Yamunotri Dham is one of the four sacred sites included in the Char Dham Yatra pilgrimage circuit in Uttarakhand, India. It is dedicated to Goddess Yamuna, who is worshipped as the source of the Yamuna River, one of the major rivers in India.
Located in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, Yamunotri is situated at an altitude of around 3,293 meters (10,804 feet) in the do dham yatra Garhwal Himalayas. The main attraction of Yamunotri is the Yamunotri Temple, which is nestled amidst picturesque surroundings of snow-capped mountains and lush greenery.
Key highlights of Yamunotri Dham include:
- Yamunotri Temple: This ancient temple is dedicated to Goddess Yamuna and is believed to have been built by Maharani Guleria of Jaipur in the 19th century. The temple houses a black marble idol of Goddess Yamuna, do dham tour packages adorned with garlands and ornaments during the pilgrimage season.
- Surya Kund and Divya Shila: Near the Yamunotri Temple, pilgrims can take a dip in the Surya Kund, a natural hot water spring believed to have medicinal properties. Divya Shila, a rock pillar located near the temple, is worshipped before entering the temple.
- Trekking Routes: Pilgrims visiting Yamunotri often embark on trekking expeditions to nearby attractions such as Kharsali, Janki Chatti, and Saptarishi Kund, which offer breathtaking views of the Himalayas and alpine meadows.
- Natural Beauty: Yamunotri is renowned for its scenic beauty, including lush forests, gushing waterfalls, and the do dham yatra package majestic Yamuna River flowing through the valley.
Yamunotri Dham holds great religious significance for Hindus, who believe that taking a dip in the sacred waters of Yamuna at this holy site can cleanse one’s sins and lead to do dham yatra from haridwar spiritual liberation. The pilgrimage season to Yamunotri usually starts in April-May and continues until October-November, depending on the weather conditions. During this time, thousands of devotees undertake the arduous journey to seek the blessings of Goddess Yamuna.
