About Hemkund Sahib
Gurudwara Sri Hemkund Sahib Ji sits at 4,329m beside a glacial lake surrounded by seven snow-covered Himalayan peaks. It is one of the holiest Sikh shrines — believed to be where Guru Gobind Singh Ji (the 10th Sikh Guru) meditated in his previous life as Pandava warrior Lava (son of Lord Rama).
The gurudwara is open from late May to October and receives over 600,000 pilgrims annually despite its extreme altitude. The langar (community kitchen) at Ghangaria and Hemkund serves free meals 24 hours a day to all pilgrims regardless of faith.
The Trek to Hemkund Sahib
Route: Govindghat → Ghangaria → Hemkund Sahib
| Segment | Distance | Altitude Gain | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Govindghat to Ghangaria | 13 km | 1,000m | 4–6 hours |
| Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib | 6 km | 1,400m | 3–4 hours |
| Total (one way) | 19 km | 2,400m | 7–10 hours |
Govindghat is the road head at 1,828m, accessible from Joshimath (19 km) and Badrinath (24 km). Helicopter services are available from Govindghat to Ghangaria (₹3,000–₹4,500 one way) for elderly and disabled pilgrims.
Hemkund Lake
The Lokpal Lake (Hemkund Lake) surrounding the gurudwara is a sacred glacial lake — pilgrims take a dip in its icy cold waters before entering the gurudwara. Seven peaks surround the lake including Hathi Parvat, Saptrishi Peaks, and Nilgiri Parvat. The reflections of the peaks in the lake on clear mornings are ethereally beautiful.
Valley of Flowers Combo
Ghangaria is also the base for the Valley of Flowers — one of India's most spectacular natural wonders. Pilgrims doing Hemkund Sahib typically combine it with a day visit to the Valley of Flowers (3 km from Ghangaria).
- Day 1: Govindghat to Ghangaria (13 km trek or helicopter)
- Day 2: Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib and back (12 km)
- Day 3: Ghangaria to Valley of Flowers and back (6 km)
- Day 4: Ghangaria to Govindghat (13 km)
Opening Dates 2025
Hemkund Sahib opens annually in late May or early June (weather permitting, after snowmelt) and closes in October before winter snowfall. Check the official SGPC website or contact GMVN for exact opening dates each year.
Accommodation at Ghangaria
- GMVN Guest House, Ghangaria: Limited rooms, book well in advance
- Gurudwara Sarai, Ghangaria: Free accommodation for Sikh pilgrims (very basic)
- Private Camps: Tented accommodation at Ghangaria