Arranging a trip from Chandigarh to Hemkund Sahib involves faith, excitement, and the beautiful scenery of the Himalayas. Hemkund Sahib, located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, is a very important place for Sikhs to visit. Located at a height of 4,632 meters (15,200 feet), this site is devoted to the tenth Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
If you are traveling for religious purposes or simply to relax in the peaceful mountain surroundings, it is important to be familiar with the route, transportation choices, and important travel advice in order to ensure a safe and fulfilling experience. Before embarking on this incredible yatra, here’s all the information you need to know.
Where is Hemkund Sahib?
Hemkund Sahib, situated close to the Valley of Flowers National Park in Uttarakhand, can only be visited in the summer, typically from late May to early October. The gurdwara is encircled by seven peaks covered in snow and is situated next to a glacial lake, making it a feast for the eyes as well as a place for spiritual nourishment.
Overview of the Total Distance and Route
The distance from Chandigarh to Hemkund Sahib is around 520 km, but the journey is not easy. The trip includes driving to Govindghat and then either walking or flying in a helicopter to Ghangaria. After that, there is a difficult trek to Hemkund Sahib.
Breakdown of Route:
• By road, the distance from Chandigarh to Govindghat is approximately 500 kilometers. 16-18 hours)
• You can either trek 13 km from Govindghat to Ghangaria or take a helicopter.
• The trek from Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib is a 6 km uphill climb.
How to get to Govindghat from Chandigarh
The initial part of the journey is from Chandigarh to Govindghat. You have several transportation options for traveling to this area, including driving yourself, taking public transportation, or using a Taxi Service From Chandigarh to Hemkund Sahib for a more comfortable journey.
Popular Route:
Chandigarh → Rishikesh → Devprayag → Rudraprayag → Karnaprayag → Joshimath → Govindghat
Many travelers decide to split the trip into smaller parts into two days, stopping for the night in either Rishikesh or Joshimath, especially when traveling with family or elderly companions.
Govindghat to Ghangaria: Your Base for the Final Trek
Govindghat marks the end of the road, which is accessible by motor vehicles on the route to Hemkund Sahib. You have to get to Ghangaria from here, which serves as the base village for both Hemkund Sahib and the Valley of Flowers.
There are three primary choices for reaching Ghangaria:
• Trek: A 13 km uphill path that is scenic but moderately challenging
• Pony/Mule: Can be rented, ideal for individuals unable to cover lengthy distances on foot.
• Helicopter: When the weather is good, the helicopter reduces travel time to approximately 10 minutes.
Ghangaria provides simple accommodations like hotels, guest houses, and langar facilities for pilgrims.
Trekking from Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib
The last part of the journey involves a steep 6 km trek from Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib. Due to the very high altitude, this trek might be difficult, especially for people who are not used to being at such heights. It’s a good idea to start the trek early in the morning to avoid changes in the weather in the afternoon.
Trekking tips:
• Don’t forget to drink water and have short breaks.
• Wear multiple layers of clothing, as it can get extremely cold at the summit.
• Bring glucose and light snacks with you
• Don’t hurry and walk at a pace that suits you.
If necessary, you have the option to hire porters or use a pony to help you.
Best Time to Visit
Hemkund Sahib is accessible for only a limited time each year, usually from the end of May to the beginning of October. The optimal months for traveling are:
• June: Recently opened with beautiful scenery and pleasant weather.
• September is a good time to visit due to the reduced number of people, consistent weather, and excellent for hiking.
It’s not a good idea to travel in July & August because of the monsoon season. The heavy rain can cause landslides & make paths very slippery, which can be dangerous to travelers.
Weather and Altitude Tips
• Due to its high location, Hemkund Sahib stays chilly even during the summer. Temperatures can drop to below 5°C, and the weather can change suddenly very often. Before starting the final trek, it’s crucial to get used to the altitude in Govindghat or Ghangaria because altitude sickness is a possible danger.
What to bring:
• Clothing for cold weather (gloves, jackets, thermals)
• Trekking shoes
• Rain jacket or poncho
• First-aid kit and medication for altitude sickness’
• Portable flashlight and battery charger
Transportation Options
If you’re not driving, there are many ways to travel from Chandigarh to Govindghat.
• You can take a bus to Rishikesh or Haridwar for public transportation.
After that, you’ll need to take buses or taxis to reach Govindghat.
• Booking a taxi from Chandigarh to Hemkund Sahib is recommended for a smooth and stress-free trip. It saves time and is convenient, especially when traveling with a group.
Final Thoughts
With proper planning and the right information, your journey from Chandigarh to Hemkund Sahib will be enjoyable, memorable, and very fulfilling. Whether you choose to take a local bus or use a Taxi Service from Chandigarh.
Visiting Hemkund Sahib is about being devoted spiritually and also exploring and finding new things. Journeying from the bustling city of Chandigarh to the peaceful Himalayan mountains offers beautiful scenery, rich cultural experiences, and a sense of renewal.
