Yamunotri
Yamunotri, a sacred destination in the Indian state of Uttarakhand, is renowned for its religious significance, stunning natural beauty, and captivating history. Here are some amazing and fascinating facts about Yamunotri
- Source of the Yamuna River:Yamunotri is the origin of the Yamuna River, one of the major rivers in India. The Yamuna is considered sacred in Hinduism, and its source at Yamunotrei is situated at an altitude of about 3,293 meters (10,804 feet) in the Garhwal Himalayas.
- Yamunotri Temple: The main attraction at Yamunotrei is the Yamunotri Temple, dedicated to Goddess Yamuna. The temple was built in the 19th century by Maharani Guleria of Jaipur. It is a significant pilgrimage site for Hindus, drawing devotees from various parts of the country.
- Hot Water Springs: Surya Kund is a hot water spring near the Yamunotrei Temple where pilgrims cook rice and potatoes by tying them in muslin cloth. The hot water is used for this purpose, and it is believed that cooking in this water imparts a special taste to the food.
- Divya Shila: Pilgrims also offer prayers at a rock pillar called Divya Shila before entering the Yamunotri Temple. It is believed to be a sacred slab of rock, and devotees consider it a symbol of their reverence for the goddess.
- Champasar Glacier: The Yamunotrei trek takes visitors through the picturesque Champasar Glacier, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The trek is challenging yet rewarding, allowing pilgrims to experience the pristine beauty of the Himalayan landscape.
- Charan Paduka: On the way to Yamunotri, there is a place called Charan Paduka, which is believed to have imprints of Goddess Yamuna’s feet. Pilgrims stop here to pay their respects and seek blessings before reaching the main temple.
- Opening and Closing Ceremonies: The Yamunotrei Temple opens on the auspicious day of Akshaya Tritiya (April/May) and closes on the day of Yama Dwitiya (the second day after Diwali, usually in October or November). The opening and closing ceremonies are significant events attended by a large number of devotees.
- Yamunotri as a Part of Char Dham Yatra: Yamunotrei is one of the four sacred sites included in the Char Dham Yatra, a revered pilgrimage circuit that also includes Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. Pilgrims undertake this journey to attain spiritual salvation and cleanse themselves of sins.
- Gangotri-Yamunotri Glaciers: The Yamunotrei and Gangotri glaciers are situated in close proximity. These glaciers are not only a source of two major rivers, the Yamuna and the Ganges, but they also contribute significantly to the region’s biodiversity.
- Cultural Significance: Apart from its natural and religious significance, Yamunotri is deeply ingrained in the cultural fabric of India. The pilgrimage to Yamunotrei is not just a physical journey but is also considered a journey of self-discovery and spiritual awakening.
