Yamunotri is the Goddess Yamuna's residence and the Yamuna River's source in Hinduism. It is located in the Garhwal Himalayas, District Uttarkashi, at 3,293 metres (10,804 feet). It is one of the four Char Dham pilgrimage locations in Uttarakhand. The town is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Yamunotri. 

The town is the source of the Yamuna River. The westernmost shrine in the Garhwal Himalayas sits on Bandar Poonch Parvat. The temple dedicated to the Goddess Yamuna and the holy hot springs at Janki Chatti are the main draws in Yamunotri. 

The Tapta Kunda (where pilgrims take a bath before visiting the temple), Draupadi Kunda, Surya Kunda, and Divya Shila are the additional attractions of Yamunotri. According to Hindu mythology, devotees who complete this journey with the highest devotion and purity are liberated from the cycle of life and death.

Why is Yamunotri famous?

The town is part of the Chota Char Dham pilgrimage, including Badrinath, Kedarnath, and Gangotri. It is the Yamuna River's source and Goddess Yamuna's residence. Yamunotri, known for its thermal springs and glaciers, is in Uttarakhand's Uttarkashi District.

History of Yamunotri 

According to ancient Indian mythology, sage Asit Muni bathed in the Ganga and Yamuna rivers. Because of his age, he could no longer travel to the Ganga for a daily bath. A stream of the Ganga arose immediately opposite the Yamuna to allow him to carry on his legacy.

Goddess Yamuna is said to be the daughter of the Sun God (Surya). And the Goddess of Consciousness (Saranyu), with the Death God (Yama) as her brother. As a result, devotees travel to the Yamunotri shrine to bathe in the Yamuna River. People believe they would get the blessings of all the Gods at once and that taking a holy plunge in the river will wash away all their sins.

Which is more challenging, Yamunotri or Kedarnath? 

The first and most challenging of the four Dhams is Yamunotri. Despite being at a lower elevation than the other Dhams, getting to the temple is difficult due to the small and busy pathway.

The best time to visit 

The best months to visit the town are May-June and September-November. Yamunotri is frigid all year, with winters making most activities difficult. Visit the area during festivals such as Basant Panchami, Phool Devi, and others to see a more colorful and joyous side of town. A must must be included in your Yamunotri tour package.