India /Uttaranchal /Chamoli /Hemkund Sahib

Hemkund Sahib is an important pilgrimage destination for Hindus and Sikhs. Hemkund is the breathtaking Lokpal lake located at an altitude of 4329 m from the sea level. The picturesque natural settings make this hill region an amazing place for rejuvenating vacations. One can reach this majestic lake through a challenging but interesting and enjoyable trek from Ghangharia. Sikhs consider this as a scared region with one of the famous Sikh Gurudwara placed in the heart of the region. A Hindu shrine dedicated to mythological hero Lakshmana is attractive for Hindu Pilgrims. This temple is built on the banks of Hemkund. Hemkund Sahib is nestled amidst seven snow capped peaks and marvelous snowy glaciers. The nature is reflected here with all its mighty appearance in the crystal clear alluring water. Hemkund lake is fed by the glaciers from majestic peaks known as Hathi Parvat and Saptrishi peaks. A small stream known as Himganga originates from this imposing lake. It is recorded in the holy Granth Sahib that the tenth Guru of Sikhs, Guru Govind Singh mediated on the serene banks of Hemkund in one of his earlier births. Guru Govind Singh is believed to be the Guru who founded all present characteristics of present Sikhism. The Gurudwara of the Sikhs on the banks of Hemkund is located at the place where Guru had meditated. Huge flocks of Sikh pilgrims pay their visit to this Gurudwara every year. Hemkund has got mentions in the Ramayana.

Quick Facts-Edit

Category : Pilgrim

Time Zone: UTC + 5:30 Hours

Pincode: 249401

STD Code: 1372

Info Website: N.A

Best Time to Visit:  Jun – Oct

HistoryEdit

Hemkund Sahib, a popular religious and pilgrimage center for both Hindus and Sikhs, is situated in the Garhwal region of Uttaranchal. The name `Hemkund’ refers to a lake in the Himalayas. It is located at an altitude of about 4329 meters. And owing to temperatures below zero degrees, it is nearly impossible to reach it between the months November and May i.e. seven months. Hemkund Sahib is also known as Lokpal by many Hindus across the cities in the nation. Hemkund Sahib in Garhwal is surrounded by snow-capped mountains on all its sides. There is a lake of pristine blue water beside this pilgrimage site. The Sikh shrine of Hemkund Sahib is, indeed, a place of ultimate peace and beauty. There are seven peaks encapsulating the Hemkund Sahib in Uttaranchal, which is known as the Sapt Sring. It is believed that the penultimate guru of the Sikhs i.e. the Tenth guru called Guru Gobind Singhji, meditated in these mountains for years before getting united with the Almighty. Hence, this star-shaped Gurudwara is a memorial of this guru. Moreover, according to the Hindu mythology, several other hermits like Rishi Medhasa of the Markandeya Purana and Lord Lakshman, the brother of Lord Ram performed penance at this place. There is even a temple here, which is dedicated to Lord Lakshman.

Places to VisitAdd

How to ReachEdit

By Air : The nearest airport is Jolly Grant, around 300 km from Hemkund Sahib. Jolly Grant airport is connected to Delhi and a few other cities in the country. The nearest international airport is at Delhi (around 600 km).

By Train : The nearest rail head is at Rishikesh, around 300 km from Hemkund Sahib and is well connected to other parts of the country.

By Bus : Buses are commonly available from Delhi and parts of Himachal Pradesh but the roads are connected only up to Govindghat, which is around 19 km from Hemkund. From here tourists have to undertake strenuous trek on steel slopes to reach the place.

By Taxi : N.A

By Other : Tongas are available in some places and they are useful for short distance transport. They can be used to visit sites in and around the place. They charge between Rs 50 to 100. However these are not allowed beyond a certain point and walking is the only option.

Top HotelsAdd

Top RestaurantsAdd

Must Eat FoodAdd

Must Do ActivitiesAdd

Must ShopAdd

Nightlife (Pub / Disc / BAR)Add

SpaAdd

FestivalAdd

Safety / WarningEdit

N.A

HelplineEdit

• Police : 100
• fair : 101
• Ambulance : 102

ItineraryEdit

N.A

Gallery