Spiritual · Valley of Flowers & Hemkund, Garhwal
Climb to Hemkund Sahib and its glacial lake
A steep 6 km climb of about 1,100 m from Ghangaria to the star-shaped Gurdwara Hemkund Sahib and Lokpal Lakshman temple, beside a cold lake at about 4,600 m. Pilgrims bathe in the lake and share hot tea and khichdi at the langar.
Photo: Satbir 4 · Public domain · CommonsHemkund Sahib is dedicated to Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh Guru; the Dasam Granth says that in a former life he meditated beside a lake ringed by seven peaks. The gurdwara, a modern star-shaped building, stands at about 4,600 m beside Hemkund lake, with a Nishan Sahib on the cliffs above. A small Lokpal Lakshman temple stands nearby, revered by Hindu pilgrims.
The path from Ghangaria is stone-paved and relentless: about 6 km with roughly 1,100 m of ascent, most of it in zigzags. Fit walkers take 3–4 hours up and 2 hours down. Ponies and dandis are available. In late May, before opening, volunteers clear snow and repair the path as kar seva, selfless service. Overnight stay at the lake is not allowed, so pilgrims start early and leave by about 2 pm.
Altitude is the main risk. A study found that close to a third of pilgrims to Hemkund suffered acute mountain sickness. Spend at least one night at Ghangaria first, walk slowly, drink water and turn back if you develop a severe headache, vomiting or breathlessness at rest. Cover your head inside the gurdwara, remove shoes, and accept the hot tea and khichdi of the langar with thanks.
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Questions
Before you book
When does Hemkund Sahib open?
Usually in the last week of May, after volunteers clear the path of snow, and it closes in early October. The trustees announce exact dates each year. Registration on the Uttarakhand pilgrim portal is required; check current status before you travel.
How difficult is the Hemkund Sahib trek?
Hard for most people, because of the gradient and the altitude: 6 km and about 1,100 m of climb to roughly 4,600 m. The path is paved and wide. Ponies help, but riders still feel the altitude. Talk to your doctor before going if you have heart or lung conditions.
Can I do the Valley of Flowers and Hemkund on the same day?
It is possible for very fit, acclimatised walkers, but we do not recommend it. Each needs a full day, and together they mean 20 km and over 1,500 m of climbing. Plan one day for each, plus a spare day for rain.