Hemkund Sahib is not just a destination — it’s a divine experience. Tucked away in the lap of the Garhwal Himalayas in Uttarakhand at an altitude of 4,329 meters (14,200 ft), Hemkund Sahib is one of the highest Sikh Gurudwaras in the world and a sacred place that touches hearts across religions.
🌸 What Makes Hemkund Sahib So Special?
Surrounded by seven majestic snow-covered peaks, Hemkund Sahib sits beside a crystal-clear glacial lake, known as Hemkund, which means Lake of Snow. The view is breathtaking. Imagine a serene Gurudwara reflecting in the calm waters of the lake, where the only sound is of prayer, wind, and nature — pure peace.
It is believed that Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth Sikh Guru, meditated here in a previous life. Pilgrims come here with deep devotion, and despite the tough trek, you’ll see people chanting “Waheguru” with smiling faces and strong spirits.
Hemkund Sahib is located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, at a height of 14,200 feet (4,329 m). Since it’s situated in a remote Himalayan region, you can reach it using a mix of road travel and trekking.
✅ Step 1: Reach Rishikesh / Haridwar / Dehradun (Base Cities)
These are your entry points to the mountains.
By Train:
Nearest major railway stations: Haridwar & Rishikesh
By Air:
Nearest airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (DED)
By Road:
Connected to Delhi, Haridwar, Rishikesh, and other cities by buses and taxis
🕐 Best to start your journey early in the morning from Haridwar/Rishikesh.
✅ Step 2: Travel to Govindghat (Base for the Trek)
From Rishikesh or Haridwar, drive or take a shared taxi/bus to Govindghat (distance: approx. 275 km, 10–12 hrs).
Route:
Rishikesh → Devprayag → Srinagar → Rudraprayag → Karnaprayag → Joshimath → Govindghat
🚖 Private taxis and buses are easily available.
✅ Step 3: Trek or Ride to Ghangaria (13 km)
From Govindghat, begin the 13 km trek to Ghangaria, the last village before Hemkund Sahib.
Options:
Trek on foot (5–7 hours)
Hire a pony/mule
Use helicopter service (from Govindghat to Ghangaria – subject to weather)
🚶 Ghangaria has hotels, lodges, and langar facilities for night stay.
✅ Step 4: Trek from Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib (6 km)
Next morning, begin a steep 6 km uphill trek from Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib
Route is paved but challenging due to high altitude
Takes around 3–5 hours depending on pace
Ponies are also available
📿 Gurudwara Langar is served daily to all visitors. There is also a small Lakshman Temple nearby.
📌 Summary at a Glance
| Leg of Journey | Mode of Transport | Distance |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi to Rishikesh | Train / Bus / Flight | ~230 km |
| Rishikesh to Govindghat | Taxi / Bus | ~275 km |
| Govindghat to Ghangaria | Trek / Pony / Helicopter | 13 km |
| Ghangaria to Hemkund | Trek / Pony | 6 km |
Start early morning from Rishikesh or Haridwar
Drive through scenic spots like Devprayag, Rudraprayag, Karnaprayag, and Joshimath
Reach Govindghat by evening (10–12 hrs drive, approx. 275 km)
Night Stay: Govindghat
🛏 Tip: Rest well and prepare for the next day’s trek.
After breakfast, begin the 13 km trek to Ghangaria
You can trek, hire a pony, or take a helicopter (subject to weather)
Enjoy the beautiful landscapes, rivers, and forest trails along the way
Reach Ghangaria by afternoon or evening
Night Stay: Ghangaria (lodges, hotels, or gurudwara accommodation)
🥾 Tip: Carry energy bars, water, and light rainwear.
Start early (around 5–6 AM) for the steep 6 km trek to Hemkund Sahib
Reach the Gurudwara by mid-morning
Take a dip in the Hemkund lake, attend prayers, and enjoy langar
Spend peaceful moments at Lakshman Temple nearby
Return to Ghangaria by late afternoon
Night Stay: Ghangaria
🌸 Optional: Visit Valley of Flowers instead if planning for 5+ days.
Trek down 13 km to Govindghat (or take a pony/helicopter)
Drive back to Rishikesh or Haridwar (10–12 hours)
Reach by late evening or stay overnight as per your plan
Trip ends with blessings & memories!
Warm clothes, waterproof jacket
Comfortable trekking shoes
ID proof
Personal medicines
Power bank & torch
Energy snacks & water bottle