Being a religious destination, majority of people who travel to Yamunotri are pilgrims who visit the Yamunotri shrine to seek blessings. There are few sightseeing places which have religious significance rather than a touristic appeal.
Dedicated to Goddess Yamuna, Yamunotri Temple lies in the western Garhwal Himalayas at an elevation of about 3,291mts. The second most holy river of India, River Yamuna originates at Yamunotri. Hence, Yamunotri Temple forms one of the four Chota Char Dham pilgrimage sites. The majestic mountains, mesmerizing springs of Surya Kund and Gouri Kund gushing hot and cold water respectively, and River Yamuna flowing gracefully provides a tranquil-filled atmosphere around Yamunotri temple.
Surya Kund is a hot water spring situated at near Yamunotri temple. This thermal spring gets its name from Yamuna river which is considered to be the offspring of Surya or the God as per Hindu mythology. Surya Kund serves as a holy place as it is located in the vicinity of Yamunotri shrine.
Timmersain Mahadev is a cave of lord Shiva which is situated in Niti village of Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. Cave is famous as the replica of Amarnath shrine of Jammu and Kashmir. Because of it's a natural Shivaling of snow, this place is getting popularity day by day.
Situated at an elevation of 2,650 mts above sea level, Janki Chatti is familiarly known for its hot water springs. Janki Chatti encompasses the last village in the region and it acts as the major hub for the pilgrims traveling to Yamunotri. The thermal springs of Janki Chatti act as an inevitable part of the Yamunotri pilgrimage. Ponies and palanquins are available at Janki Chatti. Janki Chatti is surrounded by mountains on all sides and lies in close proximity to the Indo-China border.
The untouched village of Kharsali also known as ‘Khushimath’ is cradled with love in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand. It is perched at an astounding elevation of 2,675 meters above sea level. The tiny hamlet of Kharsali has a religious significance as it is the winter seat of Goddess Yamuna. Since the Yamunotri shrine becomes inaccessible in winters, due to heavy snowfall, therefore, the deity is brought here for worshipping.
Shani Devi Temple adorned in the sleepy hamlet of Kharsali in Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand is considered as the oldest temple of Shani Dev. Positioned at 7,000 feet above sea level in Kharsali, the Shani Dev Temple is the winter seat of Goddess Yamuna.
