Shri Hemkund Sahib Gurudwara in Chamoli
Hemkund Sahib, in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, is a popular Sikh pilgrimage site in India. Beautiful hills surround the worship area, and each crest is known as a holy Nishan Sahib. As a result of its religious significance, devotees from all over the world visit here every year.
Hemkunt Sahib is mentioned in Guru Gobind Singh’s autobiography, Bachitra Natak. However, the location is said to have existed since the time of the Ramayana. There is a lot of folklore surrounding Lakshman and his love for the area. Hemkund is also linked to Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. Furthermore, Gobind Singh Ji discussed his own relationship with the location in previous incarnations.
He wrote about his experiences in his previous life at Hemkund. Hemkund is derived from the Sanskrit words Hem (snow) and Kund (lake) (bowl). Furthermore, it is said that without visiting Hemkund sahib at least once in one’s life, one’s spiritual life is incomplete.
Places to Visit in Hemkund Gurudwara Sahib
Gurudwara Hemkund Sahib
The Gurudwara Hemkund Sahib, the highest Gurudwara on the planet, is set among breathtaking scenery. The Gurdwara is devoid of ostentatious embellishments, and the architecture is perfectly in keeping with its surroundings.
Hemkund Lake
Hemkund Lake, also known as Lokpal Lake, has a perimeter of about 2 kilometers. Its clear water reflects the Saptashrungi Peaks that surround it.
Lakshman Temple
The Lakshman Temple, also known as Lokpal Temple, is located on the bank of Hemkund Lake. This is where Lord Lakshman is said to have meditated. The legendary Sanjeevani Buti, who cured Lakshman after he was injured during a battle with Meghnad, is said to be nearby.
Valley of Flowers
On the way from Hemkund Sahib to Gobind Dham, there is a path that leads to the Valley of Flowers, which is surrounded on all sides by magnificent snow-capped peaks. More than 300 species of wildflowers grow in the gorge, including the Snake Lily, Himalayan Blue Poppy, white and yellow Anemones, Calendula, Dianthus, and Daisies. Other attractions of the national park include a diverse range of butterflies, black and brown Himalayan bears, snow leopards, tahr, musk deer, serow, and bharals.
How to Reach Hemkund Sahib Gurudwara
By Air: The nearest airport to Hemkund Sahib is Jolly Grant Airport, which is about 175 kilometers away.
By Train: The nearest railhead to Hemkund Sahib is Rishikesh (293 km).
By Road: It is well connected by road to Delhi, Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Rudraprayag.