Rishikesh, a city in Uttarakhand, is known as the “Gateway to the Garhwal Himalayas”. It is a popular destination for spiritual seekers and adventure enthusiasts alike. One of the most revered pilgrimage sites in India, Hemkund Sahib, is located near Rishikesh. Hemkund Sahib is a high-altitude lake that is surrounded by seven snow-capped mountains and is considered sacred by Sikhs.
Reaching Hemkund Sahib requires a bit of effort. The nearest railway station to Hemkund Sahib is Rishikesh, which is 273 km away. From there, one must reach Govind Ghat by road, which is connected only till Govind Ghat. Post that, there is a 16-km trek to reach Hemkund Sahib. Alternatively, one can also take a helicopter ride from Govind Ghat to Ghangaria and then trek for 6 km to reach Hemkund Sahib. The trek is considered to be challenging, but the stunning views of the Himalayas and the spiritual experience make it all worth it.
If you are planning to visit Hemkund Sahib from Rishikesh, it is essential to plan your journey in advance. This article will provide you with all the information you need to know about how to reach Hemkund Sahib from Rishikesh, including the different modes of transportation available, the best time to visit, and tips for a safe and comfortable journey.
Geographical Overview of Hemkund Sahib
Hemkund Sahib is a sacred place located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, India. It is situated at an altitude of 4,329 meters above sea level, surrounded by seven snow-capped peaks, and is located near the Hemkund Lake. The place is known for its spiritual significance and natural beauty.
The Hemkund Lake is a glacial lake that is fed by the melting of the surrounding snow-capped peaks. The lake is surrounded by mountains and is considered one of the highest altitude lakes in the world. The water of the lake is crystal clear and reflects the surrounding mountains, making it a sight to behold.
The trek to Hemkund Sahib is a challenging one, but the journey is worth it. The trek passes through dense forests of pine and deodar trees, and the views of the surrounding mountains are breathtaking. The Hemkund Sahib trek is around 19 kilometers long and starts from Govindghat, which is well-connected by motorable roads with major destinations of Uttarakhand state.
Hemkund Sahib is an important pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Sikhs. The place is believed to have been visited by Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Guru of the Sikhs, and is considered one of the holiest places for Sikhs. The place also has a temple dedicated to Lord Lakshman, the younger brother of Lord Rama, which is visited by Hindus.
In conclusion, Hemkund Sahib is a beautiful and spiritual place that is worth visiting. The place is surrounded by natural beauty and is considered one of the holiest places in India. The trek to Hemkund Sahib is challenging, but the journey is worth it.
Transportation Options from Rishikesh to Hemkund Sahib
Hemkund Sahib is a popular pilgrimage site located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. It is situated at an altitude of 4,329 meters and is accessible only during the summer months. The nearest town to Hemkund Sahib is Govindghat, which is located at a distance of 22 km from the pilgrimage site. Rishikesh, which is located at a distance of 272 km from Govindghat, is the nearest city to Hemkund Sahib. Here are the transportation options available from Rishikesh to Hemkund Sahib.
By Public Bus
The most economical way to reach Hemkund Sahib from Rishikesh is by public bus. The bus service is available from the Rishikesh bus station, which is located near the Rishikesh railway station. The distance between Rishikesh and Govindghat is approximately 272 km, and the bus journey takes around 10-12 hours. From Govindghat, one has to trek for 19 km to reach Hemkund Sahib. The bus fare from Rishikesh to Govindghat is around INR 300-500 per person.
By Private Vehicle/Taxi
One can also hire a private vehicle or taxi from Rishikesh to reach Govindghat. The distance between Rishikesh and Govindghat is approximately 272 km, and the journey takes around 10-12 hours. The taxi fare from Rishikesh to Govindghat is around INR 6,000-8,000 for a round trip. From Govindghat, one has to trek for 19 km to reach Hemkund Sahib.
By Bike on Rent from Rishikesh
Another option to reach Hemkund Sahib from Rishikesh is to rent a bike. Many bike rental services are available in Rishikesh, and one can rent a bike for around INR 1,200-1,500 per day. The distance between Rishikesh and Govindghat is approximately 272 km, and the journey takes around 10-12 hours. From Govindghat, one has to trek for 19 km to reach Hemkund Sahib. It is advisable to carry a valid driving license and wear a helmet while riding a bike.
Detailed Road Route from Rishikesh to Hemkund Sahib
Hemkund Sahib is a popular pilgrimage site for Sikhs and Hindus located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. The best way to reach Hemkund Sahib from Rishikesh is by road. The distance between Rishikesh and Hemkund Sahib is approximately 292 km, and it takes around 10-12 hours to cover the distance. Here is a detailed road route from Rishikesh to Hemkund Sahib:
- Start from Rishikesh and head towards Devprayag, which is around 70 km from Rishikesh. Devprayag is the confluence of the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers, and it is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus.
- From Devprayag, continue towards Srinagar, which is around 35 km away. Srinagar is a small town located on the banks of the Alaknanda river.
- After Srinagar, continue towards Rudraprayag, which is around 33 km from Srinagar. Rudraprayag is another important pilgrimage site for Hindus, and it is the confluence of the Alaknanda and Mandakini rivers.
- From Rudraprayag, continue towards Karnaprayag, which is around 34 km away. Karnaprayag is the confluence of the Alaknanda and Pindar rivers.
- After Karnaprayag, continue towards Chamoli, which is around 22 km away. Chamoli is the district headquarters of the Chamoli district and is located on the banks of the Alaknanda river.
- From Chamoli, continue towards Joshimath, which is around 48 km away. Joshimath is a popular hill station and is also the winter seat of Lord Badri.
- From Joshimath, continue towards Govindghat, which is around 20 km away. Govindghat is the starting point of the trek to Hemkund Sahib.
- From Govindghat, you can hire a pony or a porter to carry your luggage and start the trek towards Hemkund Sahib. The trek is around 19 km long and takes around 6-7 hours to complete.
It is important to note that the road from Rishikesh to Hemkund Sahib is a mountainous terrain, and it is advisable to hire a skilled driver who is familiar with the route. Also, it is recommended to start the journey early in the morning to avoid traffic and reach Hemkund Sahib before sunset.
Make your Uttarakhand travel more smoother and enjoyable. Rent a bike or scooty with Anubhav Travel – the largest provider of two wheelers in Rishikesh. The options include Activa 125, Activa 6g, Royal Enfield Classical 350 for rent, Royal Enfield Himalayan 411 for rent, Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 on rent, Royal Enfield Hunter 350 and much more. Call or Whatsapp us at +91 8192845805
Accommodation Options on the Way
Hotels
There are several hotels on the way from Rishikesh to Hemkund Sahib that offer comfortable accommodation options to travelers. Some of the popular hotels include Hotel Terrakotta, Hotel Guru Kripa Palace, and Hotel Devlok. These hotels offer a range of facilities such as clean and spacious rooms, excellent hospitality, and delicious food.
Guest Houses
Guest houses are a budget-friendly accommodation option for travelers on the way to Hemkund Sahib. Some of the popular guest houses include GMVN Guest House, Ghangaria Guest House, and Hemkund Sahib Yatri Niwas. These guest houses offer basic amenities such as clean rooms, hot water, and food.
Camps
Camping is an adventurous and fun way to stay on the way to Hemkund Sahib. There are several campsites available on the way, such as Valley of Flowers Camps, Ghangaria Camps, and Hemkund Sahib Camps. These campsites offer tents and basic amenities such as sleeping bags, food, and hot water.
Overall, there are several accommodation options available on the way from Rishikesh to Hemkund Sahib, catering to different budgets and preferences. Travelers can choose the option that suits them the best and enjoy a comfortable stay on their way to this holy shrine.
Essential Tips for the Journey
When planning a trip to Hemkund Sahib from Rishikesh, there are some essential tips that travelers should keep in mind to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.
1. Choose the Right Mode of Transportation
One of the most important decisions when planning a trip to Hemkund Sahib is choosing the right mode of transportation. Travelers can choose between road and air travel. The nearest airport to Hemkund Sahib is Jolly Grant near Dehradun, and from there, travelers can take a taxi or bus to reach Hemkund Sahib. Alternatively, travelers can take a taxi or bus from Rishikesh to Govindghat, which is the base camp for the trek to Hemkund Sahib.
2. Check the Weather Forecast
The weather at Hemkund Sahib can be unpredictable, so it’s essential to check the weather forecast before embarking on the journey. The best time to visit Hemkund Sahib is from June to October, when the weather is pleasant and the skies are clear. However, even during this time, travelers should be prepared for sudden changes in weather and carry appropriate clothing and gear.
3. Carry Essential Items
When trekking to Hemkund Sahib, it’s important to carry essential items such as a first aid kit, water bottles, snacks, and a map. Travelers should also carry warm clothing, as the temperature can drop significantly at night. Additionally, it’s important to carry a torch or headlamp as there is no electricity at the Hemkund Sahib Gurudwara.
4. Stay Hydrated
It’s important to stay hydrated when trekking to Hemkund Sahib, as the altitude and physical exertion can cause dehydration. Travelers should carry enough water with them and also drink plenty of fluids during the trek. It’s also a good idea to carry electrolyte supplements to replenish lost electrolytes.
5. Respect Local Customs
Hemkund Sahib is a holy site for the Sikh community, and travelers should respect local customs and traditions. Dress modestly and cover your head when entering the Gurudwara. It’s also important to maintain cleanliness and avoid littering in and around the Gurudwara.
By following these essential tips, travelers can ensure a safe and enjoyable journey to Hemkund Sahib from Rishikesh.
Best Time to Visit Hemkund Sahib
Hemkund Sahib is a popular pilgrimage site and attracts thousands of visitors every year. The best time to visit Hemkund Sahib is during the summer months, from May to August. The weather is pleasant, and the trails are open, making it perfect for a pilgrimage.
During this time, the temperature ranges between 10°C and 25°C, and the weather is generally sunny. The monsoon season starts in July and lasts until September, so it’s best to avoid visiting during this time as the trails can be slippery and dangerous.
The winter months, from October to April, are not recommended for visiting Hemkund Sahib due to heavy snowfall. The temperature drops below freezing point, and the trails are closed, making it impossible to reach the shrine.
It’s important to note that the weather in the mountains can be unpredictable, and visitors should always be prepared for sudden changes in weather conditions. It’s recommended to check the weather forecast before planning a trip to Hemkund Sahib.
Overall, the best time to visit Hemkund Sahib is during the summer months, from May to August, when the weather is pleasant, and the trails are open.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Hemkund Sahib is a significant pilgrimage site for Sikhs and a popular trekking destination for adventure enthusiasts. The trek to Hemkund Sahib from Rishikesh can be challenging but is rewarding with breathtaking views of the Himalayas and the Hemkund Sahib Lake.
Visitors can reach Hemkund Sahib by air, rail, or road. The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is well-connected to major cities in India. From there, one can hire a taxi to reach Govind Ghat, the starting point of the trek. Alternatively, one can take a train to Rishikesh or Haridwar and then hire a taxi or take a bus to Govind Ghat.
During the trek, visitors can stay in guesthouses or campsites in Ghangaria, the basecamp for Hemkund Sahib. The trek from Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib is steep and covers 6 km, but the stunning views of the Himalayas and the Hemkund Sahib Lake make it worth the effort.
It is essential to be well-prepared for the trek, with proper gear, clothing, and food. Visitors should also be aware of the weather conditions and plan their trek accordingly. Overall, the trek to Hemkund Sahib is a memorable experience that offers a glimpse into the natural beauty and spiritual significance of the region.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the distance between Rishikesh and Hemkund Sahib?
The distance between Rishikesh and Hemkund Sahib is approximately 293 kilometers. It takes about 10 hours to reach Hemkund Sahib from Rishikesh by road.
How long does it take to trek to Hemkund Sahib?
The trek to Hemkund Sahib is about 19 kilometers long and takes approximately 6-8 hours to complete, depending on your fitness level and pace.
What is the distance between Joshimath and Hemkund Sahib?
The distance between Joshimath and Hemkund Sahib is about 41 kilometers. From Joshimath, you can take a shared taxi or hire a private taxi to reach Govindghat, which is the starting point of the trek to Hemkund Sahib.
When is the best time to visit Hemkund Sahib?
The best time to visit Hemkund Sahib is from June to October when the weather is pleasant, and the trekking route is open. The Hemkund Sahib Gurudwara is closed during the winter months due to heavy snowfall in the region.
How can I reach Hemkund Sahib from Govindghat?
To reach Hemkund Sahib from Govindghat, you need to trek for about 19 kilometers. The trek is steep and challenging, so it is recommended to hire a mule or a porter to carry your luggage.
What is the nearest railway station to Hemkund Sahib?
The nearest railway station to Hemkund Sahib is Rishikesh Railway Station, which is about 293 kilometers away. From Rishikesh, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach Govindghat, which is the starting point of the trek to Hemkund Sahib.
Make your Uttarakhand travel more smoother and enjoyable. Rent a bike or scooty with Anubhav Travel – the largest provider of two wheelers in Rishikesh. The options include Activa 125, Activa 6g, Royal Enfield Classical 350 for rent, Royal Enfield Himalayan 411 for rent, Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 on rent, Royal Enfield Hunter 350 and much more. Call or Whatsapp us at +91 8192845805