Saptarishi Kund is the actual source of the Yamuna River. It is believed that the seven great Rishis- Kashyapa, Atri, Bharadwaja, Vishwamitra, Gautam, Jandagni and Vashishtha- performed austerities here for millions of years. This scenic spot lies at a very high altitude and is not accessible. To reach it, a guide is a must. It is considered to be one of the moist tedious treks in the Himalayas, almost 12 kilometres ice-covered tracks from Yamunotri. The Yamunotri temple is built at the foot of the Kalindi Parvata, and the trek upto Saptarishi Kund eases out around the base of the Kalindi Parvata. Due to the difficulties in reaching the Kund, many pilgrims many pilgrims offer prayers in the temple itself. What must be borne in mind is that when one desires to make a trip to the Saptarishi Kund, it is essential to get acclimatized to the region by staying in Yamunotri for at least a day.
The Saptarishi Kund is about half a kilometer in diameter. It has dark blue waters with slushy snow. There are some hot water springs located close to the temple where the water gushes out at boiling point.
At Surya Kund, is said to be the most sacred. Surya is said to be the father of Yamuna. Not only do pilgrims refresh here they also offer Prasad. Pilgrims wrap rice and potatoes with a pinch of salt in a muslin cloth and place it in the hot water. The temperature of the springs is as high as eighty-eight degrees. When dipped in the spring for a few minutes, they come out boiled. After being offered to the deity they are taken home as Prasada.
In the Yamuna Bai Kund one can slowly get in for a bath. Right next to the temple is the Dibya Shila. It is a stone which is worshipped before entering the temple, before the Puja is offered to Yamuna.
The Saptarishi Kund with its murky blue waters, blue slate stones and the beautiful Brahma Lotus is a real sight to behold. It offers a beautiful sight of undisturbed glaciers and the spectacular sight of a partially visible peak of Banderpunch.
