YAMUNOTRI TEMPLE

Location
• State: Uttarakhand, India
• District: Uttarkashi
• Altitude: ~3,293 meters (10,804 ft)
• Situated on: Banks of the Yamuna River, in the Garhwal Himalayas Yamunotri is the source of the sacred Yamuna River and one of the Chota Char Dham pilgrimage sites.
Religious Significance
• Dedicated to Goddess Yamuna, sister of Yama (God of Death).
• Legend: Goddess Yamuna is believed to have appeared here to protect sages and the devotees of Lord Shiva.
• Yamunotri Temple is an important Vaishnavite pilgrimage site, especially revered for ritual baths and prayers for prosperity and longevity.
• The river is considered sacred for purification, similar to Ganga in Gangotri.
Yamunotri Temple Architecture
• Built in early 19th century by Sarkar of Tehri Garhwal.
• Style: North Indian Himalayan architecture with stone and wood construction.
• Main deity: Black idol of Goddess Yamuna, housed in a small temple.
• Temple opens in April/May (Akshaya Tritiya) and closes in October/November (Kartik Purnima).
• Winter worship shifts to Champawat (Uttarakhand).
Hot Springs & River Source
• Surya Kund: Hot spring near temple used for ritual bathing; considered sacred.
• Divya Shila: The source rock from which Yamuna emerges.
• Yamunotri Glacier: Primary source of the Yamuna River; about 6 km trek from the temple.
Nearby Attractions
• Janki Chatti: Last motorable point before Yamunotri temple.
• Darwa Top & Bandarpunch Peak: Trekking and scenic views.
• Champasar Glacier: Optional trek for adventurous pilgrims.
• Nagni & Kharak Glacier regions: For high-altitude trekking enthusiasts.