Yamunotri is the shrine of Goddess Yamuna and, by tradition, the first of the four Char Dham. The temple stands at about 3,290 m in a narrow, steep valley in Uttarkashi district, close to where the Yamuna leaves the Champasar glacier below Kalind mountain.
The last part of the journey is on foot: a paved path of about 6 km from Janki Chatti. Ponies, palkis and porters are available for those who cannot walk.
The legend of Yamunotri
Yamuna is the daughter of Surya, the sun god, and the twin sister of Yama, the god of death. Believers say Yama promised that anyone who bathes in his sister's waters will be spared an untimely death. That is why the temple closes on Bhai Dooj, the festival of brothers and sisters.
Tradition also says the sage Asit Muni lived here and bathed in both the Ganga and the Yamuna every day. When he grew too old to walk to Gangotri, a stream of the Ganga is said to have appeared opposite Yamunotri for him.
Why go to Yamunotri
The first dham
Most Char Dham pilgrims begin their journey here.
Surya Kund
A boiling hot spring where rice and potatoes are cooked as prasad.
A short trek
A 6 km walk up a dramatic gorge with waterfalls.
Main things to see
Yamunotri temple
Darshan of the black marble idol of Yamuna.
Surya Kund
Tie rice in cloth and dip it in the boiling spring; take it home as prasad.
Divya Shila
A rock pillar worshipped before entering the temple.
Kharsali village
The winter home of Goddess Yamuna, across the river from Janki Chatti, with an old Shani temple.
Distances to Yamunotri
Before you go
- Registration for the Char Dham Yatra is required.
- The walk is steep in parts; take breaks and drink water.
- Pony and palki rates are fixed; check the board at Janki Chatti.
- The temple closes on Bhai Dooj; in winter Yamuna is worshipped at Kharsali.
Yamunotri FAQs
How long is the Yamunotri trek?
About 6 km one way from Janki Chatti, usually 3-4 hours up on foot.
Why is rice cooked at Surya Kund?
Pilgrims tie rice or potatoes in cloth and cook them in the boiling spring, then offer them and take them home as prasad.
When does Yamunotri open and close?
It opens on Akshaya Tritiya (April or May) and closes on Bhai Dooj, after Diwali.
Where is Yamuna worshipped in winter?
At Kharsali village, near Janki Chatti.
Is Yamunotri harder than Kedarnath?
No. The walk is much shorter (about 6 km vs 16 km) but it is steep in parts.
