Yamunotri is a part of Char Dham (along with Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath), the four most revered Hindu pilgrimages in the Himalayas. The small mountain hamlet, with the Yamunotri Temple at its centre, attracts thousands of devotees every year and is the commencing point of the Char Dham Yatra pilgrimage (May to October), which proceeds from Yamunotri to Gangotri and finally to Kedarnath and Badrinath. Lodged in a narrow gorge, close to the source of the Yamuna, the Yamunotri Temple is dedicated to Yamuna, the second-most sacred river after the Ganges. A dip in River Yamuna is said to protect one from untimely death. Devotees either walk or ride a palanquin or a pony to reach the temple (around 3,233 m above sea level) from Janki Chatti, a steep trek of about 3 km that takes about 3 hours.

Kapat is open now for darshan.

Best Time To Visit

April to June and September to November

Tourist Attractions near Yamunotri

Tourist Attractions near Yamunotri: Though the Yamunotri Shrine is the main attraction of the place, but en-route, there are various other tourist charms that allure both pilgrims and random travelers. Some of the major tourist attractions that fall in the way are stated as follows:

Harsil: At height of 7860 Ft this is very beautiful town on the banks of Bhagirathi River, on the way to Hindu pilgrimage, Gangotri, in Uttarkashi district of Indian state of Uttarakhand ). It offers ample scope for people seeking peace and serenity in the lap of the Himalayas. Situated on the banks of the Bhagirathi River Harsil has become popular in recent years with travel enthusiasts and nature lovers. Dense deodar forests, gushing water of the Bhagirathi River, chirping of birds, salubrious environment and serene environs are the highlights of this little quaint destination and 30 km away from Harsil, lies the Gangotri National Park, spread over 1,553 square km.

Hanuman Chatti: Situated just 13 kilometers from Yamunotri, the Hanuman Chatti is the starting point of both Yamunotri and Dodital Trek. It is basically the confluence of Ganga and Yamuna River. Further, this region is more famous as a beautiful trekking spot. Right from the splendid hills to the aromatic meadows, everything that defines trekking as a beautiful expedition, is found here

Barkot: Situated at an altitude of 1220 meters, Barkot is a wonderful trekking destination. It is just 49 kilometers away from Yamunotri and is known for providing a perfect sight of the Banderpoonch peak along with various other Himalayan ranges. The place is also famous for its serene landscape, which is further complemented by the spouting water of the holy Yamuna River. Moreover, amidst all these picture-perfect beauties is an ancient temple that is much visited by the tourists.

Janki Chatti: Merely 7 kilometers away from Yamunotri, Janki Chatti is worth a visit. This place is famous for its natural thermal springs. Moreover, surrounded by mountains from all sides, Janki Chatti is also known for cosseting the virgin splendor of nature.

Dodital: The Dodital is a mysterious lake, which as per the mythological beliefs is the birthplace of Lord Ganesha. The reason why it is considered a mysterious lake is, its depth is still unknown to people. Furthermore, this wonderful marvel of the nature is situated at a height of around 3307 meters above the sea level and is beautifully enveloped by the dense woods of deodar, oak and rhododendrons.

Kharsali: Located very close to Janki Chatti, Kharsali is among the best places for sightseeing around Yamunotri. The thermal springs, dazzling cascades and a lovely meadow with oak and conifer trees, are the major attractions in Kharsali. In addition to this, there is also an ancient temple addressed to Lord Shiva that fetches tourism for the place. It is a three-storied temple that presents interesting and creative wood and stone work.

Dayara Bugyal: In the local language of Uttarkashi, Bugyal means a high altitude meadow. One adjective needs to be added to this definition – a ‘beautiful’ high altitude meadow and this is what Dayara Bugyal is. Located at a height of 3048 meters, the Dayara Bugyal is a wonderful 28 kilometer stretched land of lush green carpet. The major highlight of the place is a small natural lake, Barnala Tal.