Introduction

Nestled in the serene Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, Barkot is a quaint town serving as the base for pilgrims heading to Yamunotri, one of the sacred Char Dham destinations. Surrounded by lush green hills, pine forests, and the majestic Yamuna River, Barkot offers a perfect blend of spiritual solace and natural beauty. This guide will help you plan your trip, explore top attractions, and make the most of your Barkot visit.

How to Reach Barkot

By Air

The nearest airport to Barkot is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (DHM), located approximately 160 km away. From Dehradun, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Barkot.

By Train

The closest major railway station is Dehradun Railway Station, around 155 km from Barkot. Regular taxis and buses are available to reach Barkot from the station.

By Road

Barkot is well-connected by road to major towns like Dehradun, Mussoorie, and Uttarkashi. You can hire taxis or drive your own vehicle. State-run and private buses also operate to Barkot from Dehradun and Haridwar.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to visit Barkot is from April to June and September to November. Summers are pleasant, perfect for sightseeing and trekking, while post-monsoon offers lush greenery and clear views of the Himalayas. Winters can be cold with occasional snowfall, ideal for snow lovers.

Top Attractions in Barkot

Yamunotri

The ultimate spiritual destination, Yamunotri is the source of the Yamuna River and one of the four sacred Char Dham sites. Pilgrims can trek approximately 13 km from Janki Chatti or use ponies for the journey.

Krishna Nagar

A charming local area in Barkot, Krishna Nagar offers traditional Uttarakhand village experiences with local markets and small eateries.

Janki Chatti

Located near Barkot, Janki Chatti is the starting point for the Yamunotri trek and offers scenic views of the Yamuna River and surrounding hills.

Vyas Gufa

A small cave located on the Yamunotri trek, believed to be the meditation site of Sage Vyas. It’s a peaceful spot surrounded by dense forests and hills.

Activities to Do

• Trekking: Trek to Yamunotri or nearby hills for a refreshing adventure.
• River Camping: Enjoy camping by the Yamuna River.
• Photography: Capture the breathtaking views of Himalayan landscapes.
• Spiritual Activities: Participate in local rituals and temple visits at Yamunotri.

Where to Stay

Barkot offers basic hotels, guesthouses, and ashrams for pilgrims:

• Hotel Shivalik – Comfortable rooms, local cuisine, central location.
• Barkot Hotel & Resort – Family-friendly, river views, multi-cuisine restaurant.
• Forest Rest House – Ideal for budget travelers, serene environment.

Local Cuisine

Enjoy authentic Uttarakhand flavors in Barkot, including dishes like:

• Kafuli: Spinach and green leafy vegetable curry.
• Bhang ki Chutney: Traditional spicy chutney made from hemp leaves.
• Mandua Roti: Finger millet flatbread, often served with ghee.
• Local sweets: Bal Mithai and Singodi.

Travel Tips

• Carry warm clothing, especially if visiting in winters.
• Book accommodation in advance during peak pilgrimage seasons.
• Stay hydrated and carry basic medicines for altitude sickness.
• Respect local customs and temple guidelines at Yamunotri.

Barkot is not just a base for spiritual journeys but also a serene hill town perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Plan your visit to explore the Himalayan beauty and experience the spiritual charm of Yamunotri.