Yamunotri
Yamunotri, nestled in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, marks the origin of the revered River Yamuna. Situated at an altitude of about 3,293 meters above sea level in the Garhwal Himalayas, Yamunotri holds significant religious importance in Hindu mythology. According to legend, Yamunotri is the abode of Goddess Yamuna, the daughter of the Sun God, Surya, and is believed to be the twin sister of Yama, the Lord of Death. The pilgrimage to Yamunotri involves a trek of about 6 kilometers from the town of Hanuman Chatti, passing through picturesque landscapes of dense forests and gushing streams. The main attraction at Yamunotri is the Yamunotri Temple, dedicated to Goddess Yamuna, which dates back to the 19th century. Pilgrims visit the temple to offer prayers and seek blessings, as well as to take a dip in the natural thermal springs, known as the Surya Kund and the Gauri Kund, which are believed to have medicinal properties. The serene surroundings of Yamunotri, with snow-capped peaks, lush meadows, and pristine waterfalls, make it not only a place of religious significance but also a haven for nature lovers and trekkers seeking spiritual rejuvenation amidst the tranquility of the Himalayas.