Sacred Shrines of Chardham
Yamunotri Temple
Deity
Goddess Yamuna
Altitude
3,291m
"The Sanctuary of Life and Death"
Yamunotri is the first stop of the Char Dham. The temple, dedicated to Goddess Yamuna, is located in the shadow of Bandarpoonch peaks. It is a place where pilgrims offer prayers to the daughter of the Sun and the sister of the God of Death.
Section 01
Himalayan Shrine Architecture
The temple is a fairly modern structure built with stone and wood, given its vulnerability to the harsh Himalayan climate. It houses a black marble idol of Goddess Yamuna. The architecture is intimate and designed to blend with the narrow mountain ledge on which it sits.
Section 02
Surya Kund & Thermal Springs
One of the most unique aspects of Yamunotri is the presence of natural thermal springs. **Surya Kund** is a boiling hot spring where pilgrims cook rice and potatoes in cloth bags as a sacred offering (Prasada). The nearby Gauri Kund offers tepid water for a holy bath before entering the shrine.
Section 03
Divya Shila Worship
Before entering the main temple, it is mandatory to worship the **Divya Shila**, a massive stone rock located near Surya Kund. This rock is believed to be the foundation of the shrine and is often covered in vermilion and flowers offered by devotees.
Temple Puja & Aarti Timings
A Spiritual Schedule for Pilgrims
Ritual
Timing
Temple Opening
6:00 AM
Aarti & Darshan
7:30 AM
Afternoon Break
1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Evening Aarti
6:30 PM
Temple Closing
8:00 PM
* Timings are subject to change based on the Temple Committee's seasonal adjustments.