Char Dham Yatra :

A short way beyond Janki Chatti, the trail becomes much steeper but increasingly dramatic and beautiful as it passes through rocky forested crags to Yamunotri. Sited near the river, around three piping-hot sulphur springs, Yamunotir's temple is new and architecturally interesting. This is the first stop over for the Char Dham Yatra in the westernmost shrine of Yamunotri in the Garhwal Himalayas. Dedicated to Goddess yamuna, it is perched atop a flank of the Bandar Poonchh peak (3.165 mts. Above sea level) and is situated opposite to Gangotri.

This is the first stop over for the Char Dham Yatra in the westernmost shrine of Yamunotri in the Garhwal Himalayas. Dedicated to Goddess yamuna, it is perched atop a flank of the Bandar Poonchh peak (3.165 mts. Above sea level) and is situated opposite to Gangotri. The shrine attracts devotees in large numbers from May to October.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 4,321 mts. Pilgrims do not frequently visit the source of the river as it is not easily accessible.

There are numerous hot water springs near the temple. Of these, Suryakund is considered to be the most sacred. Pilgrims cook rice and potatoes in the hot water of these springs by wrapping them in a piece of cloth and dipping them in the water for a few minutes only. The meal thus prepared is first offered to the deity and then distributed among pilgrims as prasad (offerings blessed by the deity). It’s a steep climb to the source of the river about 1km from the temple.

Yamunotri finds a special mention in the Hindu mythology. According to a legend, this secluded hilly spot was the home of an ancient sage, Asit Muni.

Among the major attractions of Yamunotri are hot water springs nearby. 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, dominated by a panorama of rugged peaks and dense forests.