Uttarakhand is the go-to destination for every soul with a thirst of adventurous trekking in India, and Hemkund Sahib in Chamoli district is the perfect place. It is an amalgamation of faith, adventure and breathtaking views for the thousands of people visiting this high mountain Sikh pilgrim spot every year. Along with the famous gurudwara, there are a lot of places especially the Vally of flowers  to explore around Hemkund Sahib.

1. Govind Ghat: Where the adventure begins.

Govind Ghat is the starting point for trekking to Hemkund Sahib and Valley of Flowers. It is almost 22 kms away from   Joshimath while the last human habitat place, Ghangaria, lies 13 kms ahead. According to the legend, this is believed to be   the place where Lord Hanuman found the Sanjeevani Herb used to heal Laxman.

2. Valley of Flowers: Enchanting Place that will leave you speechless.

One of the most challenging treks in India is the journey to Valley of Flowers, which begins from Govind Ghat. It is a core  zone of Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve at an altitude of 3,658 metres and spans over 87.5 sq km. It opens at 7 am every  day and visitors are not allowed to stay there after 5pm. The floral beauty can be best observed around July and August.

3. Hemkund Sahib: Sikh pilgrimage

It is the only gurudwara in the world located at an altitude of over 15,000 feet. Despite being the meditation place of Sikh  guru Shri Guru Gobind Singh Ji, Hemkund sahib remained undiscovered for more than two centuries. It has a star-shaped structure  and the steel heavy plates used in building the gurudwara were transported by human efforts, scaling a distance  over 10,000 metres.

4. Hemkund Lake: Feel of fresh air and wind that shakes the heart.

With seven mountains in its backdrop, Hemkund Lake is located just next to Hemkund Sahib. It is also known as the “Lake of Snow” as the water temperature stays around -10 degree Celsius. Even though the lake has a steep approach from Ghanghariya, the serenity is definitely worth all the efforts. It is recommended to visit the lake early morning. Devotees take a dip in the lake before paying their respects in the gurudwara.

5. Lakshman Temple(Mandir)

It is located on the bank of Hemkund Lake. As per Hindu mythology, it is believed that Lakshman, Lord Rama’s brother, meditated here. It is situated at an altitude of 4,329 metres in Garhwal Himalayas, and surrounded by seven snow-clad peaks including the ‘Hathi Parvat’.

So, pack your bags and enjoy your maiden experience of trekking in India with a visit to Hemkund Sahib via Valley of flowers.