How to Reach Hemkund Sahib

Hemkund Sahib is one of the highest Sikh pilgrimage sites in the world, located at an altitude of about 4,632 meters (15,200 ft) in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. Surrounded by snow-clad Himalayan peaks and the pristine Lokpal Lake, Hemkund Sahib is both spiritually powerful and physically challenging.

Reaching Hemkund Sahib requires a combination of road travel and trekking, as there is no direct motorable road to the shrine. This guide explains how to reach Hemkund Sahib.

Where Is Hemkund Sahib Located?

Hemkund Sahib is situated in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, near the famous Valley of Flowers National Park. The final 6 km stretch from Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib is a steep uphill trek.

How to Reach Hemkund Sahib by Air ✈️

Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport (DED)

• Distance from Govindghat: ~290 km

• Well connected to Delhi and major Indian cities

From Airport to Govindghat:

• Taxi or shared cab

• Dehradun → Rishikesh → Joshimath → Govindghat

⏱️ Travel Time: 10–12 hours by road

✔ Best option for travelers coming from far states
❌ Still requires long road journey + trek

• Suggested Tour: Hemkund Sahib Tour Packages

How to Reach Hemkund Sahib by Train 🚆

Nearest Railway Station: Rishikesh

Other nearby stations:

• Haridwar (slightly better connectivity)

From Rishikesh to Govindghat:

• By taxi or bus via Joshimath

⏱️ Travel Time: 10–11 hours

✔ Budget-friendly option
✔ Good connectivity from Delhi, UP, Punjab

How to Reach Hemkund Sahib by Road 🛣️

Step 1: Reach Govindghat (Base Point)

Govindghat is the main base for Hemkund Sahib Yatra.

Road Route:
Haridwar / Rishikesh → Devprayag → Rudraprayag → Karnaprayag → Joshimath → Govindghat

✔ Regular buses and taxis available
✔ Roads are scenic but mountainous

Trek Route to Hemkund Sahib 🥾 (Most Important Part)

Step 2: Govindghat to Ghangaria (13 km)

Ghangaria

• Trek distance: ~13 km

• Trek time: 6–8 hours

• Gradient: Moderate

Options Available:

• Trekking on foot

• Pony / mule

• Porter services

Ghangaria is the last stay point, with hotels, Gurudwara, medical aid, and food facilities.

Step 3: Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib (6 km)

• Distance: ~6 km (one way)

• Trek time: 3–4 hours uphill

• Difficulty: Moderate to difficult

This is the most challenging part of the journey due to:

• Steep ascent

• Thin oxygen levels

• Cold weather

✔ Well-paved stone path
✔ Gurudwara provides langar and medical help

Important Travel Tips for Hemkund Sahib

• Start trek early morning to avoid bad weather

• Acclimatize properly at Ghangaria

• Carry warm clothes even in summer

• Avoid rushing due to high altitude

• Fitness preparation is strongly recommended

Best Time to Reach Hemkund Sahib

• Best months: June to September

• Peak season: July–August

• Closed during winter due to heavy snowfall

👉 The Gurudwara usually opens in late May or early June and closes by October.

Also Read

• Hemkund Sahib Weather & Temperature by Month
• History of Sri Hemkunt Sahib
• How to Reach Hemkund Sahib