Gurudwara Hemkund Sahib is one of the most famous pilgrimage site for Punjabis and Hindus of India and abroad. It is credited to be one of the highest Gurudwara in world and due to adverse climatic condition this remains open just for six months in a year. Read this blog to know more about it.
Hemkund Sahib Gurudwara is located in the heart of the Himalayas in Uttarakhand. It’s situated on 14,100 feet from sea level, Gurudwara Hemkund Sahib Ji is nothing short of a spiritual marvel. It’s not just the highest gurudwara in the world but also the most visited sikh pilgrimage place in the world and also a most picked trekking destination for many people. It’s not just a place but also a perfect combination for devotees and nature. Whether you’re a devoted Sikh or a travel lover who seeks peace and adventure, this sacred destination gives you an unforgettable experience.
The Gurudwara’s unique pentagonal design, surrounded by towering peaks and pristine wilderness, stands as a tribute to Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the 10th Sikh Guru. This holy place sees pilgrims from across the globe, pilgrimages eager to connect themself with this place’s holy spirituality. It’s not just a journey to a holy site but also a journey that leaves visitors deeply moved and spiritually enriched.
Hemkund Sahib is the dream destination for so many people no matter if you are a devotee, adventure seeker, or nature lover this is the perfect combination for everyone especially for those who love adventure, the trek to Hemkund Sahib is a dream come true. The path is steep and often challenging, but every step is worth the reward. Trekkers find themselves walking through lush green valleys, crossing bubbling streams, and marveling at the vibrant wildflowers, like blue poppies and the rare Brahma Kamal.
The journey is not just a physical test but gives you a soulful experience. As you climb up, the air gets thinner and temperature gets cold, the clouds closer, and the sense of achievement grows stronger. Every pilgrim and trekker carries a story of determination and joy upon reaching the Gurudwara.
Right behind the Gurudwara lies the Lokpal Lake, a glacial wonder surrounded by seven towering peaks. Legend has it that Guru Gobind Singh Ji meditated on this very lake in his previous life.
Here you can see crystal-clear and freezing water, but that doesn’t discourage devotees from taking a dip in this Holy lake. It's believed that if someone takes a dip in this holy lake they wash away sins and purify the soul. The brave-hearted not only bathe here but also collect the water in bottles to take home as a blessing.
In the morning hours, the lake and the surrounding Gurudwara often appear peaceful, serene, untouched, and surreal. As the day progresses, clouds descend, wrapping the area in a mystical white blanket.
Just a few steps from the Gurudwara is a small temple known as Lakshmana temple dedicated to Lakshman, the brother of Lord Ram from the Ramayana. According to mythology or ancient legends, it’s said that Lakshman performed penance here, and came here to meditate and connect their soul with the divine, adding another layer of spiritual depth to the place. There is no clear reason behind his penance but this temple holds a huge importance for Hindu pilgrimage and it gives the best combination of spirituality and serenity. This temple stands as a symbol of Laxman's dedication, strength, and loyalty to his brother lord Ram.
This temple near the Hemkund Sahib is not just a temple but also a place where you can take lord lakshaman’s blessing and every year lakhs of devotees and visitors come here from all over India.
No visit to Hemkund Sahib is complete without experiencing the langar (community kitchen). The warm and delicious dal-khichdi, tea, and sweet and tasty halwa served here carry not just flavor but the spirit of selfless service and community. It’s heartwarming to see people from all walks of life sit together, breaking bread in unity.
Your adventure starts at Govindghat, the base camp for the trek. The journey is often spread across multiple days to make it manageable and enjoyable:
The trek’s highlight is undoubtedly the 6 km climb from Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib. While it takes about 5-6 hours on foot, ponies and porters are available for those who need assistance. The trail is dotted with dhabas offering snacks like Maggi and tea—comfort food that tastes divine after the exertion!
Hemkund Sahib is accessible only during the months of June to September, when the snow clears, and the trails open. The weather is pleasant, and the surrounding flora is in full bloom, making it the perfect time for both pilgrims and trekkers.
While you can’t stay overnight at Hemkund Sahib itself, nearby places offer plenty of choices:
To make your trek comfortable and enjoyable, pack wisely:
Just a short detour from Ghangaria is the Valley of Flowers, a paradise of vibrant blooms set against the backdrop of the Himalayas. If time permits, this side trip is a must! And it’s the best trek in India for women.
Badrinath Temple: - One of the most famous temple of this area located very close to Hemkund Sahib Gurudwara is Badrinath temple which is dedicated to lord Vishnu. It is part of Do dham yatra in Uttarakhand. In addition to being a pilgrimage spot, this place is also known for unparalleled beauty all around the temple. Tucked in the lap of Himalaya and surrounded by snow capped mountains with river Alaknanda flowing all along the temple make is a visitors paradise. This temple is also a part of Char dham yatra which involves the visit to Gangotri temple, Yamunotri temple and Kedarnath temple in addition to this temple. Best time to visit here is in the month of May or June. Due to extreme climatic condition it remains close for almost six months in a year and open in the month of May and closes in the month of October or November.
Note:If you are planning to visit the Hemkund sahib Gurudwara you can also explore plan Kedarnath trip In this you can experience the Kedarnath trek through Manchala Mushafir at an affordable price
Joshimath: - Another most important place near Hemkund Sahib Gurudwara is Joshimath which is a well known hill station. It is also known as the gateway for Badrinath and Auli. It is also known as the starting point of many beautiful treks out of which trekking to Hemkund Sahib, valley of flowers are some of them. In addition to this, you can also visit to Narshimha temple and bhavishya Badri temple which are located in close vicinity of this temple.
Tungnath Temple: - Another most famous temple in this area is Tungnath temple which is also a part of Panch Kedar temples. Other temples of Panch kedar circuit are Kedarnath temple, Rudranath temple, Kalpeshwar temple and Madhyamaheshwar temple in addition to above temples. Here forelimbs of lord Shiva in the form of Nandi is being worshipped and it is considered to be the highest Shiva temple in world.
Paunch Prayags: - It involves visits to Vishnu Prayag, Nand Prayag, Karna Prayag, Rudra Prayag and Dev prayag where finally holy river of India Ganga got it's name. Visiting to these prayags is a divine experience with natural enlightment.
Dhari Devi Temple: - Another most important and famous temple en route to Hemkund Sahib Gurudwara is Dhari devi temple. It is located in mid of Srinagar in Uttarakhand and Rudraprayag. It is located at the centre of river Alaknanda and is well known for the divine power and remarkable beauty. Upper body part of maa kali is being worshipped here while the lower body part is being worshipped at Kalimath near Guptkashi.
Hemkund Sahib is more than a destination; it’s an experience that touches the heart and soul. Whether you’re trekking to test your limits or seeking spiritual solace, this place offers something unique to everyone.
Come with an open heart, and let the peace of the Himalayas and the divinity of Hemkund Sahib transform you. It’s a journey that will stay with you forever, a tale of perseverance, faith, and the unmatched beauty of nature.
Hemkund Sahib is well known as one of the highest Gurudwara. It is one of the most sacred spots for sikh's and it is believed that the tenth guru of Sikh's "Guru Govind Singh" had meditated on the bank of the "Hemkund lake" in one of his earlier birth. In addition to being a pilgrimage spot, this place is well known for it's beautiful and peaceful environment.
Yes, the trek to Hemkund sahib will start from a quint village Ghangaria located near Joshimath. On this trek you are going to gain a height of 4500 feet in a short time span of just 6 hours making it challenging. In addition to this the trekking distance of 19 kms ads to the difficulty of this trek. But the beutiful view and the devine power felt all around the gurudwara make it all worth.
As Hemkund sahib gurudwara is located at an altitude of 4572 meters (15000 feet) with extreme climatic condition round the year, you need to dress properly. In addition to this to reach here you need to trek for 19 kms making it even more challenging. So to go on trek of Hemkund sahib you should wear a sterdy boots, breathable clothes. thermals and jackets effective at sub zero temperature.
Yes definetely. Gurudwara Hemkund sahib is a sacred spot eqully respected by both Hindus and Sikhs. Every year thousands of Hindus visit to this gurudwara in addition to Sikh devotees.
Yes, it is always safe to trek to Hemkund sahib unless and untill you are cautious about your clothings and timing for your trek. In addition to this it is recomended to hire a gide, with proper knowledge of mountains and locals. He will make your journey safe and enjoyable.
Best time to trek to Hemkund sahib in the month of June to September as this region experience the most pleasant weather. In additon to this you can also witness the most beautiful and UNESCO's world heritage site, valley of flowers located in close vicinity of this gurudwara.
Yes, it is accessible for people of all ages. In addition to trekking you can also opt for mules or palki for elderly people. You can also book helicopter for Hemkund sahib from heliyatra.irctc.co website. But consult your family doctor before planning your trip to Hemkund sahib.
No it's not allowed to stay at Hemkund sahib at night. You can return back to Ghanghariya or Govindghat to find lodges to stay. So it's recommended to start early and plan your trek in such a way that you can return to your safe place before dusk.
Till Govind ghat you will get good network, but after that signal quality will start detoriating and near Hemkund sahib Gurudwara, mobile network will greatly depend on the weather condition. If weather is clear then you may get weak signal at some points.
Yes, Hemkund sahib is well connected by road and you can reach till Govindghat by road. You can take your own car or can book a cab from Haridwar, Rishikesh or Dehradun to reach here. From Govindghat you need to trek for 19 kms to reach to Hemkund sahib gurudwara.
Cost of Pony will greatly vary depending upon the time of your travel and croud around. On an average the cost for one way service of pony is INR 1500 and two way service may cost you around INR 2500. This will totally depend upon the demand of this service.
Hemkund sahib gurudwara is located at an altitude of 15000 feet above the sea level with extreme climatic condition round the year with long trekking route. It's recommended not to travel with any kid of age less than 5 years. If kid is above 5 years and below 10 years then you can take him with you but ensure proper clothing for him.
Hemkund sahib gurudwara is located at an altitude of 15000 feet above the sea level. Snowfall is very common in this area. Infact in the month of November to Feburary this region remains completely under the snow making it inaccessible. If you are lucky enough you can also witness snowfall during the month of June and July.
Laxman mandir is located near Hemkund sahib dedicated to lord Laxman the younger brother of lord Rama and one of the prominent diety of Hindus.
Yes, registration is mandatory for all the devotees going to Hemkund sahib. You can get yourself registered from the offline counters persent at different places at Haridwa, Rishikesh, Rudra prayag etc. You can also get your registration online by regitering yourself at https://registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in/signin.php. It's registration is very similar to the process of Char dham yatra registration.
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