Yamunotri is primarily a place of religious pilgrimage for the Hindus who visit the shrine of goddess Yamuna in a large number and take a holy dip in the tank filled by hot springs. Devotees cook rice in one of the springs and then carry it back for others at home. The route has scenic attractions in the glorious view of the Bandarpunch peak to the north and fragrant orchards around.

Saptarishi lake on the Kalind Parvat, at an altitude of 4221 Mts., the real source of Yamuna river is only 5 km., but difficult to approach with normal gears. Due to acute lack of accommodation facilities at Yamunotri pilgrims usually do not halt, but return the same day to Janakibaichatti after the visit. Both the routes from Rishikesh or Dehradun Converge at Barkot, a place of great scenic beauty with apple orchards all around and the great Himalaya range as the skyline. Actual trekking starts from Hanumanchatti, which is motorable and buses ply from Rishikesh / Dehradun / Barkot.