Uttarkashi to Yamunotri: Distance, Route & Trek Guide
Yamunotri is about 135 km from Uttarkashi via Barkot, followed by a 6 km walk to the temple. How to plan it, where to break the journey, and how it fits with Gangotri.
At a glance
| Distance | About 135 km from Uttarkashi to Janki Chatti via Barkot |
|---|---|
| Drive time | About 5–6 hours |
| Trek | About 6 km each way from Janki Chatti to the temple; ponies and palkis available |
| Temple altitude | About 3,290 m |
| Season | Akshaya Tritiya (late April / May) to Bhai Dooj, just after Diwali |
| Registration | Char Dham Yatra registration with Uttarakhand Tourism required |
The route from Uttarkashi
Drive down the Bhagirathi to Dharasu, then turn onto the Yamunotri road and climb over Radi Top to Barkot in the Yamuna valley. From Barkot the road continues past Syana Chatti and Hanuman Chatti to Janki Chatti, the end of the road. From there it is a walk of about 6 km on a paved path to the temple.
Can Yamunotri be done as a day trip from Uttarkashi?
It is possible for fit travellers who leave before dawn, but it makes for a 14–16 hour day with 11 hours of driving and the trek. For families and seniors we recommend one night at Barkot or Janki Chatti, then darshan early the next morning when the path is quiet.
At the temple
- Yamunotri temple: the shrine of Goddess Yamuna, below the Bandarpoonch peaks.
- Surya Kund: a hot spring where pilgrims cook rice and potatoes in cloth to take home as prasad.
- Divya Shila: a rock pillar worshipped before entering the temple.
- Kharsali: the village below where the goddess stays in winter.
Yamunotri and Gangotri together (Do Dham)
Uttarkashi sits between the two shrines, which makes it the natural base for a Do Dham trip. A comfortable plan: Yamunotri with a night in Barkot, then on to Uttarkashi, a day trip to Gangotri Dham, and a rest day by the river before heading home.
Tips
- Register for the yatra before you leave and carry ID.
- Start the trek early; afternoons get crowded and weather can change.
- Carry a rain jacket and warm layer even in May and June.
- In July and August the Yamunotri road is prone to landslides. Keep spare days.
Where to stay
Shiv Parivar Resort is on the banks of the Bhagirathi at Bhareti Chungi, New Bypass Road, 3 km before Uttarkashi town on the Gangotri highway. We have 18 river-facing rooms, a pure vegetarian kitchen, free morning yoga and a Shiva temple on site. Rooms start from ₹5,500 per night depending on season. See rooms or read our places to visit in Uttarkashi guide.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Yamunotri from Uttarkashi?
About 135 km by road via Dharasu and Barkot to Janki Chatti, then a 6 km walk to the temple.
How long is the Yamunotri trek?
About 6 km each way from Janki Chatti. Most people take 2–3 hours up. Ponies and palkis are available.
Can I visit Yamunotri and Gangotri from Uttarkashi?
Yes. Uttarkashi lies between the two and is the most practical base for a Do Dham trip.
When does Yamunotri temple close?
On Bhai Dooj, just after Diwali. It reopens on Akshaya Tritiya in late April or May.