Discover Kharsali Uttarakhand at Yamunotri Temple Dham

Kharsali Uttarakhand, a village in Uttarkashi district , is located 1 km from Janki Chatti, 9 km from Hanuman Chatti, and 6 km from Yamunotri. At 2675 m above sea level, it is known as the winter home of Goddess Yamuna when the Yamunotri Shrine is inaccessible due to snow.

Kharsali Uttarakhand – Winter Seat of Goddess Yamuna

The lesser-known village of Kharsali, also known as ‘Khushimath,’ is nestled with love in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand. It is perched at an astounding elevation of 2,675 meters above sea level.

The tiny hamlet of Kharsali holds religious significance as it serves as the winter seat of Goddess Yamuna. Since the Yamunotri shrine becomes inaccessible in winters due to heavy snowfall, the deity is brought here for worship.

• This three-storied temple, believed to be built by the Pandavas, has withstood many natural calamities and holds the idol of Goddess Yamuna during winters.
• Lord Shani Dev’s bronze idol and other deities are also present. Unique urns that are believed to change positions on Purnima and Amawasya are kept untouched due to superstition.
• The idol of Goddess Yamuna is brought here on Bhai Dooja after Diwali. The village also features an ancient Lord Shiva temple in his Someshwar form. Kharsali can only be reached by a 1 km trek from Janki Chatti, which is well-connected to major Uttarakhand towns.

Surya Kund near Kharsali Uttarakhand

• It is a significant thermal spring near the Yamunotri temple, named after the Yamuna River, believed to be the offspring of Surya, the sun god. With an estimated temperature of 88°C, it holds religious importance as pilgrims prepare Prasad (potatoes or rice mixed with salt, tied in cloth) by boiling it in the spring.
• This Prasad is then offered to the temple deity, and the remainder is taken home by devotees. The spring’s location, surrounded by snow-covered peaks, adds to its divine significance.

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Here are some of the things you can explore and enjoy in Kharsali Uttarakhand:

Yamunotri Temple

• Kharsali Uttarakhand is situated just 6 km away from the Yamunotri Temple, one of the four sacred shrines of the Chota Char Dham Yatra. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Yamuna, and the journey to reach the temple is an experience in itself. The trek to the temple is filled with scenic beauty, and the surrounding mountains and valleys make it a photographer’s paradise.

Local Culture

• The people of Kharsali Uttarakhand are warm and hospitable, and they welcome visitors with open arms. The village is rich in culture and traditions, and you can learn a lot about the local way of life by interacting with the locals. You can also witness local festivals and celebrations, which are a sight to behold.

Trekking and Camping

• Kharsali Uttarakhand is surrounded by lush green forests and mountains, making it a perfect destination for trekking and camping. You can explore the area by trekking to nearby villages and waterfalls or camping under the starry sky. The experience of camping in Kharsali is unparalleled, and it is an excellent way to disconnect from the world and reconnect with nature.

Local Cuisine

• The local cuisine of Kharsali Uttarakhand is simple yet delicious. The food is prepared using locally sourced ingredients, and the flavors are unique and authentic. Some of the must-try dishes include Kachmauli, Aloo ke Gutke, and Kafuli.

Kharsali  Uttarakhand Travel Tips

1. Proximity: Kharsali is a great spot to relax after the pilgrimage to the Yamunotri shrine, located just 1 km from Jankichatti, the base camp for the Yamunotri trek.
2. Best Time to Visit: The ideal months to visit Kharsali are May-June and September-November, when the natural beauty is at its peak.
3. Weather Check: Before starting your journey or pilgrimage, check with local authorities, tour guides, or operators about the weather and road conditions, especially during the monsoon season.