Last Updated on June 17, 2025
Gangotri Yamunotri Yatra is one of the most spiritually uplifting and visually appealing trips in India. Gangotri, the source of the River Ganga, and Yamunotri, the source of the River Yamuna, are situated beautifully amidst the majestic Garhwal Himalayas in Uttarakhand. Both these revered shrines belong to the renowned Char Dham pilgrimage and are extremely holy to the Hindu pilgrims.
When wishing to make this divine spiritual journey, you must be well prepared, as some of the places are far-flung, the altitudes are high, and the mountains have unpredictable weather. The guide will show you step-by-step the way to plan the Gangotri Yamunotri Yatra in 2025, including itinerary, transportation, permits, accommodation, health tips, and so on.

Historical Significance
- Gangotri– The temple dedicated to Goddess Ganga was constructed in the early 18th century by the Gorkha general Amar Singh Thapa, and represents a historical representation of religion and spirituality. The temple, constructed in white granite, depicts the North Indian temple style and has been a major pilgrimage center for more than 300 years.
- Yamunotri– The temple was built during the 19th century due to the destruction of the original one by natural calamities by Maharani Guleria of Jaipur. Hot water springs of Surya Kund beside the temple are deemed holy and are used to prepare rice and potatoes, which are offered to the god and eaten as prasad.
Cultural Significance
- Gangotri- It plays a very significant role in the Hindu culture as the source of the river Ganga, the holiest river in India. It is considered that a dip in this icy water washes the sins away, and it allows achieving moksha (liberation).
- Yamunotri- The pilgrimage is very much entrenched in the Hindu traditions and legends. The pilgrims also sing chants of Jai Maa Yamuna as they trek from Janki Chatti, which is a difficult trek that stretches their endurance. Here, culture has incorporated a profound adoration of nature and spiritual discipline.
Things to Pack
- Fleece jackets, woolen socks, gloves, and thermal innerwear.
- Raincoat, an umbrella, and a trekking stick.
- Loosely fit trekking pants and well-gripped shoes.
- Personal first-aid kit and medicines.
- Power bank, torchlight, lip balm, and sunglasses.
- Water bottle and purifier tablets.
- ID proofs, government-issued, and additional cash since ATMs are scarce in isolated areas.
Note: Never use Airtel and Vodafone, but rather go with BSNL and Jio because these two networks do well at higher altitudes.
Opening and Closing Dates of Gangotri and Yamunotri Dham
The two shrines are expected to open on the same date in 2025 so that devotees can commence their spiritual journey by visiting any of these holy sites.
Opening Dates -2025
- Yamunotri: 30 April 2025 (Wednesday)
- Gangotri: 30 April 2025 (Wednesday)
The temples will be inaugurated along with old Vedic rituals, special pujas, and festivities in the background of mantra chanting and the presence of thousands of worshipers.
Closing Dates -2025 (Tentative)
- Yamunotri: 23 September 2025 (Thursday)
- Gangotri: 22 October 2025 (Wednesday)
The closing dates are those around Diwali when the idols are shifted to their winter homes- Kharsali in case of Yamunotri and Mukhba village in case of Gangotri.
Best Time to Visit
It is always best to visit Gangotri and Yamunotri in the months of May-June and September to mid-October when the weather is pleasant and the roads are easy to travel. In summer months, the weather is better with temperatures between 10 and 20 degrees Celsius, which is best suited to trekking and visits to temples. Heavy rainfalls during monsoon (July-August) result in landslides, slippery roads, and traveling becomes dangerous and not advisable. The autumn season has clear skies, a pretty panorama, and is less crowded, providing a calm experience of pilgrimage. The winters (November to April) are heavy in snow, and none of the shrines are operational during this time because of adverse weather conditions and blockage of routes.
How to Reach
By Road
Gangotri and Yamunotri are commonly accessed by travelers in privately owned cars, taxis, or even shared Jeeps. There are also state-run buses by GMOU and UTC plying between Haridwar and Dehradun to Barkot (Yamunotri) and Uttarkashi (Gangotri).
By Rail
The closest major rail stations are Haridwar and Dehradun. Upon arrival, one can complete the further journey by road to either Barkot or Uttarkashi.
By Air
The nearest airport to both pilgrimages is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun. To get faster, more comfortable access, helicopter services are possible, particularly among senior citizens.
Trek to Yamunotri
Janki Chatti to Yamunotri trek is steep and of moderate difficulty covering the 6 km route. Palkis, ponies, and pitthus may be hired and it is best to commence early in the day that you may be back before dusk.
Accommodation Options
Janki Chatti & Barkot:
- Lower and middle range hotels, guesthouses.
- Tourist Rest Houses in GMVN.
Uttarkashi:
Better developed, improved boarding facilities with better medical services.
Gangotri:
Low-range hotels, Dharmashalas, GMVN lodges. To avoid the hustle and bustle at peak season, book your accommodation early.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q-1: Is there any registration for the Yatra?
Ans: Registration is compulsory and can be done online or at special desks along the way.
Q-2: Do Gangotri and Yamunotri have proper mobile network connectivity?
Ans: The coverage is not widespread; the only ones that work better in the area are BSNL and Jio.
Q-3: What type of accommodation options are available for pilgrims with low-budget?
Ans: Simple hotels, guesthouses, and GMVN lodges are available in the nearby towns at Barkot, Janki Chatti, and Gangotri.
Q-4: How easily can I access food and water?
Ans: Yes, there are local Dhabas and stalls, but it is recommended to carry snacks and water.
Q-5: Is the Yatra child and elderly friendly?
Ans: Yes, cautiously. In steep routes, palkis and ponies come in assistance, and health check-ups are advisable before the journey.
Final Thoughts
Your divine journey to Gangotri and Yamunotri needs planning not only in terms of spiritual but also logistical preparation. It all starts with learning the pilgrim path and securing the housing, followed by the trail advice and medical considerations, the guide embraces all the main areas that may require your attention to guarantee you a remarkable, safe pilgrimage.
Faith in heart, a well-designed itinerary, and you are ready to have the divine blessings of Goddess Ganga and Yamuna.