Yamunotri Temple, Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand
The Yamunotri Temple is a sacred Hindu shrine dedicated to Goddess Yamuna, located in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand. It is one of the Char Dham Yatra sites, marking the origin of the Yamuna River. Pilgrims visit this temple to seek blessings and take a holy dip in the thermal springs nearby, believing it washes away sins.
Yamunotri Temple Features
- Sacred Idol: The temple houses a black marble idol of Goddess Yamuna.
- Surya Kund: A hot water spring where devotees cook rice and potatoes as an offering to the goddess.
- Divya Shila: A sacred rock pillar, worshipped before entering the temple.
- Scenic Trek: The trek to the temple offers breathtaking views of snow-clad peaks, waterfalls, and lush greenery.
- Pilgrimage Importance: As part of Char Dham Yatra, it is visited before Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath.
Yamunotri Temple Location
The Yamunotri temple is situated in Uttarkashi district, Uttarakhand, at an altitude of 3,293 meters (10,804 feet) above sea level. It is about 30 km from Barkot, and the nearest major town is Haridwar (220 km away). The temple is accessible via a 6 km trek from Janki Chatti, with options for pony or palanquin rides.
Yamunotri Temple History
The original temple was built in the 19th century by Maharani Guleria of Jaipur, though the site has been a place of worship for centuries. Over the years, it has been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times due to natural calamities. The temple holds great significance as the spiritual source of the Yamuna River, one of the holiest rivers in Hinduism.
Yamunotri Temple Nearby Attraction
- Janki Chatti (6 km): The base for the Yamunotri trek, known for its hot water springs.
- Shani Dev Temple (7 km): Dedicated to Lord Shani, believed to be Goddess Yamuna’s brother.
- Hanuman Chatti (13 km): A picturesque spot at the confluence of the Yamuna and Hanuman Ganga rivers.
- Dodital Lake (60 km): A serene high-altitude lake, believed to be the birthplace of Lord Ganesha.
- Gangotri Temple (110 km): Another Char Dham site, dedicated to Goddess Ganga.
