Hemkund Sahib Trek
Kailash Mansarovar yatra is one of the most revered journeys in Hinduism while for the Sikhs, Hemkund Sahib trek is also a sacred place. Located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, India at a height of 4632 meters or 15200 feet it is one of the world’s highest Gurudwaras. Hemkund Sahib pilgrimage is a unique tour through the picturesque natural scenery of the Himalayas, but it is also a pilgrimage that challenges the physical and the religious belief of the traveler.
Historical and Religious Significance
Hemkund Sahib is the place which is blessed with the presence of tenth Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh, and is said to have incarnated here at an earlier birth. The gurdwara lies next to the glacial lake, the name of which, Hemkund, means ‘Lake of Snow’. As per the history of the Sikhs, Guru Gobind Singh had described this place in his work known as “Bachitra Natak”.
For Hindus the place is important because Lokpal Lake is close to this place, where Lakshman, brother of Lord Rama who is believed to have done penance.
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Trek Overview
Hemkund Sahib Trek is located at a distance of thirty two kilometers from Ghangaria and the journey to Hemkund Sahib is further divided into four parts each of which offers distinct topography as well as spectacular views.
1. Govindghat to Ghangaria (Hemkund Sahib Trek)
Starting Point: From Joshimath the distance of Govindghat is 22 kilometers which is the starting point of the Ghangaria. The nearest airports are in DehraDun which is approximately 250 Kms and Jolly Grant which is approximately 275 Kms away from Govindghat.
Mode of Transport: To get to the starting point of actual trekking, one can either trek or hire a shared jeep from Govindghat to Pulna.
Terrain: The road to Ghangaria is good but steep following the river and passing over many bridges and through thick forests and small villages.
Duration: This part of the trek usually takes 6-8 hours depending on the physical ability of the hiker and the speed at which one decides to hike.
Suggested Tour: Panj Takht Sahib Tour
2. Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib (Hemkund Sahib Trek)
Elevation Gain: This segment is quite tricky because it requires climbing a distance of about 1000 meters.
Terrain: The trail is rough; it becomes slippery when it rains especially during the monsoon season. People, who go for pilgrimage, sometimes need support and they use walking sticks for that purpose.
Duration: The trek from Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib is a four to six hours trek.
Scenic Beauty
The trek is famous for being one of the most naturally beautiful treks in the world. What you will meet on the way is wonderful Alpine meadows, forests of pine and rhododendron, and snowy peaks. The nearby Valley of Flowers, included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage, is also the place of interest for those who like to enjoy nature. This valley is covered with a great variety of plants and is most beautiful during July-September when flowers grow.
Spiritual Experience
When one finally arrives at Hemkund Sahib, the first thing that strikes one is the spiritual piousness of the location with the gurdwara nestling beside the clear water of the lake. There is a common practice among the pilgrims to bathe themselves in the cold water of the lake, which is considered to cleanse the soul. The interior of the gurdwara is very calm and sacred; musical instruments play hymns and religious songs which make the environment very pious.
Preparation and Tips
1. Physical Fitness: Due to the fact that the trek is done at a high altitude, adequate health fitness is required before the trek is made. Prepare yourself by exercising by cardiovascular machines, weight lifting, and hiking.
2. Acclimatization: It is recommended to take one day’s rest at Ghangaria to get used to the height and thin air. This helps in avoiding altitude sickness , something that is rather dangerous when at such altitude.
Suggested Tour: Punjab Gurudwara Tour
3. Packing Essentials (Hemkund Sahib Trek)
– Clothing: The clothing and equipment should include warm layers of clothing, thermal wear, waterproof jackets, and strong trekking shoes. It is often cold with rapid changes in the weather conditions.
– Gear: A walking stick, an umbrella or a raincoat, spectacles, sunscreen lotion, and a hat are quite necessary.
– Medical Kit: Pack all the bare essentials including some over the counter medications such as paracetamol for headaches, sick-bags for nausea and vomiting and medications for altitude sickness.
– Food and Water: However, there are restaurants and cafes at some points along the way; it is advisable to have some energy bars and sufficient water with you.
Suggested Tour: Sri Kartarpur Sahib Tour
4. Environmental Responsibility (Hemkund Sahib Trek)
Follow the guidelines of the Leave No Trace policy. Take all your waste back to demarcated disposal points to save the environment that is pristine.
Accommodation
Govindghat and Ghangaria: These towns have simple types of accommodation facilities such as guest houses, lodges and even tents. Sanitary conditions in Ghangaria are far from luxury, so one should expect rather primitive conditions. It is recommended that one should book in advance especially during the season when there is a high demand.
Permits and Regulations
Permits: If you intend to go on the Valley of Flowers tour, you will require a permit for this and this can be obtained from the forest check post in Ghangaria.
Guides and Porters: Local guides and porters can be useful to hire because they know the territory and can take the load if needed.
Conclusion
Performing the Hemkund Sahib Trek is the feel of a divine journey and as well a physically demanding one. It has natural features such as the hills on which it is located, religious appeal as part of Sikhism, and the feeling of accomplishment that comes along with ascending to the gurudwara situated in the hills. The Hemkund Sahib trek offers an exciting travel experience regardless of the reason that drives you; whether it is for pilgrimage or adventure over the Himalayas. Many other places are also close to this trek like Chopta Tungnath, Valley of flowers, Badrinath Temple etc.
