Embark on a spiritual journey to Gurdwara Hemkund Sahib, one of the most revered Sikh pilgrimage sites, nestled high in the majestic Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, India.Perched at an altitude of over $4,300$ meters ($14,100$ ft) beside a serene glacial lake, Hemkund Sahib's history is deeply connected to the tenth Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh Ji. The site finds mention in the Guru's autobiography, the Bachitra Natak (part of the Dasam Granth), where he recounts meditating at the "Sapt Sring" (mountain with seven peaks) near a place called Hemkund in his previous life as Dusht Daman.For centuries, the area was known locally as Lokpal, a sacred lake linked to Hindu mythology, particularly the legend of Lakshmana, brother of Lord Rama. The modern quest to trace the location mentioned by Guru Gobind Singh Ji began in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It was finally identified and the first small Gurdwara structure was established in the 1930s.The pilgrimage, or Hemkund Sahib Yatra, is a challenging yet profoundly rewarding trek, typically starting from Govindghat. The strenuous ascent through dense forests and rugged alpine terrain culminates at the star-shaped Gurdwara, situated by the pristine, ice-cold Lokpal Lake (Hemkund, meaning "Lake of Snow").Every year, the Gurdwara is only accessible from late May/early June to October, as it remains snow-bound for the rest of the year. The journey embodies the Sikh spirit of Seva (selfless service) and unwavering faith, attracting thousands of pilgrims and trekkers seeking both spiritual solace and breathtaking Himalayan views, including the nearby Valley of Flowers National Park. Join us as we explore the history, the demanding trek, and the divine tranquility of the world's highest Gurdwara. #HemkundSahib
Be the first to comment