Hemkunt Sahib (Uttarakhand) FAQs In 2024

10 FAQS on Hemkunt Sahib

What is Hemkunt Sahib?

Hemkunt Sahib, also known as Gurudwara Sri Hemkunt Sahib Ji, is a prominent Sikh place of worship located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, India. It is dedicated to the tenth Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh Ji. The gurudwara is situated at an altitude of 4,633 meters (15,200 feet) above sea level and is surrounded by seven mountain peaks and a glacial lake.

Hemkunt Sahib can be reached by a trek from Govindghat, which is connected by road to major towns like Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Dehradun. The trek to Hemkunt Sahib starts from Govindghat, passes through Ghangaria and then culminates at Hemkunt Sahib. Pilgrims can also take a helicopter service from Govindghat to Ghangaria and then trek the remaining distance.

The best time to visit Hemkunt Sahib is during the summer and early autumn months, from June to October. The gurudwara is only open for a few months each year, typically from June 1st to October 4th, before it closes for the winter due to heavy snowfall.

Accommodation facilities are minimal at Hemkunt Sahib due to its high altitude and remote location. Pilgrims usually stay at Ghangaria, which is the base camp for Hemkunt Sahib and Valley of Flowers treks, where several guest houses and gurudwara-run lodgings are available. Facilities are relatively basic due to the challenging environment.

While trekking to Hemkunt Sahib, carry essential items such as warm clothing, waterproof clothing, trekking shoes, first aid kit, water bottles, energy bars, a torch, and a raincoat. Acclimatization to the high altitude before starting the trek is strongly recommended, as is physical preparation.

Medical facilities are limited along the trek to Hemkunt Sahib. Small medical units are available in Ghangaria which can provide basic first aid. It's advised to carry your own first aid kit and any personal medication you might need. Additionally, visitors should ensure they have adequate travel insurance that covers high altitude trekking.

Yes, pilgrims visiting Hemkunt Sahib are required to register before starting the trek. The registration can be done at a designated registration counter in Govindghat. This helps in keeping track of the visitors and ensuring their safety.

Yes, many tourists and pilgrims combine their visit to Hemkunt Sahib with a trek to the Valley of Flowers National Park, as both are accessed from the same base camp at Ghangaria. The Valley of Flowers is renowned for its endemic alpine flowers and diverse wildlife, and it's a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Visitors should dress modestly and cover their head while in the gurudwara. It is important to respect the religious and cultural traditions of the place. Alcohol and non-vegetarian food are strictly prohibited in and around the religious site.

The weather at Hemkunt Sahib can be quite unpredictable and can change rapidly. Temperatures can range from 10Â°C to 20Â°C in the daytime to below freezing at night. It is often foggy and rainy, and snow can be encountered even during the summer months.