Yamunotri Tourism
About Yamunotri
The first stopover for the Char Dham Yatra is the westernmost shrine of Yamunotri in the Garhwal Himalayas, which is Dedicated to Goddess Yamuna.The shrine is perched atop a flank of the Bandar Poonchh peak (3235 mts. above sea level) and is situated opposite to Gangotri.It constitutes one of the four most important pilgrimages, collectively called 'Char Dham' of the Garhwal Himalayas or Uttarakhand.Yamunotri is the source of the revered river Yamuna which originates from the Champasar Glacier lying 1 km ahead of the shrine, at an altitude of 4421 mts. Pilgrims do not frequently visit the source of the river as it is not easily accessible. Yamunotri can also be visited via Mussoorie and Barkot.
Yamunotri finds a special mention in the Hindu mythology.The legend says, this lonesome hilly spot was the home of an ancient sage, Asit Muni. Among the prime attractions of Yamunotri are hot water springs nearby, which is believed to have medicinal properties. Devotees prepare rice and potatoes to offer at the shrine, by dipping them in these hot water springs, tied in muslin cloth. The trek to Yamunotri is spectacular, surrounded by a panorama of rugged peaks and thick forests.
Major Tourist Attractions In Yamunotri
1. Temple of Goddess Yamuna
The temple was built by Maharani Gularia of Jaipur in the 19th century. It was destroyed twice in the present century and rebuilt again. The temple remains closed from November to May.
2. Lakhamandal
Pass Kempty falls 75 kms. On the Mussoorie - Yammnotri road lies Lakhamandal. Legend has is that the Kaurvas made a shelter house and conspired to bum the Pandavas alive here.
3. Surya Kund
One of the important thermal springs known for its very high temperature of 190 f. Pilgrims cook rice and potatoes here to offer to deity in the temple.
4. Divya Shila
A huge rock pillar venerated before entering the Yamunotri Temple.
5. Jankichatti
The theral springs here offer a spectacular sight and a refreshing bath for the pilgrims.
6. Sayanachatti
A scenic spot along the bank of river yamuna that makes a lovely sight enrouted the trek up to Yamunotri.
Getting There
By Air
The closest airport from Yamunotri is Jolly Grant airport close to Dehradun, 196 km from Gangotri.
By Rail
The nearest railhead from Yamunotri is Dehradun (172 km). Rishikesh (213 kms) is also an alternative.
By Road
Buses are available for Hanuman Chatti which is 14 kilometers from Yamunotri from Rishikesh, Haridwar and other important places in Uttaranchal. Important road distances are Rishikesh to Yamunotri 222 kms via Narendranagar 16 kms, Chamba 46 kms, Tehri 21 kms, Dharasu 42 kms, Bhramkhal 15 kms, Barkot 40 kms, Phoolchatti 5 kms and Jankichatti 3 kms.
