The place where Mother Ganga resides: Mukti Dham, Gangotri Dham, Manganga Diwadi, place where Mahadev appeared on earth to give salvation to the 60 sons of King Sagar and to free the people of this earth from sins. Today we will explore the journey of Yamunotri yatra which will cover how to reach there, residing options, food options, Yamunotri temperature, best places to visit during Yamunotri temple visit and our expert tips to make your Yamunotri yatra one of the best and unforgettable moments.
While planning Yamunotri yatra the most obvious question comes to your mind which is “How to reach Yamunotri” so let’s discuss the best transportation option first.
The nearest railway stations to Yamunotri are Rishikesh and Haridwar. From Haridwar Railway Station, you can take a bus to Janki Chatti which is the base for the trek to Yamunotri Temple. The bus journey usually charges around ₹350 which takes several hours.
If you prefer a more direct route, you can hire a taxi from Haridwar to Janki Chatti which may cost you between ₹2,500 and ₹3,500. Also, you can rent a scooter or bike if you are comfortable with mountain driving.
Once you arrive at Janki Chatti, you will need to trek approximately 6 kilometers to reach Yamunotri Temple. This trek usually takes about 2-3 hours and offers beautiful views along the way.
For those traveling from Uttarkashi, you can take a bus to Janki Chatti as well. Please check local transportation schedules in advance especially during peak seasons to Yamunotri Yatra.
From the Rishikesh Government Bus Stand, you can take a bus to Janki Chatti, the base for the trek to Yamunotri Temple. There, buses usually leave in the morning around 7:00 AM which covers around kilometers taking about 7 to 8 hours. Ticket prices range from ₹700 to ₹900.
If you cannot find a direct bus to Janki Chatti, another option is to travel to Uttarkashi first. From Uttarkashi, you can catch a local bus or shared taxi to Janki Chatti, which is about 99 kilometers away. Please book the tickets in advance to make sure your Yamunotri Yatra experience is smooth and memorable.
Tickets can be booked in advance, and there are ample accommodations in Uttarkashi, including hotels and dharamshalas, starting at ₹500 per night. You can stay in a hotel.
Dharamshalas such as Ramanand Ashram and Kali Kamli Dharamshala can be an option for you based on your budget and preferences which come with basic amenities. Ramanand Ashram has around 30 rooms priced between ₹300 and ₹700 while Kali Kamli has eight economical rooms surrounded by beautiful views.
Several hotels are available for people who prefer more comfort. For those preferring more comfort. You can stay in hotels like Hotel Yamuna View and Hotel Shiva which gives you modern amenities and lovely dining experiences close to major attractions like the Yamunotri Temple.
This is for those who are travelling with their own vehicle, you will have to go through a checkpoint near Uttarkashi, police will stop vehicles for registration verification. I used a soft copy of my registration stored on my mobile, and the process was smooth. After a brief stop, we resumed our journey. Along the way, there were beautiful waterfalls and scenic views.
Once you reach Janki Chatti, the base camp for your trek to Yamunotri Temple, prepare for an exhilarating 6-kilometer trek that takes 2-3 hours. The path is lined with leafy greenery and lovely landscapes that will keep you charmed throughout your journey. Along the way, you’ll find resting points and refreshment stalls where you can hydrate yourself.
Upon reaching Yamunotri Temple, take a moment to soak in the peaceful atmosphere and you can also participate in the puja ceremony. The experience of offering prayers at this holy site is unforgettable.
Yamunotri weather has a diverse range of temperatures throughout the year, influenced by its high altitude and mountainous surroundings. When writing (January 29, 2025), the current temperature in Yamunotri is approximately -9°C (14°F) with sunny conditions.
During the winter months, from December to February, temperatures can fluctuate between -10°C to 10°C. Visitors should be prepared for cold weather conditions. During the springs (March and April), temperatures slowly rise (5°C to 20°C), which makes it a more favorable time for trekking and travel.
In summer (May to June), Yamunotri temperatures fluctuate between 10°C and 25°C. This ideal temperature range attracts many pilgrims and tourists. However, heavy rainfall is usually experienced between July and September, so be prepared if you are visiting at this time.
Transportation from Haridwar to Yamunotri generally involves a bus ride to Janki Chatti, costing you around ₹350. Accommodation options range from budget dharamshalas starting at ₹300 per night to more comfortable hotels priced between ₹1,500 and ₹2,000. Meals can also be economical, with local eateries options at reasonable prices.
So, overall, a budget for the Yamunotri Yatra can range from ₹5,000 to ₹10,000 per person for a two-day trip, depending on your choices and preferences.
So, this is about Yamunotri, which is not just about reaching a destination; it’s about having a memorable and unique experience filled with spirituality and natural beauty.
Plan your visit according to your budget, transportation availability, accommodation options, and trekking routes. So pack your bags and get ready for a fantastic pilgrimage!
