Visit World's highest gurudwara

Tripoto
26th Oct 2022
Photo of Visit World's highest gurudwara by Suhas Paranjpe
Day 1

Trek level – Moderate
Trek duration – 7 days
Closest Airport – Dehradun
Closest station – Haridwar
Altitude – 4329 Mtr

Sri Hemkunt Sahib truly sounds like a spiritually significant and visually stunning pilgrimage site nestled in the majestic Himalayan ranges. The journey to such a sacred place must be both physically challenging and spiritually rewarding. The breath taking views and serene surroundings further enhance the spiritual experience for pilgrims who undertake the journey to this sacred site.
Situated at a height of over 15,000 feet above the sea level in the Himalayan ranges of northern India, Sri Hemkunt Sahib has emerged as a popular centre of Sikh Pilgrimage which is visited by thousands of devotees from all over the world. It’s one of the most revered Sikh shrines. It can be approached from Govindghat on the Rishikesh-Badrinath Highway. The main town near Govindghat is Joshimath. 
The gurudwara remains enveloped by snow during winter and every year, in summer, it re-opens for the annual pilgrimage, Hemkunt Sahib Yatra.

How to reach –

"To reach Sri Hemkunt Sahib, it's advisable to arrive in Rishikesh by noon after departing from your hometown. This allows ample time for rest before continuing your journey. The following day, travel approximately 245 kilometres to reach Joshimath, where you can stay at your preferred hotel or homestay.
On the day of the trek, make your way to Govindghat, which is about 22 kilometres away, to begin your journey to Sri Hemkunt Sahib."
Then comes the day of anticipation and excitement – the day you lace up your boots and set out for Govindghat, the starting point of your trek. The air is filled with a sense of adventure and reverence, setting the stage for an unforgettable journey of faith and discovery."

About the Trek -
Despite the long journey, Sri Hemkunt Sahib offers countless reasons to keep your spirit energized and your soul enriched. The serene mountains and the ever-flowing Pushpawati River transport you to a world of solace and tranquillity. This exceptionally rich destination also provides the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the lap of nature, surrounded by a diverse array of flora.

The trekking route to Hemkunt Sahib is both challenging and captivating. It begins from Haridwar and winds its way through picturesque landscapes to Joshimath. Along the way, every step offers something new to discover. From Joshimath, the journey continues with a trek to Ghangaria, the base camp for reaching both Hemkunt Sahib and the Valley of Flowers.
As you trek from Govind Ghat to Ghangaria, the river accompanies you, its soothing presence a constant source of comfort. Spending the night in Ghangaria allows you to fully immerse yourself in the tranquillity of the surroundings, listening to the gentle rhythm of your own breath and preparing for the next day's adventure towards the mesmerizing Valley of Flowers. The nightlife of Ghangaria is a unique experience, offering moments of profound introspection and connection with nature."
The journey from Ghangaria to the Valley of Flowers is nothing short of mesmerizing, leaving a lasting imprint on your memory that you'll cherish forever."
The three thousands meters high road offers the picturesque view of mountains and greeneries.
Best Season to visit -
Best time to go for Hemkund Sahib Trek is in summers (May – June) and Post Monsoon (September – mid October).
If you’re planning to visit valley of flowers then you can do Gurudwara in monsoon also. From Ghangaria you can go to valley of flowers.

Brief itinerary –
01 Day – Rishikesh – Karnprayag- Joshimath. Approx. 245 Km
02 Day – Joshimath – Govindghat – (18 KM by road) – Ghangria trek 13 KM. This destination is going to be the base camp for that, head towards for visiting Hemkund Sahib and Valley of Flowers.
03 Day - Ghangaria - Hemkund - Ghangaria Trek 6 KM
04 Day - Ghangria - Govindghat (Trek 14 Km).

Note – If trekking becomes too difficult for you, then consider hiring a doli or khacchar en route or booking one before the trek starts for added convenience and assistance along the journey.
Carry dry snacks, Protein bars, dry fruits & 2 litre water bottle with you.

Photo of Gurudwara Sri Hemkunt Sahib Joshimath by Suhas Paranjpe
Photo of Gurudwara Sri Hemkunt Sahib Joshimath by Suhas Paranjpe