Yamunotri Temple History - Significance & Importance

Explore Yamunotri Temple History – Significance & Importance. Discover the divine origins of Goddess Yamuna, the temple’s spiritual value in Char Dham Yatra, and the sacred legends that make Yamunotri a must-visit pilgrimage.

1. History of Yamunotri Temple – Mythology, Origin &
Importance
Introduction
Nestled amid the lofty snow-clad peaks of Himalayas, is Yamunotri - the source of the river
Yamuna and the seat of the goddess Yamuna. This temple is consecrated to the Goddess
Yamunotri temple history, also known as her Sanskrit name ‘Kalindi' and is the epitome of
purity, peacefulness and life. Devotees come here from all over the world, offering prayers in
hope to receive spiritual grace and tranquility.

2. The Yamunotri Temple is not just a religious site but has been known as a faith and tradition
since hundreds of years. The history of the Yamunotri temple, myths, and spiritual values
earn this as one of the major destinations for devotees who prefers to travel from Haridwar,
Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Hyderabad or Chennai in their Chardham Yatra Package.
So if you are planning to visit your next pilgrimage this latest guide by EpicYatra is going to
traverse for you through the ancient history, myths and divine energy of Yamunotri Temple:
The legend behind Goddess Yamuna
Legend According to Hindu mythology, goddess Yamuna is the daughter of Surya (Sun
God) and Sarana Devi, the sister of Yama (God of death), married to his younger half-
brother Yama. Bathing in the sacred Yamuna has been said to remove the fear of death
and gives Moksha (liberation). This is how Yamunotri gets it’s name as the “Gateway to
Immortality” and temple history.
According to one of the popular legends, Goddess Yamuna came to earth down from the
skies and gave divine blessings or Darshan. In her honor, the great sage Asit Muni has made
his asana( A place where One sits for performing sadhana ) in Yamanotri. Legend has it that
when he grew to be too old to take trips to both Ganga and Yamuna, the Ganges river
incarnated itself as a stream of water so that he could satisfy in his thirst in its waters. This is
just one of the several tales that reiterate the merciful and sublime Yamuna.
Who Built the Yamunotri Temple?
The original Yamunotri Temple was constructed by Maharaja Pratap Shah of Tehri Garhwal.
But ancient writings and local beliefs indicate the siting of a temple on the spot is thousands
of years old, well before there ever was a stone structure to be claimed.
The present temple has been rebuilt many times after flooding, snow and earthquake. But
the faith of the worshippers has ensured that the spiritual brilliance of temple towered over all
odds.
Today, the temple remains as a symbol of faith and divine power amidst snow-capped peaks
and healing hot springs.
Historical Origin of Yamunotri Temple
Yamunotri Temple history is closely associated with India’s prehistoric Vedic age. The
Yamuna river has been known to be mentioned in several holy scriptures, including the
Rigveda and the Puranas. She is said to be the fountain of all spiritual and physical energy.

3. The temple holds its existence from the myth that Goddess Yamuna had once done
meditation in these mountains. The location eventually developed into a place of pilgrimage
for mystics and thinkers who had settled there which they believed to be a center for purity.
With the passing of one dynasty, another from the Garhwal Kingdom took over ensuring that
pilgrims could reach out to what was once a remote Himalayan shrine. The legends and
rituals have been handed down through the ages, maintaining Yamunotri’s spiritual flame.
Architecture of Yamunotri Temple
The temple building of Yamunotri is plain but its architecture is grand. It embodies the art and
craft of ancient Himalayan masters whose mission was to encourage peace activities in the
world.
 The temple is a combination of granite stones and wood frames for withstanding
weather.
 In the sanctum sanctorum (garbha-griha) there is an image of Goddess Yamuna in
black marble.
 Adjacent to this smaller shrine is goddess Ganga’s wherein we see the connection
between the two important rivers.
And there are natural hot springs surrounding the temple, where believers take bath before
going inside. Of these, the most popular is Surya Kund (dedicated to the Sun God). Pilgrims
have the habit of cooking rice and potatoes in these springs as a religious offering.
Spiritual Significance of Yamunotri Temple
Yamunotri isn’t merely a place; it’s spiritual epiphany. Ironically, devotees say by making a
visit to the temple, one can wash away sins and emerge clean of negativity spiritually.
1. Symbol of Purity
Yamuna Devi symbolizes the life-giving power of God. They say she washes away the aches
and the sorrows, cleansing your soul.
2. Connection to Yama
As being Yama's sister, worshipping her brothers will protect one from untimely death; and
praying to both Surasä and her two brothers assures liberation after death.
3. Initiation of the Char Dham Yatra
It is the first destination in the Char Dham Yatra, conducted annually and follows the Gangotri,
Kedarnath and Badrinath. It signals the beginning of one’s journey towards spiritual
purification.

4. Yamunotri in Char Dham Yatra
Why Start from Yamunotri?
It is the westernmost point in Garhwal Himalayas, so Yatra typically starts out from here.
Pilgrims commence their journey from Haridwar or Rishikesh and reach Yamunotri
through Barkot.
Epic yatra has become a personality endorser for your travel trips providing Chardham Yatra
package from Haridwar to individual and groups with customized Chardham packages from
at Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Hyderabad and Chennai. They’ll keep your spiritual trip even, safe
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Legends Behind Yamunotri’s Hot Springs
Mythology says the Surya Kund, a hot water spring situated close to Yamunotri Temple, is
bestowed by no other than Lord Surya Dev. It represents energy, light and life. Devotees think
that a bath in Surya Kund can cure diseases and rejuvenate souls.
Pilgrims also cook prasad ( offering) by tying rice and potatoes in a piece of cloth and then
dunking in the boiling spring. The food is then cooked and serves to the Goddess, and
subsequently consumed as prasad.
Best Time to Visit Yamunotri Temple
The temple doors are opened once in a year on Akshaya Tritiya (Month of May) and closed
on Bhai Dooj (October/November). The best time to travel is from May to June when the
climate is nice and the paths are clear.
Summer (May–June)
Ideal time for pilgrims. The streets are empty, but life is elsewhere.
Monsoon (July–September)
There can be landslides from rain, so drive carefully. Helicopter service from Epic Yatra will
make your travel safe in any kind of change of weather.
Autumn (September–October)
Tranquil and scenic for those who want a peaceful spiritual experience.

5. How to Reach Yamunotri Temple
1. By Road
You can reach Yamunotri by road via major cities from Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Dehradun.
Nearest Roadhead is Janki Chatti 6 kms from the Temple. Pilgrims then walk or take
ponies/palkis for the last part.

2. By Train
The closest railhead is Haridwar and Dehradun.

3. By Air
The closest airport is Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun).

4. By Helicopter
For the comfort-loving pilgrims, Epic Yatra has Chardham by Helicopter packages. Which
incorporates the sanctity of Yamunotri. You can do your spiritual travel fast and securely by
seeing amazing Himalayan views.
Festivals and Rituals at Yamunotri temple history
The temple observes a number of religious festivals that draw thousands of pilgrims every
year.

1. Akshaya Tritiya
This is the opening day of temple and start of Char Dham Yatra. Devotees carry the idol of
Goddess Yamuna to the temple from the Kharsali village with prayers and rituals.

2. Diwali and Bhai Dooj
They are evidence of the closing festival of pilgrimage, when the temple is closed for winter.
During the months of snow, the goddess is taken back to Kharsali for worship.

3. Daily Puja and Aarti
In the morning and the evening, aarti is conducted by priests with hymns dedicated to
Goddess Yamuna. The blowing of the conch shells and ringing of bells brings with it an aura
of godly tranquility.

6. Yamunotri Temple During Winter
The temple is closed during the winter months because of snow. The idol of Goddess Yamuna
is transported to Kharsali at village, where ceremonies are performed for the entire winter.
Followers come to this village to resume their prayers ensuring the sacred energy never dies.
Tips for Pilgrims Visiting Yamunotri
1. Take warm clothes, it gets cold in a hurry.
2. Maintain medical supplies and travel insurance.
3. Best in the morning to avoid crowds.
4. Avoid plastic and maintain cleanliness.
5. Opt for Epic Yatra’s escorted packages for a safe and hassle-free travel experience.
6. Don't forget to always check the weather before setting out on a trip.
Epic Yatra – When You Can Trust Your Travel Buddy
Epic Yatra is facilitating the dream of thousands of pilgrims to visit to Char Dham. Having
years of experience and expertise planning, the company provides the most affordable Char
Dham Yatra Package from Delhi, Haridwar, Kolkata, Mumbai, Hyderabad and Chennai.
Their Chardham Yatra tour Package by Helicopter makes certain that you have luxury,
comfort and ease of travel without compromising your pilgrimage sanctity. Want to find peace,
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Visit www.epicyatra.com and to see all the other options to book you divine trip today
Conclusion
The Yamunotri Temple is no ordinary shrine — it’s a portal to spiritual rebirth. Its antiquity,
wonderful legends and divine power convince us that there has always existed a connection
between man and the Divine.

When you visit the holy temple, your soul will be washed clean and soaked in centuries of
adoration and tradition. Be it by road or the Chardham Yatra tour Package by Helicopter,
nothing will rob you off your experience at Yamunotri.

Epic Yatra helps you make this trip safe, memorable and divine.

7. FAQs
1. Who built the Yamunotri Temple?
Maharaja Pratap Shah of Tehri Garhwal established the present day temple, but people have
worshipped at the site for millennia.

2. When is the best time to visit Yamunotri Temple?
May through October, in particular summertime in nice weather.

3. Why Yamunotri is a part of Char Dham Yatra?
The Char Dham Yatra, which many consider a flight towards salvation, originates from
this source.

4. What's the easiest way to get to Yamunotri?
You can reach by road from Haridwar, or opt for the comfort of a helicopter ride with Epic
Yatra’s Helicopter Packages.

5. What is so special about Surya Kund at Yamunotri temple?
The Deity Sun is said to bless a sacred hot spring. Followers prepare offerings by cooking
them in its blessed water.
Start your spiritual journey now with Epic Yatra’s Char Dham Tour Packages and get
mesmerized by the beauty of Yamunotri.

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