Hemkund Sahib
Gurudwara Sri Hemkund Sahib, also known as Hemkund Sahib, is a famous holy place for both Sikhs and Hindus due to its geographical location in between the high peaks of the Himalayas. This site is located at a height of 4,633 meters (15,200 feet) in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand state.
Historical and spiritual significance
Gurudwara Sri Hemkund Sahib is attributed to Guru Gobind Singh Ji who was the 10th Sikh Guru and the revered Guru for Sikhs. As per the Sikh holy texts, the Guru is said to have once meditated at this quiet place during his past life. The literal meaning of Hemkund means lake of ice, which is archaeologically close to the Gurudwara and remains frozen during the winter season.
The location also holds importance in Hindu mythology, as according to this scripture, it is believed that Lord Rama’s younger brother, Lakshmana, came here to do meditation.
Architecture Of Hemkund Sahib
The Gurudwara has a very contemporary design of architecture in a star shape, which looks attractive and is in harmony with all the natural factors of the surrounding environment.
The stone structure is built in concrete mashed with temples, which is representative of the rugged beauty and picturesqueness of the landscape.
Visiting Hemkund Sahib
The geographical location of Hemkund Sahib makes it the heaviest to visit due to it being isolated within snowy mountains, but the destination is worthwhile, and the difficulty of the trek makes the reward even greater.
Point of Base: The trek begins from a small village called Vegetation Site, which is extremely remote and only accessible by foot. Loansome is close to Joshimath.
Anson Amaranath plans to start out on a trek starting from Govindghat, which goes over rough terrain and beautiful scenery to arrive at a breathtaking temple in the Himalayas called Hemkund Sahib, which is strategic in the Sikh religion.
Trek to Hemkund Sahib: The steep gradient of 60 degrees that needs to be tackled during the last 6 km from Ghangharia might seem quite demanding; however, it provides picturesque views of seas and awe-inspiring snow-capped mountains that I would vouch are worth every bit of sweat.
The Valley of Flowers relationship
The Valley of Flowers is close to where the Hemkund Sahib Temple is located and serves as the only alpine meadow in the world where saffron, cucumber, and cornflowers grow in abundance. As a matter of fact, a number of pilgrims visit both the shrine and this meadow.
Trekking towards Hemkund Sahib
The trek towards the Hemkund Sahib shrine is as crazy as it is beautiful. For someone who is a sucker for beauty amidst a religious setting, this one is for you. It has a perfect mix of lovely scenic views and adventure where one has to walk through sparkling clean rivers, greenery littered all over,, and breathtaking sights of the Himalayas.
But seriously, considering my current location, for a second, imagining gorgeous views while stitching temples in the Indian mountains seems like a fanciful idea.
Base location for Hemkund Sahib: Govindghat
Govindghat is the base location for the Hemkunt Sahib Trek, located about 275 km from Rishikesh, allowing one to hike to Hem Kofs and its epic views.
Accessibility: Can be reached without any difficulties from cities like Haridwar, Rishikesh Joshimath, and other major cities.
An overview of the route.
From Govindghat to Ghangaria (total of 13 km)
Distance: around 13 km, needs to hike or use ponies for rent.
Trail’s description: This hiking trail is a combination of flat and steep climbs alongside the Alaknanda and Lakshman Ganga rivers.
Local Eats: Lush green forests, small dhabas (shacks by the roadside), and gorgeous waterfalls provide a wonderful blend of nature and man-made refreshments.
Time Taken: 6 to 7 hours.
Ghangaria, Hemkund Sahib Distance: 6 km Trek Difficulty: Upwards on a steep slope.
Trail’s description: The last leg gets tougher because of the height and slope. The path is concreted and well-built but calls for patience.
Duration: 4 to 6 hours, based on fitness level.
The Major Attractions during the Trek
Natural beauty: The hike provides stunning views of the Himalayas and rich forests of deodar and wildflowers.
Lakshman Ganga River: This water body meanders beside the hiking trail, and its rushing waters make the trip pleasurable.
Valley of Flowers: This UNESCO World Heritage site is located close to the Hemkund Sahib Trail, making it a perfect location for trekkers.
Brahma Kamal: A beautiful and holy flower only available near the ending point of the trek.
The Hemkund Sahib Trek Challenges
Attitude: The trek’s high altitude means you could suffer from altitude sickness, which requires appropriate adaptation to be ready for this hike.
Weather: The weather is far from stable, as one has to anticipate rain and chilly temperatures even during the hot summer months.
Fitness: Requires moderate to high levels of fitness due to the steep hill climbs.
Weather Conditions:
June to August: The scenery is vivid and flowers are blossoming.
September to October: The skies are clear with a clear view of the mountains.
Planning Tips
Physical fitness: Begin physical conditioning, including endurance and strength training, one month in advance of the hiking event.
What you should pack:
Have warm clothes (layered) to shield against rain, gloves, and woolen socks.
Purchase trekking shoes with a firm grip.
Carry energy bars, water bottles, and a first aid kit.
Permit: Apply for permits if going to the Valley of Flowers together with Hemkund Sahib.
The best time to tour
Months: June to October. The Gurudwara opens for its adherents during this time as the area remains under snow for the rest of the year.
Weather: The temperature is low, so even in summer it is advisable to wear warm clothes.
Things to do
Spiritual Fulfillment: Engage in prayers and take a bath in the holy glacial water lake.
Trekking: Get the fun of trekking through rough terrains and beautiful landscapes.
Photography: Focus on stunning sights of the peaks and landscapes.
Guides for tourists
Adapt to the high altitude in order not to suffer from altitude sickness.
Walk with the necessary items, such as warm clothes, good trekking shoes, and raincoats.
Preserve the Purity of the Place and Follow the Etiquette of a Gurudwara.
The journey towards Hemkund Sahib can be described as an amalgamation of the self and the cosmic, as it helps people attain that kind of peace that is otherwise not possible to find. Hence, it can be said that it is an experience that lasts far beyond the journey for the trekkers.
With its magical serenity and divine beauty, Hemkund Sahib becomes an essential destination for all those thirsting for adventure in-between nature. Apart from its natural beauty, Hemkund Sahib is also a holy place for rendering worship.
How to Reach
To visit Hemkund Sahib, one has to travel first and then walk towards the location. Here’s a comprehensive guide to how to get there:
Air Transport
The Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is the nearest airport. Which is 292 km away from Govindghat.
Travel Options:
Traveling time by bus and taxi: 10-12 hours. Taxis and buses at the airport are the modes of transport to Govindghat.
Train Transport
The nearest railway station to Govindghat is Rishikesh, which is located around 273 km away.
Travel Options:
Traveling time by bus: 9-10 hours.
Buses and taxis from Rishikesh can be utilized to go to Govindghat.
Road Transport
Taxis can be used from towns like Haridwar (294 km away) and Joshimath (20 km from Govindghat).
The following are modes of transport:
Shared taxis and regular buses are available from Dehradun, Rishikesh, and Haridwar to Govindghat.
If one requires to, they can also hire private taxis.
Road Quality: The roads are incredible, but they are also very hilly, so it’s better to be cautious while driving.