Yamunotri Temple Trek, Best Time To Trek, Travel Tips & Best Hotels

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Yamunotri Dham, a sacred pilgrimage site of Hindus is situated in the small district called Uttarkashi of Uttarakhand. It is one of the four places in Char Dham yatra which includes Kedarnath, Badrinath, and Gangotri, and is the starting point of the yatra. The Yamunotri Dham temple was built in the 19th century dedicating it to Goddess Yamuna. It  is the most famous site in Yamunotri and holds a great religious significance amongst Hindus. According to the Mythology, it is said that Lord Shiva dived into the Yamuna river after his wife Sati’s demise in order to control his rage. 

Another belief says that after burning Ravana’s whole Lanka, Lord Hanuman has jumped into this river to put off the fire of his tail. 

Details about Yamunotri Temple

History of Yamunotri Temple

It is said that even before the temple was built, the site was sacred and pure. The temple was first built by the King of Tehri, Sundarshan Shah in the year 1839 and it was reconstructed in the 19th century by Rajasthan’s Maharani Guleria after being devastated by the earthquake. 

Divinity and Significance of Yamunotri Temple

The temple is devoted to Goddess Yamuna, who is believed to be the sister of God of Death and the daughter of Sun. Yamunotri Glacier is the origin point of river Yamuna and according to Hindu beliefs, bathing in this river purifies all your sins, protects from early death, and brings prosperity. 

Visiting Time for Yamunotri Temple 

The temple opens early in the morning at 6:00 AM daily and closes at 8:00 PM. The darshan pauses during the break time from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM and resumes right after the break period ends. 

Interiors and Architecture of Yamunotri Temple

The temple showcases an exceptional combination of Garhwali traditions and Tibetan architecture. Yamunotri temple consists of Garba Griha and a Mandap where devotees assemble for prayer and darshan. Made with black marble, the idol of Goddess Yamuna which is placed in the Garba Griha elevates the beauty of the temple. Yamunotri Temple is considered as the main attraction during the Yamunotri trip. 

Yamunotri Trek Guidance

The Yamunotri trek is an ideal choice for all the adventure enthusiasts in the lap of nature. This guide will give you all the necessary information regarding the trek which will make your trekking experience easy and smooth.

Starting Point of the Trek

Yamunotri is located at an altitude of 3,293 meters from sea level and is one of the popular pilgrimage sites for Hindus. The trek starts from Janki Chatti which is approx 3 kms away from Yamunotri and takes you through marvelous views of forests, mountains, and waterfalls. 

Trekking Distance and Difficulty Level

The beginning of the trek is considered moderate but the level of difficulty increases gradually. The trek consists of challenging rocky roads, crossing bridges over rivers, and steep ascents and descents. A good physical fitness and trekking experience is required to complete the 5-6 kilometers long Yamunotri Trek.

Trek Duration and Preparation Tips

The Yamunotri trek takes almost 5-6 hours to complete and it is recommended to carry essential items such as – first aid kit, water bottles for hydrations, snacks and energy bars, raincoat, warm wears, trekking pole, and toiletries for a successful and hassle- free trek.

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Yamunotri Temperature: Best Time to Visit

Yamunotri Weather is recommended to explore between May to June and September to October. The weather is cool and refreshing with the temperature range of 10-20 degree celsius during May to June. This is the best season for trekking and sightseeing, however hotels and resorts rates are quite high during this time. September to October is also a suitable time to visit Yamunotri. 

The temple is closed during major winter times specially after diwali and reopens in April. 

December to January is considered the off season for Yamunotri trip. 

Top Attractions near Yamunotri Dham

• Surya Kund – Situated at an altitude of 4,421 meters above sea level, Surya Kund is a natural hot water spring. It is said that the hot water of the kund has a high level of sulphur and other minerals present in it which have its own medicinal benefits. It is considered as one of the holy sites of Yamunotri by the locals. 
  
• Kharsali – Kharsali is well known for numerous ancient temples and one of its popular temples is Kharsali temple which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is also the starting point of the trek towards Yamunotri. The temples here are famous for its unique architecture and carvings and it is considered as a sacred pilgrimage site for Hindus.
  
• Janki Chatti – It is a small town named after the Hindu Goddess Janki (incarnation of Goddess Sita) and located near the Yamunotri Temple which is about 6 kms away. It is popular for its hot springs which are believed to have medicinal properties and visitors often take baths here before moving towards Yamunotri. 
  
• Saptarishi Kund – According to the old beliefs, seven rishis or seven sages have meditated here during ancient times and hence the place is named after them. To reach the Saptarishi Kund, tourists need to complete a small trek which passes through dense oak forests and rhododendron trees. Some wildlife creatures like Himalayan black bears, snow leopards, and musk deers can also be witnessed on the way to the kund. The trek to Saptarishi kund is a difficult one and requires good physical health. 
  
• Barkot – It is a small paradise located in uttarakhand surrounded by lush green forests, snow capped mountains, and the Yamuna river which makes it a perfect destination for nature lovers. Barkot is famous for its apple orchards and during the season tourists can enjoy fresh and juicy apples with other fruits too. 
  
• Hanuman Chatti – The town, located at an altitude of 2,400 meters above sea level is a popular hault point for devotees on Char Dham yatra and a natural beauty surrounded by Himalayan range. It is believed that Lord Hanuman rested here while going to Lanka to rescue Goddess Sita. 
  
• Other Popular Places – some of the important places to visit near the first Dham Yamunotri are the other Dhams which includes Kedarnath, Badrinath, and Gangotri to yamunotri. The whole yatra of the four pilgrimage sites is the most spiritual yatra in India and it is believed that this yatra takes you closer to the almighty and one should definitely come up on this journey in its lifetime.  

Best Hotels near Yamunotri Dham

Hotels in Yamunotri Temple

• Blessings Resort – 4.8/5 stars rating
• Shiv Shakti Eco Resort – 4.2/5 stars rating 
• Hotel Khetan Residency – 4.1/5 stars rating
• Hotel Namami Gange – 4.7/5 stars rating
• Tirath Niwas – 3.9/5 stars rating

Guest Houses and Cottages

• Yamunotri Cottages – 4.3/5 stars rating
• Ganga Yamuna Homestay and Guest House – 4.9/5 stars rating
• Vaishnavi Homestay – 5/5 stars rating
• OYO Yamuna Kriti Cottages – 3.8/5 stars rating
• Himalayan Swiss Cottage – 4.4/5 stars rating

Watch This Video to See the appearance of Yamunotri Dham

Food and Dining Options

Yamunotri specializes in its local cuisines and offers cuisines like North Indian and Garhwali predominantly. Visitors are recommended to try their famous dishes like – Phaanu, Baadi, and Aloo ke Gutke. There are various kinds of dining options in and around Yamunotri which offers amazing delicacies and comfort food during the trip, you can check out some of them – 

• Food Embassy by Anantam – Serves quality food and authentic flavours. 
• Annapurna Hotel and Restaurant – Good food and affordable pricing. 
• Cafe TFH – Good food and ambience. South Indian food is worth trying.
• Saket Restaurant – Affordable prices with home like food. Garhwali Cuines is a must try.
• Cafe Power – Close to Yamunotri temple with a cool and relaxing vibe. Specializes in snacks and beverages.

Travel Tips regarding Yamunotri Trip

Don’t forget to carry some warm clothes like jackets and sweaters if traveling between September – October and cotton clothes during summers. Also, a pair of trekking shoes, first aid kit, sunscreen, sunglasses and toiletries are advised to carry for an easy going journey.

 Contact Details for Key Locations

Distances from Nearby Locations to Yamunotri

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