Hemkund Sahib trek
The Hemkund Sahib trek is a high-altitude pilgrimage-trek to the serene Sikh Gurudwara (Gurudwara Sri Hemkund Sahib) located beside a glacial lake surrounded by steep snow-clad Himalayan peaks. The route runs via Ghangaria (base for Valley of Flowers, reachable from Govindghat/Joshimath) and offers dramatic alpine scenery, a spiritual pilgrimage experience, and close proximity to the Valley of Flowers National Park. The trek is short but steep and occurs at high altitude (approx 4,329 m / 14,190 ft), so acclimatisation and caution are essential.
Location
Hemkund Sahib (via Ghangaria), Nearest hill base: Joshimath (Govindghat is trailhead); Ghangaria village, India (Uttarakhand)
Duration
Typical 2–3 days from Govindghat/Joshimath (single-day option from Ghangaria). From Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib: 6–8 hours round trip (3–4 hours ascent, 2–3 hours descent depending on pace and stops). If trekking from Govindghat to Ghangaria add 5–7 hours (13 km, moderate trail) or split the approach over a day.
Best Time to Visit
Mid May to October (late Monsoon/early autumn best: June–September). The shrine is generally closed in heavy winter months due to snow (typically late Oct/Nov to mid-May) — check local opening dates.
Pricing
- Gurudwara entry: free (no entry fee).
- Local transport: Govindghat→Ghangaria trek/taxi/ponies/porter: Govindghat→Ghangaria is ~13 km by foot; pony/porter costs typically INR 800–2,500 (one way) depending on season and load.
- Guide (optional): INR 800–1,500/day (approx).
- Accommodation in Ghangaria: INR 300–2,000/night (basic dharamshalas to guesthouses; peak season higher).
- Meals: INR 150–600 per meal depending on location and season.
- Valley of Flowers/Forest fees (if combining visits): variable; domestic visitors historically pay a small conservation fee (~INR 50–150) and foreign nationals higher — check current forest department rates.
- Helicopter services (seasonal/limited from nearby bases): very expensive and not a routine option; expect several thousands of INR per seat if available. Note: Prices fluctuate by season and service provider — always confirm locally and pre-book in peak season.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Gurudwara Sri Hemkund Sahib and its pristine glacial lake
Stunning close-up views of Himalayan peaks (Trishul/Nanda Ghunti range visible on clear days)
High-alpine meadows and seasonal snowfields
Proximity to Valley of Flowers National Park (World Heritage site) — combine both treks
Spiritual/pilgrimage atmosphere with langar (community kitchen) at the Gurudwara
Itinerary
Reach Govindghat (by road from Joshimath/Badrinath route) and start trek to Ghangaria (13 km) or take local pony/porter if required.
Trek from Govindghat to Ghangaria usually takes 4–7 hours depending on pace; stay overnight in Ghangaria to acclimatize.
Start pre-dawn from Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib (approximately 6 km steep trail). Reach Gurudwara, visit the lake and participate in langar/prayers.
Allow time for slow ascent, rest stops, and altitude adjustment. Return to Ghangaria the same day; total Ghangaria–Hemkund–Ghangaria round trip typically 6–8 hours.
Option A: Trek back to Govindghat and proceed to Joshimath/Rudraprayag. Option B: Combine with a visit to the Valley of Flowers (same base at Ghangaria) — allocate a full day for Valley of Flowers.
Plan logistics and permit (if required) for Valley of Flowers in advance during peak season.
Safety Requirements
High-altitude location: altitude ~4,329 m — risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Acclimatise in Ghangaria, ascend slowly, avoid heavy exertion on day of arrival.
Carry ID and emergency contact details; keep someone informed of your plan.
Good fitness level is required for the steep final ascent; hire a guide/porter if unsure of fitness.
Wear sturdy trekking shoes, layered clothing, windproof/waterproof jacket, sun protection (sunglasses, sunscreen), and warm gloves/hat.
Carry sufficient water (or purification tablets) — dehydration increases risk of AMS.
No specialised permit for Hemkund Sahib itself, but Valley of Flowers requires park entry tickets/permits and a guide (seasonal) — check local forest department rules.
Mobile coverage is patchy; pack a basic first-aid kit and medicines for altitude (consult a doctor beforehand).
Seasonal closure and dangerous snow/ice outside official season — do not attempt in heavy snow or bad weather.
Tips
Book accommodation in Ghangaria in advance during peak season (June–August).
Start early from Ghangaria to avoid afternoon weather changes and to have more daylight for descent.
Carry cash — ATMs are not available in Ghangaria; nearest ATMs are in Joshimath.
Respect Gurudwara protocol: remove shoes, cover head (scarves available), maintain silence in prayer areas, and langar is open to all.
Hire local guides/porters from Ghangaria/Govindghat for safety and to support the local economy.
Keep plastic and litter with you — dispose at designated spots; the area is ecologically sensitive.
If combining with Valley of Flowers: restrict visits to the park’s trails and follow instructions from the forest department guide.
Check weather updates and local advisories before starting; early morning views are usually clearest.
If you have limited time or fitness, consider hiring a pony for part of the approach (Govindghat→Ghangaria) but note strict weight limits and ethical considerations for animals.
