Yamunotri is the source of river Yamuna which is situated amidst the Garhwal Himalayas. Yamunotri is naturally bestowed with abundant beauty and charm. At a hovering altitude of 3293 meters, Yamunotri lies adjacent to the Indo-Chinese border and is encircled by lofty peaks on all sides. Here are 10 things to do in Yamunotri.
Janki Chatti
Jankichatti is the starting point of the trek to Yamunotri. The 6 km trek to Yamunotri is done in 2.5 hours to 3 hours. It can be done on foot or mule, palki (palanquins) and pithoo (carrier) are available from Jankichatti.
Yamunotri Temple
This Dham atop 3030 metres on Kalinad Parvat was built in 19th Century containing a bejeweled silver idol of Yamunotri wrapped in garlands. Devotees trek the 6 km up the hill dotted with Ratnajot- a popular herb to cure eye diseases; all the way from Hanuman Chatti.
Hanuman Chatti
Hanuman Chatti is a popular trekking point to Yamunotri, Darwa Top and Dodi Tal. It was the starting point to the Yamunotri Dham before the road to Janki Chatti was made. Most tourists travelling to Yamunotri stay here overnight.
Surya Kund
Surya Kund is a thermal hot water spring located at the Yamunotri Temple complex. The hot water of the spring is used to cook rice or potato tied in a muslin cloth. It is believed that eating this prasad (offering) fulfils all the desires of the devotees.
Barkot
Barkot is a charming hill station and the last major town near Yamunotri located in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand. Barkot is known for its trekking trails, white water rafting and stunning view.
Saptarishi Kund
Saptrishi Kund is a high altitude lake. Believed to be the original source of the Yamuna River, it is a trekking spot near Yamunotri. Saptrishi Kund trek is one of the most difficult treks in Uttarakhand. The 16 km trek starts from Jankichatti and goes through Yamunotri Temple.
Divya Shila
Divya Shila is a sacred stone located outside the main Yamunotri shrine. Also, known as the “slab of divine light”, devotees worship Divya Shila before entering the Yamunotri Temple. Generally, the pilgrims take a bath in Surya Kund and cook rice and potatoes tied in a muslin cloth. This prasad is offered first at Divya Shila and then taken to the Yamunotri Temple.
Trekking in Yamunotri
The way to Yamunotri is often covered by trekkers via Yamuna Bridge, Badkot or Rishikesh. You can also opt for a guided tour of the place.
Kharsali
Kharsali, also known as Khushimath, is the winter seat of Goddess Yamuna. On Akshya Tritiya, the statue of Ma Yamuna is shifted here from Yamunotri Temple. On Bhai Dooj, the statue along with Lord Someshwara is returned to Yamunotri for the next 6 months.
Enjoy Nature Walks and Photography
Yamunotri is blessed with beautiful landscapes and picturesque vistas. Take leisurely nature walks along the riverbanks, through the forests, and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings. Capture stunning photographs of the snow-clad peaks, meandering streams, and lush greenery.
