Hemkunt Sahib in Dehradun
· Summer: March-June (23°C - 41°C)
· Winter: December-February (5°C - 23°C)
· Monsoon: July-September
Best time to visit:
May-September
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Tenth Sikh Guru Gobind Singh, after assisting Goddess Durga as Dusht Daman in the battle against demons in his previous incarnation, meditated at Hemkunt Parvat of Himalayas and mentioned the place in his compilation called Dasam Granth. It took hundreds of years for the Silk followers to recognize the place and build a gurudwara (Sikh temple) which is today known as Hemkunt (or Hemkund) Sahib. Located on the bank of Hemkund Lake, it is the highest Sikh shrine in the world and thronged by uncountable devotees from all faiths every year.
The gurudwara, a mesmerizing star shaped structure, is accessible by a 19 km. strenuous trekking expedition which begins at Govindghat and passes through Govinddham (a village also called Ghangaria). The place detaches itself from the whole world between October-April due to heavy snowfall. Surrounded by a string of seven hills, called Sapat Sring, the place boasts of enthralling beauty dotted with lakes, waterfalls, glaciers, valleys and exotic flowers. Seven Nishan Sahib (holy Sikh flag) on each of the peaks are other highlights.
A temple dedicated to Laxmana, brother of Lord Rama, is located close to the Sikh shrine and is visited by most of the pilgrims. The place also has the splendid Valley of Flowers in its close proximity. The place stands about 15,200 ft. above sea level and demands extreme physical fitness from the visitors. Be sure to learn about acute mountain sickness issue and make the right preparations for safe journey.
Connectivites
Road:
By road, the base camp of Govindghat is connected to the cities as far as Delhi by motorable roads. From Govindghat, one must trek about 19 km. to reach the holy Sikh Temple. While the road journey from Rishikesh to Govindghat is truly magnificent, the trekking trip is the most fascinating segment as one get to explore inimitable exquisiteness all over.
Railway:
Rishikesh Railway Station is the closest railhead which is about 288 km. from the shrine. From Rishikesh, state transport buses and taxis offer convenient road access to Govindghat.
Airway:
Jolly Gant Airport is about 305 km. from Hemkunt Sahib and is located in the city of Dehradun. Prefer to hire a taxi from here to reach Govindghat.