प्रस्तावना एवं महत्व
यमुनोत्री (जिसे कभी-कभी जमनोटी भी कहा जाता है) भारत के उत्तराखण्ड के उत्तरकाशी जिले में स्थित एक पवित्र हिंदू तीर्थस्थल है। यह पवित्र यमुना नदी की उत्पत्ति स्थल और देवी यमुना का धाम माना जाता है।
यह उत्तराखण्ड के छोटा चार धाम यात्रा का एक महत्वपूर्ण अंग है (अन्य तीन: गंगोत्री, केदारनाथ, बद्रीनाथ)।
इस तीर्थस्थल की ऊँचाई लगभग 3,293 मीटर (10,804 फीट) है।
पौराणिक कथाएँ
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कहा जाता है कि ऋषि आसित यमुनोत्री के निकट तपस्या करते थे। वे प्रतिदिन गंगा और यमुना दोनों में स्नान किया करते थे। वृद्धावस्था में वे गंगोत्री नहीं जा पाए, इसलिए एक विधि से उनके सामने गंगा की धारा यमुना के पास प्रकट हो गई।
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यमुना का मूल ग्लेशियरी स्रोत चम्पासर ग्लेशियर / कलिंदा पर्वत पर, लगभग 4,421 मीटर की ऊँचाई पर है। यह वह “सच्चा स्रोत” है, लेकिन आम यात्रियों के लिए पहुँच बहुत कठिन है।
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देवी यमुना को सूर्यदेव की पुत्री माना जाता है, और यम देव (मृत्यु के देवता) की बहन भी। उन्हें यमी नाम से भी जाना जाता है।
मंदिर एवं अन्य संरचनाएँ
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यमुनोत्री मंदिर देवी यमुना को समर्पित है। इसका प्रमुख मूर्ति काले संगमरमर से बना है।
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मंदिर के पास दिव्य शिला नामक पवित्र शिला और सूर्य कुंड स्थित हैं, जिसका उबलता पानी प्रसाद को पकाने में प्रयोग होता है।
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मंदिर को समय-समय पर भूकंप एवं हिमपात के कारण पुनर्निर्मित किया गया है। 19वीं शताब्दी में इसे पुनर्निर्माण करवाया गया।
कैसे पहुँचें / यात्रा व जानकारी
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नज़दीकी हवाई अड्डा: जॉली ग्रांट हवाई अड्डा, देहरादून।
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सड़क एवं पैदल मार्ग: मार्ग – बर्कोट → हनुमान चट्टी → जानकी चट्टी → वहाँ से पैदल या घोड़ा/पलकी द्वारा यात्रा।
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अंतिम भाग करीब 6 किमी का पैदल मार्ग जानकी चट्टी से।
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शीतकाल में भारी बर्फबारी के कारण मार्ग बंद रहता है। इस दौरान देवी यमुना की मूर्ति को खरसाली ले जाया जाता है और वहाँ पूजा की जाती है।
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यात्रा का सर्वोत्तम समय: मई से अक्टूबर (मानसून को छोड़कर)।
दर्शनीय स्थल एवं गतिविधियाँ
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सूर्य कुंड में प्रसाद चढ़ाना।
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पैदल या कठिन ट्रेक कर सप्तर्षि कुंड पहुँचना।
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खरसाली गाँव जाना, वहाँ स्थित शनि देव मंदिर दर्शन।
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हिमालय की झरना, पर्वत, जीव-जंतु, हरियाली देखना।
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स्थानीय संस्कृति से जुड़ना — गढ़वाली लोगों के साथ संवाद, स्थानीय व्यंजन अनुभव करना।
यात्रा सुझाव एवं सावधानियाँ
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यह ट्रेक शारीरिक रूप से कठिन है — स्वास्थ्य ठीक हो और धीरे-धीरे अपनाएँ।
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मौसम बदलता रहता है — गर्म कपड़े, बारिश की तैयारी रखें।
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मार्ग की स्थिति, भूस्खलन चेतावनियाँ, स्थानीय प्रशासन की घोषणाएँ ध्यान दें।
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प्राकृतिक सौंदर्य का सम्मान करें — कूड़ा न फेंके, पारिस्थितिकी को सुरक्षित रखें।
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भीड़-भाड़ के समय आवास पहले से बुक करें।
आध्यात्मिक महत्व
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यमुनोत्री की पवित्र जल में स्नान करना पापों का शोधन और आध्यात्मिक पुण्य का स्रोत माना जाता है।
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चार धाम यात्रा की शुरुआत के रूप में, यह तीर्थयात्रा में एक प्रारंभिक चरण का प्रतीक है।
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गंगा की धारा की प्रकट कथा, ऋषि आसित की कथा — यह सब आशीर्वाद, जल और दिव्य अनुग्रह का प्रतिनिधित्व करती है।
Introduction to Yamunotri Temple
Historical Background
Yamunotri Temple is an ancient shrine dedicated to Goddess Yamuna located in Uttarakhand India known for its religious significance.
Significance in Hinduism
It is considered one of the sacred Char Dham pilgrimage sites and holds spiritual importance for devotees.
Geographical Location
Yamunotri Temple is situated at an altitude of 3291 meters in the Garhwal Himalayas near the source of the Yamuna River.
Architecture and Design
The temple features traditional North Indian Himalayan architecture with stone carvings and a sanctum housing the idol of Goddess Yamuna.
Best Time to Visit
Yamunotri Temple is accessible mainly from May to June and September to October due to weather conditions in the Himalayas.
Mythological Importance
Stories Associated with Goddess Yamuna
According to legends Goddess Yamuna emerged from the penance of Sage Asit and is worshiped for purification and prosperity.
Yamuna and Lord Krishna
Goddess Yamuna holds a special place in Krishna’s life as many divine leelas are associated with the Yamuna river.
Connection to Vedic Scriptures
Yamunotri is mentioned in several Puranas and Vedic texts for its sanctity and spiritual power.
Legends of Pilgrims
Countless devotees visit Yamunotri seeking blessings health and prosperity following age-old traditions.
Spiritual Benefits of Visit
Visiting Yamunotri Temple is believed to cleanse sins and bring peace spiritual upliftment and divine grace.
Char Dham Yatra Overview
Significance of Char Dham Yatra
Char Dham Yatra includes Yamunotri Gangotri Kedarnath and Badrinath representing purification devotion and liberation.
Order of Pilgrimage
Yamunotri is generally the first stop in the Char Dham circuit due to its geographical location and spiritual importance.
Distance and Travel Tips
Yamunotri is approximately 230 km from Haridwar accessible by trekking from Janki Chatti or via helicopter services.
Preparation and Essentials
Devotees should carry warm clothing trekking shoes and basic medical kits due to high altitude and cold climate.
Best Season for Yatra
The ideal season for Char Dham Yatra including Yamunotri is May-June and September-October for safe and pleasant travel.
Yamuna River Source
Origin of Yamuna River
Yamuna originates from the Yamunotri Glacier in the Garhwal Himalayas at an elevation of 3892 meters.
Geographical Journey
The river flows through Uttarakhand Haryana Delhi and Uttar Pradesh covering more than 1376 km before merging with the Ganges at Allahabad.
Mythological Significance
The river is considered sacred and personified as Goddess Yamuna worshiped for purification and spiritual merit.
Rituals Performed on Yamuna Bank
Devotees perform holy baths offer prayers and conduct pujas on the banks of Yamuna for divine blessings.
Ecological Importance
Yamuna River sustains agriculture wildlife and human settlements making it a lifeline of northern India.
Temple Architecture and Design
Sanctum and Idol of Yamuna
The sanctum houses the idol of Goddess Yamuna adorned with flowers jewelry and ritual offerings by devotees.
Construction and Style
Yamunotri Temple is built in North Indian Himalayan style using stone and timber reflecting traditional craftsmanship.
Nearby Shrines
Adjacent to Yamunotri are small shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva and other deities enhancing the spiritual atmosphere.
Maintenance and Renovation
The temple is maintained by Uttarakhand Char Dham Development Board with periodic renovations for safety and aesthetics.
Spiritual Ambience
The serene environment snow-clad peaks and flowing Yamuna create a divine ambience for meditation and devotion.
Pilgrimage Guidelines
Travel and Accommodation Tips
Devotees can stay at guesthouses ashrams or dharamshalas along the Yamunotri trekking route.
Trekking Route from Janki Chatti
The trek to Yamunotri is around 6 km uphill from Janki Chatti suitable for moderate fitness levels.
Health and Safety Precautions
Travelers should be cautious of altitude sickness cold weather and carry first aid for emergencies.
Local Cuisine and Offerings
Visitors can enjoy simple local food like lentils rice and vegetables prasad is offered in the temple.
Guidelines for Devotees
Maintain cleanliness respect temple rules and follow ethical practices during pilgrimage.
Festivals and Rituals
Yamunotri Temple During Dev Uthani
Special rituals and festivals like Dev Uthani Ekadashi are celebrated with grandeur at Yamunotri Temple.
Makar Sankranti Celebrations
Makar Sankranti is observed by devotees with offerings to the river and performing religious ceremonies.
Yamunotri Aarti and Pooja
Daily aarti and pooja are performed by priests invoking Goddess Yamuna’s blessings for devotees.
Special Devotee Gatherings
During peak seasons thousands of devotees gather for group prayers singing bhajans and rituals.
Seasonal Spiritual Practices
Visitors engage in meditation mantra chanting and ritual bathing in Yamuna during auspicious days.
Legends and Folklore
Stories of Sage Asit
The legend of Sage Asit explains the origin of Yamuna and the divine blessings associated with the river.
Miracles and Devotee Experiences
Many devotees share miraculous experiences after visiting Yamunotri and offering prayers to Goddess Yamuna.
Folk Stories of the Region
Local folklore narrates tales of the river’s origin sacred powers and blessings to nearby villages.
Oral Traditions Passed Down
Generations of devotees have preserved stories and rituals through oral traditions associated with Yamunotri Temple.
Spiritual Teachings from Legends
These legends teach devotion faith humility and respect for nature and divine forces.
Travel and Accessibility
How to Reach Yamunotri
Devotees can reach Yamunotri via road from Dehradun to Janki Chatti followed by trekking or helicopter service.
Nearest Airports and Stations
Nearest airport is Dehradun while nearest railway station is Rishikesh connected by local transport to Yamunotri.
Helicopter Services
Helicopter rides are available from Janki Chatti to Yamunotri during the pilgrimage season for ease of travel.
Trekking Tips for Devotees
Prepare with proper shoes warm clothes and light backpacks for a safe and comfortable trek.
Local Transport Options
Shared taxis buses and porters are available to facilitate the pilgrimage journey.
Spiritual Benefits of Pilgrimage
Purification and Blessings
Visiting Yamunotri Temple is believed to cleanse sins and bring spiritual peace and prosperity to devotees.
Healing and Mental Peace
The serene environment and holy river waters contribute to meditation healing and inner calm.
Strengthening Devotion and Faith
Regular pilgrimage to Yamunotri fosters devotion faith and a deeper connection with divine energies.
Family Bonding Through Pilgrimage
Families visiting together experience shared spiritual growth and a stronger sense of tradition.
Lifelong Memories and Inspiration
The pilgrimage offers unforgettable experiences inspiring devotees to lead a righteous and devoted life.
Yamunotri Temple is an ancient shrine dedicated to Goddess Yamuna located in Uttarakhand India known for its religious significance.
It is considered one of the sacred Char Dham pilgrimage sites and holds spiritual importance for devotees.
Yamunotri Temple is situated at an altitude of 3291 meters in the Garhwal Himalayas near the source of the Yamuna River.
The temple features traditional North Indian Himalayan architecture with stone carvings and a sanctum housing the idol of Goddess Yamuna.
Yamunotri Temple is accessible mainly from May to June and September to October due to weather conditions in the Himalayas.
According to legends Goddess Yamuna emerged from the penance of Sage Asit and is worshiped for purification and prosperity.
Goddess Yamuna holds a special place in Krishna’s life as many divine leelas are associated with the Yamuna river.
Yamunotri is mentioned in several Puranas and Vedic texts for its sanctity and spiritual power.
Countless devotees visit Yamunotri seeking blessings health and prosperity following age-old traditions.
Visiting Yamunotri Temple is believed to cleanse sins and bring peace spiritual upliftment and divine grace.
Char Dham Yatra includes Yamunotri Gangotri Kedarnath and Badrinath representing purification devotion and liberation.
Yamunotri is generally the first stop in the Char Dham circuit due to its geographical location and spiritual importance.
Yamunotri is approximately 230 km from Haridwar accessible by trekking from Janki Chatti or via helicopter services.
Devotees should carry warm clothing trekking shoes and basic medical kits due to high altitude and cold climate.
The ideal season for Char Dham Yatra including Yamunotri is May-June and September-October for safe and pleasant travel.
Yamuna originates from the Yamunotri Glacier in the Garhwal Himalayas at an elevation of 3892 meters.
The river flows through Uttarakhand Haryana Delhi and Uttar Pradesh covering more than 1376 km before merging with the Ganges at Allahabad.
The river is considered sacred and personified as Goddess Yamuna worshiped for purification and spiritual merit.
Devotees perform holy baths offer prayers and conduct pujas on the banks of Yamuna for divine blessings.
Yamuna River sustains agriculture wildlife and human settlements making it a lifeline of northern India.
The sanctum houses the idol of Goddess Yamuna adorned with flowers jewelry and ritual offerings by devotees.
Yamunotri Temple is built in North Indian Himalayan style using stone and timber reflecting traditional craftsmanship.
Adjacent to Yamunotri are small shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva and other deities enhancing the spiritual atmosphere.
The temple is maintained by Uttarakhand Char Dham Development Board with periodic renovations for safety and aesthetics.
The serene environment snow-clad peaks and flowing Yamuna create a divine ambience for meditation and devotion.
Devotees can stay at guesthouses ashrams or dharamshalas along the Yamunotri trekking route.
The trek to Yamunotri is around 6 km uphill from Janki Chatti suitable for moderate fitness levels.
Travelers should be cautious of altitude sickness cold weather and carry first aid for emergencies.
Visitors can enjoy simple local food like lentils rice and vegetables prasad is offered in the temple.
Maintain cleanliness respect temple rules and follow ethical practices during pilgrimage.
Special rituals and festivals like Dev Uthani Ekadashi are celebrated with grandeur at Yamunotri Temple.
Makar Sankranti is observed by devotees with offerings to the river and performing religious ceremonies.
Daily aarti and pooja are performed by priests invoking Goddess Yamuna’s blessings for devotees.
During peak seasons thousands of devotees gather for group prayers singing bhajans and rituals.
Visitors engage in meditation mantra chanting and ritual bathing in Yamuna during auspicious days.
The legend of Sage Asit explains the origin of Yamuna and the divine blessings associated with the river.
Many devotees share miraculous experiences after visiting Yamunotri and offering prayers to Goddess Yamuna.
Local folklore narrates tales of the river’s origin sacred powers and blessings to nearby villages.
Generations of devotees have preserved stories and rituals through oral traditions associated with Yamunotri Temple.
These legends teach devotion faith humility and respect for nature and divine forces.
Devotees can reach Yamunotri via road from Dehradun to Janki Chatti followed by trekking or helicopter service.
Nearest airport is Dehradun while nearest railway station is Rishikesh connected by local transport to Yamunotri.
Helicopter rides are available from Janki Chatti to Yamunotri during the pilgrimage season for ease of travel.
Prepare with proper shoes warm clothes and light backpacks for a safe and comfortable trek.
Shared taxis buses and porters are available to facilitate the pilgrimage journey.
Visiting Yamunotri Temple is believed to cleanse sins and bring spiritual peace and prosperity to devotees.
The serene environment and holy river waters contribute to meditation healing and inner calm.
Regular pilgrimage to Yamunotri fosters devotion faith and a deeper connection with divine energies.
Families visiting together experience shared spiritual growth and a stronger sense of tradition.
The pilgrimage offers unforgettable experiences inspiring devotees to lead a righteous and devoted life.
Bhagavad Gita: Yatharoop (hindi)
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