7 Uttarakhand Spiritual Destinations to Visit for Inner Peace

4. Yamunotri — Hot springs, river origin and devotional bathing

Yamunotri is revered as the birthplace of the Yamuna River and offers a distinctive mix of mountain landscape and ritual bathing. The main shrine is approached by a trek from the roadhead, and along the route you’ll find natural hot springs where devotees boil sweet rice or take part in purification rites. These spring pools are part of the pilgrimage’s lived experience and a visible reminder of how nature and devotion intertwine here. The walk to Yamunotri is moderate compared with the highest high-altitude shrines, but good footwear still helps. Many visitors combine Yamunotri with Gangotri on a single journey through the Garhwal region. Best visiting months are within the May–October window when roads and paths are reliably open. Note that facilities are basic; bring water purification tablets and modest clothing for riverside rituals. As with other sacred streams, avoid littering and follow local guidance if you’re invited to participate in small ceremonies — a quiet “namaste” and a smile go a long way.