Situated at an elevation of 2,650 mts above sea level, JankiChatti is familiarly known for its hot water springs. Janki Chatti encompasses the last village in the region and it acts as the major hub for the pilgrims travelling to Yamunotri. It acts as a base camp for Yamunotri trek.  Taking a dip in the hot water from these springs is considered very sacred, before visiting the Yamunotri.

One km from Jankichatti, across the river is the traditional Garhwali village of Kharsali, home to the pandas (pilgrim priests) of Yamunotri. Among the dry- stone buildings, with their beautifully carved wooden beams, stands a unique three storey Shiva temple – dedicated to Someshwar, lord of the mythical intoxicant Soma.

Kharsali is known as the home of Goddess Yamuna during winters when the Yamunotri Shrine becomes inaccessible due to heavy snowfall. The place houses the oldest Shani Dev Temple of India.

The idol of Goddess Yamuna is kept at the Shani Dev Temple during the winter season. Every year on the occasion of Bhai Dooja or Yam Dwitiya which is two days after Diwali, the idol of Goddess Yamuna is brought to the temple and prayed here till the end of winter.

The temple is a three-storied structure made up of stones, wood and mortar. The temple has withstood several earthquakes and other natural calamities since ages. It is believed that the temple was built by the Pandavas.

The Bronze idol of Lord Shani Dev is kept here along with the Chaaya, the Sangya and Nag Devta. There are two Urnsin the temple and no one touches them because of any unforeseen danger to self or family. There is a belief that these Urns change their position themselves on Purnima and Amawasya (Full moon and New moon days)

Religious Beliefs & Practices 

During the months of July, August (Sawan and Bhadon) a date is announced by the priest when a Pandava Nritya (dance) is performed by the special people in the courtyard to please the Nag Devta (Snake God), this dance starts after midnight witnessed by the locals from the surrounding  villages, it is believed that any one who performs fast on this day and recites the Mahamritunjay Mantra is protected from having unnatural death, this place is also believed to be place where the Nag Devta shows his presence once a year.

Source: Book:  The Rough Guide to India By Rough Guides

https://www.euttaranchal.com/tourism/jankichatti.php

https://www.trawell.in/uttarakhand/yamunotri/kharsali

http://explorationswithanilrajput.com/2015/01/shani-dev-yamuna-temple-at-kharsali-uttarakhand/