Hemkund Sahib is a sacred Sikh pilgrimage surrounded by Himalayan peaks and a glacial lake. Best visited between June and October, it combines spiritual devotion with a rewarding trekking adventure.

Hemkund Sahib - Uttarkhand, 


At an altitude of 4,329 meters (14,200 ft) in the Garhwal Himalayas, Hemkund Sahib is one of the highest and most revered Sikh pilgrimage sites in the world. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and alpine meadows, the gurudwara sits on the banks of a crystal-clear glacial lake, creating a serene and powerful atmosphere that leaves visitors awestruck.

The gurudwara is dedicated to Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth Sikh Guru, who is believed to have meditated at this very spot in a previous life. The place is not only sacred for Sikhs but also revered by Hindus, as it is mentioned in the Ramayana - believed to be the meditation place of Lakshman, the younger brother of Lord Rama.

Reaching Hemkund Sahib is itself a spiritual journey. The trek begins at Govindghat, continues to Ghangaria (base camp), and then stretches another 6 km steep uphill trek to the gurudwara. Despite the tough climb, every step feels meaningful, with pilgrims chanting hymns and breathtaking landscapes unfolding around them.

The gurudwara opens from June to October, when the snow melts and the trails become accessible. During these months, visitors can also see the rare Brahma Kamal flower blooming in the region, adding to the mystical charm of the place.

Hemkund Sahib is more than a religious destination - it’s an experience that combines faith, resilience, and natural beauty. For many, reaching the gurudwara after a challenging trek is a moment of immense spiritual fulfillment.

Best Time to Visit Hemkund Sahib:

  • Peak Season (July -August): Pleasant weather, blooming flowers, and best trekking conditions (Avg Temp: 10°C - 18°C),
  • Moderate Season (June - September): Fewer crowds, cooler weather, clear skies (Avg Temp: 5°C -15°C),
  • Low Season (October - May): Closed due to heavy snowfall,

Location from City Center :

  • From Joshimath: 20 km drive to Govindghat + 13 km trek to Ghangaria + 6 km trek to Hemkund Sahib
  • From Rishikesh: ~280 km (drive + trek)

🎟️ Ticket / Entry Information:

  • Entry Fee: No entry fee; it’s a place of worship.
  • Trek Cost: Porters, ponies, and palki services available from Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib at extra charges.

Things to Do at Hemkund Sahib:

  • Pay respects at the Hemkund Sahib Gurudwara and experience its peaceful aura,
  • Take a dip in the sacred glacial lake believed to cleanse the soul,
  • Spot the rare Brahma Kamal flower, Uttarakhand’s state flower,
  • Trek through alpine landscapes filled with waterfalls and meadows,
  • Visit Lokpal Temple (Lakshman Mandir), located near the gurudwara,

Top 10 Places to Visit Near Hemkund Sahib (within 50 km) :

1- Valley of Flowers National Park - UNESCO World Heritage site with rare Himalayan flora

2- Ghangaria Village - Trekking base camp with simple stays

3- Badrinath Temple - Famous Char Dham pilgrimage site

4- Mana Village - Last village of India near Tibet border

5- Joshimath - Gateway to Auli and the Garhwal Himalayas

6- Auli Ski Resort - Popular for skiing and ropeway rides

7- Tapovan - Hot springs and spiritual retreat

8- Vasudhara Falls - 400 ft high majestic waterfall

9- Gurso Bugyal - Alpine meadow with panoramic Himalayan views

10-Nanda Devi National Park - A biodiversity hotspot adjoining Valley of Flowers