Lokpal Laxman Temple
About
Lokpal Laxman Temple is located on the bank of the serene and sacred Hemkunt Lake in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. Surrounded by towering snow-capped mountains, this temple is dedicated to Laxman, the younger brother of Lord Rama. It is often visited by local villagers and pilgrims en route to the Hemkund Sahib Yatra. The temple lies just a few meters away from the Hemkund Sahib Gurudwara and is accessible by an arduous trek from Govindghat. Set against the backdrop of snow-clad mountains, the temple offers peace and serenity. Sitting in the lap of nature, it provides a picturesque landscape and an enchanting view.
Laxman Temple in Hemkund Sahib
Situated around 261 km from Rishikesh, the Lokpal Laxman Temple is accessible by trekking from Govindghat. However, devotees can also avail of Heli or pony services from Govindghat to Ghangaria. Similar to Hemkund Sahib and the Valley of Flowers, Ghangaria serves as the base camp for the Lokpal Laxman Temple. The trail is challenging and requires both mental and physical strength. Helicopter booking services for Lokpal Laxman Temple are similar to those for Hemkund Sahib. If any visitors seeking Heli Services can book their helicopter ticket online as well as offline.
Worlds Highest Temple
Perched at an elevation of over 14,000 feet, Lokpal Laxman Temple is one of the highest temples in India. Dedicated to Lord Laxman, the temple's history revolved around a few folk tales. According to one legend, Laxman performed a penance here to regain his power after killing Meghnad, leading to the construction of the temple. Another legend said that Sheshnag meditated here and was reborn as Laxman to King Dashrath during the Dwapar era. The temple's head priest belongs to the nearby Bhyundar village.
The temple opens and closes along with Hemkund Sahib and remains accessible only during that period. It is believed to be the only temple in the world where Laxman is worshipped without Lord Rama and Sita.
Route Map
Delhi → Haridwar/Dehradun/ → Rishikesh → Devprayag → Rudraprayag → Karnaprayag → Joshimath → Govindghat (last motorable point) → Pulna Village (accessible by local taxi) → Ghangaria → Lokpal Laxman Temple.
Key Details
Location | Chamoli Garhwal, Uttarakhand. |
Landmark | Hemkund Sahib and Hemkunt Lake |
Last Motorable Point | Govindghat and Pulna Village |
Total motorable distance | Rishikesh to Govindghat: 260 km |
Total Trek Distance |
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Mode of Travel | Bus, Taxi, and Bike |
Bus Availability | Dehradun Hill Bus Stand, Rishikesh Bus Stand, and Haridwar Bus Stand. |
Helicopter Service | Govindghat to Ghangaria (Online/Offline Booking) |
Accommodation | Govindghat, Pulna, and Ghangaria |
Parking Facility | Govindghat |
Required | Char Dham Registration |
Important Tips for Travellers
- Avoid travelling during the monsoon season, as it can impose several challenges like landslides, roadblocks, and slippery trails.
- Both Govindghat and Pulna serve as the last motorable points.
- Buses and other public transport are available up to Govindghat, while Pulna is accessible via local taxi from Govindghat.
- Buses depart from the Dehradun bus stand between 5 am and 7 am, so try to reach the bus stand early.
- Paid parking and accommodation are available at Govindghat.
- Pony and Heli services are available from Govindghat to Ghangaria.
- Helicopter booking must be done prior to avoid unavailability issues at the last moment.
- Heli Services may be delayed due to bad weather conditions, so plan your visit accordingly.
- Ghangaria, the base camp of the route, offers ample accommodation.
- Mobile network connectivity is limited in the region, so carry sufficient cash.
- Trekking shoes, a walking stick, woollen clothes, and a raincoat are essential items for the trek.
- Pulna offers limited lodging options for visitors.
- Carry essential medicines, snacks, an emergency light, a power bank, and cash during the journey.
Nearby Attraction
Lokpal Laxman Temple is situated around some notable attractions, where you can also visit are: -
How to Reach
The Lokpal Laxman Temple is just 100 meters away from Hemkund Sahib Gurudwara and is accessible through the same route. Devotees must travel by road up to Govindghat. From there, you can continue your journey either by trekking or by availing the Heli service from Govindghat to Ghangaria. For this stretch, you can also take pony services. After reaching Ghangaria, visitors must trek a steep trail of 6 km to reach the temple.
By Road: Lokpal Laxman Temple is situated around 322 km from Dehradun ISBT. Govind Ghat and Pulna are the last motorable points. Pulna is around 5.3 km away from Govind Ghat and is connected to the road. Direct buses up to Govindghat are available from Dehradun Hill Bus Stand, Rishikesh Bus Stand, and Haridwar Bus Stand. Visitors need to reach the bus stand before 5 am to board the bus from Dehradun.
By Rail: Yog Nagri Rishikesh Railway Station is the nearest railhead, offering taxi service up to its last motorable point.
By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, around 271 km from Govindghat. Taxis can be hired easily from the airport.
By helicopter: Visitors can book a helicopter ride from Govindghat to Ghangaria (round trip) costs Rs 10,080/-
Best Time to Visit
May to June and September to October are considered the ideal time to visit Lokpal Laxman Temple.
Height from Sea Level
Hemkund Sahib Laxman Temple is situated at an elevation of 4,329 meters (14,202 feet) above sea level.