Gurudwara Shri Hemkund Sahib, Uttarakhand

Hemkund Sahib is a sacred Sikh shrine located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, India. It is situated at an altitude of 4,329 meters above sea level and is surrounded by seven snow-clad mountains, collectively called the Hemkund Parvat. The shrine is dedicated to Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh guru, and is visited by thousands of pilgrims every year. The main attraction of Hemkund Sahib is the picturesque Hemkund Lake, which is believed to have healing properties. The trek to Hemkund Sahib is a challenging but rewarding experience, as visitors get to witness the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayan mountains and immerse themselves in the peaceful ambiance of the shrine.

Significance of Hemkund Sahib

Hemkund Sahib is significant for Sikhs as it is believed to be the place where Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh Guru, meditated in his previous life. The shrine is also dedicated to the tenth Sikh Guru and is one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Sikhs. The glacial lake near the shrine is believed to have medicinal properties and is said to cure many ailments.

• Suggested Tour: Hemkund Sahib Tour Packages

Hemkund Sahib Opening Closing Dates

Hemkund Sahib Opening Dates

Hemkund Sahib opens for visitors every year in the month of May. The exact opening date of the shrine varies every year as it is dependent on the weather conditions. The opening date is decided by the Hemkund Sahib Management Trust and is announced a few weeks before the actual opening date. In 2023, the shrine opened on May 20th.

Hemkund Sahib Closing Dates

Hemkund Sahib closes for visitors in the month of October. The exact closing date of the shrine also varies every year and is dependent on the weather conditions. The closing date is announced by the Hemkund Sahib Management Trust a few weeks before the actual closing date. In 2023, the shrine closed on October 10th.

Best Time to Visit Hemkund Sahib

The best time to visit Hemkund Sahib is from June to September. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the trekking conditions are favorable. The temperature during the day ranges from 10°C to 20°C, and the nights are chilly, with the temperature dropping to 0°C or below.

• Suggested Tour: Mountaineering Expeditions In The Indian Himalayas

How to Reach Hemkund Sahib

The nearest airport to Hemkund Sahib is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is about 295 km away. The nearest railway station to Hemkund Sahib is Rishikesh, which is about 276 km away. From Rishikesh, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the base camp at Govindghat. From Govindghat, the trek to Hemkund Sahib begins.

Accommodation at Hemkund Sahib

There are no hotels or guesthouses at Hemkund Sahib, and the only option for accommodation is the Gurudwara, which provides free accommodation and food for pilgrims. However, during peak season, the accommodation gets full quickly, and you might have to sleep in a dormitory with other travelers.

Things to Carry on Hemkund Sahib Trek

The trek to Hemkund Sahib is a challenging one, and you should be well-prepared for the journey. Here are some essential things that you should carry on the trek:

• Warm clothes
• Trekking shoes
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• First aid kit
• Water bottle
• Snacks and energy bars

Hemkund Sahib Trek Difficulty Level

The trek to Hemkund Sahib is considered a moderate to difficult trek. The trek is about 19 km long and involves a steep climb of about 6 km. The altitude gain is significant, and the air gets thinner as you climb higher, making it difficult to breathe.

Safety Measures on Hemkund Sahib Trek

The trek to Hemkund Sahib is a challenging one, and you should take some safety measures to ensure your safety on the trek. Here are some safety tips that you should keep in mind:

• Acclimatize yourself before starting the trek
• Carry enough warm clothes to keep yourself warm
• Drink enough water to keep yourself hydrated
• Take breaks at regular intervals to rest and catch your breath
• Follow the instructions of your trek leader

Hemkund Sahib Trek Cost

The cost of the Hemkund Sahib trek depends on various factors, such as the mode of transportation, accommodation, food, and guide charges. On average, the cost of the trek can range from INR 8000 to INR 12000 per person.

Hemkund Sahib Trek Itinerary

Here is a typical itinerary for the Hemkund Sahib trek:

Day 1: Drive from Rishikesh to Govindghat (276 km, 9-10 hours)
Day 2: Trek from Govindghat to Ghangaria (14 km, 6-7 hours)
Day 3: Trek from Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib (6 km, 4-5 hours)
Day 4: Trek from Hemkund Sahib to Ghangaria (6 km, 3-4 hours)
Day 5: Trek from Ghangaria to Govindghat (14 km, 4-5 hours)
Day 6: Drive from Govindghat to Rishikesh (276 km, 9-10 hours)

Hemkund Sahib Trek Distance

The trek to Hemkund Sahib is a challenging one, and it is important to be physically fit and well-prepared for the journey. The trek covers a distance of around 19 kilometers, and it takes about 6-7 hours to reach the shrine from Govindghat, which is the starting point of the trek. The route is a steep climb, and it is advisable to take breaks at regular intervals to avoid exhaustion.

Conclusion

Hemkund Sahib is a place of spiritual significance and natural beauty, and the trek to this holy shrine is an experience of a lifetime. Before planning your trip, make sure you are well-prepared for the journey and follow all the necessary safety measures. The opening and closing dates of Hemkund Sahib are important factors to consider before planning your trip, as the shrine is only open for a limited time during the year. The trek to Hemkund Sahib is a challenging one, but the breathtaking views and the spiritual experience make it all worth it.

FAQs

Q-1 What is the best time to visit Hemkund Sahib?
Ans: The best time to visit Hemkund Sahib is from May to October, when the weather is pleasant, and the shrine is open for visitors.

Q-2 Is there any age limit for the Hemkund Sahib trek?
Ans: There is no age limit for the Hemkund Sahib trek, but it is recommended that you are physically fit and well-prepared for the journey.

Q-3 Can I carry my own food on the Hemkund Sahib trek?
Ans: Yes, you can carry your own food on the Hemkund Sahib trek, but make sure you carry enough snacks and energy bars to keep yourself energized.

Q-4 Are there any medical facilities available on the Hemkund Sahib trek?
Ans: There are no medical facilities available on the trek, so make sure you carry a first aid kit and any necessary medications.

Q-5- Is it safe to trek to Hemkund Sahib?
Ans: Trekking to Hemkund Sahib is generally safe, but it is important to follow all the necessary safety measures and precautions to ensure your safety on the journey.