The trek to Yamunotri Dham is a popular pilgrimage route that attracts thousands of devotees every year. The trek starts from the town of Hanuman Chatti and passes through scenic valleys, dense forests, and river banks of the Yamuna river. The total distance of the trek is around 13 km, and it takes about 6-7 hours to complete the round trip. The trek is moderate to difficult, and requires a good level of fitness and endurance. Along the way, pilgrims can visit the ancient Yamunotri temple, take a dip in the holy thermal springs of Yamunotri, and enjoy the breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks of the Garhwal Himalayas. Proper preparation, including carrying enough water and snacks, wearing appropriate trekking gear, and acclimatization to high altitude, is essential for a safe and enjoyable trekking experience.
How to Reach Yamunotri
Yamunotri Dham is accessible via road and trekking routes. Here are the ways to reach Yamunotri:
By Air: The nearest airport to Yamunotri is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is around 210 km away. From there, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to Hanuman Chatti, the starting point of the trek to Yamunotri.
By Train: The nearest railway station to Yamunotri is the Dehradun Railway Station, which is about 195 km away. From there, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to Hanuman Chatti.
By Road: Hanuman Chatti, the starting point of the trek to Yamunotri, is well-connected by road to major cities in Uttarakhand. One can take a bus or hire a taxi from Dehradun, Rishikesh, Haridwar or Uttarkashi to Hanuman Chatti.
Trekking: The traditional way to reach Yamunotri is by trekking from Hanuman Chatti. The trek route is well-marked and passes through scenic valleys and dense forests, and takes about 6-7 hours to complete. Pilgrims can also hire ponies or palanquins for the trek.
Yamunotri Trekking Route
Yamunotri can be reached by trekking through a scenic route that starts from the town of Hanuman Chatti. Here's a step-by-step guide to the trekking route:
Start from Hanuman Chatti: The trek to Yamunotri starts from the town of Hanuman Chatti, which is well-connected by road to major cities in Uttarakhand.
Trek to Janki Chatti: From Hanuman Chatti, the trek route passes through a scenic trail along the banks of the Yamuna river, and reaches Janki Chatti, a small village that serves as a stopover for pilgrims. The distance from Hanuman Chatti to Janki Chatti is around 6 km, and takes about 3-4 hours to complete.
Trek to Yamunotri: From Janki Chatti, the trek route continues along the Yamuna river and passes through scenic valleys and dense forests, and reaches Yamunotri, the holy shrine of the goddess Yamuna. The distance from Janki Chatti to Yamunotri is around 6 km, and takes about 3-4 hours to complete.
Visit the Yamunotri temple: After reaching Yamunotri, pilgrims can visit the ancient Yamunotri temple, which is dedicated to the goddess Yamuna. The temple is located at an altitude of 3,293 meters above sea level, and offers stunning views of the snow-capped peaks of the Garhwal Himalayas.
Take a dip in the thermal springs: Pilgrims can also take a dip in the holy thermal springs of Yamunotri, which are believed to have medicinal properties and can cure various ailments.
Return to Hanuman Chatti: After visiting the temple and taking a dip in the thermal springs, pilgrims can return to Hanuman Chatti via the same route. The total distance of the trek is around 12 km, and takes about 6-7 hours to complete. Proper preparation, including carrying enough water and snacks, wearing appropriate trekking gear, and acclimatization to high altitude, is essential for a safe and enjoyable trekking experience.
Best time to Visit Yamunotri Trek
The peak season for Yamunotri trek is during the months of May and June when the Char Dham Yatra is in full swing. It is advisable to book accommodation and transport in advance during this period.
Overall, the best time to visit Yamunotri trek is during the summer and autumn months when the weather is pleasant, and the trekking trail is accessible.
Facilities at the Yamunotri Trek
The facilities at Yamunotri trek are limited due to its remote location. However, there are some basic facilities available for trekkers:
- Accommodation: There are basic guesthouses and lodges available at Yamunotri, where trekkers can stay. These guesthouses offer basic amenities like a bed, blankets, and hot water.
- Food: There are several small eateries and tea shops along the trekking trail that serve local cuisine and snacks. Trekkers can also carry their own food and snacks.
- Medical facilities: There is a basic medical center at Yamunotri, which provides medical assistance and first aid to trekkers. However, it is advisable to carry your own basic first aid kit.
- Drinking water: There are several drinking water sources available along the trekking trail, but it is advisable to carry your own water or a hydration pack.
- Toilets: There are basic public toilets available at Yamunotri and along the trekking trail.
- Guide and porters: Trekkers can hire local guides and porters to help them navigate the trail and carry their luggage.
- Mobile network: The mobile network is weak and intermittent in the Yamunotri region. It is advisable to carry a satellite phone or a walkie-talkie for emergency communication.
Things to Carry
Here are some essential items that you should carry for the Yamunotri trek:- Trekking gear: Good quality trekking shoes, warm and waterproof clothing, a hat, gloves, and sunglasses are essential to protect yourself from cold, wind, and sun.
- Backpack: A sturdy and comfortable backpack with a capacity of at least 30 liters to carry your essentials.
- Water bottles and hydration pack: Carry at least 2 liters of water, or a hydration pack, to stay hydrated throughout the trek.
- Snacks and energy bars: Carry enough snacks and energy bars to keep you energized during the trek.
- First aid kit: Carry a basic first aid kit with medicines for headache, fever, cold, cough, and altitude sickness, along with bandages, antiseptic cream, and insect repellent.
- Torch or headlamp: Carry a torch or headlamp with extra batteries to navigate during the night.
- Sunscreen and lip balm: Carry a good quality sunscreen and lip balm to protect your skin from the harsh sun and wind.
- Camera: Don't forget to carry a camera or a mobile phone with a good camera to capture the scenic views and memories of the trek.
- Cash: Carry enough cash as there are no ATMs or card payment facilities available on the trek.
Trekking Tips
Here are some useful tips to keep in mind for a safe and enjoyable Yamunotri trekking experience:- Plan your trek well in advance and book your accommodation and transport in advance.
- Get physically fit and acclimatize to the high altitude before the trek.
- Carry enough warm and waterproof clothing, sturdy trekking shoes, and a backpack with a capacity of at least 30 liters.
- Stay hydrated throughout the trek by carrying enough water or a hydration pack.
- Carry enough snacks and energy bars to keep you energized during the trek.
- Follow the trekking trail and do not take shortcuts or stray off the trail.
- Respect the local culture and traditions and do not litter the trekking trail.
- Carry a first aid kit with basic medicines for altitude sickness, headache, fever, and cough.
- Hire a local guide or trek with a group for a safe and enjoyable trekking experience.
- Check the weather forecast before starting the trek and avoid trekking during monsoon or extreme weather conditions.