9 Essential Steps on How to Reach Hemkund Sahib from Delhi – The Ultimate Guide

How to reach Hemkund Sahib from Delhi? Discover 9 essential steps, detailed routes, and travel tips to make your journey smooth and memorable. Avoid costly mistakes with this ultimate guide.

Best Time to Visit Hemkund Sahib

Before you dive into the details of how to reach Hemkund Sahib from Delhi, it’s crucial to understand the best time for the trip. The Gurudwara opens to visitors from May to October, but the ideal months to visit are June and September.

Why? The weather is pleasant, and the trekking paths are safer compared to the monsoon season, which can be dangerous due to landslides and slippery conditions.

If you’re planning your trip in the monsoon, be prepared for challenging conditions, but if you choose June or September, you’ll have a much smoother experience.

How to Reach Hemkund Sahib from Delhi: A Complete Breakdown

Whether you choose to travel by road, train, or air, the journey to Hemkund Sahib from Delhi requires careful planning. From the national capital, the pilgrimage involves a combination of long-distance travel and a trek, so we’ll break it down step by step.

By Road: Delhi to Govindghat

Traveling by road from Delhi to Hemkund Sahib is one of the most common choices, especially for those who prefer the flexibility of private or public vehicles. Here’s how you can make the trip:

• Distance: Approximately 500 km from Delhi to Govindghat.
• Travel Time: Around 14-16 hours by car or bus.
• Route: Delhi → Haridwar → Rishikesh → Rudraprayag → Joshimath → Govindghat

For those wondering how to reach Hemkund Sahib from Delhi by road, the first major stop is Govindghat, the base for the trek. You can hire a private car, book a cab, or take public buses operated by Uttarakhand Transport Corporation.

Negative Aspects:

• Road conditions can sometimes be poor, especially after heavy rains.
• The journey is long and exhausting, especially if you don’t plan breaks properly.

Positive Aspects:

• You’ll enjoy scenic views of the Himalayan foothills.
• Road travel offers flexibility to stop at places like Haridwar and Joshimath for sightseeing.

By Air: Delhi to Hemkund Sahib via Dehradun

For a faster yet slightly costlier option, you can opt for air travel. Wondering how to reach Hemkund Sahib from Delhi by air? Here’s how:

• Flight: Fly from Delhi to Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun (approx. 1 hour).
• Distance by Road: From Dehradun, you’ll need to drive 290 km to Govindghat, which takes about 10-12 hours.

Negative Aspects:

• Limited flight options, especially during peak pilgrimage season.
• It only shortens part of the journey; you still need to drive from Dehradun to Govindghat.

Positive Aspects:

• Significantly cuts down travel time compared to road journeys.
• More comfortable for those who want to avoid long road trips.

By Train: Delhi to Haridwar/Rishikesh and Beyond

If you’re traveling on a budget, train travel is an excellent option for the first leg of your journey. Here’s how to reach Hemkund Sahib from Delhi by train:

• Take a train from Delhi to either Haridwar or Rishikesh. Popular trains include Shatabdi Express or Jan Shatabdi Express.
• From Haridwar/Rishikesh, you’ll need to travel by road to Govindghat (approx. 10-12 hours).

Negative Aspects:

• Train travel might not be as comfortable as other modes, especially during the busy pilgrimage season.
• You still need to cover a long road journey after reaching Haridwar or Rishikesh.

Positive Aspects:

• Affordable travel option with numerous trains available.
• You can explore popular tourist spots like Haridwar or Rishikesh on the way.

Trekking from Govindghat to Hemkund Sahib

Once you reach Govindghat, the most thrilling part of the journey begins – the trek. The trek to Hemkund Sahib from Delhi requires good physical fitness, but it’s equally rewarding with stunning views.

• Govindghat to Ghangaria: A 13 km trek that takes about 6-8 hours. If trekking isn’t feasible for you, mules or helicopter rides are available to Ghangaria.
• Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib: A steeper 6 km trek. The path is well-marked but can be challenging, especially due to the high altitude.

Positive Aspects of the Trek:

• The trek offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valley.
• You’ll experience a sense of spiritual rejuvenation as you ascend to the Gurudwara.

Negative Aspects of the Trek:

• Altitude sickness is a potential risk, especially for those not accustomed to high elevations.
• Weather can be unpredictable, so it’s important to pack accordingly.

Essential Travel Tips for a Smooth Journey

To ensure you have a hassle-free and comfortable journey, keep these important tips in mind:

1. Pack Light: The trek is physically demanding, so only carry essentials.
2. Prepare for Weather Changes: Conditions can change rapidly, especially at higher altitudes.
3. Start Early: Begin your trek early in the morning to avoid the rush and afternoon rain.
4. Stay Hydrated: Due to high altitude, dehydration is a common issue. Carry water and keep sipping.
5. Accommodations: Book accommodations at Govindghat or Ghangaria well in advance, especially during peak pilgrimage season.
6. Altitude Sickness: Acclimatization is key. If you feel symptoms of altitude sickness, descend immediately.

Hemkund Sahib Gurudwara Official Website – For updates on the Gurudwara’s opening dates, pilgrimage information, and other facilities.

FAQs: How to Reach Hemkund Sahib from Delhi

1. What is the best way to reach Hemkund Sahib from Delhi?

The best way to reach Hemkund Sahib from Delhi is by road, as it offers the most flexibility. You can drive or take a bus to Govindghat and then trek to Hemkund Sahib.

2. How long does it take to reach Hemkund Sahib from Delhi?

It typically takes 14-16 hours to travel from Delhi to Govindghat by road, followed by a 2-day trek to reach Hemkund Sahib.

3. Are there direct buses from Delhi to Hemkund Sahib?

No, there are no direct buses to Hemkund Sahib. However, there are buses to Haridwar or Joshimath, from where you can take local transport to Govindghat.

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