The ideal time to embark on a pilgrimage to Hemkunt Sahib, a revered Sikh Gurudwara nestled in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, India, is between June to September. During these months, the weather is relatively pleasant with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C, making the challenging trek to this sacred site more manageable for devotees and tourists alike. It is crucial to plan your visit within this window as the Gurudwara is situated at an altitude of approximately 4632 meters above sea level, which results in it being covered by snow for the majority of the year. The Gurudwara and the trekking route are officially opened to the public after the ceremonial opening in late May or early June, depending on the snow conditions.
The monsoon season, from late July to August, can bring heavy rains which make the trek slippery and risky. Therefore, it is preferable to plan your visit either in early June when the ice has just begun to melt, revealing the lush green landscape and vibrant flowers, or in September just before the onset of winter when the weather is dry and the crowd is thinner. However, it is important to consider that Hemkunt Sahib is a high-altitude destination; hence, acclimatization is essential. Also, irrespective of the season, temperatures can plummet drastically, so carrying adequate woollen clothing is highly advised for a comfortable journey. Please note that the Gurudwara remains inaccessible from October to April due to heavy snowfall.
Month | Min Temp | Max Temp |
---|---|---|
January | -18 °c | -8 °c |
February | -15 °c | -5 °c |
March | -10 °c | NA |
April | -5 °c | 5 °c |
May | NA | 10 °c |
June | 3 °c | 15 °c |
July | 5 °c | 18 °c |
August | 5 °c | 18 °c |
September | 4 °c | 15 °c |
October | -2 °c | 8 °c |
November | -8 °c | 3 °c |
December | -15 °c | -5 °c |