The Sacred Gateway
Nestled in the lap of the majestic Garhwal Himalayas, Yamunotri is one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in India. Located in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, it marks the source of the holy river Yamuna and is the first stop of the famous Char Dham Yatra.
The Spiritual Significance
Yamunotri is dedicated to Goddess Yamuna, the daughter of the Sun God, Surya. It is believed that taking a dip in the sacred waters of the Yamuna washes away sins and protects devotees from untimely death. The Yamunotri Temple, built in the 19th century by Maharani Guleria of Jaipur, stands proudly amidst snow-capped peaks and attracts thousands of pilgrims each year.
The Natural Beauty
Surrounded by stunning mountains, lush green valleys, and gushing streams, Yamunotri offers more than just spiritual comfort. The journey to this sacred place is as beautiful as the destination itself. Trekkers and nature lovers can enjoy breathtaking views of Bandarpunch Peak, dense forests, and vibrant meadows along the route.
Key Attractions
- Yamunotri Temple: The main shrine dedicated to Goddess Yamuna.
- Surya Kund: A hot water spring where devotees cook rice and potatoes as offerings to the goddess.
- Divya Shila: A sacred stone worshipped before entering the temple.
How to Reach
- By Road: Yamunotri is accessible up to Janki Chatti by road. From there, a 5-6 km trek leads to the temple.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun, around 200 km away.
- By Train: The closest railway station is at Dehradun.
Best Time to Visit
The temple opens in May and closes around October/November before heavy snowfall. The best time to visit is during the summer months, especially from May to June and September to October, when the weather is pleasant and the trek is safe.
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