The sacred shrine of Yamunotri, source of the river Yamuna, is the westernmost shrine in the Garhwal Himalayas, perched atop a flank of Bandar Poonch Parvat. The chief attraction at Yamunotri is the temple devoted to goddess Yamuna and the holy thermal springs at Jankichatti (7 km. Away).
The actual source a frozen lake of ice & glacier (Champasar glacier) located on the Kalind mountain at the height of 4421 m above sea level, about 1 km further up, is not frequented generally as it is not accessible and hence the shrine has been located on the foot of the hill. The approach is extremely difficult and pilgrims therefore offer pooja at the temple itself.
The temple of Yamuna is on the left bank of Yamuna constructed by Maharaja Pratap Shah of Tehri Garhwal.
Places to See :
Divya Shila
A rock pillar, worshipped before entering the Yamunotri Temple.
JankiChatti
5 km from Yamunotri, it is noted for it's thermal springs , where tourists can enjoy a refreshing bath.
Hanumanchatti
13 km from Yamunotri. The confluence of Hanuman Ganga and Yamuna rivers,from where the trek to Dodi Tal (3,307mt)starts.Route:Rishikesh-Barkot -Hanumanchatti-Yamunotri. Hanumanchatti -Darvatop -Dodital-Agora-Uttarkashi-Rishikesh.Porters and ponies are available at Hanumanchatti.Rates are fixed by District Magistrate before the start of every Yatra season.
Sayanachatti
27 km from Barkot & 18 km from Yamunotri is a scenic spot on the bank of river Yamuna.
Chamba
Situated at an elevation of 1,524 mt,it is a picturesque place commanding a panoramic view of the Himalayas. Road from here bifurcates for Mussoorie, New Tehri and Rishikesh.
Travel Information :
By Air : Nearest airport is Jolly Grant.
By Rail : Nearest railhead is at Rishikesh.
By Road : The road to Yamunotri diverts from Rishikesh-Gangotri road at Dharasu.
