Yamunotri Dham - Chapter 1 of Chota Char Dham Circuit
Yamunotri, a revered site in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, is situated on the western flank of the Garhwal Himalayas at an elevation of approximately 3,233 meters above sea level. This sacred place is renowned for its majestic mountain peaks, glaciers, and the flowing waters of the Yamuna River. As the source of the Yamuna, India's second most sacred river, Yamunotri is a significant pilgrimage destination and an integral part of the Chota Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand.
The sacred residence of Goddess Yamuna is located near the base of Kalind Parbat and adjacent to Banderpoonch Parbat. As one of the Chota Char Dham pilgrimage sites, the temple's breathtaking surroundings inspire awe in devotees. The Yamuna River flows down one side of the temple, where Goddess Yamuna is enshrined as a black marble idol. Beside her, Ganga Devi is represented in white stone. The Yamunotri temple closes for the winter on Yama Dwitiya (the second day after Diwali, also known as Bhai Dooj). During this time, the deity is carried to Kharsali village in a palanquin, where she remains throughout the winter. On Akshay Tritiya (in April/May), the goddess returns to Yamunotri. Both the closing and opening of the temple are marked by joyous celebrations, elaborate rituals, and Vedic chants.
Legendary Associations of Yamunotri
According to Hindu mythology, Yamunotri is the birthplace of the Yamuna River, and it is believed that bathing in this sacred river can cleanse all sins. The Yamunotri temple, constructed in the 19th century by the queen of Jaipur, features hot water springs used to prepare Prasad offered to the deity. The revered goddess Yamuna, considered the daughter of the Sun and the twin sister of Yama (the god of death), is also known as Yami in the Vedas and is associated with the god of life.
Trekking Guide to Yamunotri Dham
The trek to Yamunotri offers a variety of experiences. The trail is paved and features protective railings along the valley side, making it accessible, yet the six-kilometer hike can be challenging due to the high altitude. Regular trekkers might find it manageable, but the steep sections can leave you sweating and breathless, especially if you’re not accustomed to walking at over 10,000 feet. Shelters with seating and drinking water are available every half kilometer or so, and numerous shops along the way sell food, snacks, and drinks. Walking sticks can also be purchased for added support.
At the base in Janki Chatti, a well-developed market caters to almost all trekking essentials. For those preferring not to walk, ponies are available for hire for either a round trip or one-way journey. Additionally, palanquins, where four people carry you on a seat, and dolis, typically used for children and lighter individuals, are options. The doli involves being carried on a person's back in a seat carved into a basket.
The Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 - Arrive at Dehradun by rail, road, or air and proceed for further journey towards Janki Chatti, approximately 182 km away. If you are arriving late at Dehradun, then make an overnight stay there. Else, continue travelling and book your accommodation at one of the Hotels at Janki Chatti. Get proper rest at the hotel and charge yourself for the next day’s trek.
Day 2 - Commence your trek towards Yamunotri Dham early in the morning. The distance from Janki Chatti to Yamunotri is 5 km, which requires about a 2&½ hours trek. You will get resting points and refreshments stalls at regular intervals. The gushing water of the Yamuna River and the breathtaking scenic beauty will be a constant companion almost throughout the trek. Offer your prayers to Yamunotri Temple and get some rest before beginning the downward descent towards Janki Chatti. Return to the hotel at Janki Chatti at the end of the day.
Day 3 - Check out from the hotel and proceed towards Dehradun to embark on the return journey.