Yamunotri Dham Yatra (3,225 M)

Yamuna Maya

Reaching Yamunotri is a journey of devotion and adventure. Pilgrims must undertake:
13-kilometre trek from Hanuman Chatti, or 6-kilometre trek from Janki Chatti Ponies, palanquins, and porters are available for those who need assistance. The scenic climb features breathtaking waterfalls, mountain streams, and panoramic Himalayan views, making the journey as memorable as the destination.

Origin of River Yamuna

The sacred River Yamuna originates from the Yamunotri Glacier, located at an elevation of about 6,315 meters near Kalind Peak. From the glacier, the river descends into Saptarishi Kund and then flows southward through a series of cascading waterfalls.

Yamuna is also known as Kalindi, as it emerges from the slopes of Kalind Parbat. To the west stands the majestic Bandarpunch, a prominent Himalayan peak that separates the Yamuna watershed from that of the Ganges.

Legends and Spiritual Significance

Yamunotri is not just a geographical origin but also a land rich in mythology:

According to legend, Lord Hanuman extinguished the fire of his burning tail here after setting Lanka ablaze. The nearby peak was thus named Bandarpunch — meaning “Monkey’s Tail.”

Another belief connects Yamunotri to the ancient sage Asit Muni. It is said that he meditated here and used to bathe daily in both the Yamuna and the Ganga. In his old age, when he could no longer travel to Gangotri, a stream of the Ganga miraculously appeared beside the Yamuna to fulfill his devotion.