How to Reach Hemkund Sahib: Travel Guide from Govindghat to the Gurudwara

If you're looking for how to reach Hemkund Sahib, you're in the right place. This sacred Sikh pilgrimage site, nestled in the Himalayas, draws thousands of devotees each year. Reaching Hemkund Sahib is a spiritual journey that begins at Govindghat, a small town in Uttarakhand. From there, you’ll travel through breathtaking landscapes, serene valleys, and challenging paths.

Let’s break down the route and everything you need to know to make this journey smooth and meaningful.

Getting to Govindghat

You climb to Hemkund Sahib, a sacred lake perched over 14,000 ft above sea-level, through a journey that begins much before the mountain trails. The starting point for most pilgrims is Govindghat, a small town in Uttarakhand where your spiritual trek officially begins. Reaching this base is your first step toward the sacred Gurudwara, and knowing how to get there makes the rest of your trip much easier.

How to reach Govindghat:

• By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun, around 290 km from Govindghat. You can take a taxi or shared cab from the airport.
• By Train: The closest railway station is Rishikesh or Haridwar. From there, buses and cabs are available to reach Govindghat.
• By Road: Govindghat is well connected by road. You can drive or hire a cab from major cities like Dehradun, Haridwar, or Rishikesh.

It usually takes about 10-12 hours from Haridwar to Govindghat by road, depending on weather and traffic.

Starting the Trek: Govindghat to Ghangaria

From Govindghat, your journey to Hemkund Sahib begins with a trek.

Trek Distance:

• Govindghat to Ghangaria – 13 kilometers
• Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib – 6 kilometers

You’ll first need to reach Ghangaria, a small village where pilgrims and trekkers stay overnight.

Options to reach Ghangaria:

• Trekking: Most people walk this stretch. The path is well marked and follows the Pushpawati River.
• Ponies and mules: Available for those who need assistance or want to avoid walking.
• Helicopter service: Available from Govindghat to Ghangaria (subject to weather).

Trekking Tips:

• Start early to avoid rain and crowds.
• Carry rain gear, a walking stick, and water.
• Stay hydrated and take breaks as needed.

Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib: The Final Stretch

Once you’re in Ghangaria, you’ll spend the night there and begin your final climb the next morning. The trek from Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib Gurudwara is short in distance but steep in elevation.

Details:

• Distance: 6 kilometers (one way)
• Time: 4 to 6 hours depending on fitness
• Altitude Gain: Nearly 1,200 meters

This part of the trek is tough but truly rewarding. The path is lined with stunning Himalayan flowers and fresh mountain air. You’ll also find tea stalls and rest points along the way.

The Gurudwara sits beside a glacial lake and offers langar (free meals) and a peaceful atmosphere for prayers and rest. Most pilgrims return to Ghangaria the same day after spending an hour or two at the shrine.

Best Time to Visit

Hemkund Sahib is open only during the summer months.

• Season: Late May or early June to early October
• Best months: June and September for clear weather and manageable crowds

Avoid traveling during the monsoon months of July and August unless necessary, as landslides and heavy rains can disrupt the route.

What to Pack

Make sure to carry the following:

• Warm clothes (temperature can drop quickly)
• Trekking shoes
• Raincoat or poncho
• Torch or headlamp
• Power bank and extra batteries
• ID proof
• Personal medicines
• Energy bars and snacks

Accommodation

• Govindghat: Budget hotels and gurudwara accommodation available
• Ghangaria: Basic lodges, guest houses, and a gurudwara that offers stay for pilgrims

Booking in advance is advised during peak pilgrimage season.

Safety Tips

• Acclimatize properly before the steep trek to Hemkund Sahib
• Carry glucose or ORS to stay hydrated
• If you feel dizzy or weak, return to Ghangaria and rest
• Follow instructions from the authorities and volunteers

FAQs

1. Can I do the Hemkund Sahib trek in one day?

No, it’s not recommended. You need to stay overnight at Ghangaria before attempting the final trek to Hemkund Sahib.

2. Are there food options on the way?

Yes. You’ll find small eateries and stalls on the way to Ghangaria and also on the route from Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib. The Gurudwara also serves free meals.

3. Is the trek suitable for beginners?

Yes, but you should be reasonably fit. The second stretch from Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib is steep and can be physically demanding.

4. Are mules or palkis available for the elderly?

Yes, both are available from Govindghat to Ghangaria and from Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib.

5. Is mobile network available?

Limited mobile coverage in Govindghat and Ghangaria. Connectivity at Hemkund Sahib is very poor.

Final Thoughts

Reaching Hemkund Sahib is more than just a physical journey it’s a spiritual experience filled with natural beauty, peace, and devotion. Starting from Govindghat, the route takes you through lush forests, flowing rivers, and high-altitude meadows to finally reach the sacred Gurudwara. With the right planning and preparation, anyone with the will can undertake this memorable pilgrimage.

Let this travel guide from Govindghat to the Gurudwara be your go-to reference as you prepare for one of the most soul-stirring journeys of your life.