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Char Dham #1

Yamunotri

Yamunotri is the sacred source of River Yamuna and the first destination of the Char Dham Yatra.

Yamunotri
Location

Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand

Altitude

3293 m

Deity

Goddess Yamuna

Best Time

May to October

About Yamunotri

Yamunotri Dham is one of the four sacred Char Dham pilgrimage sites of Uttarakhand and is dedicated to Goddess Yamuna. Situated in the beautiful Himalayan region of Uttarkashi district, the temple is surrounded by snow-covered mountains, green valleys and the flowing waters of the Yamuna River.

According to Hindu mythology, Goddess Yamuna is the daughter of Surya Dev (the Sun God) and Sanjna, and the sister of Yama, the God of Death. Devotees believe that worshipping Goddess Yamuna and taking a holy bath in the sacred waters can bring spiritual purification and divine blessings.

The Yamunotri Temple is located at an altitude of approximately 3,293 metres above sea level. The temple is traditionally associated with the source region of the Yamuna River, while the actual glacial source, Yamunotri Glacier, lies higher in the surrounding Himalayan mountains.

One of the important attractions near the temple is Surya Kund, a natural hot-water spring. Devotees traditionally prepare prasad by cooking rice and potatoes in the hot spring water. Nearby, Divya Shila is also worshipped before entering the Yamunotri Temple.

Yamunotri is accessible mainly during the pilgrimage season, generally from April/May to October/November, depending on weather conditions and the official opening and closing dates of the temple. The journey includes a scenic trek through the Himalayan landscape and is considered an important part of the Char Dham Yatra.

With its sacred temple, Himalayan scenery, natural hot springs and spiritual atmosphere, Yamunotri attracts thousands of pilgrims and travellers seeking faith, peace and a memorable Himalayan pilgrimage experience.

Visitor Information

Temple Timings

6:00 AM - 8:00 PM

Entry Fee

Free

Best Time

May to October

Best Time to Visit

The Char Dham temples generally remain open from May to October / November, depending upon weather conditions. The ideal months for pilgrimage are:

  • ✅ May
  • ✅ June
  • ✅ September
  • ✅ October

Avoid travelling during heavy monsoon because landslides and road closures are common in the Himalayan region.

Weather

☀ Summer

Pleasant weather with temperatures between 10°C and 20°C.

🌧 Monsoon

Heavy rainfall and possible landslides. Travel only after checking weather updates.

❄ Winter

Heavy snowfall. The temple usually remains closed during winter.

Other Char Dham Destinations

Frequently Asked Questions

May to October

Free

6:00 AM - 8:00 PM