Introduction:
Nestled at a breathtaking altitude of 15,200 feet, Hemkund Sahib stands as the highest Gurudwara in India, a sacred haven where the revered 10th Guru, Sree Guru Govind Singh Ji, once meditated, holds immense spiritual significance. Legends intertwine as it is believed that even Laxman, the divine companion of Lord Rama, spent years in devotion at this powerful place. Join me on this divine trek to experience the spiritual energy that emanates from the very heart of the Himalayas and the divine aura that surrounds Hemkund Sahib.
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How to Reach Hemkund Sahib Trek :
Situated in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, Hemkund Sahib can be reached via Govindghat, a mere hour before Badrinath, which is approximately a 12-hour drive from Delhi. For air travelers, the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is the nearest, or opt for the train journey to Dehradun, Rishikesh, or Haridwar. Buses from Rishikesh will lead you to Govindghat, a 12-hour expedition with fares ranging from 900 to 1200 INR. The 14-hour journey from Delhi to Govindghat offers spectacular views and varied travel options.
Planning Your Journey for Hemkund Sahib Trek:
Registration and Accommodation for Hemkund Sahib Trek:
Hemkund Sahib and the Valley of Flowers are open from mid-May (starting on the 20th) until October, both part of the Nanda Devi Bio Reserve. To read more about Valley of Flower Trek, click here.
Just like the Char Dham Yatra, it’s a must to register for the Hemkund Yatra. Go to the Uttarakhand Char Dham website to register online. The journey involves around a 14-hour drive to Govindghat. For a place to stay, you can choose between the Gurudwara’s common hall or 2–3-star hotels. These hotels offer double-sharing rooms at a cost between Rs. 3,000 and 5,000. While there are ATMs, it’s smart to carry enough cash since there are limited withdrawal options during the trek.
Website to register online for Hemkund Sahib Trek: https://registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in/signin.php
Day 1 of your Trek:
Embarking on your journey from Govindghat, consider taking a shared cab or local taxi for a reasonable charge of Rs. 50, transporting you 4 kilometers ahead to Pulna village. The subsequent 8-kilometer trek leads to Govind Dham(Ghangaria), your designated base camp, offering a picturesque experience.
For those with personal vehicles, Govindghat provides parking facilities for cars, with charges ranging from Rs. 300 to 600. Two-wheeler enthusiasts can conveniently park at Pulna village.
Opting for a more expedited journey, Hemkund Sahib Trek helicopter bookings for 2024 are available from Govindghat. The fare starts from Rs. 2957 per person, with an additional charge of Rs. 75 for extra luggage up to 80 kgs. Visit https://www.bookhelicopter.com/hemkund-sahib-yatra/ or contact them at +91-9412051036/9412051037, available from 6 am to 1 pm. Evening services are subject to weather conditions.
Ensure you catch the last departure to Ghangaria at 2 pm. If delayed, consider a night stay at the Gurudwara or other accommodations in Govindghat.
Ghangaria, also known as Govind Dham, serves as the pivotal point for both the Valley of Flowers and Hemkund Sahib treks. For those who find walking strenuous, horses and mule rides are available at a cost ranging from Rs. 1900 to 2100 per person. After covering a rewarding 4-kilometer stretch, you’ll arrive at Bhyundar Valley, marked by a change in scenery with open, breathtaking views of majestic mountains and a flowing river. The landscapes transform, creating a captivating backdrop for the next phase of your remarkable trek.
In contrast to the challenging Kedarnath Yatra, the trail is relatively easy and moderate. Frequent food stalls and resting places every 1 km ensure your comfort during the trek to Hemkund Sahib.
To read more about Kedarnath Yatra, click here.
Day 2 of the Trek:
Your first day’s stop is Ghangaria, so take your time and enjoy the amazing views on the trek. The next day, get ready to go to Hemkund Sahib. To make your trek easier, leave extra stuff in lockers and only carry what you need. Remember, the weather can change a lot, and it might rain, so bring a raincoat or poncho – but not an umbrella, it can get windy.
After about 500 meters from Ghangaria market, you’ll see a point where the path splits – one way goes to the Valley of Flowers, and the other to Hemkund Sahib. The trek to Hemkund Sahib from Ghangaria is 8 kilometers and is pretty steep. Upon reaching Hemkund Sahib, enjoy the sight of a beautiful lake and a backdrop of high mountain ranges and Laxman Temple. On the way to Hemkund Sahib, about 1.5 kilometers before you get there, you’ll find a beautiful glacier. The trek isn’t just walking – it’s an adventure with nature’s wonders.
Important tips related to your Hemkund Sahib Trek:
1. Trekking from Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib is not allowed after 2 pm.
2. Food stalls and drink stations are available, but prices might be higher due to the altitude and remote location.
3. Mobile networks like Jio, Airtel, sometimes Vodafone, and BSNL are available in the area.
4. To book accommodation with GMVN, visit https://gmvnonline.com/.
5. Consider renting a bike from Haridwar or Rishikesh for a scenic ride before reaching Govindghat.
6. Be prepared for changing weather and frequent rain; carry a raincoat or poncho instead of an umbrella, as it might get windy.
7. If unable to register online, you can do so offline at the Gauchar police station before Rudraprayag, but be prepared for some waiting. Patience is crucial due to long lines for offline registration.
8. Start your Hemkund Sahib Trek early to return to Ghangaria (GovindDham) before 5 pm, as the weather changes drastically after 2 pm.
9. No horse and mule services are available after 3 pm due to the steep trek route.
10. Helicopter services are near Ghangaria market, not to Hemkund Sahib. You’ll need to complete the remaining 8-kilometer trek on foot, by mule, or on horseback from there.
11. Begin your exploration of Hemkund Sahib Trek early, as there is no accommodation available. Explore the Gurudwara and return to Ghangaria before noon, as the weather can change significantly in the afternoon.
