Yamunotri Temple, dedicated to Goddess Yamuna, opens its sacred doors early in the morning for devotees. The temple usually remains open from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM, with a short mid-day break. The main Aarti and Puja rituals are performed during sunrise and sunset, creating a serene and spiritual atmosphere.
Devotees begin their darshan after taking a holy dip in Surya Kund, a natural hot spring near the temple. The temple remains open from May to October, closing during winter due to heavy snowfall.
Yamunotri Dham
Yamunotri Dham is the sacred place where the holy River Yamuna begins its journey. It is one of the four important temples of the Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand. Located high in the Himalayas, Yamunotri is surrounded by snow-covered mountains and peaceful natural beauty. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Yamuna, and visiting it is believed to bring blessings of purity, health, and protection.
According to Hindu belief, Yamunotri Dham is dedicated to Goddess Yamuna, daughter of Surya Dev (the Sun God) and sister of Yama (the God of Death). Bathing in the Yamuna River is believed to cleanse sins and protect from untimely death. The sage Asit Muni once lived and meditated here. Legends say that both Ganga and Yamuna appeared near his ashram to bless him, making Yamunotri a place of great spiritual importance and divine purity.
Yamunotri Temple Opening and Closing Dates
Opening Date
Every year, the sacred doors of Yamunotri Temple open on the holy day of Akshaya Tritiya, usually in April or May. As the first rays of the sun touch the Himalayas, priests perform the Mangala Aarti, and the air fills with the sound of conch shells and chants.
Around 6:00 AM, the temple welcomes the first devotees of the season, marking the official beginning of the Char Dham Yatra. Nature too seems to celebrate — snow begins to melt, waterfalls regain their flow, and the valley glows with divine energy. It’s not just the temple that opens — it’s the start of countless spiritual journeys.
Closing Date
As autumn fades into winter, Bhai Dooj (around October or November) marks the closing of the sacred temple. Before sunset, around 4:00 PM, priests perform a heartfelt Aarti, and the goddess is lovingly prepared for her journey to Kharsali Village, her winter abode.
The temple doors close with chants and flickering lamps in the cold mountain air. Though the physical path to Yamunotri sleeps under snow, devotion stays alive — every prayer offered in Kharsali keeps the goddess’s presence warm in the hearts of her devotees until spring returns and the journey begins again.
Daily Darshan Timings at Yamunotri Temple
Every morning, Yamunotri Temple opens its doors around 6:00 AM, welcoming devotees with the soothing sounds of bells and chants. Pilgrims begin their day by offering prayers to Goddess Yamuna amidst the calm beauty of the Himalayas.
The temple remains open for darshan through the morning, allowing visitors to seek blessings and perform rituals. Around 1:00 PM, the temple closes for a short break and reopens by 3:00 PM.
As evening falls, priests perform the Sandhya Aarti around 7:30 PM, filling the temple with a warm glow of lamps and devotion. By 8:00 PM, the temple closes for the night, leaving behind peace, faith, and the promise of a new day of blessings.
Morning and Evening Aarti Schedule at Yamunotri Temple
If you plan to visit Yamunotri Temple, try to attend both the Morning and Evening Aarti — they are truly special experiences.
The Morning Aarti begins around 6:00 AM, just as the sun rises over the mountains. Priests light lamps and chant prayers to Goddess Yamuna. The calm surroundings, fresh mountain air, and sound of flowing water make it a peaceful start to the day.
The Evening Aarti takes place around 7:30 PM, when the temple glows beautifully with oil lamps. The chants and ringing bells fill the valley with divine energy. Many travelers say this is the best time to feel the spiritual power of Yamunotri. The temple closes around 8:00 PM, ending the day with peace and blessings.
Major Puja Rituals Performed at Yamunotri
Travelers visiting Yamunotri Temple can witness and participate in several sacred pujas dedicated to Goddess Yamuna. Each ritual carries deep spiritual meaning and offers a unique experience for devotees.
1. Yamuna Pujan
The Yamuna Pujan is the main ritual dedicated to Goddess Yamuna. Devotees offer flowers, rice, sweets, and holy water while chanting prayers. This puja is performed to seek blessings for purity, peace, and protection. Many travelers perform this puja to begin their Char Dham journey with divine grace.
2. Snan Puja (Holy Bath Ritual)
The Snan Puja takes place near Surya Kund, a natural hot spring close to the temple. Devotees take a dip or offer water from the kund before entering the shrine. It is believed that this ritual cleanses the body and soul, washing away sins and preparing the devotee for darshan.
3. Divya Shila Puja
Before stepping inside the temple, devotees perform the Divya Shila Puja at a small sacred rock located near the entrance. The Divya Shila symbolizes divine power. Pilgrims offer flowers, pour holy water, and bow in respect before entering the main temple. This ritual represents humility and devotion, reminding travelers to enter the shrine with a pure heart.
4. Surya Pooja (Worship of the Sun God)
Since Goddess Yamuna is the daughter of Surya Dev (the Sun God), devotees perform the Surya Pooja to show respect to her divine father. In this ritual, devotees offer water, flowers, and prayers to the rising sun, asking for strength, wisdom, and blessings. The sunlight reflecting off the snow-covered peaks makes this ritual a magical experience.
5. Aarti Rituals
The Aarti rituals at Yamunotri take place twice a day — in the morning and evening. During Aarti, priests light oil lamps and chant hymns in praise of Goddess Yamuna. The glowing lamps, the sound of bells, and the gentle mountain breeze create a divine atmosphere. Many travelers say the Evening Aarti is the most peaceful and memorable part of their visit.
Special Festive Rituals and Seasonal Ceremonies at Yamunotri
If you visit Yamunotri Dham during a festival, you’ll see the temple come alive with color, music, and devotion. The air fills with the sound of bells, chants, and the scent of fresh flowers. Each season brings a special celebration that connects travelers deeply with the spirit of the Himalayas.
Akshaya Tritiya – The Temple Opening Day
The Char Dham Yatra begins with Akshaya Tritiya, the day when the Yamunotri Temple opens for pilgrims, usually in April or May. On this day, priests bring the idol of Goddess Yamuna from Kharsali Village in a grand procession filled with chants and music. Devotees gather as priests perform Yamuna Abhishek and special puja rituals to welcome the goddess.
Yamuna Jayanti – Birth of Goddess Yamuna
Yamuna Jayanti, celebrated in April, honors the birth of Goddess Yamuna. The temple is decorated with flowers, and devotees perform Yamuna Pujan and Aarti while offering sweets, fruits, and prayers.
Diwali and Bhai Dooj – The Temple Closing Days
As winter approaches in October or November, Diwali marks a beautiful farewell at Yamunotri Temple. Priests light hundreds of diyas, and the temple glows like a jewel in the dark Himalayan night. Two days later, on Bhai Dooj, the idol of Goddess Yamuna is carried to Kharsali Village, where she stays during the snowy months. This emotional ceremony fills the air with devotion and marks the end of the pilgrimage season.
Makar Sankranti – The Festival of the Sun
During Makar Sankranti, while the main temple remains closed, priests in Kharsali Village perform special Surya Pooja to honor Surya Dev, the father of Goddess Yamuna. Travelers visiting during this time often say they can still feel the presence of the goddess through these heartfelt rituals.
Yamunotri Temple Management and Puja Booking Information
- The Shri Badri-Kedar Temple Committee (BKTC) manages Yamunotri Temple and all pilgrim services.
- The committee ensures cleanliness, safety, and proper organization for all visitors.
- Devotees can book pujas like Yamuna Abhishek, Divya Shila Puja, or Aarti directly at the temple office near the shrine.
- Local priests (pandas) assist travelers with puja arrangements and offerings.
- It’s best to book pujas early, especially during the busy yatra season.
- Help centers at Janki Chatti provide details about darshan timings, puja schedules, and donations.
- The temple management works diligently to ensure a smooth and spiritual experience for every devotee.
Travel Tips for Attending Yamunotri Puja
- Reach early to attend the morning Aarti and experience a peaceful start to the day.
- Carry puja items such as flowers, rice, sweets, and incense sticks for the Yamuna Pujan.
- Book pujas in advance to avoid last-minute rush.
- Dress modestly in clean and traditional clothes to show respect.
- Take a dip in the Surya Kund before entering the temple for purification.
- Follow priest’s guidance carefully during rituals.
- Maintain silence during ceremonies and avoid using mobile phones.
- Avoid crowding and wait patiently for your turn during darshan or puja.
Nearby Holy Spots and Ritual Points Around Yamunotri
Travelers visiting Yamunotri Dham can explore several nearby sacred places that hold deep spiritual and natural significance. These holy spots add meaning to the journey and help devotees connect with the divine beauty of the Himalayas.
Surya Kund
Located near the temple, Surya Kund is a natural hot spring where devotees cook rice and potatoes tied in cloth as an offering to the goddess. The hot water is believed to come from the blessings of Surya Dev, the father of Goddess Yamuna. Pilgrims often take this prasadam home as a sacred gift.
Divya Shila
Right outside the temple stands Divya Shila, a small rock considered extremely holy. Devotees perform puja and offer prayers here before entering the main shrine. Bowing before Divya Shila is believed to bring strength, purity, and divine protection.
Hanuman Chatti
Located about 13 km before Yamunotri, Hanuman Chatti is where the Hanuman Ganga and Yamuna Rivers meet. The place is named after Lord Hanuman and serves as a peaceful spot for meditation and prayer before starting the trek to Yamunotri.
Janki Chatti
About 6 km from Yamunotri, Janki Chatti is the base point for the temple trek. Known for its hot springs, many pilgrims bathe here before beginning their journey. The water is believed to have healing properties for both body and soul.
Saptrishi Kund
High in the mountains lies Saptrishi Kund, the origin of River Yamuna. Though it requires a challenging trek, this blue glacier lake holds deep spiritual power. According to legend, seven sages (Saptrishis) performed penance here, and the place still carries their divine energy.
Stay Closer to Spiritual Bliss with Clan Stays
When you travel to Yamunotri, comfort and peace matter just as much as devotion. Clan Stays helps you stay close to the temple while enjoying calm surroundings and warm hospitality. These stays blend comfort with the sacred energy of the Himalayas, allowing you to rest, pray, and reconnect with nature without worry.
With Clan Stays, your journey to Yamunotri becomes more than just a visit — it becomes a peaceful and spiritual experience.
