: Similar total distance, but journey is more segmented
- Total Travel Time: ~10–12 hours
- Route: Bus from Delhi to Dehradun/Haridwar; onward by taxi or local transfer
- Pro Tip: Barkot is a popular overnight stop.
By Air & Taxi
- Distance: Flight from Delhi to Dehradun (~210 km air distance), then ~175 km by road to Janki Chatti
- Total Travel Time: Fastest, ~5.5 hours
- Route: Fly DEL → DED (Dehradun); taxi to Barkot/Janki Chatti
- Note: Flights reduce road time but require transferring at Dehradun Airport.
Segment-wise Breakdown (Road Route Example):
- Delhi → Haridwar/Dehradun: ~230–250 km / 5–6 hours by car
- Dehradun → Barkot: ~130 km / 5–6 hours (hilly terrain)
- Barkot → Janki Chatti: ~45 km / 1.5–2 hours
You can also take state transport buses, Volvo coaches, or shared jeeps from Haridwar and Rishikesh to reach Barkot or Hanuman Chatti. From there, local taxis or shared jeeps operate frequently to Janki Chatti.
Pro Tip: Barkot is a popular overnight halt for Yamunotri pilgrims. Many choose to stay there and start early the next morning.
Stay in Champsar Heritage – One of the Best Hotels in Janki Chatti
If you’re looking for a peaceful and comfortable stay near the Yamunotri trek starting point, Champsar Heritage is a top-rated hotel in Janki Chatti. Located just 100 meters from the trek route, this property offers:
- Scenic Himalayan views
- Spacious, clean rooms
- Delicious home-style pahadi food
- Parking space and friendly service
- Family-friendly atmosphere
It’s ideal for pilgrims who want to rest before or after the Yamunotri trek. Whether you’re traveling with family, elders, or in a group, Champsar Heritage ensures a safe, relaxing, and affordable stay close to nature.
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Last Stretch – Janki Chatti to Yamunotri Temple
Once you reach Janki Chatti, the final leg of the journey is a 6-kilometer uphill trek to Yamunotri Temple. There are multiple ways to do this:
- Trekking by foot – Takes about 3–4 hours depending on pace and weather
- Hiring a pony – Ideal for senior citizens or those with limited mobility
- Booking a palki/doli – Porters carry you in a traditional palanquin, often used by elderly pilgrims
Travel Tips for Visiting Janki Chatti
- Best time to visit: May–June and September–October
- Avoid monsoon season (July–August): Roads may be closed due to landslides
- Pack warm clothes: Even in summer, mornings and evenings are cold
- Where to stay: Lodges and guesthouses available at Janki Chatti, Hanuman Chatti, and Barkot
- Connectivity: Limited mobile network; BSNL and Jio work best
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q. What is the distance from Barkot to Janki Chatti?
A: The distance is approximately 46 kilometers by road. It takes about 2–3 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.
Q. Is Janki Chatti open in winter?
A: No, Janki Chatti remains closed during winter months (usually from November to March) due to heavy snowfall and dangerous road conditions.
Q. Can I reach Yamunotri directly by vehicle?
A: No, the last motorable point is Janki Chatti. From there, you must trek or hire a pony/palki to reach the temple.
Q. Are there food and water facilities at Janki Chatti?
A: Yes, there are small eateries and dhabas that offer tea, snacks, and basic meals. It’s advised to carry your own water and light food during the trek.
Q. Where exactly is Janki Chatti located?
A: Janki Chatti is in Uttarkashi district, Uttarakhand, at approximately 2,650 meters altitude. It is the last motorable spot before the Yamunotri Temple trek, located about 6 km from the temple itself and well-known for its hot water springs.
Q. What is the total distance and travel time from Delhi to Janki Chatti?
A: The distance is about 435–470 km by road, typically taking 10.5–14 hours by taxi or car depending on road and weather conditions.
Q. What are the main ways to reach Janki Chatti?
A: You can reach Janki Chatti by car, taxi, bus, or a combination of train/air to Dehradun/Haridwar and then by road. The common route is Delhi → Haridwar/Rishikesh → Barkot → Janki Chatti. State buses and shared jeeps are also available from nearby cities.
Q. How do I get to Janki Chatti by train?
A: The nearest railway stations are Dehradun (about 180 km) and Haridwar (about 215 km). From these stations, take a taxi or bus to Barkot, and then onward to Janki Chatti.
Q. Can I reach Janki Chatti by air?
A: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun), about 175–180 km away. From the airport, continue by taxi to Barkot and Janki Chatti.
Q. Is it possible to drive a car or bike to Janki Chatti?
A: Yes, Janki Chatti is accessible by motorable roads and you can travel there on your own vehicle (car/bike). There are parking facilities available.
Q. What are the arrangements from Janki Chatti to Yamunotri Temple?
A: Yamunotri Temple is about 5–6 km from Janki Chatti. You must trek or hire a pony/palki. Trekking takes 2.5–4 hours, ponies, palkis, and pitthus (porters) are available with fixed costs regulated by the local authorities.
Q. What are the charges for pony/dandi/palki from Janki Chatti to Yamunotri?
A: Rates are government-fixed and displayed at Janki Chatti. For example, a pony for the full distance may cost approximately INR 640; a dandi may cost INR 1900 for the same route.
Q. What is the best time to visit Janki Chatti?
A: The best months are May–June and September–October. Monsoon season (July–August) should be avoided due to landslides.
Q. Is Janki Chatti open all year?
A: No. It usually closes from November to March due to heavy snowfall and road closures, reopening in spring.
Q. Are accommodation and food available at Janki Chatti?
A: Budget lodges, guesthouses, and dhabas serve basic vegetarian meals and snacks. Pre-booking is advised in high season.
Q. Is there mobile network connectivity at Janki Chatti?
A: Connectivity is limited, but BSNL and Jio work best in the region.
Q. What should I pack?
A: Carry warm clothing year-round, especially for early mornings and nights. Rain gear is essential in monsoon. Bring water and dry snacks for the trek, though basic refreshment stalls operate during yatra season.
Q. What nearby places are worth visiting or staying at?
A: Barkot and Hanuman Chatti are popular overnight halts. You can also find stay options in Kharsali village near Janki Chatti. The area is also a base for treks to Darwa Top, Dodi Tal, and others.
Q. What health and safety tips should I consider for the trek?
A: Acclimatize at lower altitude stops, avoid trekking in storms, carry basic medicines, and hire mules or palkis if not comfortable walking long distances.
Q. Can I visit other Char Dham sites from Janki Chatti?
A: Janki Chatti is mainly the base for Yamunotri. For Gangotri, Kedarnath, or Badrinath, you must return to main towns like Barkot or Uttarkashi and continue by road.