Popular places to visit in and around Yamunotri Dham

The blissful Himalayan region of Uttarakhand, Yamunotri Dham is one of the most prominent Char Dham pilgrimage sites in India. Located at a height of 3923 meters above sea level, Yamunotri Dham is surrounded by mountains on all sides. The sacred serenity, of the Yamuna River originates from Yamunotri. The temple of Yamunotri is dedicated to the river goddess Yamuna. Thousands of devotees visit Yamunotri every year to get divine blessings from Goddess Yamuna. People also come here to explore beautiful trekking trails for outdoor adventures. There are many fascinating sites where you can go and explore the hidden gems of natural beauty in Yamuna. In this post we will show you some of the most beautiful destinations to visit in and around Yamunotri Dham-

Yamunotri Temple

The Holy Dham of Yamunotri is flanked by lush, green rolling hills along with a backdrop of a silver cascading waterfall. As the name suggests this holy shrine is dedicated to goddess Yamuna and it also functions as the commencement point for The Char Dham Yatra Journey. The Only Way to Reach Yamunotri Temple is via trekking your way to the main temple site which is 6 km but the resulting spirituality and view are impeccable. The location of the temple marks the emergence point of the holy river of Yamuna.

Surya Kund

This thermal hot water spring gets its name from the gently flowing river of Yamuna that makes its way from right next to it. The temperature inside this hot water spring can go up to a scorching temperature of 88 degrees Celsius. The holy Prasad that is distributed inside the temple is prepared here which includes the preparation of rice and potatoes inside the boiling water. After presenting this Prasad at the temple to the presiding deity it is then distributed amongst the devotees visiting who take it home.

Hanuman Chatti

Situated right on the confluence of the rivers of Hanuman Ganga and Yamuna this holy place is situated at a distance of 13 km from the main temple of Yamunotri. Initially, this was the place from where the trekking for the temple used to commence however now, jeepable roads have been constructed that have shortened the distance to 6 km currently from Hanuman Chatti to Janki Chatti. This place serves as an important stopover for the people on their journey to Yamunotri like raincoats, medicines along other essential requirements. This place is also a popular trekking destination and people can also visit its nearby counterparts of Darwa Top or Dodi Tal.

Saptarishi Kund

Sitting peacefully at a distance of 10 km from the main Dham of Yamunotri this place can be reached after covering a trekking distance of 2 to 3 days. This crystal, clear and gleaming high-altitude lake is a pristine destination among nature lovers and outdoor explorers. Sitting amidst the lush greenery and enchanting surroundings the terrain of Saptarishi Kund also consists of pathways strewn with rocky debris making the journey difficult yet extremely fruitful. It is named so since it is believed that the famous 7 rishis of India are said to have performed various yoga around the perimeter of this lake.

Janki Chatti

Janki Chatti known for its numerous naturally occurring thermal hot water springs which sit at an elevation of 2,650 meters above sea level your Travel to Yamunotri remains incomplete without a visit to this pristine destination. Surrounded by thick and lush greenery on all sides and close to the Indo-China border, this was the previous starting point of the trek to Yamunotri. This newly made route not only shortens the entire trekking route but it also offers a memorable time. Pilgrims on their journey have the option of shopping for their essential items from this holy town.

Kharsali

Located near the temple of Yamunotri this place is home to the temple which is the winter home of the residing idol of goddess Yamuna. Formerly known as ‘Kushimath’, Kharsali is one of the most scenic destinations near Uttarakhand. You will be able to have a fun time with your family and loved ones by going on picturesque picnics. The clean air and the pristine nature will allow you to have a relaxing time in the lap of nature. This tiny hamlet gets completely covered in mesmerizing snow. This scenic destination is located at just a distance of 6 km from Yamunotri and can only be covered after covering a trekking journey of 1 km from Janki Chatti.

Barkot (Badkot)

The quaint hamlet of Barkot is a quiet and extremely pristine destination that is situated near the holy shrine of Yamunotri. Nestled amongst the tall rhododendrons and oak on an elevation of 1,220 meters above sea level Barkot offers some of the most magnificent views of the surrounding Bandarpoonch peaks. This is not only a popular pilgrimage destination but it is also recognized as a popular adventure sports destination among numerous trekkers. This holy town has several ATMs and petrol pumps here where you can load up on supplies before heading on for your journey. Since it is situated at a mere distance of 46 km from Yamunotri temple and offers some of the most majestic views of the surrounding snow-bound Himalayas, Barkot is a place that you should visit.

Dodital

This pristine high-altitude lake is located on an elevation of 3,024 meters above sea level and is a freshwater lake that is home to a collection of dodi fishes; hence the lake is named so. Dodital serves as the beginning point for the river of Assi Ganga which rises here and confluences the holy river of Bhagirathi. The trekking journey here is extremely easy and simple and is a great option to take if you are planning on going on an adventure with your family with kids

Dayara Bugyal

Looking to get into the fascinating world of trekking? Dayara Bugyal trek has to be one of the top-rated trekking options for beginner trekking enthusiasts. This trekking on the lush green meadows or Bugyal will take you across some of the vastest expanses of dense forests and incredible greenery. This trekking trail’s commencement point is from the village of Barsu and is located at an elevation of 3,048 meters above sea level. People can also visit this place to get a taste of adventure by skiing on its snowy slopes during the winter months when the entire region gets covered in a thick layer of white snow.

Raithal Village

The quaint Raithal village in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand has been plucked straight from heaven. Located at an elevation of 1800 meters, the hamlet showcases serenity that transcends ordinary description. It’s a trekker’s paradise, many trekkers visit Raithal village as it’s a beautiful base camp of Dayara Bugyal. Away from the hustle and bustle of city life, one cannot help but feel a sense of admiration for the natural beauty of Raithal.

Uttarkashi

Often called Shivnagri, Somya Kashi, or Kashi of the North, Uttarkashi is one of the most popular places to visit around Yamunotri. It is a gateway for spiritual nourishment, escape paradise for solace seekers, and a thrill hub for adventure lovers. One of the most iconic spiritual landmarks of Uttarkashi is Lord Vishwanath Temple which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The holy shrine of the temple has a copper trident and a circumference of 1 meter. Kashi in Banaras also has Vishwanath Temple which radiates the divine aura of external sanctity. Adventurers love Uttarkashi as there are many opportunities for Trekking, mountaineering, adventure sports, etc.