Also known as Jamnotri, the western most of the Char Dhams in Uttarakhand, Yamunotri is the origin to the river Yamuna, and a holy shrine on the Hindu pilgrimage in the country. Yamunotri is famous for the temple dedi ...
ated to Yamuna, and a lot of sites around that pilgrims offer their worship to. River Yamuna has been considered sacred like the Ganges as it is known to nourish parts of the country in numerous ways. The actual source of the mighty Yamuna lies at Yamunotri Glacier near Mount Bandarpoonch on the Himalayas but since it is very hard to access, the shrine offers a similar perspective and is considered holy at an elevation of over 3200 meters above sea level around 110 kilometers from Uttarkashi.
What to do around Yamunotri?
Visit the temple, offer your prayers to goddess Yamuna. Take hot water dips in various kunds in the area with the ones at Janki Chatti, around 7 kilometers away being the most prestigious. Trek for Dodital, a freshwater lake in the Himalayas from where the Assi Ganga emerges and joins Bhagirathi at Gangori. Visit Ruinsara lake for a mesmerizing view of the Swargarohini and Bandarpoonch peaks and feel the real vibe of nature at great escapes. Visit Uttarkashi, another spiritual town around and access Gangotri, Harshil, Raithal and Mukhba right from the zone. Visit Govind Pashu Vihar Sanctuary, with Har Ki Dun being the most prestigious trek around and notice tons of flora and fauna species on the lap of nature.
Fun Facts about Yamunotri
It is said that Aist Rishi used to visit Yamuna everyday to seek the origin, and when he became old and could not do it anymore, Yamuna changed its course to visit his ashram which now is where the temple is located. Kharsali village near Yamunotri is the winter home for Goddess Yamuna and one should definitely visit it for knowing the rare.