Yamunotri
The holy shrine of Yamunotri (3,165 m) completes the ‘chardham circuit’ along with Gangotri, Kedarnathji and Badrinathji. It is also the place from where originates River Yamuna, one of the most sacred rivers in the Hindu mythology. The shrine has the temple which stands in dedication to goddess Yamuna. Though this temple is the chief attraction at the shrine, Yamunotri also features a number of other attractions that are worth a visit. These include glaciers, temples, river confluences and a numerous other scenic spots that mirror the natural beauty of the region. In addition, scenic treks await travelers. The temple at Yamunotri occupies a position on the left bank of River Yamuna. Yamutri shrine is snuggled up at an elevation 3,165 m above sea level.
Best Time to Visit
Summer time is the ideal period to make a visit to the shrine. Temperature during summer months goes to a maximum of 20 degrees centigrade. The temple invites devotees and travelers between 0600 hours 2000 hours.
Mythological Background
In the Hindu traditions, River Yamuna is said to be the seat of goddess Yamuna. Among all the four Chardham travel destinations in Uttarakhand, Yamunotri occupies its own unique place. The temple at Yamunotri, therefore, remains dedicated to goddess Yamuna. Initially, the Yamunotri temple was set up by Maharaja Pratap Shah of Tehri Garhwal. Geographically, Yamunotri is positioned to the westernmost in the Garhwal Himalayas.
Places to See
The shrine features many sites of religious importance. During your pilgrimage to Yamunotri in Uttarakhand, you will also have the opportunity of visiting the following.
Yamunotri Temple
Devotees come to Yamunotri to make a visit to the Yamunotri Temple, the major crowd puller at the shrine. Worshipping goddess Yamuna is believed to rid people of the effects of their evil deeds and bring good fortune in life.
Surya Kund
Located in the vicinity of the Yamunotri Temple are a number of thermal springs. These hot springs empty into numerous pools. Surya Kund carries the most significance among all the thermal springs located close to the shrine.
Hanumanchatti
The place lies at 13 km from Yamunotri shrine. Hanumanchatti marks the point where coalesce River Ganga and River Yamuna. A large number of trekkers are noticed here. It is from Hanumanchatti that the very scenic Dodital trek begins.
Reaching the Pilgrimage Site
The closest domestic airport from Yamunotri is the Jolly Grant Airport, situated in Dehradun. If your are coming by rail route, Rishikesh the nearest link. By road, Yamunotri remains well connected with places like Rishikesh, Gangotri, Chamba, Barkot and Tehri among others.
|
