Location: Chamoli District, Uttarakhand, India

What is Hemkund Sahib?

Hemkund Sahib is one of the holiest Sikh pilgrimage sites, nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas at an altitude of approximately 4,632 meters. It is a revered Gurudwara dedicated to the tenth Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh Ji. The site is also known as Lokpal Lake and holds immense spiritual significance for Sikhs and Hindus alike.

Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and glacial waters, Hemkund Sahib offers a serene and divine atmosphere for devotees and visitors. The journey to Hemkund Sahib is both spiritual and adventurous, as it involves a challenging trek through breathtaking landscapes.

History and Mythology of Hemkund Sahib

Hemkund Sahib has deep roots in Sikh history and Hindu mythology. It is believed that Guru Gobind Singh Ji meditated at this sacred site before he took on his earthly responsibilities. The location is mentioned in the Dasam Granth, the scripture written by the Guru himself.

Additionally, the site is linked to Hindu mythology, where it is believed that Lakshman, the younger brother of Lord Rama, meditated here after being revived with the Sanjeevani herb. The pristine Hemkund Lake is considered sacred and is visited by devotees for spiritual cleansing.

Hemkund Sahib Tour Information

Hemkund Sahib is a significant pilgrimage destination and trekking site in Uttarakhand. The journey includes a visit to the Valley of Flowers, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its vibrant floral diversity.

Nearest Town: Govindghat serves as the main base for the Hemkund Sahib trek. Altitude: 4,632 meters above sea level.

Main Attractions: Hemkund Sahib Gurudwara, Hemkund Lake, Valley of Flowers, and Laxman Temple. Best Time to Visit: June to October, as the region is covered in snow during the rest of the year.

Precautions: The trek involves high altitudes and steep climbs. Travelers should be physically fit, carry warm clothing, and acclimatize properly.

Hemkund Sahib can be accessed via Govindghat and requires a trek from Ghangaria. The pilgrimage involves a trek of approximately 19 km, which can be covered on foot, by ponies, or by using palkis (palanquins) for those who need assistance.

By Air:

• The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, approximately 292 km from Govindghat.

• From Dehradun, taxis and buses are available to reach Govindghat, passing through major cities like Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Joshimath.

• The journey from Dehradun to Govindghat takes around 9-10 hours by road.

By Train:

• The nearest railway station is Rishikesh, about 273 km from Govindghat.

• From Rishikesh, travelers can hire taxis or take buses to Govindghat.

• The road journey from Rishikesh to Govindghat takes approximately 8-9 hours, passing through Devprayag, Rudraprayag, and Joshimath.

By Road:

• Hemkund Sahib is accessible via road up to Govindghat, which is well-connected to major cities in Uttarakhand.

• From Govindghat, pilgrims must undertake a 14 km trek to Ghangaria (the last settlement before Hemkund Sahib) and then an additional 5 km trek to the Gurudwara.

• Regular buses and shared taxis are available from Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Dehradun to Govindghat.

• The trek is steep and requires proper preparation, but it is well-maintained with facilities such as rest stops, food stalls, and medical aid along the route.

The ideal time to visit Hemkund Sahib is between June and September, when the weather is favorable, and the trekking routes are accessible. Here’s a seasonal breakdown:

• June: The summer months mark the beginning of the pilgrimage season, with clear skies and moderate temperatures.

• July to August: Monsoon season brings occasional rain, which enhances the beauty of the lush green surroundings. However, landslides may cause temporary roadblocks.

• September: Early autumn is one of the best times to visit, with pleasant weather and fewer crowds before the site closes for the winter.

• October to May: The region experiences heavy snowfall, making it completely inaccessible.