Kharsali Village, Yamunotri

Kharsali is a quiet village near Yamunotri, famous as the winter home of Goddess Yamuna and for its ancient Shani Dev temple. Most Yamunotri pilgrims drive past it on the way to Janki Chatti, but a stop here adds a peaceful, cultural side to the trip. The village sits among terraced fields and offers a different view of Garhwali life.

Kharsali at a glance

Winter seat of Goddess Yamuna

When Yamunotri is covered with snow in winter, the idol of Goddess Yamuna is brought down to Kharsali and worshipped in the Shani Dev temple. The idol is carried in a procession on Bhai Dooj (Yam Dwitiya), two days after Diwali, and returned to Yamunotri in spring. The goddess is said to be the sister of Shani Dev, which explains why the temple is dedicated to him.

Shani Dev Temple

The temple is described as one of the oldest Shani Dev temples in India. It is a three-storey structure of stone, wood and mortar, and local tradition says that the Pandavas built it. The shrine contains a bronze Shani Dev idol and images of Chaya, Sangya and Nag Devta. Visitors will also notice two large urns, which devotees traditionally avoid touching. A nearby ancient temple shows Lord Shiva as Someshwar.

What to see

• Shani Dev Temple and its carved wooden structure.
• Someshwar Temple, the old Shiva shrine.
• Terraced fields and village lanes.
• Springs and waterfalls around the village, popular for picnics.
• Views of the Bandarpunch range on clear days.

How to reach

From Barkot, drive to Janki Chatti, which is about 40 km further. Park at Janki Chatti and walk 1 km to Kharsali. From Haridwar or Dehradun, the drive to Barkot takes 7 to 8 hours. Our Yamunotri yatra 3-day tour covers Janki Chatti, and you can plan to add Kharsali.

Best time to visit

The Yamunotri season runs from about May to October. In winter, Kharsali is the place of worship, and the village is beautiful under snow, though access can be difficult. The monsoon is risky for landslides.

Tips

1. Visit early in the day, before the Yamunotri crowd arrives.
2. Wear shoes with grip for the village paths.
3. Do not touch the urns in the temple.
4. Dress modestly and ask permission before taking photos.
5. Carry warm clothing, since evenings are cold.
6. Check the road to Janki Chatti before you leave.

Where to stay

Read our guide to stays in Barkot, Kharsali and Janki Chatti and our Yamunotri hotel listings.

Nearby places

Yamunotri trek guide and Triyuginarayan Temple are other cultural stops in the Garhwal Himalayas.

Plan your trip with Gokeys India

See the Yamunotri yatra from Haridwar or the Gangotri and Yamunotri 5-day tour.

Related on Gokeys India

• Tour packages: Yamunotri Yatra 3 days from Haridwar · Gangotri and Yamunotri 5-day Yatra · Char Dham Yatra package from Haridwar
• Read next: Yamunotri trek guide · Barkot, Kharsali and Janki Chatti stay
• Nearby places: Gangnani Kund, Uttarkashi

Frequently asked questions

Why is Kharsali important? It is the winter seat of Goddess Yamuna and has the Shani Dev temple.

How far is Kharsali from Janki Chatti? About 1 km on foot.

Can I drive to Kharsali? No, there is no motorable road. Walk from Janki Chatti.