Yamunotri Dham is usually open in May through early July, and this is the best time to visit the temple since the weather is pleasant and the trekking routes are not that challenging. The temperatures at this time vary between 12°C and 20°C, and this makes it suitable for pilgrims and trekkers. Moreover, we have included every single detail about the climatic conditions of each season in this guide.
Additionally, you are going to get detailed information about the tips and tricks that you should follow as per your travel schedule. This guide is based on my personal travel planning experience and Char Dham Yatra observations.
About Yamunotri
Yamunotri is a revered Hindu shrine in the Himalayas, the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand in India.
- It is among the 4 holy shrines of the Char Dham Yatra and the source of the Yamuna River.
- It is dedicated to the goddess Yamuna, and it is accessible only for a few months during the year because of the extreme weather conditions.
- The doors of the shrine open on Akshaya Tritiya (April -May) and close on Bhai Dooj (October -November) in accordance with the Hindu calendar.
Best Time to Visit Yamunotri Dham (Season-Wise Guide)
Let’s have a clear understanding of the climatic conditions of the region and plan accordingly.
Summer (May-June)
The perfect time to plan your Yamunotri Yatra is during the summer. Snow is melted, roads are opened, and the conditions for trekking are much better.
- Temperature: 12°C and 20°C
It is also Char Dham Yatra season, and therefore, there will be increased accommodation costs and a big crowd.
Monsoon (July and August) – Risky to Trek
The region witnesses heavy rainfall, and the trekking routes become slippery in these months. Additionally, there is a high chance of landslides, making travel unsafe.
- Temperature: between 10°C and 18°C
- Challenges: trek closures and delayed or sometimes cancelled helicopter services
- Travel Advice: Not recommended at all
Note: If you still feel like planning your Yamunotri Yatra during this time, then be prepared for delays and unseen weather disruptions.
Winter (November to March) – Temple Closed
The pilgrimage town receives harsh climatic conditions, with heavy snowfall and subzero temperature.
- Temperature: -10°C to 5°C
- Accessibility: Not accessible
Note: During this period, the idol of Goddess Yamuna is shifted to Kharsali Village, the winter seat of Yamunotri.
Month-Wise Weather Update
| Month | Temperature | Temple Accessibility | Climatic Condition |
| January | -10 to -12 °C | Inaccessible | Heavy Snowfall, bone-chilling cold |
| February | -8 to -10 °C | Inaccessible | Extreme cold |
| March | -2 to -5 °C | Inaccessible | Cold winds make it difficult to travel |
| April | 5 to 10°C | Sometimes accessible in the last week | Snow starts melting |
| May | 10°Cand 18 °C | Accessible | Pleasant weather |
| June | 12°C and 20°C | Accessible | Quite Favorable |
| July | 10°C and 18°C | Accessible but not recommended | Heavy Rainfall leading to landslides |
| August | 10 to 16 °C | Risky travel and not recommended | Heavy rainfall leading to landslides |
| September | 8 to 15 °C | Accessible after the first week | Daytime is sunny, but a little bit cold at night |
| October | 5 to 10 °C | Accessible | Daytime is sunny, but a little bit cold at night |
| November | 0 to 5 °C | Accessible for a few days only | Cold weather |
| December | Below 0 °C | The temple gets closed | Cold |
Why is summer the best season to visit Yamunotri Dham?
Summer offers the most appropriate balance of weather, accessibility, and devotion to have a spiritually enriching and hassle-free journey.
- Temple is open to all.
- Clean and beautiful walking paths.
- Favourable climate for doing outdoor activities.
- Ambience of spiritual festivals and Char Dham Yatra.
- Lush green scenery and clear mountain scenes.
Tips and Tricks for Yamunotri Yatra
- Begin your day early in the morning, as hiking becomes difficult after sunset.
- Bring warm clothes even in summer.
- Monsoon travel should be avoided because of the danger of landslides.
- Reserve bookings in advance during high season.
Check the official website of Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board (UTDB) https://uttarakhandtourism.gov.in/experiences/char-dham to keep yourself updated with the weather and other information.
Yamunotri Trek Route and Difficulty Level
The most common question that comes to everyone’s mind while planning their Yamunotri trip is about the difficulty level of the trekking trail. So, to give you a brief idea about it, I have included certain points:
- Starting Point: Janki Chatti
- Distance: ~6 km
- Suitable for: beginners with moderate fitness
- Other options: Pony and palanquin options available
Frequently Asked Questions
Q-1: Which is the best month to visit the Yamunotri Temple?
Ans: The best months are May and June because of the pleasant weather and easy accessibility of the temples.
Q-2: Is Yamunotri Dham open in winter?
Ans: No, the Yamunotri Temple is shut in November-April because of heavy snowfall and roadblocks.
Q-3: How challenging is it to reach the pilgrimage in the monsoon?
Ans: Travelling in monsoon months (July-August) is not advisable as there are landslides and trekking is not safe.
Q-4: What is the opening and closing time of the Yamunotri Temple?
Ans: The temple gets opened on Akshaya Tritiya and closed on Bhai Dooj, which generally falls in May or October/ November.
Q-5: Is September (my birthday month) a good time to visit this pilgrimage?
Ans: Yes, but check the weather forecast report before leaving for the journey.
Q-6: Is the trek to Yamunotri safe for senior citizens?
Ans: Yes, the Yamunotri trek can be safe for senior citizens with good health and basic fitness.
Q-7: How many days are needed to complete the Darshan of Yamunotri Dham?
Ans: It entirely depends on your selection of transportation and the way to complete the trekking trail.
Conclusion
The best time to visit Yamunotri is from May to early July. This is the time when you can enjoy the darshan experience spiritually and climatically. This season guarantees easy access to the temples, secure travel routes, and a harmonious Himalayan environment, and therefore, it is the most fulfilling season among pilgrims and travellers.
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