About the Temple

Legend has it that the Yamunotri Shrine marks the beginning of the Yamuna River, situated on the eastern flank of the Bandar Poonch peak (3615 meters). While the actual starting point is a frozen lake of ice and glacier (Champasar-Glacier) on the Kalind Mountain at 4421 meters, the sacred site is located at its base on the hill.

The Goddess Yamuna Temple was reconstructed by Maharaja Pratap Shah of Tehri Garhwal. The temple, surrounded by the icy cold waters of the small Yamuna, is a place of deep reverence for the devout. The ancient sage Asit Muni resided here as a hermit, contributing to the spiritual atmosphere of the location. The Yamunotri trek offers breathtaking views of towering peaks and dense forests.

Goddess Yamuna is represented by a black marble figure in the temple, dedicated to the river deity. The temple also features a silver statue adorned with garlands.

The hot springs near Yamunotri are significant, with the most important one being Kund. Pilgrims worship Divya Shila, a stone near Suryakund, before offering prayers. Rice and potatoes are dipped in the hot springs, tied in muslin cloth, and offered at the shrine as prasadam, bringing blessings to the family.