Yamunotri Temple is a revered Hindu shrine located in the Uttarkashi district of the Indian state of Uttarakhand. It is dedicated to the goddess Yamuna, who is believed to be the daughter of the Sun god, Surya, and sister of Yama, the god of death. The temple is situated at an altitude of about 3,293 meters (10,804 feet) in the Garhwal Himalayas.

The history of Yamunotri Temple dates back centuries and is associated with various mythological legends. According to one popular legend, Sage Asit Muni, an ancient sage, used to take bath in the holy waters of Yamuna every day. However, as he grew old, it became difficult for him to reach the river. Pleased with his devotion, the goddess Yamuna appeared before him and transformed herself into a stream of water near his ashram, thus allowing him to continue his daily rituals.

Another legend relates to the epic Mahabharata. It is believed that the Pandavas, the central characters of the Mahabharata, visited Yamunotri during their exile. It is said that Yudhishthira, the eldest of the Pandavas, was the only one who could make it to the gates of Swarga (heaven) along with his dog. This place, from where Yudhishthira ascended to heaven, is known as the Divya Shila, located near the temple.

Historically, the Yamunotri Temple is believed to have been constructed by Maharani Gularia of Jaipur in the early 19th century. However, the temple has been reconstructed and renovated several times due to damage caused by natural disasters, including earthquakes and avalanches.

The temple attracts a large number of pilgrims every year, especially during the summer months when the region becomes accessible. The main deity of the temple is a silver idol of the goddess Yamuna, adorned with various ornaments. The temple complex also includes hot water springs called the Surya Kund and the Gauri Kund, which are considered to have medicinal properties.

Yamunotri Temple holds great religious significance for Hindus, and it is considered one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites in Uttarakhand. The temple not only provides spiritual solace but also offers breathtaking views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks and serene natural beauty, making it a popular destination for devotees and nature lovers alike.