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Hemkund Sahib

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About

Shri Hemkund Sahib Gurudwara is one of the most sacred places of Sikhs, and the highest Gurudwara in the world. Located in Chamoli, Uttarakhand, this revered shrine is dedicated to the tenth Sikh Guru, Shri Guru Gobind Singh Ji. It is named after the nearby lake, called Hemkund, which means "Lake of Snow". Nestled amidst the snow-clad mountains and pristine Glacial Lake, the shrine offers picturesque landscapes and ethereal views.

Hemkund Sahib Gurudwara Opening Date 2025

Every year, the portal of Hemkund Sahib Ji opens a few days after the opening of Uttarakhand Chota Char Dham shrines i.e. Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri and Yamunotri. In 2025, Hemkund Sahib Gurudwara will open for devotees on May 25, 2025. It is mandatory for all devotees to register online for the Hemkund Sahib Yatra. As of now, the official closing date of Hemkund Sahib has not been announced. However, it is expected that the portal of Hemkund Sahib will close on October 10, 2025.

The Highest Himalayan Sikh Shrine

Situated at an altitude of over 15,000 feet, Hemkunt Sahib is the highest Gurudwara in the Sikh community. The name "Hemkund" is derived from Sanskrit, where 'Hem' means 'Snow' and 'Kund' means 'Bowl'. As per the belief and as references in the Sikh scriptures Dasam Granth, Guru Gobind Singh Ji meditated intensely on the bank of Hemkund lake. Being such a holy site, it attracts devotees from across the world who come to seek the blessings of Guru Gobind Singh Ji.

Hemkund Glacial Lake

Besides Gurudwara, there is a serene lake called Hemkund Lake, believed to be the origin source of Him Ganga. On its bank, Shri Guru Gobind Singh ji meditated here during their divine retreat. The lake is surrounded by seven snow-clad mountain peaks, each marked with a Nishan Sahib. Before entering the Gurudwara, devotees often take a holy dip in the cold waters of the lake.

Lokpal Laxman Temple

Adjacent to the lake, there is a Hindu temple called Lokpal Laxman, dedicated to Lord Laxman. After taking blessings of Guru Gobind Singh ji, many Sikh devotees also visit this temple. The temple portal opens and closes with Shri Hemkund Sahib Ji.

Overnight stay is prohibited

Unlike many other shrines, overnight stays at Hemkund Sahib Gurudwara are not allowed. After offering prayers, all devotees must return to Ghangaria or Govind Ghat before dusk.

Things to Do

Trekking	For Adventure enthusiasts, the trek to Hemkund Sahib is a thrilling experience. Surrounded by rich vegetation, snow capped peaks, tough terrain, rivers, and bridges, the trail is both challenging and rewarding. Like Kedarnath, the trek to Hemknd Sahib is considered the most difficult one.
Valley of Flowers	Visitors can explore the Valley of Flowers, a UNESCO world heritage site. Located near Hemkund Sahib, it is a marvel of nature. It's natural beauty, waterfalls, wildlife, and myriad of flowers making it a must visit destination.
Photography	Hemkund Sahib is a paradise for photography enthusiasts, offering countless opportunities to capture scenic and breathtaking views of the Himalayas.

Hemkund Sahib Trek

Being located at such an elevation, accessing the Gurudwara is not easy. Shri Hemkund Sahib is around 19 km away from the last motorable point, Govind Ghat. From here, visitors must trek to reach the gurdwara. Those unable to walk can opt for pony or palki services. The Hemkund Sahib Trek route mainly goes through Govind Ghat → Pulna → Bhyundar Village → Ghangaria → Hemkund Sahib.

Ghangaria serves as the base camp of Hemkund Sahib Yatra and is also the last inhabited village in the area. The Gurudwara committee and Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam (GMVN) provide accommodation facilities for devotees.

During the trail, various people offer food, water, and even some of them organised langar seva to the devotees, showing their selfless service. After resting at Ghangaria, devotees continue to cover the remaining distance, which is steeper and more challenging.

Accommodation

Pilgrims can book their accommodation at Govind Ghat, which is the last motorable point in Hemkund Sahib Yatra. Various options, including Guest House, Homestays, hotels are available here. At Ghangaria, accommodation is provided by Gurudwara, GMVN and by some hotels.

Hemkund Sahib Helicopter Service

The Hemkunt Sahib Yatra also provides helicopter services for pilgrims. This helicopter service is provided by IRCTC with the help of UCADA (Uttarakhand Civil Aviation Development Authority). Visitors can book Shri Hemkund Sahib helicopter tickets online. Helicopter services operate between Govind Ghat and Ghangaria.

Important Tips for Travellers

Yatra registration is mandatory for all pilgrims.
For helicopter booking, yatra registration is necessary.
It is recommended to book accommodation and helicopter tickets well in advance.
For verification, carry one valid identity proof.
Transportation services are available up to Govind Ghat.
Before embarking the journey, check weather updates.
Avoid travelling during monsoon season, as it may cause various challenges.
Paid parking facility is available at Govind Ghat.
Before commencing the journey, ensure you carry all necessary items; such as : -
- Tools for vehicles (Tire inflators, spare tire (for car), puncture kit, jack)
- Medicines.
- Raincoat.
- Woolens.
- Waterproof trekking shoes.
- Emergency Light (with extra batteries)
- Identity Proof.
ATM facilities are available near Govind Ghat, but it is advisable to carry enough cash.
Ponies and palkis facilities are available for the pilgrims.
For any queries related to yatra registration or others contact the Char Dham Yatra officials.

Nearby Attraction

After completing the Shri Hemkund Sahib pilgrimage, visitors can explore notable nearby attractions, such as : -

Valley of flowers.
Lokpal Laxman Temple.
Ghangaria.
Badrinath.
Mana Village.
Vasudhara Falls.

How to Reach

By Road : - Hemkund Sahib is around 320 km from Dehradun ISBT (including the trekking distance). The last motorable point to Hemkund Yatra is Govind Ghat. Roadways buses and private taxis are readily available up to Govind Ghat. From there, pilgrims must trek 19 km from Govindghat to reach the Gurudwara. Ghangaria, located 14 km from Govind Ghat, serves as the base camp of Hemkund Sahib.

By Rail : - The nearest railway station is Yog Nagri Railway Station in Rishikesh, around 262 km from Govind Ghat. However, Haridwar Railway Station offers better connectivity to major cities. From stations, buses and taxis services are available up to Govind Ghat.

By Air : - The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, around 277 km from Govind Ghat. The airport provides decent connectivity with major cities. Taxis can be hired from the airport or from Rishikesh, which is just 16 km away.

By Helicopter : - UCADA, in association with IRCTC, provides helicopter services to pilgrims from Govind ghat to Ghangaria. Advance ticket booking is required for the Hemkund Sahib Yatra.

Best Time to Visit

Due to heavy snowfall, the Portal of Hemkund Sahib Gurudwara remains open only for six months in a year, from May to November. During this period, the ideal time to visit is pre and post monsoon season, as monsoon can cause various issues during these times.