Hemkund Sahib Trek Distance

2025-08-23 19:50:45

The Hemkund Sahib trek is one of the most spiritually significant and scenic treks in India. Nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, the sacred Gurudwara Hemkund Sahib sits at an altitude of 4,329 meters (14,200 feet). Every year, thousands of devotees and trekkers take this journey not only for religious reasons but also for the breathtaking beauty surrounding the trail. Hemkund Sahib Trek Distance.

If you are planning the Hemkund Sahib yatra, one of the most common questions that comes up is: How many kilometers is the Hemkund Sahib trek? In this detailed guide, we will cover the Hemkund Sahib trek km, route details, trek difficulty, best time to visit, and how to plan your trip smoothly with Sar Outdoors, a trusted travel company in Uttarakhand.

Hemkund Sahib Trek KM: The Exact Distance

The Hemkund Sahib trek distance is around 6 kilometers one way from Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib. This means the round trip is about 12 kilometers.

• The trek begins at Ghangaria (3,050 meters), a small village that also serves as the base for the famous Valley of Flowers trek.

• From Ghangaria, the path climbs steeply for about 6 km and takes you directly to the holy Gurudwara.

• The steep ascent makes this trek moderately difficult, but the paved path makes it accessible to pilgrims of all ages with adequate preparation.

So, in simple terms: Hemkund Sahib trek km = 6 km (one way), 12 km (round trip).

Trek Route Overview

1. Govindghat to Ghangaria

• Starting point: Govindghat, on the Badrinath highway.

• Distance: 13 km trek or pony/palki ride to Ghangaria.

• Option: Helicopter services are also available for those who want to skip this stretch.

2. Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib

• Distance: 6 km one way (steep climb).

• Trekking time: 4–6 hours uphill and 3–4 hours downhill.

• Path: Stone-paved trail with scenic mountain views, waterfalls, and streams.

This means the total Hemkund Sahib trekking distance from Govindghat is around 19 km one way (13 km to Ghangaria + 6 km to Hemkund).

Trek Difficulty Level

The Hemkund trek is considered moderate to challenging due to:

• Steep climb: The 6 km stretch has a continuous ascent.

• High altitude: At 4,329 meters, trekkers may experience low oxygen levels.

• Weather: Sudden rains and cold winds are common. Hemkund Sahib Trek Distance.

However, thousands of devotees, including elders, successfully complete the Shri Hemkund Sahib yatra every year with determination and faith.

Best Time to Visit Hemkund Sahib

The Gurudwara remains open only for a few months each year due to heavy snowfall.

• Opening season: Mid-June to October.

• Best time to visit Hemkund Sahib: July to September.

• During this period, the trail is full of blooming wildflowers, and trekkers can also combine their trip with the Valley of Flowers trekking.

For those interested in combining spirituality with adventure, this season offers the best trekking experience.

Hemkund Sahib Trek Highlights

1. Spiritual Destination: The holy Gurudwara Hemkund Sahib, visited by Sikhs and Hindus.

2. Glacial Lake: The pristine Hemkund Lake, surrounded by seven snow-capped peaks.

3. Alpine Flora: Rare flowers, including the Brahma Kamal, bloom along the trail.

4. Scenic Landscapes: Dense forests, gushing waterfalls, and mountain streams enrich the route.

5. Valley of Flowers: Located nearby, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is often combined with the Hemkund Sahib trip.

Hemkund Sahib Trek Requirements

Before starting your trek, keep these essentials in mind:

• Fitness: Prepare with cardio exercises and regular walks.

• Warm Clothing: Weather is unpredictable; carry jackets, gloves, and woolens.

• Rain Gear: Monsoon showers are common.

• Trekking Shoes: Comfortable, sturdy footwear is a must.

• Medicines: Carry basic first aid and medicines for altitude sickness.

If you are unsure, consult experts at Sar Outdoors who provide complete trek guidance.

Combining Hemkund Sahib with Other Sacred Journeys

Pilgrims often combine their Hemkund Sahib trip with other religious yatras in Uttarakhand. Sar Outdoors offers specialized itineraries such as:

• Char Dham Yatra: Covering Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath.

• Kedarnath Yatra from Haridwar: A deeply spiritual journey to Kedarnath temple.

• Do Dham Yatra: Kedarnath and Badrinath: Perfect for those looking to cover both temples in a single trip. Hemkund Sahib Trek Distance.

Hemkund Sahib Trek in KM: Key Information at a Glance

So, while the Hemkund Sahib trek km from Ghangaria is 6 km, the entire journey from Govindghat adds up to a much more adventurous 19 km one way.

Tips for a Successful Hemkund Sahib Yatra

1. Start the trek early in the morning to avoid afternoon rains.

2. Take small breaks during the steep ascent to conserve energy.

3. Carry water and snacks as food stalls are limited on the route.

4. Hire a pony or palki if you are not confident about trekking.

5. Travel with an experienced travel agency like Sar Outdoors for a safe and well-planned journey.

Why Choose Sar Outdoors for Your Hemkund Sahib Trek

Planning a trek in the Himalayas requires knowledge of routes, permits, accommodation, and safety. Sar Outdoors makes your journey stress-free by providing:

• Well-organized trek packages including meals, accommodation, and guides.

• Local expertise and deep knowledge of Himalayan trails.

• Support for combining treks like Hemkund Sahib + Valley of Flowers.

• Customized packages for individuals, families, and groups.

To book your trek, you can visit Sar Outdoors, call at (+91) 6395358521 / (+91) 9521051048, or email info@saroutdoors.com. Also, check their latest travel videos on YouTube for insights.

Conclusion

The Hemkund Sahib trek is more than just a physical journey; it is a soulful experience where spirituality and nature meet. Whether you are seeking blessings at the Gurudwara Hemkund Sahib, exploring the beauty of the Valley of Flowers trekking, or simply testing your endurance in the high Himalayas, this trek is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Hemkund Sahib Trek Distance.