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Yamunotri Temple, Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand

Yamunotri Temple, nestled at an elevation of 3,293 meters (10,804 ft) in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, marks the divine origin of River Yamuna, India’s second holiest river. Surrounded by rugged Himalayan peaks, dense forests, and gushing streams, this sacred shrine is the first pilgrimage destination of the Chota Char Dham Yatra, dedicated to Goddess Yamuna. The temple houses a stunning black marble idol of Maa Yamuna, adorned with garlands and silver embellishments. Its spiritual atmosphere, combined with the region’s natural beauty, makes Yamunotri a deeply revered place for devotees seeking purification and blessings. Yamunotri is accessible only by a 6 km trek from Janki Chatti or a 13 km trek from Hanuman Chatti, with ponies, palanquins (dandi), and basket carriers available for those who prefer not to walk.



History of Yamunotri Temple

The original Yamunotri Temple is believed to date back several centuries but was formally constructed in 1839 by King Naresh Sudarshan Shah of Tehri Garhwal. After suffering earthquake damage, it was later restored by Maharani Gularia of Jaipur in the 19th century.

The sacred site has deep mythological roots:

  • Yamuna Devi, daughter of Surya (the Sun God) and twin sister of Yama (the God of Death), is revered for granting protection from untimely or painful death.
  • Legends state that sage Asit Muni lived and meditated near Yamunotri. When he grew old and could no longer travel to Gangotri, a small stream of the Ganga is said to have appeared near Yamuna so he could continue his daily ritual baths.

The temple stands before the towering peak of Bandarpunch (6,315 m), from where the Yamuna Glacier descends.

Architecture of Yamunotri Temple

Yamunotri Temple beautifully represents the Nagara school of Himalayan architecture.

Key architectural features:

  • Built using granite stone in a simple, traditional style
  • Temple structure includes:
    • Garbhagriha (sanctum) with the idol of Goddess Yamuna
    • Mandapam for prayers and rituals
  • The black marble idol of Yamuna Devi is the main deity
  • Adjacent idols include:
    • Goddess Ganga (white stone)
    • Lord Hanuman
    • Lord Ganesha

Natural Hot Springs

Yamunotri is famous for its steaming geothermal springs:

Surya Kund

  • The most important hot water spring
  • Water temperature often reaches boiling point
  • Devotees cook rice and potatoes tied in muslin cloth; the food becomes prasadam

Divya Shila

  • A sacred reddish-brown stone located near Surya Kund
  • Worshipped before entering the temple
  • According to Skanda Purana, touching Divya Shila grants spiritual liberation

Origin of the River Yamuna & Associated Legends

River Yamuna originates from the Yamunotri Glacier, located near Kalind Parbat (Kalinda Mountain) at a height of 6,315 meters. The river flows through Saptarishi Kund and descends in cascading streams.

Connections:

  • Yamuna is also known as Kalindi, referring to her origin at Kalind Parbat
  • Lord Hanuman is believed to have extinguished the fire on his tail in the ice-cold waters of Yamuna after burning Lanka
  • Sage Asit Muni performed his penance here, making Yamunotri a venerated site for ascetics and devotees alike

Religious Activities & Temple Timings

Temple Timings

Daily darshan hours:

  • 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Aarti Timings

  • Evening Aarti: 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM

The temple opens every year on Akshaya Tritiya (April/May) and closes on Yama Dwitiya/Bhai Dooj (Oct–Nov) due to harsh winter snowfall.

During winter, the idol of Goddess Yamuna is moved to Kharsali Village, her winter abode, where she is worshipped until reopening.

Major Festivals

Akshaya Tritiya

  • Marks the ceremonial temple reopening
  • The idol of Yamuna returns from Kharsali

Yama Dwitiya (Bhai Dooj)

  • Closing ceremony of Yamunotri Temple

Other Celebrations:

  • Janmashtami
  • Diwali
  • Special Pujas on festive and auspicious days

How to Reach Yamunotri

Map

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By Air

  • Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (closest) – 210 km from Janki Chatti
  • Taxis and buses available to Uttarkashi, Barkot, and Janki Chatti

By Rail

Nearest railway stations:

  • Rishikesh
  • Haridwar
  • Dehradun

From these stations, travelers can hire taxis or buses to reach Janki Chatti.

By Road

Yamunotri is well-connected via:

  • Dehradun – Barkot – Janki Chatti route
  • Roads accessible from Haridwar, Rishikesh, Chamba, Tehri, Uttarkashi

Trek Routes

  • From Hanuman Chatti: 13 km
  • From Janki Chatti: 6 km (most popular path)
    Ponies, palkis, and basket carriers (kandi) are available.

Nearby Temples & Attractions

Surya Kund

Hot spring where prasadam is prepared; dedicated to Surya, father of Yamuna.

Divya Shila

Sacred rock worshipped prior to entering the temple.

Gaumukh & Tapovan

The perennial source of the Ganga; breathtaking trekking routes with scenic Himalayan vistas.

Bhairon Ghati

10 km from Gangotri; known for the Bhairon Nath Temple, protector of the region.

Kharsali Village

Winter home of Goddess Yamuna; known for ancient temples and scenic beauty.

Contact Information

Email: support-ucdb@uk.gov.in
Address: Yamunotri, Uttarkashi – 249141, Uttarakhand
Official Website:
 https://badrinath-kedarnath.gov.in/AboutUs/Yamunotri.aspx