Yamunotri

Situated amidst the Garhwal Himalayas, Yamunotri in the state of Uttarakhand is naturally bestowed with abundant beauty and charm. At a hovering altitude of 3293 meters, Yamunotri lies adjacent to the Indo-Chinese border and is encircled by the lofty peaks on all sides. One of the holiest centers in the Hindu pantheon, this sacred abode of the Asti muni boast of so many unparallel vistas of nature.

Highly revered as the origin of the majestic River Yamuna, Yamunotri is famed for its glaciers, and thermal springs that makes it one of the most important stopovers in the schedule of a Hindu pilgrim. According to Hindu tradition, Yamuna is the sister of Yama, the god of death and a holy dip in this river secures a painless death to the devotee

A thrilling and exhilarating location in the footsteps of Garhwal mountain ranges, Yamunotri proffers picturesque surroundings with the awesome shrubs, lush meadows and gushing cascades. A legendary place, which demands lots of courage and stamina to reach, Yamunotri would be a perfect place for those who love escapades. The trek to Yamunotri is magnificent, subjugated by mind stilling views of craggy peaks and intense forests. From the snow-clad summits to the turquoise lakes, Yamunotri has unbelievably romantic allures on store for those who are young at heart. Its imposing walking trails beside the gushing streams presents some of the spectacular moments that one could never forget.

Yamunotri Temple History
The original Yamunotri Temple is said to have been built by Maharani Guleria of Jaipur in the 19th century. However, there are stories of it being constructed by Maharaja Pratap Shah of Tehri Garhwal. Due to destruction by weather and the elements, the temple has been renovated a couple of times. Yamunotri Dham’s mythological significance is narrated in a popular legend that is related to sage Asit Muni who lived here and used to bathe in the Ganges and the Yamuna River daily. In his old age, he was unable to go to Gangotri, thus a stream of the Ganges appeared opposite Yamunotri for him. Also, Goddess Yamuna is said to be the daughter of Surya Dev (the Sun God) and sister of Yama (the God of Death). It is believed that worshipping the Yamuna would also please Sun God and Yama.

Best Season / Best Time to Visit Yamunotri
Yamunotri has an all year cold climate. Summers during April to July are pleasant with temperature ranges within 6°C to 20°C and May-June are the warmest months. Winters during October to March are chilly freeze have temperatures at sub-zero level and are characterized by heavy snowfalls. This season is not suited for any outdoor activities, especially December and January. Rainfalls are very scanty here.
Basant Panchami held during January–February is a festival which is a blend of cultural and artistic performances. Other festivals celebrated with lots of enthusiasm are Phool Devi during March and Olgia during August.
Best periods to visit Yamunotri are during May to June and September to November.