Hemkund Sahib

Tucked away in the serene Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand at an altitude of 4,329 meters (14,200 ft), Hemkund Sahib is one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites in Sikhism. Known as the highest Gurudwara in the world, this holy shrine is dedicated to Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth Sikh Guru, who is believed to have meditated here in a previous life.

The name Hemkund translates to ‘Lake of Snow’, derived from the pristine, glacial-fed Hemkund Lake that lies beside the Gurudwara, surrounded by seven snow-capped mountain peaks. The site radiates an atmosphere of peace and spiritual power, drawing thousands of pilgrims and trekkers every year.

The trek to Hemkund Sahib is not just a spiritual journey, but also a celebration of nature’s beauty. Lush green meadows, gushing waterfalls, and the nearby Valley of Flowers, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rare Himalayan flora, make the experience unforgettable. Pilgrims visiting Hemkund Sahib also engage in Kar Seva (selfless service), a deeply rooted Sikh tradition, helping to maintain and rebuild the trekking route each year after heavy snowfall.

Adding to its significance, Hemkund is also believed to be the place where Lakshman, Lord Rama’s brother from Hindu mythology, meditated after the Lanka war. Alongside the Gurudwara stands a Lakshman temple, further enriching the spiritual and cultural importance of this sacred destination.

Accessible only between May and October, Hemkund Sahib remains a symbol of unwavering faith, devotion, and the majestic allure of the Himalayas.