Kharsali: The Winter Abode of Goddess Yamuna

The picturesque village of Kharsali is situated among the grand, peaceful, and majestic mountains of the Garhwal Himalayas. This place is one of the most popular picnic spots and an oasis for people looking to take some time off from the maddening city crowd. Replete with an impressive green covering and home to the holy temple of Shani Dev, Kharsali is also a popular pilgrimage spot. When Yamunotri Dham is covered in snow during the winter months, the presiding deity, Goddess Yamuna, is shifted to this temple. People looking to offer their prayers visit this temple once the temple Kapat is closed for Darshan.

Location

Also popularly named ‘Khushimath’, this quaint hamlet is nestled in the picturesque district of Uttarkashi in Devbhoomi Uttarakhand. Set at an elevation of 2,675 meters above sea level, this quiet and peaceful village serves as a stopover point for people heading towards the Yamunotri temple shrine. The village is located just 1 km from Janki Chatti and is not only visited by pilgrims but also popular among trekkers and those seeking peace and quiet, especially nature lovers.

Things to Do in Kharsali:

• Pilgrimage: If you wish to pay your respects to the presiding deity of Yamunotri, Goddess Yamuna, visiting Kharsali is your best option. Kharsali is the winter abode of Yamunotri, and the idol of the presiding deity is shifted to this quaint village hamlet during the winter months.
• Trekking: Kharsali is the perfect base camp for those looking to go on an excursion. All the magnificent and picturesque sites are within trekking distance, making it an ideal destination for outdoor adventure lovers.
• Getaway: If you are tired of the chaos and hustle of city life, visiting Kharsali can be your best option. This is the perfect getaway for peace seekers and nature lovers. You will be greeted by a clean environment and undisturbed surroundings.
• Camping: Visiting this pleasant village with a group of friends and going camping will definitely be one of your most memorable experiences in the hills. The rolling, lush green meadows offer the perfect opportunity for setting up your camps and tents, giving you a sense of peace under the open sky.

Places to Visit in and Around Kharsali:

Shani Dev Temple

Sitting at an elevation of 7,000 feet above sea level, this temple is popular across northern India as the winter home for the presiding deity of Yamunotri Dham. The temple is located within the premises of Kharsali.

Janki Chatti

Located at an elevation of 2,650 meters above sea level, this village comes to life during the pilgrimage season. It is a stopover point for pilgrims visiting Yamunotri Dham and also serves as a quiet picnic spot.

Hanuman Chatti

Located 13 km from the main Dham shrine of Yamunotri, at an elevation of 2,400 meters above sea level, this place is not only popular for its serenity but is also extremely holy due to its location at the confluence of the Hanuman Ganga and Yamuna rivers.

Dodi Tal

This hidden paradise lake is situated amidst the towering mountain ranges at an altitude of 3,310 meters above sea level. This emerald lake is undoubtedly one of the most pristine lakes in northern India and is home to the rare species of Himalayan trout known as Dodi.

Darwa Top

If you’re into adventure activities, then trekking to Darwa Pass will be the perfect challenge. From here, you can gaze at some of the most majestic peaks, including Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, Srikantha, and more.

Barkot

Located in the picturesque district of Uttarkashi, Barkot is a peaceful haven away from the bustle of city life. Sitting at an elevation of 1,220 meters above sea level, this place is ideal for those looking to have an adventurous experience.

How to Reach:

• By Air: The closest airport is in Dehradun, the Jolly Grant Airport, located 192 km away. This airport caters to flights from various major and minor cities.
• By Train: The nearest railway stations to Kharsali are in Haridwar and Rishikesh, located 169 km away. From there, you can hire a cab or take a local bus heading to Kharsali.
• By Road: Kharsali is not directly connected by a network of motorable roads, but motorable roads will take you up to Janki Chatti. From there, the village is just a 1 km walk. Taxis and bus services are available from Rishikesh, Dehradun, Tehri, etc.

Accommodation Facilities:

Being a small village hamlet, Kharsali does not have luxury stay options or resorts. However, luxurious camping facilities are available, along with affordable and pocket-friendly lodging and homestay options. You can also find a number of hotels in Barkot, located around 2 hours away.

Food Availability:

Kharsali does not have high-end restaurants or cafes, but there are Dhabas and local food stalls where you can indulge in heartwarming Pahadi cuisine. The Dhabas might serve Chinese dishes as well, but it’s advisable to keep an open mind and try the local dishes for an authentic experience.

Best Time to Visit:

The summer months from April to June are considered to be the best time to visit this quaint hamlet. The monsoon months of July, August, and September are not suitable for visiting due to the unpredictable weather and unforeseen circumstances triggered by heavy rainfall. Another good time to visit is during the fall months of October and November when the place comes alive due to fairs and festivals.