Yamunotri, the first Dham of the ‘Char Dhams’ is the holy abode of Goddess Yamuna. It is from here that River Yamuna originates. As per the Hindu mythological beliefs, Goddess Yamuna is the sister of Lord Yama (God of Death) and hence, taking a dip in holy waters of Yamuna brings a painless death. Following are the must-see places in Yamunotri.

• Surya Kund– A natural hot water spring named after the Sun (Surya) God, father of Goddess Yamuna. On reaching Yamunotri, pilgrims first need to take bath in the ‘Surya Kund’ and prepare rice and potatoes by tying them in a cloth that is dipped in the hot waters of the spring. The rice and potatoes are offered during Pooja at the main Yamunotri temple and remaining of it is later taken home as Prasad by the pilgrims.

• Divya Shila– It is a rock pillar located near the Surya Kund. As per rituals, devotees first need to pay homage at the ‘Divya Shila’ before entering the main shrine of the ‘Yamunotri Temple’.

• Yamunotri Temple– This is the main temple where Goddess Yamuna is revered in the form of a silver idol.

• Champasar Glacier– Actual point of origin is the ‘Champasar Glacier’ which is further few km. above the main temple. Due to a steep climb and limited accessibility, most pilgrims pay homage in the main temple only and return.

• Prakateshwar Cave– This mysterious cave falls enroute to Uttarkashi from Barkot.Famous for its limestone formation resembling the Shivlinga, this cave is visited by many pilgrims on their way to Gangotri.