Famous Temples in India

Architecture

The Temple is situated in the western region of Garhwal Himalayas at an altitude of 3,291 metres (10,797 ft) in Uttarkashi district, Uttarakhand. Yamunotri is the most pious and sacred shrine of Hindus. The interior of the temple consists of a Garba Griha (sanctum sanatorium) and a Mandap (assembly hall) where devotees gather for darshan and prayer. The temple is known for its extremely contrasting yellow roof which had become a landmark image for Yamunotri Dham. The temple is constructed using simple and humble Indian Nagar pattern of architectural style. Yamunotri Temple is made using granite stones. A yellow conical shaped tower with beautiful red borders lies at the top of the temple. There is a small patio in the front which is joined with the main entrance. The main entrance of the temple structure is joined with a small porch sized structure which only adds to the beauty of the temple as a whole. 

SURYA KUND (THE POND OF THE SUN) - Very near to the Yamuna Devi temple there are many hot water springs; the most significant among them is the Surya Kund. It holds the boiling-hot water as it emerges from the crevices in the mountain. People boil rice and potatoes by tying them in a cloth (preferably muslin cloth) and consider them a Prasad (religious offering) from Goddess Yamuna.

DIVYA SHILLA (THE DIVINE STONE) - It is a reddish-brown rock near the Surya Kund which needs to be worshipped before offering reverence to the main deity, Yamuna maa (mother). According to Skanda Purana, with a mere touch of the sacred rock one can attain spiritual liberation.

The Yamunotri temple opens in the month of April/May at the onset of the summer season and closes for winters in the third week of November. The idol of Goddess Yamuna is then carried to Kharsali Village where the pilgrims can pay homage to the deity for 6 months. The dates for opening date of Shri Yamunotri Temple is announced by the priests on the auspicious day of Basant Panchmi.