Hemkund Sahib

  • Sikh shrine
  • Chamoli district
  • 4,329 m altitude

The Hemkund Sahib is one of the most famous Pilgrimage towns which attract a significant number of visitors. The town of Hemkund Sahib is located at an elevation of 4,329 mts above the sea level within the district of Chamoli. The term Hemkund literally means a ‘Lake of snow’ and the pristine waters of this lake are as cold as snow. The holy site is also referred by the name Gurudwara Shri Hemkund Sahib. The trekking route to this destination takes you to some of the most scenic parts of Chamoli where you can literally feel a connection with nature. Various waterfalls, thick dense forests, huge clear water lake and the enticing view of the Himalayas are the key highlights of the entire trekking trip.

Visitors are generally astonished by the sudden changes in weather in this small pilgrimage destination. Being situated at an incredible height of 4,329 mts above the sea level, the site of Hemkund Sahib is known to be the highest Gurudwara of the Sikh community. The holy site of Hemkund Sahib is located at around 6 kms away from the site of Ghangharia. The Gurudwara which is star shaped is entirely built through concrete and marbles and is situated at the shores of the pristine site of Hemkund. The small lake of hemkund Sahib covers an area of around 2 kms. The town of Ghangharia (3,046 mts) is also one of the most scenic sites, which is located 13 kms away from the town of Govindghat and is the last human occupancy place at the trek route.

How To Reach

By Air: The closest airport to the town of Govindghat is the Jolly Grant Airport at Dehradun which is around 286 kms away from the town. From the airport itself travellers can hire private taxis.

By Rail: The nearest rail head from the town of Govindghat is the Rishikesh railway station which is at a distance of around 271 kms away from the town. Major rail routes connect to various Indian cities from the Rishikesh railway station.

By Road: Motorable roads are only accessible till the town of Govindghat, from here onwards the total trek distance to Hem kund Sahib is 16 kms where a traveller can rest in Ghanghria camp sites or the tourist rest house.