Yamunotri Temple – Complete Yatra Guide (2026)

About Yamunotri Dham

The sacred shrine of Yamunotri, the source of the River Yamuna, is the westernmost shrine in the Garhwal Himalayas. It is perched on the flank of Bandarpoonch. The main attraction here is the temple dedicated to Goddess Yamuna and the holy thermal springs at Janki Chatti, located about 7 km away.

The actual source of the Yamuna is a frozen lake and glacier known as the Champasar Glacier (also called Yamunotri Glacier), situated on Kalind Mountain at an altitude of 4,421 meters above sea level. As the route to the glacier is extremely difficult and not easily accessible, pilgrims generally offer prayers at the temple located at the foot of the hill.

The Yamunotri Temple is situated on the left bank of the Yamuna River and was constructed by Maharaja Pratap Shah of Tehri Garhwal. The deity of Goddess Yamuna is made of black marble. Like the River Ganga, Yamuna is revered as a divine mother and is considered responsible for nurturing and sustaining Indian civilization.

Sacred Springs and Rituals

Close to the temple are several hot water springs emerging from mountain cavities. The most important among them is Surya Kund. Near Surya Kund lies a sacred rock pillar known as Divya Shila, which is worshipped before offering prayers to the main deity.

Devotees prepare rice and potatoes by dipping them in the hot water springs, tied in a muslin cloth. The cooked rice is taken back home as prasadam.

The priests (pujaris) of Yamunotri belong to the nearby village of Kharsali. They administer the temple and perform religious rites, being well versed in the Shastras.

Temple Timings

Yamunotri Temple remains open for devotees from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

Aarti Timings:

• Evening Aarti: Between 6:30 PM and 7:30 PM

Special poojas are organized on the eve of:

• Janmashtami

• Diwali

Opening & Closing Dates (2026)

For the year 2026:

• Opening Date: 19 April 2026

• Closing Date: 11 November 2026

Yamunotri in Winters

During winter, the idol of Goddess Yamuna is moved to her winter abode at Kharsali, a village about 6 kilometers away. It is traditionally believed that Kharsali is Yamuna’s maternal home, and her brother Shani Dev escorts her back to Kharsali when the temple closes for the season.

The ceremonial doli of Goddess Yamuna is taken to Kharsali with rituals and traditional celebrations. The pandits and purohits stay there during the winter months, and worship continues at Kharsali until the temple reopens in the next pilgrimage season.